Optimisation of reading light - bright light over the left shoulder
Brimmed hat to aid with glare
Referral only if cataract stopping patient from doing things they need to do or have to do
Determine if patient is interested in surgery prior to referral
Only refer if patient wishes surgery and is willing to accept the following risks
1/100 risk of a surgical complication requiring further treatment/surgery
1/1000 risk of blindness in the eye operated on from endophthalmitis
Management Category
Routine referral if patient wishes surgery and willing to accept the following risks
1/100 risk of a surgical complication requiring further treatment/surgery
1/1000 risk of blindness in the operated eye from endophthalmitis
Possible management by Ophthalmologist
Cataract surgery
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The eyes.nhs.scot website (“Website”) is intended as a reference source for education and clinical
decision support and is intended for use by ophthalmic healthcare professionals.
The Website is not intended for use by the general public and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional.
Members of the public should seek advice directly from their optometrist.
The guidelines on the Website were originally adapted from The College of Optometrists’ Clinical Management Guidelines
(CMGs), to incorporate pragmatic experience gained from NHS Grampian’s Eye Health Network. However, this content is currently under review.
The most up-to-date versions of The College of Optometrists’ CMGs can be accessed
at https://www.college-optometrists.org/clinical-guidance/clinical-management-guidelines.
The information on the Website provides guidance and related information for the differential diagnosis, possible
management by optometrists (treatment and advice), management category and possible management by ophthalmologists.
Users should note that that the guidance on the Website will not be suitable for every situation and is not intended to be a
substitute for specialist expertise and clinical judgement. Users should also note that this guidance should not be adhered to
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