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Surgical
techniques
Several techniques are used for removing cataracts.
Phacoemulsification: In this method a tiny instrument
is inserted through a very small incision. The instrument
uses ultrasound vibrations to break the cataract into fine
pieces, which are gently suctioned out. The new lens is then
inserted into the eye. Usually no stitches are required to
close the incision. This minimal surgery allows faster and
safer healing, hastening your return to normal activity.
Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS): This is a new
technique where the cataract is removed manually through a
small incision. The small incision heals fast, enabling you
to recover quickly.
Extracapsular extraction: Here the lens is removed
in a single piece through a relatively larger incision. It
is replaced with an artificial lens and the incision is closed
with fine stitches. The surgeon may opt for this technique
in cases where the cataract is very advanced. The recovery
period is longer here.
Your doctor will select the method of surgery that is most
suitable for your case.
Planning for surgery
It is not necessary for the cataract to mature fully or for
the vision to become totally cloudy before scheduling surgery.
You and your ophthalmologist should jointly decide on the
time for surgery. Be sure to inform your doctor about any
medications or herbal remedies that you may be using.
At the Institute our counselors will help you to understand
the pre-operative procedures and obtain an estimate of the
expenditure involved. Prior to your surgery, you will need
to undergo some routine medical and blood tests. If you wear
glasses or contact lenses bring them so that your prescription
can be checked. An A-scan will help the doctor to determine
the power of the new lens to be implanted in your eye.
It is good to wash your face thoroughly with soap and water
before coming for surgery. You will be advised to use some
eye drops. Please follow the instructions carefully as these
drops help dilate your eye. If your eye is not properly dilated,
surgery may be delayed. You may also be advised not to eat
or drink anything for a few hours prior to surgery. You can
bring only one attendant; children below 15 years are not
allowed unless they are patients.
Though the success rate for cataract surgery is almost 98%,
sometimes there may be complications. Most of these complications
are minor and can be rectified. Your doctor will advise you
about any specific issues related to your case.
The surgery
In the operating room, the area around your eye will be cleaned
thoroughly. Sterile drapes will be placed around your head
and face, with only the eye exposed. Usually a local anesthetic
in the form of an injection is administered next to the eye.
Sometimes doctors may have to perform the surgery under general
anesthesia. An oxygen tube will be placed near you nose so
that you do not feel suffocated.
The actual surgery lasts about 30 minutes. You will be relaxed
and awake but feel no pain. The nerves in your eye will be
completely numbed so you will not be able to see or move your
eye. Generally, there is very little bleeding.
Care after surgery
After surgery a bandage or shield will be placed over your
eye. You will be advised to rest till you are ready to leave.
You should wear protective glasses or an eye shield in the
day and an eye patch at night to avoid accidental injury.
The doctor will advise you when you can discontinue them.
You can bathe carefully from below your neck but do not wet
the operated eye for 15 days. You may gently clean the eyelids
with a piece of cotton boiled in water or a sterilized tissue.
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