Choroidal Tumors and Cataracts: Treatment Strategies and Current Approaches

In choroidal tumors, cataract formation is a common condition resulting either from the direct impact of the tumor on the lens or secondary to the treatment modalities applied. Cataract development not only leads to a decrease in visual acuity, negatively affecting the patient's quality of life, but also hampers fundus evaluation, thereby complicating disease monitoring. This review summarizes the current literature on the timing of cataract surgery, surgical techniques, potential complications, and postoperative visual outcomes in patients with choroidal tumors. Studies have shown that phacoemulsification performed with appropriate surgical planning and by experienced surgeons is a safe and effective method. However, coexisting complications such as radiation maculopathy can adversely affect long-term visual prognosis. Surgical planning should include the exclusion of malignancy through ultrasonography and other imaging modalities, proactive measures should be taken to manage potential intraoperative technical difficulties, and close postoperative monitoring should be ensured, including the use of anti-inflammatory and anti-VEGF treatments when necessary. In conclusion, the surgical management of cataracts associated with choroidal tumors or secondary to their treatment represents a critical process that requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach, both functionally and oncologically.