What are Cataract Surgeries?
Cataracts, a common eye condition primarily associated with aging, can significantly impact one's vision. In this article, we will delve into the world of cataract surgeries, exploring what cataracts are, their symptoms, and the various aspects of the surgical procedures involved.
Causes of cataracts
Several factors contribute to the development of cataracts, including age, genetics, and exposure to certain environmental elements like ultraviolet radiation.
Symptoms of Cataracts
Blurred vision
The most common symptom of cataracts is a gradual blurring of vision, making daily activities challenging.
Sensitivity to light
People with cataracts often experience increased sensitivity to light, making it uncomfortable to be in bright environments.
Difficulty seeing at night
Night vision can be severely affected, leading to difficulties driving or navigating in low-light conditions.
Risk Factors Trauma with Cataracts
Prolonged use of steroids, secondary cataracts post recurrent uveitis
Age
Cataracts are more prevalent in older individuals, with the risk increasing significantly after the age of 60.
Diabetes
Diabetic individuals are at a higher risk of developing cataracts due to fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Smoking
Smoking has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing cataracts, making it another reason to quit this habit.
Diagnosis of Cataracts
Eye examination
Ophthalmologists can diagnose cataracts through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include a visual acuity test and a dilated eye exam.
Vision tests
Various vision tests, such as glare testing and contrast sensitivity testing, help assess the extent of vision impairment caused by cataracts.
Types of Cataract Surgeries
MICS(Microincision Cataract Surgery)
Microincision cataract surgery (MICS) is a surgical technique that uses an incision of less than 1.8 mm to treat cataracts. MICS is considered a highly advanced, secure, and effective procedure for cataract removal.
Phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification is a cataract surgery that uses ultrasound energy to emulsify the cataract's nucleus. It also uses vacuum to catch the nuclear material, and irrigation and aspiration to remove the cortex and viscoelastic.
SICS(Small incision Cataract surgery)
SICS, or Manual Small-Incision Cataract Surgery, is a type of cataract surgery that involves making two incisions in the scleral tunnel wound. The incisions are an external scleral incision and an internal corneal incision. The size of the external wound affects the wound's self-sealing nature, with smaller incisions being more likely to self-seal.
ECCE(Extra capsular cataract extraction)
Extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) is a surgical technique that involves removing a portion of the lens capsule to extract the lens nucleus and cortex. The remaining parts of the capsule, the posterior capsule, and the zonular support remain intact.