Discover the Truth About Cataract Laser Surgery
There is a common myth that primary cataract surgery is performed using a laser. This could not be further from the truth. The latest and most effective method used to perform cataract surgery uses an ultrasound and a topical anesthetic, which promotes fast recovery.
Lasers, however, are used in a portion of patients for corrective cataract surgery when a clouding, or secondary cataracts develops behind the implanted lens, several months or years after primary cataract surgery has been performed.
Cataract laser surgery is performed when posterior capsule opacification occurs, also known as secondary cataracts, which blurs or obstructs vision, much the same as the original cataracts did. Just over 30 percent of patients who receive cataract surgery develop this condition. In these cases, a YAG laser is used to make a tiny opening in the clouded capsule behind the implant lens which permits light to access the retina without disruption resulting in clear vision. This is a minor outpatient procedure which takes a few minutes total, and is performed without need of anesthesia.
Primary cataract surgery is when the eye’s clouded lens is removed by a cataract surgeon and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens, usually made of plastic or silicone. The procedure takes between 20 and 30 minutes and is usually done on an out-patient basis.
Cataract surgery is not a LASIK procedure where a laser reshapes the cornea to correct eyesight.
During cataract surgery, the patient is usually sedated to reduce anxiety and an anesthetic is given to avoid discomfort or pain. The surgeon makes a tiny incision proximal to the cornea and inserts a surgical instrument which breaks up and removes the clouded lens. The intraocular implant lens is then inserted through the same incision and set into place.
Cataract surgery is not only a safe and effective procedure to remove cataracts, but it is one of the most widely performed surgeries in the United States with more than 3 million procedures taking place every year.
Performing primary cataract surgery with a laser is not far off and may become common place in the near future. FDA clearance was granted for Femtosecond Laser Technology in late 2009 which includes making incisions in the eye with a laser that creates precisely targeted bursts of energy that will allow for easy access to the cloudy lens so that it can be removed and replaced with the implant.
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Blane from San Jose Lasik Surgery says:
The animation video of the cataract removal process was very good, and the article very clear. I did not know that they actually can insert the artificial lens rolled up, and then it will unroll itself once inside. That was amazing. Nice site.
January 4, 2010, 8:09 amCataracts says:
Nice video, it was very informative. I’m just looking for info on cataracts so thanks for sharing.
February 3, 2010, 12:54 amEye Clinic says:
Thanks for the video post. Interesting watch. I had my sight restored completely. I was a -2 before but thanks to my eye laser surgery procedure I’ve got perfect view again. It’s amazing and I could recommend it to anyone.
February 23, 2010, 3:54 pm