Name of the Procedure:

Intracapsular Cataract Extraction with Insertion of Intraocular Lens Prosthesis (1 Stage Procedure)
Common Names: ICCE with IOL, One-stage cataract surgery with lens implant

Summary

Intracapsular cataract extraction (ICCE) with insertion of an intraocular lens (IOL) prosthesis is a surgical procedure to remove a cataract-affected lens from the eye and replace it with a clear artificial lens. This one-stage process is done to restore vision loss caused by the cataract.

Purpose

ICCE is performed to address cataracts, which cause clouding of the eye's natural lens, leading to blurred vision and potential blindness. The goal of the procedure is to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens, thereby restoring the patient's vision.

Indications

• Significantly blurred or cloudy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions
• Glare and halos around lights
• Vision impairment impacting daily activities
• Confirmation of cataract diagnosis by an eye specialist

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for about 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments might be necessary, such as stopping blood thinners.
• Preoperative assessments including eye measurements and general physical examination.
• Use of prescribed eye drops before the procedure to dilate the pupil.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically used to numb the eye, with or without sedation.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the cornea.
3. Lens Removal: The affected natural lens is removed in one piece.
4. Lens Implantation: An intraocular lens (IOL) is then carefully implanted into the eye.
5. Closure: The incision is closed, often without the need for stitches.

Specialized surgical tools and microscopes are used to ensure precision.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

ICCE with IOL implantation is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital.

Personnel

• Surgeon: An ophthalmic surgeon performs the procedure.
• Nurses: Assist with preoperative preparation and intraoperative support.
• Anesthesiologist/Nurse Anesthetist: Administers local anesthesia and monitors the patient.

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Inflammation
• Retinal detachment
• Dislocation of the intraocular lens Most complications are rare and manageable.

Benefits

The primary benefit is the restoration of clear vision, usually noticeable within a few days post-surgery. Patients often experience a significant improvement in quality of life.

Recovery

• Use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
• Wear an eye shield as recommended, especially during sleep.
• Follow-up visits to monitor healing and adjust vision correction, if necessary.
• Complete recovery typically occurs within a few weeks.

Alternatives

• Phacoemulsification: A less invasive cataract removal technique involving ultrasound.
• Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE): Only the lens is removed, leaving the capsule intact.
• Laser-assisted cataract surgery: Uses a laser for more precise removal. Pros and cons vary; less invasive methods may have faster recovery times.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel mild pressure but should not experience pain. Post-procedure, patients may have mild discomfort, itching, or a gritty feeling in the eye. Pain is typically minimal and managed with prescribed medications. Vision improves gradually over several days to weeks.