66840 Removal of lens material; aspiration technique, 1 or more stages

Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Lens Material; Aspiration Technique
Common Names: Lens Aspiration, Cataract Removal
Technical Term: Phacoemulsification (if ultrasound technology is used)

Summary

Lens aspiration is a surgical procedure commonly used to remove cataracts. The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and uses a specialized instrument to break up and suction out the cloudy lens material, restoring clear vision.

Purpose

This procedure addresses cataracts, which are cloudy areas in the lens that impair vision. The goal is to remove the cloudy lens material to restore clear vision.

Indications

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Difficulty with bright lights and glare
• Diminished night vision
• Colors appearing faded
• Double vision in one eye Patients appropriate for this procedure typically have significant vision impairment due to cataracts.

Preparation

• Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure
• Taking prescribed eye drops to reduce infection and inflammation risk
• Undergoing pre-operative assessments, including eye measurements and vision tests
• Arranging for transportation, as driving post-procedure is not allowed

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia applied to numb the eye.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the cornea.
3. Aspiration: A probe is inserted to break up the lens material, often using ultrasound waves.
4. Suction: The broken-down lens material is suctioned out.
5. Lens Implant: An artificial lens (intraocular lens) is typically inserted to replace the removed material.
6. Closure: The incision may self-seal or require a few tiny sutures.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic Surgeon
• Operating Room Nurses
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Increased intraocular pressure
• Swelling or inflammation
• Dislocation of the artificial lens
• Retinal detachment (rare)

Benefits

• Restoration of normal vision
• Reduced glare and improved night vision
• Enhanced color perception Patients often notice significant improvement in vision as soon as the next day, with full benefits realized within a few weeks.

Recovery

• Avoid strenuous activities for at least a week
• Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing
• Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye

Alternatives

• Observation for mild cataracts until surgery is necessary
• Use of stronger prescription glasses or magnifying lenses
• Non-surgical treatments like anti-glare lenses and brighter lighting Alternative treatments do not cure cataracts but may help manage symptoms.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel mild pressure but no pain. Post-procedure, mild discomfort and itching are common and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and prescribed eye drops. Vision typically improves significantly within days to weeks.