Advanced Techniques for Cataract Surgery in Warren
Cataract surgery is done to separate the lens capsule and the cataract. In most surgeries, the lens is replaced with an intraocular lens implant or IOL. If this replacement cannot be done, eye glasses become necessary. There are mainly two types of cataract surgeries.
1. Phacoemulsification or small-incision surgery
During this cataract surgery in Warren, two tiny incisions are made where the cornea (the clear front covering of the eye) meets the sclera (the white of the eye). A circular opening is made in the capsule that surrounds the natural lens of the eye, where the cataract is located. A surgical instrument called phaco probe is then inserted in the eye and ultrasound waves are employed to breakup the cataract into little pieces. Suction is used to remove these lens and cataract pieces from the eye. An intraocular lens implant is now placed in the lens capsule. The incisions heal themselves without stitches.
2. Extracapsular cataract extraction
During this procedure, an incision of about 8 to 10 mm is made where the cornea meets the sclera. Another small incision is made in the front part of the lens capsule and the lens is removed along with any lens material that still remains. An intraocular lens is now placed and closure of the incision is done.
Use of anesthesia
Almost all cataract surgeries are done using topical anesthetics such as eyedrops or local anesthesia. Use of local anesthesia involves administration of a sedative to relax and then an injection under, beside or inside the eye to make the nerves numb, and prevent eye blinking and movement.
Use of a general anesthetic becomes necessary in some situations where a patient is too anxious to undergo the surgery, not able to follow instructions given during the procedure or is allergic to local anesthetics. General anesthetics are also given to children and patients with certain conditions that necessitate their use during cataract surgery.
The warning signs to return to your doctor
Decrease in vision, increase in pain or redness, swollen eye periphery, eye discharge and noticing new floaters are the signs that you should go see your cataract surgeon in Warren immediately.
The efficacy of cataract surgeries
Cataract surgeries have a success rate of 85% to 92% and are even performed on infants who are born with cataracts. There is a 95% satisfaction rate with these surgeries. People who undergo these surgeries usually have improved vision and relief from the fear of going blind. The improvement in vision also increases the quality of life.
