What is Cataract? >>

• What is Cataract?
• Types of Cataracts
• Symptoms of Cataract
• Causes of Cataract
• Treatment of Cataract
• Difference Between Cataract Removal Using Femtosecond Laser and Ultrasound
• Lenses Used in Laser Cataract Removal Surgery
• Prevention of Cataracts

What is Cataract?

Cataract is a condition characterized by clouding of the eye’s lens, located behind the iris. This lens is normally transparent but becomes opaque, losing its function and obstructing the passage of light. As a result, vision becomes blurry and unclear. In advanced stages, the patient may experience partial or complete blindness.

Cataracts usually develop gradually and can result from various factors such as natural aging, prolonged exposure to sunlight, certain diseases, or genetic factors.

Types of Cataracts

Cataracts develop gradually and without pain as the proteins within the lens change due to aging and various factors, leading to lens clouding. This results in blurry vision, making daily activities such as reading and driving more difficult.

Types of Cataracts Based on Progression:

• Immature Cataract: In the early stages of development, it does not significantly affect vision.
• Mature Cataract: In the advanced stage, it significantly impacts vision.
• Hypermature Cataract: In the late stage, it leads to vision loss.

Types of Cataracts Based on Cause:

• Senile Cataract: The most common type, associated with aging.
• Congenital Cataract: Occurs in children from birth and may result from genetic factors or injuries during pregnancy.
• Acquired Cataract: Affects individuals of all ages and can be caused by various factors such as:
  • Eye diseases like uveitis.
  • Chronic diseases like diabetes.
  • Use of certain medications like corticosteroids.
  • Exposure to radiation.
  • Exposure to trauma.

Cataracts are usually treated through surgery, where the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial one.

Symptoms of Cataract

• Blurry Vision: Vision becomes unclear and affects visual sharpness.
• Color Changes: Colors may appear dull or distorted.
• Increased Sensitivity to Light: There may be heightened sensitivity to bright lights.
• Night Vision Decline: Cataracts cause difficulty in seeing objects in the dark.
• Gradual Increase in the Need for Lighting: You may require better lighting to see things.
• Lens Color Change: As cataracts progress, the eye’s pupil changes from its natural black color to gray or white, leading to a severe decline in vision for those affected by cataracts.

Causes of Cataract

Treatment of Cataract

Cataract Removal with Femto Laser

The Femto-Second Laser technique for cataract treatment is one of the latest safe and effective methods. This technique uses the femto-second laser, where the doctor makes a small incision in the cornea to remove parts of the natural lens after breaking it up with the femto-laser, and then a synthetic lens is implanted.

Cataract Removal with Phacoemulsification

The Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery involves using ultrasound waves to effectively break up the cloudy lens, then aspirating and removing the lens, followed by implanting a synthetic lens in its place.

Cataract Removal Surgery

Cataract Surgery is an older option that requires making a large incision in the cornea and using surgical sutures to close it. In this surgery, the surgeon replaces the old natural lens with a new artificial one. Due to the large wound in the cornea, this surgery carries greater risks, but the surgeon may have to perform it in some advanced cases of cataracts.

Difference Between Cataract Removal Using Femtosecond Laser and Ultrasound

Cataract Removal or Lens Cloudiness Treatment through Various Techniques, Including Femto Laser and Ultrasound

Femto Laser (Femto-Laser) for Cataract Removal:

• Procedure: The laser is used to create a small opening in the cornea and break up the cataract in the lens, making it easier to aspirate and remove.
• Accuracy: It is highly precise in creating the opening and controlling the removal process.
• Effect on the Eye: It reduces interference with the healthy tissue of the eye, ensuring safety.

Ultrasound (Ultrasound) for Cataract Removal:

• Procedure: A surgical scalpel creates a small opening in the lens, and ultrasound waves are used to break up the cataract or cloudiness and then aspirate it.
• Accuracy: It may be less precise in controlling the procedure compared to the femto-laser.
• Effect on the Eye: It can cause some impact on the surrounding healthy tissue of the eye.

Differences:

• Technique: Femto laser uses a laser to create a precise opening, while ultrasound relies on a surgical scalpel and the use of ultrasound waves to break up and aspirate the cloudiness.
• Accuracy: Femto laser is more precise in controlling and reaching the targeted areas.
• Impact on Tissue: Ultrasound may have a greater effect on the tissue surrounding the lens.

Lenses Used in Laser Cataract Removal Surgery

Monofocal Lenses:

• Used after cataract removal and focus at a single point, either for distance or near vision.
• Provides clear vision without the need for walking glasses after the procedure, but the patient will need reading glasses.

Astigmatism-Correcting Lenses:

• Used to address astigmatism (the inability to focus the image correctly on the retina).
• Improves the quality of vision and reduces the need for glasses after the procedure.

Multifocal Lenses:

• Used after cataract removal and provide focus at multiple points, both for near and far distances.
• Provides clear vision without the need for walking glasses after the procedure, and the patient doesn’t need reading glasses.

Prevention of Cataracts

Prevention of Cataracts involves several factors and measures. Here are some tips for prevention:

• Regular Eye Exams: Schedule regular eye exams with an ophthalmologist to detect any issues affecting the lens at an early stage.

• Maintaining General Health: Follow a healthy, balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, and make sure to exercise regularly.

• Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of many health issues, including eye problems, so it is advisable to quit smoking.

• Protecting Eyes from the Sun: Wear effective sunglasses to protect from ultraviolet rays that could harm your eye health.

• Managing Chronic Conditions: If you have chronic health issues like diabetes, ensure you follow your treatment plan and control blood sugar levels.

• Preventing Injury: Protect your eyes from physical injuries by wearing appropriate protective gear during activities that could lead to eye injuries.

Remember, consulting an ophthalmologist is an important step in determining the appropriate preventive measures for your individual health condition.