Cataract Surgery-Indications, Techniques, and Intraocular Lens Selection.
Thabo Lapp1, Katrin Wacker, Carsten Heinz
1Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg; Department of Ophthalmology at St. Franziskus-Hospital Münster, Münster; Department of Ophthalmology, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen; Eye Center Rosenheim, Rosenheim.
Deutsches Arzteblatt International
|February 16, 2023
Summary
Cataract surgery replaces the clouded natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens. While ultrasonic phacoemulsification remains standard, advanced lens options offer improved vision for patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Innovation
- Vision Science
Background:
- Cataract, or lens opacification, is a primary cause of reversible blindness globally, affecting millions.
- Aging is the most common factor leading to cataracts, causing progressive vision impairment.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes evidence from meta-analyses, Cochrane reviews, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
- Literature search focused on PubMed to identify pertinent publications on cataract surgery.
Key Points:
- Ultrasonic phacoemulsification is the standard method for lens nucleus fragmentation during surgery.
- Current RCTs do not demonstrate femtosecond laser superiority over phacoemulsification.
- Advanced intraocular lens options include multifocal, extended depth-of-focus (EDOF), and astigmatism-correcting lenses.
Conclusions:
- Cataract surgery is typically an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia.
- Patient-specific needs dictate the selection of advanced artificial lenses.
- Informed consent regarding lens advantages and disadvantages is crucial for patient decision-making.
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