Cataract Surgery

CATARACT SURGERY

A cataract is commonly referred to as a curtain in the eye. A cataract is the loss of transparency of the natural lens in the eye.
A cataract is an eye disease that leads to reduced vision. 90% of cases are due to advancing age. However, it can occur in all age groups, even in babies.

In order for the light and images coming from outside to reach the centre of vision clearly, they must first be refracted in the cornea, the outermost transparent layer of the eye, and then in the lens layer inside the eye. Under normal conditions, these two layers are transparent.

If the lens loses its transparency, it becomes opaque, its colour changes, it becomes like frosted glass and the patient’s vision gradually deteriorates.
In cataracts, the lens of the eye loses its transparency and becomes opaque. It is one of the most common causes of curable blindness in the world.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

• Diminished vision

• Sensitivity to light, glare

• Double vision

• Difficulty reading

• Distorted vision at night

• Fading or yellowing of colours

• The operation is performed as soon as the visual complaints occur. No waiting time is required.

• Waiting makes the operation difficult.

What happens if cataracts are not treated?

• Visual function deteriorates or is lost at near and far distances

• The intraocular pressure can increase

• Visual impairment can develop

• Inflammation of the eye (uveitis) can occur

• Retinal and central vision problems become harder to diagnose because the cataract blocks the view

How is cataract surgery performed?

Cataracts are not treated with medication. The only treatment is surgery.
During the operation, the cloudy lens that has lost its transparency is removed, and the patient can see well again.

A lens is inserted into the patient’s eye during the operation, and after the surgery the patient can see clearly at a distance and close up with very low numbered lenses.

Phacoemulsification (Laser Cataract Method)

The method popularly known as laser cataract surgery is called phacoemulsification.
In this method:

• The cataract is removed by grinding it with a needle that produces ultrasonic vibrations

• A local or general anaesthesia is only used in special cases

• Usually, the eye is numbed with drops applied 4–5 times

The patient lies still for 10–15 minutes.

Surgical Steps

1. A 2 mm incision is made in the transparent layer of the eye

2. A protective gel is injected

3. A circular piece of the anterior capsule is removed

4. The hard centre is crushed with the phaco needle and extracted

5. Remaining soft tissues are removed

6. Care is taken not to damage the 50-micron lens capsule

7. The empty capsule is filled with gel

8. A foldable intraocular lens is inserted with an injector

9. The gel is washed out with serum

10. The micro-incision is sealed without sutures