Cataract removal involves a surgical procedure where the clouded lens is extracted and typically replaced with an artificial lens. Here's a breakdown of the process based on the provided reference:
Cataract Removal Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide
The surgical procedure generally involves the following steps:
- Small Incision: The eye surgeon creates a very small opening on the eye, usually next to the outer corner.
- Phacoemulsification (Breaking Up the Cataract): A tiny probe is inserted through the incision. This probe emits ultrasound waves designed to dissolve the hard, central part (core) of the cloudy lens (the cataract).
- Cataract Material Removal: After the core is dissolved, the remaining cataract material is removed using another probe. This probe uses suction to extract the dissolved and fragmented lens material through the same small opening.
- Lens Replacement (Typical): While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reference, in most modern cataract surgeries, after the cataract is removed, an artificial lens (intraocular lens or IOL) is implanted to restore vision.
Here’s a table summarizing the key steps:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Incision | A small opening is made in the eye. |
| 2. Phacoemulsification | Ultrasound waves are used to dissolve the core of the cataract. |
| 3. Material Removal | The dissolved cataract material is removed via suction. |
| 4. Lens Replacement (IOL) | In most cases, an artificial lens is implanted (this step is implied but not explicitly stated in the provided text; it's a standard part of modern cataract surgery). |
In essence, cataract surgery utilizes a combination of ultrasound energy to break up the cataract and suction to remove the fragments, allowing for vision restoration.
