The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare specular endothelial changes in diabetic and non-diabetic patients undergoing phacoemulsification by assessing endothelial cell density, coefficient of variation, and percentage of hexagonal cells preoperatively and postoperatively. This study also seeks to provide updated evidence on the influence of diabetes on corneal endothelial response to cataract surgery and to support evidence-based strategies for optimizing surgical outcomes

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 40 years
• Presence of senile cataract suitable for phacoemulsification
• Clear cornea with no clinical signs of endothelial decompensation
• Ability to undergo specular microscopy examination
• For the diabetic group: confirmed diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of previous ocular surgery or trauma
• Corneal pathology affecting the endothelium
• Glaucoma or history of raised intraocular pressure
• Pseudoexfoliation syndrome
• Intraoperative complications