Study of differences in outcomes after phacoemulsification with and without diabetes mellitus in dogs

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of diabetes mellitus (DM) on phacoemulsification outcomes in dogs, focusing on blindness and postoperative complications. A retrospective analysis of 26 dogs (38 eyes) was conducted, comparing diabetic (n=4) and non-diabetic dogs (n=22). Postoperative outcomes were observed for 2 months, and Fisher’s Exact Test was used to assess statistical significance (p<0.05). Blindness occurred in 50% of diabetic eyes compared to 6% in non-diabetic eyes (OR=14.0, p=0.0116). Major complications included glaucoma and retinal detachment, both more common in diabetic dogs. Diabetic dogs are at a significantly higher risk of blindness after phacoemulsification, highlighting the need for thorough preand postoperative management to reduce complications that could lead to vision loss.