A cataract develops when protein accumulation causes the lens of the eye to become hazy, impairing vision. Normally, light is focused onto the retina by the lens, which is made of proteins and water, to create sharp images. When these proteins clump together, they create a dark patch that obstructs light, impairing vision. If left untreated, cataracts, which are frequently prevalent in older persons, can significantly impair everyday functioning and overall health.
Types of Cataracts
- Cortical Cataracts
- Congenital Cataracts
- Nuclear Cataracts
- Secondary Cataracts
- Traumatic Cataracts
- Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts
Cortical Cataracts:
These cataracts begin at the lens’s periphery and progress toward its center. They are characterized by white, wedge-shaped opacities that impair depth perception and glare. Because of the increased glare from headlights, people with cortical cataracts frequently have problems driving at night.
Congenital cataracts:
Congenital cataracts are those that form in childhood or are present from birth. They may be brought on by metabolic diseases, infections contracted during pregnancy, or genetic causes. In order to avoid vision issues and guarantee healthy visual development, early detection and treatment are crucial.
Nuclear cataracts:
Nuclear cataracts, which are frequently linked to aging, develop in the centre of the lens. This kind frequently results in the lens turning yellow or brown, making it difficult to see properly and distinguish colours. Over time, nuclear cataracts can affect vision and usually it will develop slowly.
Secondary Cataracts:
When the lens capsule, which was left intact during cataract surgery, gradually gets clouded, secondary cataracts develop. Like primary cataracts, this disease can cause visual impairment. Among the symptoms include glare and impaired vision.
Traumatic cataracts:
Traumatic cataracts develop due to eye injuries, causing lens clouding and vision impairment. They can result from blunt force, sharp objects, radiation exposure, chemical burns, or electric shocks. Common symptoms include blurred vision, glare sensitivity, and double vision. Treatment varies from regular monitoring to surgical intervention, while wearing protective eyewear is essential for prevention.
Posterior subcapsular cataracts:
Posterior subcapsular cataracts develop near the back of the lens and can progress quickly, impacting reading vision and causing glare or halos around lights. They are more common in individuals with diabetes, those who use steroids, or those who are nearsighted. Due to their rapid progression, early cataract surgery is essential to prevent significant vision loss.
Cataracts, regardless of their type, can significantly impact vision and overall quality of life. In any of these situations, it is essential to consult an ophthalmologist for a comprehensive eye examination and guidance on cataract surgery options.
Cataract Surgical Treatments
Cataract surgery is a well-established procedure that restores clear vision by removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The most commonly used technique is phacoemulsification, a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes ultrasound energy to break down the cataract for removal.
Importance of Ophthalmic Microsurgical Instruments
During cataract surgery, precision instruments play a crucial role in ensuring safe and effective outcomes. Ophthalmologists rely on a variety of ophthalmic knives tailored to different surgical techniques and preferences, including:
Side Port Straight Knives – Used for creating precise incisions for instrument entry.
Keratome or Slit Knives – Designed for main incisions to access the cataract.
MVR Knives – Ideal for micro-incisions in posterior segment surgeries.
Each of these microsurgical knives contributes to the success of the procedure by enabling precise and controlled incisions, reducing trauma, and promoting faster recovery.
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