PowerPoint Presentation

Are you at risk?SymptomsBlurry visionLoss of visionUnable to Correct Vision with Eye GlassesDifficulty seeing colorsSeeing doubleLight sensitivity

High risk factorsAge 39 and over Highest risk over 59 years oldFamily History of Eye DiseaseEye InjuryCertain DiseasesDiabetesDown Syndrome

4Cost of SurgeryOut of pocket expenses for cataracts surgery range from $500-$5000Out of pocket expenses are dependent upon insurance provider and surgeonThe type of lens needed for surgery will also effect the price

How to Diagnose a CataractRecognize abnormal vision symptoms See a OphthalmologistVision tests will be completed to determine if cataract surgery is necessary

Preparation for Cataract SurgeryGo to an OphthalmologistObtain corrective lens from your Ophthalmologist Schedule cataract surgeryYour are required to fast 8 hours prior to surgery Obtain informed consent for cataracts surgerySelect type of anesthesia (i.e. local or optic nerve block)Surgery begins!

Equipment NeededMicroscopePhacoemulsification machine Operating room stretcher Instrument Table Eye instruments Blade to make incisionPhacoemulsification hand pieceLens inserter

Surgical stepsEye prep to clean eye immediately prior to surgical incisionEnsure patient is anesthetized properly Focus operative eye under microscopeIncision is made by the surgeon Cataract is definedPhacoemulsification system used

Surgical steps continued 7) Surgeons examines for proper placement of lens8) Antibiotic drops or injection of antibiotics9) Patch or Shield is placed over the eye10)Patient is taken to recovery after the procedure is complete

Vision may be blurry for a short period after the surgeryEyes can become bloodshotSometimes surgery can result in a black eye from anesthesia being injected below the eye

Recovery process

Common Misconceptions about Cataracts Cataracts do not grow backCataracts do not spread from one eye to the otherCataracts may only be in one eye

Possible Complications during SurgeryInfection: Can be corrected with antibiotics Opacification: Can be corrected with a Yag LaserPosterior capsular tear: Very rare, Repaired with Virtectomy

Surgery Demonstration Video