Video courtesy: Eyesmart
What Is Cataract ?
Cataract is an ocular condition characterized by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, resulting in vision impairment. Normally, the lens is transparent, allowing light to pass through and focus on the retina at the rear of the eye. However, the development of a cataract causes the lens to become cloudy, disrupting the usual transmission of light.
Cataracts are classified based on their origin and location. Nuclear cataracts form in the center of the lens, affecting vision. Cortical cataracts develop in the cortex of the lens, causing visual disturbances. Posterior subcapsular cataracts occur at the rear of the lens, impacting near vision and reading. Congenital cataracts are present at birth, often due to genetic factors or maternal infections during pregnancy. Traumatic cataracts result from eye injuries, while secondary cataracts may arise as complications of other eye conditions or surgeries. Age-related cataracts, the most prevalent type, occur due to the natural aging process, clouding the lens and causing vision impairment.
Cataracts manifest gradual symptoms that affect vision. Blurred or hazy vision, heightened sensitivity to glare, difficulty seeing in low light conditions, and diminished color perception are common signs. Frequent adjustments in eyeglass prescriptions may be necessary as the lens loses its clarity. Double vision in one eye and a halo effect around lights may also occur. Reduced contrast sensitivity, leading to challenges in distinguishing objects, is another symptom. Furthermore, individuals may experience a decline in visual acuity, making everyday tasks such as reading or driving more difficult. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and appropriate management of cataracts, often necessitating surgical intervention for optimal vision restoration.
Surgical Alternatives
Phacoemulsification: This is a contemporary and widely used method for cataract surgery. It entails utilizing ultrasound energy to fragment the cloudy lens into small pieces, which are then suctioned out of the eye.
Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE): In this conventional approach, the surgeon removes the entire lens in one unit. However, due to its smaller incisions and swifter recovery, phacoemulsification is now more prevalent.
Intraocular Lens Choices
Monofocal IOL: This type of lens offers clear vision at a single focal distance, typically for distant vision. Glasses may still be necessary for activities such as reading.
Multifocal IOL: These lenses are crafted to provide clear vision at various distances, minimizing the need for glasses post-surgery.
Toric IOL: Corrects astigmatism in addition to addressing cataracts.
Accommodating IOL: Mimics the natural lens by adjusting focus between near and far distances.
Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery
In certain instances, cataract surgeons employ advanced laser technology to assist with specific stages of cataract treatment. This aims to enhance precision and efficacy in cataract removal. A femtosecond laser is utilized to create precise incisions, fragment the cloudy lens, and aid in its extraction. This approach improves accuracy, reduces manual steps, and enhances overall surgical outcomes, resulting in swifter recovery and superior visual outcomes for patients undergoing cataract surgery.