EDUCATION
Cataract refers to fogging or clouding of the crystalline lens. Vision gradually becomes more blurry, and images lose clarity and colour. You may feel more glare on bright sunny days and lights may appear
streaked at night.
Light entering the eye is normally focused on the
retina when the lens is clear.
Normal Vision
When cataract has developed, the clouded lens scatters light, causing vision to deteriorate.
Vision with Cataract
Cataract
Mild cataract can be managed with glasses, but if the lens becomes sufficiently cloudy, surgery is the only practical treatment. Modern cataract surgery (called phaco) is performed under local anaesthesia with
minimal discomfort. Sutures are rarely required. Laser can be used to help make the wounds but phaco is
still necessary.
A circular opening is made in the skin (capsule) covering the clouded lens. The lens is broken up using ultrasound and vacuumed out.
Artificial lens is inserted into the now empty capsule, which serves as the holder for the new lens.