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Review demonstrates manual small incision cataract surgery achieves outcomes on par with phacoemulsification in global populations, indicating its critical role in reducing cataract blindness.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To provide an updated review of manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS), including training innovations, advancements in surgical techniques, system-level performance, and equity implications in global cataract care. RECENT FINDINGS: As global cataract burden continues to rise, MSICS has gained traction as a cost-effective and scalable solution, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). Simulator-based training and new surgical tools have enhanced early proficiency among trainees. Recent data highlight MSICS as a procedure with comparable complication rates and patient-reported satisfaction to phacoemulsification, assuming proficiency of the surgeon. Key research gaps persist in skill transferability, long-term outcomes, and sex disparities in access. SUMMARY: MSICS remains a pivotal surgical technique in the fight against global cataract blindness. Its affordability and adaptability to resource-limited settings make it a critical part of international efforts to expand cataract surgical coverage and promote equitable eye care delivery.
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Winterton et al. (2025) studied this question.
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