Cataract

Alternative names:

lens opacity

Treatment:

OVERVIEW:
Cataract treatment is done simply to improve vision. For some people changing their glasses, getting stronger bifocals, or using a magnifying lens is helpful enough. Others choose to have cataract surgery.

If you are not bothered by a cataract, then treatment is usually not necessary. On occasion, there may be an additional eye problem that the doctor needs to see or treat and the cataract impairs the doctors view. In these cases, cataract surgery may be required to allow proper treatment of the other eye problem.

SURGERY:
Cataract surgery consists of removing the lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial one. Your doctor will discuss the options with you and together you will decide which type of removal and lens replacement is best for you.

LENS REMOVAL
There are 3 different types of surgery that can be used to remove lenses that have a cataract.

Extracapsular surgery consists of surgically removing the lens, but leaving the back half of the capsule (the outer covering of the lens) intact.

Phacoemulsification is done by softening the lens with sound waves and then removing it through a needle. The back half of the lens capsule is left behind.

Intracapsular surgery involves surgically removing the entire lens, including the capsule. This is done very rarely.

LENS REPLACEMENT
People who have cataract surgery usually get an artificial lens at the same time. The artificial lens is a plastic disc called and intraocular lens. It is placed in the lens capsule inside the eye.

Other options include contact lenses and cataract glasses. You and your doctor will decide which choice is best for you.

Surgery can be done in an outpatient center or hospital, and you can leave when your doctor says you are fit to go. Most people do not need to stay overnight in a hospital. You will need a friend or family member to take you home and someone will need to stay with you for a day or two to help you follow your doctor's instructions.

It takes a few months for an eye to heal totally so your doctor should check your progress periodically and make sure you have the care you need until your eye fully recovers.

Expectations (prognosis):

For most people, cataract surgery is associated with a relatively low risk. With implanted artificial lenses, some people no longer need corrective lenses for distance vision, but they are usually necessary for reading and near vision.

Complications:

Vision may not improve after cataract surgery if other eye diseases such as macular degeneration are present. Unfortunately, it is not always possible to evaluate for such diseases before the surgery.

In infants, amblyopia and decreased visual development may occur as a result of cataract. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of cataract such as progressive deterioration of vision, decreased night vision, or problems with glare.

Also call if you have a family history of congenital cataracts or if your child has symptoms or signs suggestive of a cataract.see cataract treatment