66821 Discission of secondary membranous cataract (opacified posterior lens capsule and/or anterior hyaloid); laser surgery (eg, YAG laser) (1 or more stages)

Name of the Procedure:

Discission of Secondary Membranous Cataract (Opacified Posterior Lens Capsule and/or Anterior Hyaloid); Laser Surgery (e.g., YAG Laser) (1 or more stages)

Summary

This procedure, commonly known as YAG laser capsulotomy, involves using a laser to treat clouding that can occur after cataract surgery. The laser creates an opening in the opacified posterior lens capsule, enhancing vision clarity.

Purpose

The procedure addresses secondary membranous cataracts, which can cause vision blurriness post-cataract surgery. The goal is to restore clear vision by removing the cloudy layer that forms behind the intraocular lens.

Indications

• Blurred vision or decreased visual acuity after cataract surgery
• A noticeable clouding of the lens capsule (posterior capsule opacification)
• Patient experiencing glare or difficulty with bright lights
• Ophthalmologist’s diagnosis confirming the need for capsulotomy

Preparation

• No fasting required; normal diet allowed
• Continue regular medications unless instructed otherwise by the doctor
• Pre-procedure eye examination to assess the opacification
• Possible measurement of intraocular pressure

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated in front of the YAG laser machine.
2. Topical anesthetic drops are administered to numb the eye.
3. The eye is stabilized using a special lens placed gently on the surface.
4. The ophthalmologist targets the opacified posterior lens capsule with the YAG laser.
5. The laser creates precise openings in the cloudy membrane, restoring light passage to the retina.
6. The eye is re-examined, and post-procedure instructions are provided.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-20 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic or an ophthalmologist’s office equipped with a YAG laser machine.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist or eye surgeon
• Ophthalmic technician or nurse for assistance

Risks and Complications

• Increased intraocular pressure
• Rare risk of damage to intraocular lens
• Inflammation or swelling inside the eye
• Risk of retina detachment (rare)
• Management includes post-procedure medications and close follow-up

Benefits

• Improved vision typically noticeable within 24 hours
• Permanent solution for secondary cataract
• Quick, non-invasive, and generally painless procedure

Recovery

• Patients can go home shortly after the procedure
• Use prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops as directed
• Avoid strenuous activities for a few days
• Follow-up appointment within a week to check healing and pressure

Alternatives

• Observation or waiting if symptoms are mild
• Repeated conventional surgery (less common)
• Pros: YAG laser capsulotomy is quick, minimally invasive, and has a high success rate.
• Cons: Slight risk of complications such as increased intraocular pressure or retinal detachment.

Patient Experience

• Minimal discomfort during the procedure due to topical anesthetic drops
• Slight "popping" sound and visual light flashes from the laser
• Mild eye discomfort or redness for a few hours post-procedure
• Pain management with over-the-counter pain relief, as needed