Central macular thickness changes following uncomplicated phacoemulsification surgery

Background: This study aims to evaluate changes in central macular thickness (CMT) following uncomplicated phacoemulsification cataract surgery using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, GMC Srinagar, from January to July 2024. A total of 134 eyes from patients aged over 40 years with senile cataracts were included. Patients with pre-existing ocular conditions affecting macular thickness were excluded. Baseline and postoperative CMT measurements were recorded on day 1, 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months post-surgery. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests. Results: The mean preoperative CMT in patients without comorbidities was 248.0±21.3 μm. Postoperatively, CMT increased to 249.1±22.1 μm on day 1, 261.6±32.7 μm at 1 week, 266.1±28.1 μm at 1 month, and 252.6±21.9 μm at 6 months. A statistically significant increase in CMT was observed at 1 week and 1 month (p<0.005), followed by a reduction at 6 months. Similar trends were noted in patients with diabetic retinopathy and resolved retinal vein occlusion. No cases of postoperative cystoid macular edema (CME) or loss of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded. Conclusion: Uncomplicated phacoemulsification leads to a transient increase in CMT, peaking at 1 month and returning toward baseline by 6 months, without affecting visual acuity or causing CME. The findings support the safety of the procedure, even in patients with mild diabetic retinopathy or prior retinal vein occlusion. Further research is recommended to explore long-term macular changes and risk factors for persistent macular thickening.