Dexamethasone implants in patients with diabetic macular edema undergoing cataract surgery: Italian expert panel consensus statements

Purpose: Intravitreal corticosteroid implants based on sustained-release dexamethasone provide effective retinal delivery of drug for around 6 months for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME). As current recommendations on the management of patients with DME undergoing cataract surgery are limited, this article aims to highlight issues and provide guidance on the use of dexamethasone intravitreal implants (DEX-DDS) in patients with DME undergoing cataract surgery, based on the consensus findings of a panel of Italian experts. Methods: The panel developed a survey regarding the use of DEX-DDS in patients with DME undergoing cataract surgery, following a comprehensive literature search. The results of the survey were discussed at an experts’ meeting in September 2018, with a structured approach to determining consensus. The routine management of patients with DME undergoing cataract surgery was also developed for use as a basis of discussion to highlight current issues. Results: Eight consensus statements are presented, along with key issues that highlight controversial/outstanding issues in the use of DEX-DDS in DME patients with cataracts. Conclusion: The consensus statements can help provide practical guidance for clinicians in daily practice on the rationale, patient diagnosis and selection, and optimal management of patients with DME undergoing cataract surgery.