To present the latest data on cataract surgery outcomes across Europe from the European Registry of Quality Outcomes for Cataract and Refractive Surgery (EUREQUO).
Approach:
Data Collection: The registry captured data from over 363,000 cataract procedures performed across 12 European countries in 2024.
Longitudinal Tracking: EUREQUO has recorded nearly five million cataract surgeries since its launch in 2007.
Key Findings:
Sustained gains in safety and efficacy of cataract surgeries.
Phacoemulsification with posterior IOL implantation accounted for 98.9% of procedures.
Mean best corrected visual acuity improved from 0.448 before surgery to 0.939 after surgery.
92.6% of eyes achieved a postoperative BCVA of at least 0.5, with nearly 69% reaching 1.0 or better.
Complication rates remained low, with posterior capsule rupture at 0.39% and cystoid macular edema at 0.13%.
Among advanced IOL technologies, toric lenses were the most commonly used.
Interpretation:
The annual EUREQUO report indicates consistent progressive improvement in cataract surgery outcomes over the years.
Limitations:
Access to newer intraocular lens technologies is constrained by cost.
Broader participation in the registry is still needed.
Conclusion:
Future developments in IOL technology may minimize or eliminate the need for spectacles.
