Unlocking the Mysteries of Cataracts and Cataract Surgery

Hey there! Are you curious about cataracts and cataract surgery? You’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll delve into the world of cataracts, exploring what they are, the investigations required before surgery, and the different types of cataract surgery.

What’s a Cataract, Anyway?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye that affects vision. It’s a common age-related condition that can cause blurry vision, double vision, and sensitivity to light. But don’t worry – cataracts are treatable, and surgery can restore your clear vision!

The Investigation Station

Before cataract surgery, several investigations are conducted to ensure the best possible outcome. These include:

Dilated Slit Lamp Examination: This procedure involves administering eye drops to dilate the pupils, allowing the eye doctor to thoroughly examine the lens. In this test, a detailed evaluation about the grade and hardness of cataract is studied.

Fundus or Retina Examination: A retina examination is crucial before cataract surgery. The health of the retina plays a significant role in determining post-surgery vision.

Biometry: Biometry measures various eye parameters to calculate the precise power required for the intraocular lens. We measure the length of the eyeball, curvature of the anterior surface cornea as well as the relative position of various structures of the eye to calculate the accurate lens power for your eye. Machines do this with multiple complicated formulae.

Basic Blood Tests: Blood tests are conducted to ensure the patient’s overall health is optimal.

Types of Cataract Surgery: What’s the Difference?

Cataract surgery can be broadly classified into two categories:

1. Intracapsular Cataract Surgery: This type of surgery involves removing the lens along with its capsule. This is typically a surgery of gone years and is rarely done these days. It may be needed in certain rare and complicated scenarios.

2. Extracapsular Cataract Surgery: This type of surgery involves leaving the lens capsule intact and removing only the cloudy lens. The artificial lens is placed inside the same capsular bag.

In modern times, Extracapsular Cataract Surgery (ECCE) is the more commonly performed procedure.

The Latest and Greatest: Phacoemulsification

ECCE can be further divided into two subcategories:

1. With Sutures: This technique is almost obsolete and rarely performed.

2. Without Sutures: This category includes two types of surgery:

a. Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS): This procedure involves creating a self-sealing tunnel and removing the cataractous lens in one piece.

b. Microincision Cataract Surgery (Phacoemulsification): This is the most commonly performed surgery, where a 2 mm incision is made, and the lens is emulsified using ultrasound energy and then aspirated.

What to Expect During Phacoemulsification Surgery

During Phacoemulsification surgery:

– A 2 mm incision is made in the eye.

– A 4-5 mm circular opening is created in the lens capsule.

– The lens matter is emulsified using ultrasound energy and aspirated.

– The remaining capsular bag is cleaned, and a lens implant is inserted.

– The openings are sealed without sutures.

The entire procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.

Conclusion

And that’s a wrap! We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you understand cataracts and cataract surgery better. Remember, if you’re experiencing any symptoms of cataracts, don’t hesitate to consult with an eye doctor.

The following videos explain this information in an interactive and interesting way. Stay tuned for more informative articles on eye health and eye care.