Name of the Procedure:

Pre-surgical (cataract) axial length, corneal power measurement and method of intraocular lens power calculation.

Summary

This procedure involves measuring the length of the eye and the curvature (power) of the cornea to determine the correct power of the intraocular lens (IOL) that will be implanted during cataract surgery. These measurements are essential for ensuring optimal visual outcomes after the surgery.

Purpose

The procedure addresses cataracts, which are a clouding of the natural lens in the eye leading to impaired vision. The goal is to accurately calculate the power of the intraocular lens to be implanted, thus ensuring the patient achieves the best possible vision post-surgery.

Indications

• Diagnosis of cataracts.
• Scheduled for cataract surgery within the next 12 months.
• Patients experiencing significant visual impairment due to clouding of the lens.
• Presence of symptoms such as blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night.

Preparation

• Patients may need to stop wearing contact lenses several days before the measurements.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are usually required.
• A comprehensive eye exam may be conducted beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. Axial Length Measurement: Using an optical or ultrasound biometer, the eye's axial length (distance from the front to the back of the eye) is measured.
2. Corneal Power Measurement: A keratometer or corneal topographer measures the curvature of the cornea.
3. Lens Power Calculation: These measurements are input into a formula or lens power calculator, which computes the appropriate power of the intraocular lens to be implanted.

No anesthesia or sedation is typically required, as the procedures are non-invasive and painless.

Duration

The entire process usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an ophthalmologist's office, an outpatient clinic, or a specialized eye care center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist
• Optometrist or Ophthalmic Technician

Risks and Complications

• Rare risk of inaccurate measurements.
• No significant risks or complications as the procedures are non-invasive.

Benefits

• Accurate measurements ensure proper IOL power calculation.
• Higher likelihood of achieving optimal vision after cataract surgery.

Recovery

• No recovery time needed for these measurements.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments as directed by the ophthalmologist.

Alternatives

Alternative methods may include:

• Manual calculations based on standard measurements, though less precise.
• Intraoperative aberrometry for real-time measurements during cataract surgery. Pros of the described procedure include higher accuracy and precision, while cons of alternatives include potential for lower accuracy.

Patient Experience

• The patient will typically feel minimal discomfort during the measurements.
• No pain is usually associated with these tests.
• The patient can expect a quick and straightforward process.