Cataract surgery is a medical procedure that replaces a cataracted lens with a new one. It involves the removal of the natural lens, also known as the cataract, and the implantation of an intraocular lens. The procedure is performed under anesthesia and can last for a few hours.
IOL implantation
Cataract surgery has become the most common surgical procedure in developed countries. Through improvements in surgical techniques and additive tools, cataract surgery has become less traumatic and has a lower complication rate. Foldable IOLs are now a popular option for cataract surgery. However, foldable IOLs are not always placed correctly. There have been cases where foldable IOLs have been accidentally or purposefully implanted into the ciliary sulcus.
In a study of 20 consecutive patients, the use of the temporary piggyback IOL following cataract surgery is compared to single IOL implantation. Both techniques were deemed safe. The results of the study suggest that the temporary piggyback IOL provides similar visual outcomes to the single IOL implantation.
The alignment of the toric IOL was evaluated one week, one month, and three months after surgery. The patients were photographed after pupil dilation and the axis of the IOL was measured by retroillumination photography. Images were analyzed using ImageJ version 1.48 to calculate the angle between the horizontal axis and the IOL axis. The reference points included prominent episcleral vessels and the horizontal axis was determined using the axis between these points.
Phacoemulsification procedure
The Phacoemulsification procedure for replacing a cataract requires an incision that is 2 to 3 millimeters in length. A phaco probe with a titanium or steel needle tip vibrates at high frequencies to break up the cataract and aspirate particles from the eye. This technique is a safer alternative to MACS, which requires a larger incision and involves removing the eye’s natural lens and inserting the replacement IOL. Although it’s less effective in removing a large cataract, it is often performed because of its low cost and relatively low risk of complications.
A phacoemulsification procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. It requires topical anesthesia or intravenous sedation and involves microscopic incisions. The surgeon first prepares the eye by setting up a microscope, then inserts the IOL. This is an easier procedure than traditional cataract surgery because there are no stitches involved.
Laser capsulotomy procedure
Laser capsulotomy is a surgical procedure used to open up the posterior lens capsule. This procedure is also used to treat patients with capsular bag distention and capsular block syndrome. The latter is caused by a retained OVD that occupies space between the posterior lens capsule and the lens optic.
This procedure improves vision by creating a hole in the cloudy membrane behind the intraocular lens. The hole will allow light to pass freely to the retina. The process is usually painless and takes about five minutes. The patient will feel a small amount of pressure inside the eye. The procedure also has risks, including increased pressure inside the eye, swelling of the center of the retina, and bleeding into the front of the eye.
Fortunately, the YAG laser capsulotomy procedure is very safe and can be completed in as little as five minutes. Patients can return home the same day and notice a significant improvement in their vision. While some patients may experience some cloudy vision following the procedure, this should subside quickly.
YAG laser procedure
The YAG laser is a powerful tool used to treat cataracts. The laser uses a crystal known as yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG) to reshape the opacified lens capsule. The procedure is painless, and takes just a few minutes to complete. The laser uses light rays to create an opening in the opacified capsule, which allows clear vision to return. The eye drops used during the procedure dilate the eye, ensuring no discomfort during the procedure.
The Nd-YAG laser is also used to perform a posterior capsulotomy, a procedure that removes the back lining of the lens capsule. This allows light to pass through the lens and to the retina, and reduces cloudiness. The procedure is usually done in the doctor’s office and does not require any anesthesia. It is a safe procedure, but some patients may experience short-term increases in eye pressure.
Patients who have undergone the YAG laser procedure are generally able to return to work after a few days. A week or two after the procedure, they may experience temporary blurred or filmy vision. Some patients may also experience some redness and inflammation in the eye. After the procedure, patients are often given medicated eye drops to minimize pain.