Cataract surgery
| Normal anatomy |
|
The lens of an eye is normally clear. A cataract develops if the
lens becomes cloudy, usually as you get older.
|
| Indications |
|
Surgery is usually recommended for people who have vision
problems caused by the cataract.
|
| Procedure, part 1 |
|
Two procedures are used to treat cataracts. In the manual
extraction procedure, a small incision is made at the edge of the
outer lining of the eye (cornea). The lens is then removed and
replaced with an artificial lens. |
| Procedure, part 2 |
|
Another procedure is called phacoemulsification. This involves
inserting a needle through a small incision on the eye. The end of
the needle produces sound waves. The sound waves break up the lens,
which is then sucked out through the needle. This procedure
requires a smaller incision than the manual extraction
procedure. |
| Aftercare |
|
Cataract surgery usually works very well. The operation has few
risks, the pain and recovery period are short, and your sight is
usually greatly improved. Ninety-five percent or more of all
cataract surgeries result in improved vision. |
Review Date: 8/22/2008
Reviewed By: Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology,
Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by
VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA,
Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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