Name of the Procedure:

Best-corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of 20/40 or Better (Distance or Near) Achieved within the 90 Days Following Cataract Surgery

Summary

Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the cloudy lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial one. Achieving a best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/40 or better within 90 days after the surgery means attaining a certain level of vision clarity with the help of corrective lenses.

Purpose

Cataracts cause clouding of the eye's lens, leading to blurry vision and difficulty seeing. The goal of this procedure is to restore clear vision by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. The expected outcome is improved vision, ideally achieving BCVA of 20/40 or better.

Indications

• Blurry or clouded vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Reduced ability to distinguish colors
• Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses

Preparation

• Fasting for a certain period before the surgery (usually after midnight the day before)
• Stopping certain medications as advised by the doctor
• Undergoing a comprehensive eye examination and measurements of the eye

Procedure Description

1. Anastasia: Local anesthesia to numb the eye and possibly a sedative to help relax.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the eye.
3. Phacoemulsification: An ultrasound device is used to break up and remove the cloudy lens.
4. Lens Implant: An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted to replace the natural lens.
5. Closure: The incision may be self-sealing or closed with sutures if necessary.

The tools used include an ultrasound probe for breaking up the lens and special instruments for lens replacement.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist (eye surgeon)
• Nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (if sedation or general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: infection, bleeding, inflammation
• Rare complications: retinal detachment, drooping eyelid, persistent swelling, vision loss
• Managing complications: medications, additional surgeries, or treatments as needed

Benefits

• Improved vision clarity
• Rapid recovery time with vision improvement noticeable within a few days to weeks
• Reduced dependency on glasses or contact lenses

Recovery

• Use of prescribed eye drops
• Avoiding strenuous activities and heavy lifting
• Wearing an eye shield or glasses to protect the eye
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and visual improvements

Alternatives

• Non-surgical management with stronger prescription glasses or contact lenses (temporary fix)
• Vision aids such as magnifying glasses

Pros and cons of alternatives:

• Non-surgical options do not treat the underlying cataract and vision may continue to deteriorate.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel mild discomfort or itchiness after the procedure but significant pain is not common. Vision may be blurry at first but improves rapidly. Pain management includes over-the-counter pain medications and prescribed eye drops to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. Comfort measures such as wearing an eye patch and resting with the head elevated may also be recommended.