Cataract Surgery

What types of conditions will benefit from cataract surgery ?

Cataract Surgery is a microsurgical procedure used to remove cataract from the eye.

What does the cataract surgery procedure involve ?

The natural lens of the eye is removed using phacoemulsification (emulsification of the lens using an ultrasonic hand piece) and is then replaced with an intraocular lens implant. The implanted lens is selected very carefully so as to correct the patient’s refractive error. Some lens implants can correct astigmatism. Some implants are custom made to suit an individual need. The procedure is performed using local anaesthesia and intra-venous sedation.

What equipment is used ?

For cataract surgery we use state of the art technology, the Alcon Infiniti Vision System (Phacoemulsifier).

What are the risks ?

As with any surgical procedure there are risks to consider before having surgery. Technology and surgical techniques have reduced these risks to a very low level however, these need to be considered.

Cataract surgery is a very safe operation but complications can occur and can be serious.

Complications occurring at time of cataract surgery may include:

• Retained portion of cataract in the eye
• Damage to or dislocation of the artificial lens.
• This may require an operation with a Vitreoretinal surgeon at another Centre with additional costs.

Post operative complications:

Infection in the eye is the most serious complication, as it can threaten the eyesight and cause blindness. It is uncommon. The incidence at SESC is about 1 in 1500. It becomes obvious on day 2 to 4 post operatively and immediate treatment is necessary to save the eyesight. We suggest that you remain available for treatment for the week after surgery.

In some patients after cataract surgery, the lens capsule becomes cloudy. This causes the vision to become cloudy or hazy. In these patient YAG Laser Capsulotomy may be performed, for more information on this procedure click here.

Other minor complications could be;

• Target refraction may not be achieved
• Sensitivity to light, minor discomfort
• Swelling of the macula (cystoid macula oedema) which can be persistent

What are the benefits of cataract surgery

Modern day cataract surgery is very safe with a success rate of over 95%.  For most patients, having cataract surgery also provides the opportunity to eliminate glasses for some tasks.