Few studies have measured the incidence and risk factors of intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation in the total population. We investigate the risk factors for IOL dislocation in a nationwide Korean cohort.

Retrospective cohort study.

National data on 2,162,191 subjects who underwent cataract surgery were collected from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment service database of health claims from 2009 to 2016. The Health Insurance Review and Assessment database was used to identify potential risk factors for IOL dislocation, including age, sex, and various pre- and postoperative ophthalmic conditions. The hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) of these risk factors were assessed with a multivariable-adjusted Cox regression model.

IOL dislocation occurred in 15,170 patients (0.7%) in the cataract surgery cohort (2,162,191 patients). The incidence rate of IOL dislocation peaked at 40-50 years of age, although the mean age of IOL dislocation was 65.25 ± 10.81 years. The average male:female ratio was 1.8. The adjusted HR for IOL dislocation in patients with partial vitrectomy was 11.93 (95% CI 10.95-12.99; P < .0001). Posterior capsulotomy performed within 1 year after the cataract surgery significantly decreased IOL dislocation, with an adjusted HR of 0.48 (95% CI 0.44-0.51; P < .0001).

IOL dislocation tended to occur in young males. Anterior vitrectomy was a significant risk factor for IOL dislocation, while posterior capsulotomy after surgery was associated with a decreased risk of IOL dislocation.