Complications of Cataract Surgery
A cataract is a condition where the lens of an eye becomes occluded with a cloudy film, obstructing normal vision. Without adequate passage of light into the eyes, a cataract condition may become severe enough to require surgical intervention. Though ther
A cataract is a condition where the lens of an eye becomes occluded
with a cloudy film, obstructing normal vision. Without adequate passage
of light into the eyes, a cataract condition may become severe enough to
require surgical intervention. Though there is a high rate of success
with cataract surgery, there are inherent risks associated with the
procedure.
The invasive probing of the eye and its orbit during surgery can result in an inner eye infection, referred to as endophthalmitis. In order to prevent this, patients are typically given a post operative regimen of antibacterial eye drops. Without eye drops or other means of preventative, a prolonged inner eye infection could result in continued damage to the eye and permanent long term vision problems.
During the surgical procedure itself, there is a possibility that a small fragment of the removed lens may retreat back into the eyeball. Though smaller pieces rarely cause noticeable symptoms, an ophthalmic specialist may recommend a secondary surgery to remove a larger piece of retreated lens in order to prevent discomfort or possible inflammation.
Due to the small but significant amount of trauma placed on the eye, cataract surgery may increase the chances of retinal detachment. The retina is a photo-sensitive layer of tissue at the rear of the inner eye that allows the brain to interpret incoming visual information. Though there is little to no discomfort associated with a detached retina, a prolonged condition may result in significant visual impairment and possible blindness.
Additional complications with surgery include chronic pain in the affected area, acute vision loss, and rupture of small blood vessels in the eye. It is important to seek immediate medical attention from a cataract surgeon Melbourne if any of the aforementioned complications occur, as it may prevent further pain or visual impairment.
The invasive probing of the eye and its orbit during surgery can result in an inner eye infection, referred to as endophthalmitis. In order to prevent this, patients are typically given a post operative regimen of antibacterial eye drops. Without eye drops or other means of preventative, a prolonged inner eye infection could result in continued damage to the eye and permanent long term vision problems.
During the surgical procedure itself, there is a possibility that a small fragment of the removed lens may retreat back into the eyeball. Though smaller pieces rarely cause noticeable symptoms, an ophthalmic specialist may recommend a secondary surgery to remove a larger piece of retreated lens in order to prevent discomfort or possible inflammation.
Due to the small but significant amount of trauma placed on the eye, cataract surgery may increase the chances of retinal detachment. The retina is a photo-sensitive layer of tissue at the rear of the inner eye that allows the brain to interpret incoming visual information. Though there is little to no discomfort associated with a detached retina, a prolonged condition may result in significant visual impairment and possible blindness.
Additional complications with surgery include chronic pain in the affected area, acute vision loss, and rupture of small blood vessels in the eye. It is important to seek immediate medical attention from a cataract surgeon Melbourne if any of the aforementioned complications occur, as it may prevent further pain or visual impairment.
