2003 Survey for KSCRS Members: Current Trends in Cataract and Refractive Surgery in Korea

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study investigates the current situation and future trends in the field of cataract and refractive surgery in Korea. METHODS: Since 1995, the members of the Korean Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (KSCRS) have been annually surveyed on cataract and refractive surgery. The 2004 annual survey, consisting of 128 multiple-choice questions, was mailed in February 2004 to 396 KSCRS members. Eighty-eight(22.2%) members answered. Current data were compared with those of previous annual survey and with those of the USA. RESULTS: The duration of hospitalization has decreased annually and the use of topical anesthesia (41%) was stationary. Self sealing wound construction was the main wound closure technique in phacoemulsification (51%). The most preferred intraocular lenses for small incision cataract surgery are acrylic (60%). Excimer laser keratomileusis was performed for refractive surgery by 63% of the repondents. Most respondents preferred LASIK regardless of diopter range. More respondents had experienced legal problems associated with PRK or LASIK than in the last year survey. The implantation of phakic IOL was performed by 29% of the respondents and 96% of the respondents were interested in it. CONCLUSIONS: This survey summarized current trends and changes in cataract and refractive surgery in Korea.