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The 2024 National Cataract Audit revealed that cataract surgery outcomes in Guernsey surpassed the UK average in two key areas.
Two metrics are used to measure any negative outcomes of surgery.
Guernsey achieved a 0.8% rate of posterior capsule rupture compared to the UK average of 1.1%, while on the avoidance of sight loss measure, 100% of operations were completed in the island without deterioration of vision against a UK average of 99.1%.
The report covers the year ending March 2023.
Pictured: MSG Chair Dr Steve Evans and MSG Consultant Anaesthetist, Dr Michelle Le Cheminant.
MSG chair Dr Steve Evans, said: "Our ophthalmologists get lots of great feedback from our patients who are delighted with how much better they can see after a cataract operation. But it’s also important that we review and reflect on how our results compare with those achieved in treatment centres around the UK and constantly look for ways in which we can improve.
"Our results are based on 511 operations, which is a small number relative to the 481,530 operations included in the audit, and if just one or two operations do not go to plan it can make a big difference to our percentages. We’re delighted that the National Cataract Audit has confirmed that our outcomes for patients in Guernsey are within the expected limit."
There was a five month pause last year, which culminated in some Guernsey patients being offered the chance to have surgery in the UK.
The MSG says this pause was due to unexpected staff shortages which began in March and lasted until July. That time period is also when the Health Committee made a deal with Newmedica so islanders could have the option to have cataract surgery in Southampton through the specialist eye health clinic.
You can read more about that story here, but following the audit announcement, the MSG add they are “now getting back to performing around 85 operations a month”.
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