Cataract Surgery
Cataracts
Cataracts is the name used for a natural, age related process consisting in the progressive loss of transparency of the crystalline lens of the eye. Initially, it can just produce an increase sense of getting "blinded" by sharp lights like those seen while driving, or a sense of insecurity while driving by night. This is because the initial cataract can produce an abnormal scattering of the rays of light when they pass trough the lens towards the retina. Consequently, the image reaching the retina is blurred and pale.
Some of the more common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred vision
- Glare
- Fading or yellowing of colours
- Poor night vision
- Double vision in one eye
- Halos around lights
The treatment of the cataract is surgical. In experienced hands, this is the most frequent and secure procedure in the world. The first step in the preparations for the cataract surgery is a comprehensive eye exam which can detect any other additional problems, as their presence can affect the visual outcome. It follows a series of tests directed to the calculation of the optical power of the IOL (intraocular lens) - the device to be implanted within the eye once the cloudy natural lens is removed. The IOLs perform the same task as the young transparent crystalline lens.
Cataract Surgery is an out-patient procedure which only lasts from 10-20 minutes, and is routinely performed using a technique called small incision phacoemulsification.
Minutes before it is performed, the eye is given drops for pupil dilation, antibiotic and anaesthetic drops. Under a surgical microscope, a tiny (2.5- 3 mm) incision is then made on the edge of the cornea through which the whole procedure is performed.
To remove the lens, an instrument called a phacoemulsifier is used. It is an ultrasonic probe which pulses 40,000 times a second to gently pulverize the cataract into microscopic pieces which are simultaneously vacuumed out of the eye through the incision.
After the cataract is removed, a folded soft, permanent intraocular lens is injected through the original incision. At this point, the intraocular lens unfolds, and is positioned by the surgeon into the right placed and centered. This lens cannot be felt by the patient in any way.
The intraocular lens is specifically chosen by the surgeon to suit the patient’s individual visual needs. The lens will remain inside the eye in its location without moving.
Due to the small size of the incision, no stitches are needed, so it will self-heal within the first weeks post-surgery. Most patients experience noticeably better vision within 24 hours of the procedure. After surgery, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are necessary for a few weeks. Patients are asked to avoid strenuous activity for about 1 week post-surgery and refrain from rubbing the eye for approximately 1 month.
New intraocular lens choices are now available. The ophthalmologists will advise the patient on the lens options best suited to each individual situation.
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