Phantom Vision: A Benign, Intraoperative Visual Experience in Cataract Surgery
Tejasvi Paturu1, John S Jarstad1
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, USA.
Cureus
|May 10, 2024
Summary
Cataract surgery patients sometimes experience "phantom vision," a pleasant, colorful visual phenomenon during the procedure. Sharing these patient experiences can help reduce pre-operative anxiety for future cataract surgery patients.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Patient Experience Research
Background:
- Cataract surgery, a common procedure, can induce patient anxiety.
- Intraoperative visual phenomena are frequently reported but often poorly understood by patients.
Observation:
- A 72-year-old commercial artist undergoing microincision cataract surgery reported a unique "phantom vision" experience.
- This intraoperative visual experience was described as pleasant, dynamic, and colorful.
Findings:
- The patient's detailed account and illustrations provide a first-hand perspective on intraoperative visual phenomena.
- The experience was associated with uncomplicated cataract surgery.
Implications:
- Patient testimonials and artistic representations can demystify intraoperative visual events.
- Incorporating these insights into preoperative counseling may significantly reduce patient anxiety.
- Understanding and normalizing "phantom vision" can improve the overall cataract surgery patient journey.
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