A recent study reveals that cataract surgery can actually reduce the risk of sustaining a hip fracture in elderly individuals. Charles Bahn, MD, an ophthalmologist, believes that this finding showcases the importance of preventative medicine.
Bethesda, Maryland, (PRBuzz.com) August 24, 2012 -- The Wall Street Journal highlights a study that showcases how cataract surgery can actually reduce the risk of hip fracture in elderly individuals. According to the study, which was led by the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Jules Stein Eye Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles, "the risk of hip fractures was significantly reduced in patients who had had cataract surgery, compared to patients who did not undergo the procedure." Charles Bahn, MD, an ophthalmologist in Bethesda, Maryland, believes that this research showcases how preventative care can reduce the pain and suffering of individuals.
The study, which was originally published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, analyzed the number of hip fractures sustained by select Medicare patients who also had cataracts. The study looked at patients who were treated between 2002 and 2009. Overall, an estimated 400,000 participants' medical records were analyzed. Researchers looked for instances in which hip fractures were sustained within one year of surgery to correct cataracts. They also looked for hip fractures in patients who had cataracts but opted not to undergo surgery to repair them.
The results of the research indicate that patients who had cataract surgery were 16 percent less likely to fracture a hip within the next year. These findings are important, as elderly individuals often take falls that can lead to serious injuries and, in severe cases, even death. Finding ways to prevent such falls from taking place can assist in improving the health of countless individuals.
"Discovering strategies to keep us healthy in old age is at the forefront of research in medicine," asserts Charles Bahn, MD. "After all, 'an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.' Finding that improving vision by cataract surgery lessens the risk of hip fractures is an important example of this. Here, a simple and painless procedure not only improves quality of life by restoring vision, it also lessens the risk of a potentially catastrophic event in the elderly. Hip fractures in the elderly cause pain, suffering, and sometimes early death. Also, hip surgery and rehabilitation are expensive. Here, an ounce of prevention (cataract surgery) is truly worth a pound of cure (care of the elderly with hip fractures)."
Dr. Bahn is always looking forward to new breakthroughs in the medical industry. He hopes that future discoveries, such as this, will continue to improve the care that medical professionals can provide for their patients.
ABOUT:
Charles Bahn, MD, is an ophthalmologist who practices in Bethesda, Maryland. A specialist regarding corneal and external eye diseases, Charles Bahn, MD, provides invaluable insight into conditions and injuries that are related to these subject areas. He is particularly interested in cases of glaucoma. Additionally, Charles Bahn, MD, offers general ophthalmic services. Dr. Bahn holds degrees from Tulane University and the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor.
Michael McGarety
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