Name of the Procedure:

Extracapsular Cataract Removal with Intraocular Lens Insertion
Common Names: Cataract Surgery, Lens Replacement Surgery

Summary

Extracapsular cataract removal involves removing the cloudy lens of the eye through a surgical incision and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure can be performed manually or using advanced mechanical techniques such as irrigation and aspiration or phacoemulsification. It does not involve endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation.

Purpose

This surgical procedure addresses cataracts, which cloud the lens of the eye and impede vision. The main goal is to improve visual clarity and restore the patient's ability to see clearly.

Indications

• Blurry or cloudy vision caused by cataracts.
• Difficulty with night vision.
• Halos around lights.
• Frequent changes in glasses prescriptions.
• Double vision in a single eye.
• Significant decrease in quality of life due to impaired vision.

Preparation

• Fasting from midnight before the surgery.
• Adjustments to certain medications as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Preoperative tests, including eye measurements and a general health assessment.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia is administered, usually local anesthesia with sedation.
2. A small incision is made in the cornea.
3. The front part of the lens capsule is opened.
4. The cloudy lens is carefully removed either manually or using techniques like phacoemulsification, which uses ultrasound to break up the lens.
5. An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted into the eye to replace the natural lens.
6. The incision is closed, which may or may not require sutures.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic Surgeon.
• Surgical Nurses.
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist.

Risks and Complications

• Infection.
• Bleeding.
• Swelling.
• Retinal detachment.
• Dislocation of the intraocular lens.
• Residual refractive errors requiring glasses or contact lenses.

Benefits

• Improved vision and quality of life.
• Reduction or elimination of the need for glasses or contact lenses.
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities.

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Use of prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and control inflammation.
• Protective eye shield worn while sleeping.
• Avoidance of strenuous activities and eye rubbing.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
• Full recovery typically occurs within several weeks.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical options such as stronger prescription glasses or contacts may provide temporary relief but do not address the underlying problem.
• Phacoemulsification with additional techniques such as laser-assisted surgery.
• Observation if cataracts are not yet significantly impairing vision.

Patient Experience

• Minimal discomfort during the procedure due to anesthesia.
• Mild irritation or scratchiness in the eye post-procedure.
• Vision may be blurry initially but will improve over time.
• Adherence to post-operative care instructions is crucial for optimal recovery and outcomes.