Cataract removal

Alternative names:

Cataract Removal - A procedure to remove the clouded lens (cataract) of the eye to improve vision.

Preparation:

An ophthalmologist will take several measurements to assess the type of surgery needed. Included in these tests may be an ultrasound of the eye as well as other non-invasive means of evaluating the eye's curvature. Routine pre-operative testing is often done to assess overall general health prior to the operation. Most patients are able to undergo cataract extraction regardless of concurrent illnesses.

Procedure:

The surgery is performed in a hospital or in an outpatient setting. Children are typically given general anesthesia to keep them deep asleep and pain-free; adults usually are awake but sedated and pain-free with the assistance of local anesthesia.

With the help of a special microscope, a small incision is made at the edge of the clear outer lining of the eye (cornea). The lens can be removed in several ways depending upon the type of cataract:

• With surgical tools
• With a very cold surgical instrument (cryosurgery)
• With an instrument and machine that uses "sound waves" (ultrasonic energy) to break up the lens and suck it out (phacoemulsification)

An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) may be inserted to help the eye to focus in the absence of the removed lens. The incision is closed with fine stitches (sutures), some of which may be removed at a later date. The surgery typically lasts less than an hour.

Since this operation is most often performed on an outpatient basis, the patient returns home the same day. A patch is placed over the operative eye and is removed during examination the next day. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops will be prescribed for several weeks to assist the healing process. Expect complete healing in about 10 weeks when glasses or contact lenses can then be fitted if required to refine the visual acuity. Close follow-up with a physician is essential.

Expectations after surgery:

The outcome of cataract surgery is excellent. The operation has very few risks, the pain and convalescence period are minimal, and the improvement in sight is remarkable. Ninety-five percent or more of all cataract surgeries result in improved vision.

Convalescence:

The outcome of cataract surgery is excellent. The operation has very few risks, the pain and convalescence period are minimal, and the improvement in sight is remarkable. In fact, greater than ninety-five percent of all cataract surgeries result in improved vision.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Will a laser be used to remove my cataract?

A: No. Lasers currently are not used to remove cataracts, though their application in the future is likely. Several months after the surgery, a laser can be used to break apart remaining old lens fragments sitting behind the new artificial lens if necessary.

Q: Will waiting to have my cataract removed harm my eye?

A: No. Cataracts do not harm the eye. You should have your cataract out if you are unhappy with your vision and when it is convenient for you.

Q: If I have a cataract in each eye, can I have them both done at the same time?

A: No. Usually one eye is allowed to heal before the operation is repeated on the other eye. Most surgeons wait one to two months between operations.

Update Date: 04/01/00
Matthew F. Gardiner, MD, Scheie Eye Institute, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, VeriMed Health Network