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AREDS analysis provides insight on proposed link between cataract surgery, AMD progression

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KOLOA, Hawaii — Although the study was not designed to evaluate risk of progression of age-related macular degeneration after cataract extraction, review of AREDS data provides additional information about the potential risk, according to a speaker here.

Previous epidemiologic studies, notably the Beaver Dam Eye Study, have suggested that cataract surgery may increase risk of AMD progression, Andrew P. Schachat, MD, said at Retina 2010.

"If you look at clinical trials, the data is more equivocal and there are not randomized clinical controlled trials that look at this question," Dr. Schachat said.

However, he added, researchers have mined the AREDS data to see if a link can be established. An analysis of patients in the study showed no increased risk of AMD progression if cataract surgery was performed, and no difference between treatment subtypes.

Additionally, if cataract surgery was performed, patients were likely to achieve a one to two line gain in visual acuity that lasted for 1 to 2 years before AMD progression caused further vision loss.

Hawaiian Eye and Retina 2011 will be held January 16-21, 2011 at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa in Ka'anapali, Maui. Learn more at OSNHawaiianEye.com.