Publication Exclusive: Extra steps should be taken to make surgery patients comfortable

While most ophthalmic surgeons consider cataract surgery a relatively painless experience for the patient, controlled studies confirm that about one in three patients experience moderate to severe pain during the procedure. In addition, the fact that select topical steroids, topical NSAIDs and intraoperative delivery of Omidria, which contains ketorolac, have achieved an FDA label for the reduction of postoperative pain when compared with placebo confirms that there is measurable perceived discomfort by the patient during surgery and in the first 24 hours after the surgery is completed.We all know the cornea is an extremely sensitive and heavily innervated structure. In addition, patients can perceive pressure, heat and cold, which are also usually interpreted as pain. We are all aware that starting an IV can generate mild to severe pain depending on the individual, their anatomy and the individual starting the IV. In addition, the application of anesthetics, especially a facial nerve, peribulbar or retrobulbar block can be extremely painful. As much as possible, all patients want a pain-free and anxiety-free experience when they have any surgery performed. In my opinion, this is an often neglected dimension in ocular surgery. We all know that patient word of mouth is a powerful driver of new patients, and the cataract surgeon who neglects pain and anxiety management is not going to be highly recommended.