A cataract is a condition which causes clouding of the eyes. Basically, this disease is manifested in form of cloudy patches in the eye lens, and it can affect both or one of your eyes. The common symptoms that you may experience if you have cataracts include blurry vision and fading of colours. You will also have trouble with night vision and bright lights. The condition will develop slowly, but it will eventually result in extensive problems when reading, driving and even walking. An ophthalmologist is likely to recommend cataract surgery if you have the ailment. The procedure involves removal of the affected lens; the element will be replaced with a clear synthetic plastic or silicone alternative. Here is a brief description of the primary techniques used for cataract removal.
Phacoemulsification
The surgical phacoemulsification technique is highly advanced and effective, so it is favoured by many ophthalmology practitioners. This procedure involves the use of a machine with an ultrasonic probe made using titanium or steel. The probe oscillates during the surgery, and it is inserted into the eye via an incision made by the surgeon. The vibrating tip will facilitate the shattering of the cataract into tiny fragments. These pieces are suctioned off and a new lens implant is inserted. This procedure is favourable because the incision made is small, allowing you to resume normal activities with haste.
Extra-capsular
The extra-capsular technique is popular in many ophthalmology practices. It is more time-consuming and invasive compared to phacoemulsification but highly effective. This surgical procedure involves removal of most of the natural lens from the eye. The elastic capsule holding the lens is left in place to allow the new synthetic lens to be inserted. Basically, a large incision is made in the eye's sclera or cornea, and the lens is pulled out through the created pore. This method will necessitate sedation and stiches will be used to repair the eye. This procedure will be recommended by your surgeon if the cataracts in your eyes are hardened.
Intra-capsular
The intra-capsular procedure is similar to the extra-capsular alternative. However, this technique involves the removal of the entire natural lens as well as the supporting elastic capsules. A large incision is created in the eye to facilitate the removal of these components. This surgical procedure is not performed in clinic with high technology equipment because of the attached potential complications. In simple terms, the large incision will take long to heal, and the removal process will exert a lot of pressure on the other eye elements.
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