Talk:Cataract
From Academic Kids
Cataract is one of the most common pathological conditions of the elderly. Nearly everyone over 60 has some sign of cataract and 50% of those aged 70 and above have some visual loss due to cataract.
Cataract surgery is the most common surgery performed in the United States in the medicare population. It is generally safe and effective. The cataractous natural lens is removed by an ultrasound technique requiring an incision of about 2.6mm in length in the cornea. Visual rehabilitation is greatly aided by the placement of an artificial plastic lens in the eye at the time of surgery. Typically, patients will wear glasses at least part time after cataract surgery, but relatively good vision can be achieved without correction.
The prinicipal risk of cataract surgery is retinal detachment, which has an incidence of about 1/2% to 1%. The risk period for retinal detachment runs five years after the day of surgery. If a detachment should occur, it is imperative that the patient recognize what has happened and seek treatment immediately, certainly within 24 hours. Symptoms of retinal detachment include flashes of light, black spots in the vision and a "curtain" or cloud coming over the vision. The cloud starts in the peripheral vision and progresses centrally, often in a matter of hours. All symptoms are in one eye only. Vision out of the other eye is unaffected. There is no pain involved.
Previously, polymethylmethacrylate was used as the lens material. Advances have brought about the use of silicone acrylate which is a soft material. This allows the lens to be folded and injected into the eye through a smaller incision.
