CATARACT
Inside our eyes there is a natural lens. The function of this lens is to blend (refract) the light such that it helps us to see. This lens is clear so light rays can pass freely through it. When there is cataract, the lens becomes cloudy and it is like looking through a foggy or dusty car wind shield. Objects looks blurry, hazy and less colourful with Cataract.
CAUSES OF CATARACT
While ageing is the most common cause of Cataract due to the degeneration changes occurring in the natural lens leading to cloudiness, there might be other causes too.
- Health disorders like Diabetes, Glaucoma, Inflammation inside the eye (Uveitis), Kidney disease, smoking, etc.
- Prolonged and indiscriminate use of certain medications
- Trauma and eye injuries, radiation treatment of upper body etc.
SYMPTOMS OF CATARACT
- Blurring of vision
- Seeing double images or multiple images
- Glare and light sensitivity
- Having trouble with vision at night
- Seeing bright colours as faded
- Difficulty in reading in dim light
CATARACT TREATMENT
THERE IS NO MEDICAL TRATMENT FOR REMOVAL OF CATARCT
SURGICAL TREAMENT
When it becomes difficult to complete your regular activities because of a cataract, have a discussion with your ophthalmologist and plan your cataract surgery.
MICS CATARACT SURGERY
This is a minimally invasive procedure that typically does not require stitches and can be done using anesthetic drops only with no need for injections. A relatively painless procedure done using ultra-small incision (1.8 -2.00mm) to extract the cataract and followed by implantation of the latest ultra-thin foldable IOL’s, it is a less invasive procedure with shorter recovery time and negligible risks and complications.
TYPES OF IOL
IOL is a premium, tiny and artificial lens used to replace the natural lens of the eye after cataract surgery
MONOFOCAL IOLS
– These lenses are made of biocompatible material and designed to remain in the eye permanently.These are ultra-thin foldable lenses which have a fixed focus for one distance. Hence after implantation of these lenses there is optimal distance correction, however reading glasses are required for near and immediate work.
MULTIFOCAL IOLS
– Multifocal IOL’s restore visual function and allow spectacle independence after their implantation with great levels of patient satisfaction. Their success depends on careful selection of patient added to a proper surgical technique.
Multifocal IOL’s can be
Refractive-
The principle is different Refractive power annular zones on the IOL. The part of lens (zone) you look through determines clarity of far, near or immediate distance. (Pseudoaccomodation).
Diffractive-
These IOL’s have gradual diffractive steps in the IOL implant creating a smooth transition between focal points. These have less side effects such as glare and haloes. Though these IOL’s were designed to improve both near and distance vision. They might be associated with visual symptoms like haloes,glare and lower contrast sensitivity as they work by dividing light in different focuses as it enters the human eye. However, with time as the patient becomes comfortable, then perception of side effects decreases.
BIFOCAL AND TRIFOCAL IOL’S
Bifocal lenses work on the principle of 2 focal points, hence the correction for intermediate vision is superior in trifocal IOL’s. Hence trifocal IOL’s provide a high patient satisfaction and excellent visual outcomes.
EDOF IOLS (Extended Depth of Focus)
– This is an option where due to retinal risks or active lifestyles. Multifocal IOLs are not an option. They provide optimized intermediate vision, though for near vision correction would be required. However, the vision quality is better than Multifocal IOLs with better contrast sensitivity and less photic phenomena.
TORIC IOLS
– When the cylindrical correction required is > 1.0D Toric IOLs should be the IOL of choice. There are accessible in all formats.
Can cataracts be treated at any time?
In the past, people believed that a cataract had to develop completely before it could be removed, but this is no longer true. A cataract surgery can be performed at any time when reduced vision is affecting your life on a daily basis. It is a safe and predictable procedure that can be performed at any point in your life.
Is it possible to avoid cataract surgery if you do not treat it?
Over time, untreated clouded areas of the lens can become larger and denser, causing worsening vision. There is no time limit on how long it might take. Eventually, your whole lens may become clouded, resulting in even more blurred vision, thus adversely affecting your daily life.
What are the criteria for selecting the right lens for me?
There is no one lens that works for everyone, and your ophthalmologist can recommend the most suitable option for you.
Which surgical procedure is the most effective?
The best surgical procedure is one that combines high precision and has the greatest safety margin. As of now Laser Cataract Surgery and selecting a package where all disposable instrumentation is used is probably the best.
Is there any possibility of Cataract coming back?
Cataract cannot not reoccur. However over a period of time, some patients may complain of cloudy vision. This condition is called secondary cataract and it can be treated by a simple laser procedure.
Does cataract surgery is successful and what is the rate of success?
The success rate of a cataract surgery is +98%. Continuous innovation in techniques and instruments has made the procedure simpler and safer than before.
Which is a good technique for cataract surgery?
Phacoemulsification is a good technique and has the following benefits – micro incision, stitch less, safe and fast visual recovery.
When can I resume daily routine?
Minimum of seven days rest is recommended before you resume your day-to-day activities. This may vary based on your eye condition and your working environment. Polluted and stressful environment should be avoided.
Does glasses are required after cataract surgery?
In most of the cases a small refractive error is present after cataract surgery and wearing glasses will make your vision sharper.
Cataract surgery is done under LA or GA? Will I be awake during the surgery?
Cataract surgery is done in local anaesthesia & yes you will be awake. Your surgeon will offer you medication to help you relax and take steps to make sure you don’t feel any pain.
What is the duration of the Cataract Surgery?
The procedure typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes, though it may be two to three hours from when you check in until you leave Operation Theater.
What is the costing of cataract surgery?
The cost of cataract surgery can vary depending on a number of factors, including: Type of intraocular lens (IOL) you want to select The technology involved in the procedure For more details please visit Viaan Eye & Retina Centre or call us on+91 9958065151,+91 9560697627 or email us at viaaneyeretina@gmail.com
Does my vision will be perfect instantly after surgery?
Till your eyes are healing after the surgery, you may experience various visual disturbances, such as glare and halos (rings around light sources) in certain lighting conditions. This is normal and usually subsides over time.
Does the Lens implanted in my eye have any expiry?
There is no expiry for IOL(lens) implanted in your eye during cataract surgery. The new lens should provide clear vision for the rest of your life.
How many days my eye will take to get fully recovered?
Most people notice a significant improvement in their vision and can resume everyday activities within 24 hours after cataract surgery with precautions that have been informed to you after surgery. However, depending on which intraocular lens you have implanted, it can take between two weeks to six months to completely adjust and for you to achieve your optimal vision.
Are there any complications if I don’t go for cataract removal?
If the cataract reaches an advanced stage, vision will deteriorate. At this stage, cataract can also increase the pressure in the eye. This increases the risk of glaucoma.
What is the duration of stay, required in hospital after cataract surgery?
You do not have to stay. Surgery can be done as a day care procedure and the patients can go home a few hours after surgery.
Is there any insurance coverage of Cataract surgery & cash facility available at Viaan?
Yes, at Viaan we have most of the TPA’s empanelled with us. Please refer Health Insurance for more details.
Is there any cashless facility or government rates available?
Yes, we are empanelled with the CGHS, ECHS, DDA, Power grid, Ayushman Bharat and many other PSU’s
How many days will I need to wear the dark glasses?
For your safety, you will need to wear the dark sunglasses for 1 month after surgery at least outdoors.
I have systemic problems (like heart problems, asthma). Can I still get cataract surgery?
Yes. You will need to get fitness from physician or the specialist who treats your systemic condition.
Can I get cataract surgery if I am diabetic?
Yes, as long as your blood sugar levels are under control.
Can I take my regular medicines on the day of the surgery?
Yes, you can take all regular medicines, except blood thinning tablets.
Can I eat all types of food?
Yes. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian are fine.
When can I resume my duties?
You can resume your duties after MICS surgery, after 10 days. With manual surgery, you can return after 1 month.
Is it ok to take bath after surgery and how many days I have to wait?
You can take bath after surgery but for head bath you should wait till 15 days. Do not splash water on your eyes, and face.
Can I do exercise or yoga after the surgery?
The physical pressure is not advisable right after surgery. You will need to wait at least 15 days before you can do any exercise or yoga. For yoga that increases the pressure on the eye (such as kapalbhati), you may need to wait 3 weeks.