Cataract operation

La Phacoemulsification with ultrasonic energy is most commonly used technique for cataract surgery. Ultrasound literally "pulverizes" the cataract and this allows surgery to be performed through very small incisions (2 mm), aspirating its contents and thus reducing surgical trauma.

In our case, we use micropulsed ultrasound with bimanual technique, a procedure that involves a upper step since it allows to make even smaller incisions, less than 1 mm, with less surgical trauma. The result of this technique is safer surgery and faster recovery.

The modern cataract surgery consists in emptying the "crystalline sac", taking advantage of its configuration to house the intraocular lens that will allow us to recover vision in the following days.

Basically when decreased vision interferes with the patient's daily activities. The specialist may also consider surgery if he appreciates an increase in intraocular pressure or other complications related to the progression of the cataract, in these cases, although the patient has a certain degree of vision that allows him to perform his usual activities, it is advisable to consider the removal of the cataract to avoid irreversible damage.

Is cnot to wait until the patient has almost completely lost vision to propose surgery, as this practice may involve risks, a more complex intervention because it is a harder cataract or with poor visibility for the surgeon. In general we recommend going to the ophthalmologist in the initial stages of the cataracts, so that it is he who controls the evolution and advises us when to perform the surgery.

On some occasions, we recommend lens surgery to especially correct refractive errors, it is what is called surgery "phagorefractive”: Is indicated in patients with high presbyopia, myopia or farsightedness, the lens surgery with a multifocal intraocular lens implant not only improves vision, but at the same time allows you to dispense with glasses or contact lenses.

We currently have intraocular lenses with flexible materials, which allow them to be introduced through the small incision made at the beginning of the surgery. There are various types of lenses, from the monofocal, such as the glass of the glasses to see from afar and multifocal lenses, to see from far and near.

In recent years, a new type of lens has appeared that attempts to emulate the physiological mechanism of the crystalline lens, these are progressive trifocal lenses, which offer better optical quality and the possibility of eliminating dependence on glasses, both for distance, intermediate vision, like up close

We have the qualitative leap in cataract surgery in the future that is already a reality for some centers like ours. It involves implanting intraocular lenses with the ability to be "molded" at 2 weeks after surgery. It consists of a material sensitive to ultraviolet light, which allows to correct the small graduation defects that may remain after surgery, eliminate optical aberrations to improve visual quality and incorporate the correction of astigmatisms or mulitfocal profiles, according to the needs of each person .

In this way, we can talk about a true personalized surgery for each patient, ensuring the maximum vision potential in a safe and very effective way. These results will be maintained throughout life, without the need for subsequent adjustments or the need to wear glasses.

This intervention is a controlled and safe procedure, however, just like any other surgery is not without risks. Currently the Cataract surgery results are excellent and visual recovery is usually fast and satisfactory in the vast majority of cases.

However, it is important to know that in any medical act, success cannot be guaranteed in 100 percent of cases, we can only guarantee that we will take all preventive measures so that the probability of risks during the intervention be very low, and if a complication occurs, it can be resolved without major consequences.

El cataract postoperative it's simple and even in the hours following the intervention, visual ability is maintained without experiencing pain. The same day of the operation should not be driven, so the patient must be accompanied by someone who takes him to the operating room and home.

Additionally it is recommended:

• Wear dark glasses outdoors to avoid eye discomfort from light or wind.
• Wash your hands carefully before applying any eye drops or ointment in the eye. If both are used, the eye drops should be placed first and, three minutes later, the ointment.
• Do not perform physical contact or swimming activities until the doctor considers it appropriate. Normally we recommend between 2 and 3 weeks to return to the sport routine.
• For any major inconvenience, pain o blurred vision, it is always due consult the ophthalmologist.

It is important follow the surgeon's instructions about what we can and what we cannot do as well as medication and postoperative controls. Generally we should use eye drops for 2 or 3 weeks and go to the first review within 24 hours.