Cystoid Macular Edema Following Phacoemulsification and Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens Surgery: An Aspect From the Past to the Present

Background Cystoid macular edema (CME) is a known cause of vision loss after cataract surgery. This study examines its incidence following phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation (1997-1998) and discusses how evolving surgical and diagnostic techniques may have influenced its occurrence. Methods Between September 1997 and June 1998, 54 eyes of 51 patients who underwent uneventful cataract surgery were included in the study. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was assessed, and fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA) was performed at postoperative weeks 6, 12, and 24 to evaluate CME according to the Yanuzzi classification. Results At week 6, angiographic CME was observed in six of 54 eyes (11.1%). At month 3, CME was present in three of 36 eyes (8.3%), and by month 6, it persisted in three of 13 eyes (23.1%). Among the initial CME cases, three resolved by the third month. Notably, five of six CME cases (15.1%) occurred in patients aged ≥60, while only one case (4.7%) was seen in those under 60. None progressed to clinically significant CME. Conclusions CME can still occur after uncomplicated cataract surgery, though typically mild and transient. Advances such as optical coherence tomography have enhanced early detection and management, reinforcing the need for vigilant postoperative monitoring.