High‑quality cataract surgery is defined not only by what happens in theatre, but by how rigorously outcomes are measured and shared. In the United Kingdom, the National Ophthalmology Database benchmarks visual results and complication rates across thousands of surgeons, providing real‑world data on safety and performance. Surgeons and centres that track their own results in detail — and publish them transparently — demonstrate a commitment to accountability and continuous improvement.
For patients, this means being able to see whether a surgeon’s complication rates and visual outcomes meet or exceed national standards. It also reassures you that any unexpected results are reviewed, learned from, and used to refine practice.
What this means for you
- Asking for audited outcome data is a reasonable and protective question.
- Transparency about results is a strong marker of trustworthy, patient‑centred care.
Questions to ask
- “Do you participate in national cataract audits, and how do your results compare?”
- “Where can I see your published visual outcomes and complication rates?”
References
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists. National Ophthalmology Database Audit: Cataract Surgery 2023 Annual Report. London: The Royal College of Ophthalmologists; 2023.
- Johnston RL, Sparrow JM, Canning CR, et al. Patient outcomes following cataract surgery in the United Kingdom: results from the National Ophthalmology Database. Eye (London). 2009;23(1):38–49.
