Cataract Surgery with Phacoemulsification (Phaco)
Cataract Surgery with Phacoemulsification (Phaco)
Cataract (کاتاراکت) refers to the clouding of the eye's natural lens, making it look like a fogged or yellowed window. The degree and pattern of clouding can vary between different lenses. If the clouding occurs at the outer edges of the lens, the person may not even notice the cataract.
Common Causes of Cataracts:
Age-related: The most common type of cataract, resulting from aging.
Family history: A family history of cataracts increases the risk.
Systemic diseases: Conditions like diabetes can contribute to cataracts.
Eye trauma: A previous eye injury can lead to cataract formation.
Prolonged sun exposure: Extended exposure to ultraviolet light without eye protection can increase the risk.
Previous eye surgeries: Past eye surgeries may increase the risk of cataracts.
Smoking: Smoking accelerates cataract formation.
Certain medications: Long-term use of drugs like corticosteroids may contribute to cataracts.
Symptoms of Cataracts:
Blurry vision without pain
Sensitivity to light
Poor night vision
Double vision in one eye
Increased need for light when reading
Fading and yellowing of colors
Cataract Treatment:
If the patient's vision is only slightly blurry, cataract treatment may not be necessary right away. Small changes in prescription glasses can help improve vision temporarily. It is important to note that there are no eye drops, exercises, or special glasses that can cure or prevent cataracts. However, wearing UV-blocking sunglasses or eyeglasses with anti-reflective coatings is always recommended.
Phacoemulsification Surgery (Fico) for Cataracts:
Phacoemulsification, commonly referred to as Fico surgery, is the current standard for cataract surgery. It is an outpatient procedure that doesn't require stitches and is performed under local anesthesia using eye drops. The procedure involves:
Emulsification: An ultrasonic probe is used to break the cloudy cataract into small fragments.
Aspirating: The broken pieces of the cataract are then aspirated (suctioned) out.
IOL Insertion: An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the natural lens and restore vision.
Advances with Femtosecond Laser:
Recently, femtosecond laser technology has been integrated into cataract surgery. The femtosecond laser provides higher precision, especially when making incisions and fragmenting the cataract, and reduces the need for ultrasonic energy during the procedure, improving the overall safety and outcomes.
Surgical Procedure:
The surgery typically lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. Patients are awake during the procedure, but local anesthesia and sedatives may be used for comfort. After surgery, patients are monitored for an hour before being allowed to go home.
Postoperative Care:
Recovery is generally quick, with many patients experiencing improved vision within a few days. Some mild discomfort, swelling, or eye irritation is normal but can be managed with medications. Patients are often advised to wear sunglasses to protect their eyes from bright light.
Risks and Complications:
Although cataract surgery is one of the safest procedures, complications can occur. These are rare and can range from mild issues like corneal swelling or eye irritation to more serious problems such as retinal detachment or infection. However, the risk of losing vision is very low, with 98% of cataract surgeries being successful, and 95% of patients experiencing improved vision post-surgery.
Phacoemulsification with or without femtosecond laser assistance is widely regarded as a highly effective method for restoring clear vision in cataract patients.