Cataracts

The lens capsule (which holds the lens in place) is not removed and a plastic artificial lens is put inside the eye to replace the patient's own lens that has just been removed. Stitches are not usually used.

This operation is usually carried out as a day case.

Extracapsular surgery
A larger opening is made in the eye through which the lens is removed. A plastic lens is inserted. Stitches are needed to close the wound.

What happens after the operation?
You will probably be given one tablet to reduce the pressure inside the eye shortly after the operation.

You will be given drops to use into the eye regularly over a two to four week period. These drops are usually a combination of antibiotic (to prevent any infection) and corticosteroid (to reduce any inflammation). These drops usually come as a combination in one bottle.

The recovery from phacoemulsification is more rapid than after extracapsular surgery.

What are the risks of surgery?
This operation is extremely successful with a very high rate of patient satisfaction. There are small risks of infection (endophthalmitis), haemorrhage or retinal damage that may result in reduction in vision or even complete loss of vision in the eye. These severe problems are thought to occur in about 1 in every 2000 patients.

In the long term there is a risk that the capsule that holds the lens in place may become cloudy and this causes gradual reduction in vision. This can be treated with a YAG laser which makes a clear hole in the capsule.

This procedure is carried out in the clinic or day unit. Some drops may be needed after this for a short while. There is a small risk that the retina may become detached after this, or that the pressure may go up, but these will be looked for and should be treated if present.

Will activities be reduced after surgery?
This operation allows rapid recovery of vision and the patient's activities should be very minimally reduced. They are usually recommended not to go swimming for the first six weeks as there is an increased risk of infection.

In addition, heavy lifting or vigorous exercise is not recommended in the first month - or for two months after extracapsular surgery.

Patients may have some difficulty reading after the operation because there is no focusing power in the new plastic lens. A pair of reading glasses will be prescribed three to four weeks after the operation (six to eight weeks after extracapsular surgery).

<<Go To Page 1

The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Conditions for use



© Copyright 1998 - 2004 NetDoctor.co.uk - All rights reserved