A sedative tablet before surgery. Patient's memo after ophthalmic surgery (cataracts, glaucoma, retinal detachment, etc.)

Eye cataract is a complex ophthalmological pathology characterized by clouding of the lens. Lack of timely treatment threatens vision loss. The disease usually progresses slowly in adulthood. However, certain types of cataracts develop rapidly and can lead to blindness in the shortest possible time.

People over fifty years of age are at risk. Age-related changes and metabolic disorders in the eye structures often lead to loss of lens transparency. Cataracts can also be caused by eye injuries, toxic poisoning, existing ophthalmological pathologies, diabetes mellitus and much more.

All patients with cataracts experience a progressive decrease in visual acuity. The first symptom is foggy eyes. Cataracts can cause double vision, dizziness, photophobia, and difficulty reading or working with small parts. As the pathology progresses, patients even stop recognizing their acquaintances on the street.

Conservative treatment is advisable only at the initial stage of cataracts. It is worth understanding that drug therapy protects against the rapid progression of the disease, but it is not able to rid a person of the disease and restore transparency to the lens. If the cloudiness of the lens worsens, cataract surgery is required.

Overview of Cataract Surgery

In the first stages of lens opacification, dynamic observation by an ophthalmologist is indicated. The operation can be performed from the moment the patient’s vision begins to significantly decline.

A direct indication for lens replacement surgery is visual impairment, which causes discomfort in everyday life and limits work activity. A specialist selects an intraocular lens. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Anesthetic drops are instilled into the conjunctival sac before surgery. Typically, lens removal takes half an hour. The patient can be home on the same day.

ATTENTION! In case of complete blindness, cataract surgery will not bring any results.

Modern medicine does not stand still, so replacing the lens of the eye with cataracts can be done in various ways. The essence of the procedure is to remove the natural lens. It is turned into an emulsion and removed. An artificial implant is placed in place of the deformed lens.

Surgery may be used in the following cases:

  • overripe stage of cataract;
  • swelling form;
  • lens luxation;
  • secondary glaucoma;
  • abnormal forms of lens opacification.

There are not only medical, but also professional and everyday indications for the operation. Workers in some professions place high demands on vision. This applies to drivers, pilots, and operators. The doctor may also recommend lens replacement if a person is unable to perform normal household chores due to decreased vision, or if the visual field is significantly narrowed.

Contraindications

Any eye surgery has a number of limitations, and lens replacement is no exception. Cataract removal with lens replacement is prohibited in the following cases:

  • infectious diseases;
  • exacerbation of a chronic process;
  • ophthalmological disorders of an inflammatory nature;
  • recent stroke or heart attack;
  • period of pregnancy or breastfeeding;
  • mental disorders accompanied by patient inadequacy;
  • oncological processes in the eye area.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers are prohibited from performing surgery due to the fact that during surgery the patient needs medicinal support. Doctors prescribe antibacterial, sedative, analgesic drugs, which may not have the best effect on the condition of the woman and child.

Age under eighteen years is a relative contraindication to surgery. In each case, the doctor makes an individual decision. It largely depends on the patient's condition.

It is dangerous to perform surgery for decompensated glaucoma. This can lead to hemorrhage and loss of vision. Surgical intervention should be carried out after normalization of intraocular pressure.

If the patient has no light perception, surgical treatment is not performed. This indicates that irreversible processes have begun to develop in the retina and surgical intervention will no longer help. If during the study it turns out that vision can be partially restored, surgery is prescribed.

Complicating factors during surgical treatment include:

  • diabetes;
  • hypertension;
  • chronic pathologies;
  • age up to eighteen years.

Most often, cataracts occur in old age. Elderly people often have serious illnesses. In some of them, anesthesia is a big health risk. Many modern techniques involve the use of local anesthesia, which does not place an increased burden on the cardiovascular system.


Lens replacement surgery cannot be performed for infectious diseases.

Techniques

Let's talk about four modern techniques that help completely get rid of lens clouding.

Laser phacoemulsification

The operation requires extreme precision and concentration from the surgeon. It is prescribed when hardening is detected in the ocular media, which is absolutely insensitive to ultrasound. Laser phacoemulsification is not available to many patients, as it requires the use of special, expensive equipment.

The operation can be performed in extremely difficult cases:

  • for glaucoma;
  • diabetes mellitus;
  • subluxation of the lens;
  • dystrophic changes in the cornea;
  • various injuries;
  • loss of endothelial cells.

Before the procedure, the patient is given anesthetic drops. The healthy eye is covered with a medical napkin, and the area around the affected eye is treated with an antiseptic.

Next, the surgeon makes a small incision through the cornea. The laser beam crushes the clouded lens. It focuses deep within the lens without damaging the cornea. After this, the cloudy lens splits into tiny particles. During surgery, patients may see small flashes of light.

Then the capsule is prepared for implantation of an artificial lens (about the rules for choosing an artificial lens). A pre-selected intraocular lens is installed. The incision is sealed using a seamless method.

IMPORTANT! During the operation, the surgeon does not insert instruments into the eye, thereby reducing the risk of postoperative complications.

Complications appear quite rarely, but they are still possible. Negative consequences include bleeding, displacement of the artificial lens, and retinal detachment. Following all doctor's recommendations and observing hygiene rules is the best way to avoid the development of dangerous complications!

Laser phacoemulsification does not require mandatory hospitalization. A few hours after the procedure, the person can return home. Restoration of visual function occurs within several days.

Still, some restrictions will have to be taken into account for some time. During the first two months, try not to overstrain your eyes. It is better to stop driving a car. To minimize the risk of complications, you will have to take medications and vitamins prescribed by your doctor.

Ultrasound phacoemulsification

This technique is recognized as one of the most effective and safe in the treatment of cataracts. If already at the first stage a person experiences discomfort, then, at his request, the lens can be replaced.

The surgical treatment is absolutely painless, the patient does not experience any discomfort during the procedure. Anesthetize and immobilize the eyeball using topical agents. Drops with an anesthetic effect can be used: Alcaine, Tetracaine, Proparacaine. Injections are also given into the area around the eyes for anesthesia.

Using ultrasound, the damaged lens is crushed into small particles, turning into an emulsion. The removed lens is replaced by an intraocular lens. It is made individually, taking into account the characteristics of each patient's eye.

ATTENTION! Concomitant eye pathologies reduce the effectiveness of surgical interventions.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision. This became possible due to the high flexibility of the IOL. They are introduced in a folded state, and once inside the capsule they straighten out and take the desired shape.

During the recovery period, intense physical activity and high temperatures should be avoided. Doctors categorically prohibit visiting saunas and steam baths. It is not recommended to sleep on the side on which the eye was operated on. To avoid infection, it is better to temporarily stop using decorative cosmetics. Your eyes should not be exposed to aggressive sunlight, so do not forget to use glasses with an ultraviolet filter.

Extracapsular extraction

This is a simple traditional technique without the use of expensive equipment. A large incision is made in the shell of the eye, through which the clouded lens is completely removed. A characteristic feature of EEC is the preservation of the lens capsule, which serves as a natural barrier between the vitreous body and the artificial lens.

Extensive wounds require stitches, and this affects visual function after surgery. Patients develop astigmatism and farsightedness. The recovery period takes up to four months. Extracapsular extraction is performed for mature cataracts and hardened lens.


When extracting a cataract, the surgeon has to make a large incision followed by stitches.

The tunnel technique is most often used. During the operation, the lens is divided into two parts and removed. In this case, the risk of developing postoperative complications is reduced.

Removing sutures does not require anesthesia. After about a month, glasses are selected. A postoperative scar can cause astigmatism. Therefore, to avoid its divergence, injuries and excessive physical exertion should be avoided.

Despite the high effectiveness of modern techniques, in some cases specialists prefer traditional surgery. EEC is prescribed for weakness of the ligamentous apparatus of the lens, overripe cataracts, and corneal dystrophy. Traditional surgery is also indicated for narrow pupils that do not dilate, as well as for detection of secondary cataracts with IOL decay.

IMPORTANT! Vision begins to recover during the operation, but it takes time for complete stabilization.

Intracapsular extraction

It is carried out using a special instrument – ​​a cryoextractor. It instantly freezes the lens and makes it hard. This makes it easier to remove later. The lens is removed along with the capsule. There are risks that particles of the lens will remain in the eye. This is fraught with the development of pathological changes in visual structures. Unremoved particles grow and fill the free space, which increases the risk of developing secondary cataracts.

One of the advantages of IEC is its affordable cost, since it eliminates the need to use expensive equipment.

Preparation

What tests need to be taken before surgery? The visual apparatus and the entire body are checked to exclude contraindications to surgical intervention. If during the diagnosis any inflammatory processes were identified, before the operation the pathological foci are sanitized and anti-inflammatory therapy is carried out.

The following studies are mandatory:

  • general blood and urine analysis;
  • coagulogram;
  • hematological biochemistry;
  • blood glucose test;
  • analysis for HIV infection, syphilis and viral hepatitis.

Disinfecting and dilating pupil drops are injected into the operated eye. Eye drops or injections into the area around the eye may be used for anesthesia.

Selecting an artificial lens is a complex and time-consuming process. This is perhaps one of the most important stages of preparation, since the patient’s vision after surgery depends on the quality of the chosen lens.

Recovery period

The operation is in most cases well tolerated by patients. In rare cases, specialists complain of unpleasant sensations, including:

  • photophobia,
  • discomfort,
  • fast fatiguability.

After the operation, the patient goes home. A sterile bandage is placed over the person's eye. During the day he must observe complete rest. After about two hours, eating is allowed.

IMPORTANT! During the first time after surgery, patients should avoid sudden movements, lift heavy objects, and abstain from alcohol.

For a speedy recovery, you must follow medical recommendations:

  • observe the rules of eye hygiene;
  • for three weeks after surgery, do not go outside without sunglasses;
  • do not touch or rub the operated eye;
  • refuse to visit swimming pools, baths or saunas;
  • reduce time spent in front of the TV and computer, as well as reading;
  • during the first two weeks, do not drive a car;
  • compliance with the dietary regime.

Learn more about rehabilitation after surgery.

The section is led by Candidate of Medical Sciences, Associate Professor Gennady Nikolaevich Loginov.

Why does the lens become cloudy?

A cataract is any violation of the transparency of the lens, which has different causes, location and severity.

Cloudiness of the lens (especially in its central part) leads to a decrease in visual acuity. Vision decreases gradually, without pain. All surrounding objects become visible, first in a light fog, and then less and less clearly, and glasses in this case practically do not help.

Maintaining the transparency of the lens is possible only with normal nutrition of the epithelial cells: the supply of nutrients to them and the removal of metabolic products. If their excretion is disrupted, harmful substances accumulate in the epithelial cells, preventing the formation of transparent fibers. The cloudy substance of the lens cannot be removed because it is in a dense closed capsule. Therefore, there is practically no way to “lighten” it. But it is possible to stop the development of cataracts. To do this, it is necessary, first of all, to improve the removal of metabolic products. Removal is limited by age-related deterioration of venous outflow from the eye. To date, many different medications have been proposed to prevent the development of cataracts in the initial stages of the disease. However, such therapy rarely leads to success and can only be considered conditionally effective.

New opportunities

With the discovery of the role of microvibration in venous and lymphatic outflow, the possibilities for preventing the progression of cataracts have also expanded. The mechanism of increasing the outflow of intraocular fluid from the eye when exposed to microvibration has been studied - this is the so-called effect of “microvibration pumps”. Strengthening venous and lymphatic outflow should undoubtedly help improve metabolism in the epithelial cells that form the lens. At an early stage of cataract, when surgery to replace the lens is not yet relevant, and also as a preventive measure for its development, the phonation method can be used. When phonation is used, the eye area is saturated with microvibration, which improves transport and metabolism. Therefore, at the slightest suspicion of cataracts, it is recommended to begin following the preventive program outlined at the end of the page. The method is implemented using phonation devices designed for home use.

;The method is implemented using phonation devices designed for home use

Lens clouding is irreversible

The lens is a transparent formation surrounded on all sides by a capsule, shaped like a lens (see section “Structure of the eye”). In its capsule, although constituting a single whole, the anterior and posterior sections are conventionally distinguished (usually called the anterior and posterior capsule). The capsule is an acellular structure consisting of thin plates. It, as a semi-permeable membrane, plays an important role in the metabolic process in the avascular and nerveless lens.


On the inner surface of the anterior capsule there is a layer of epithelial cells that perform the functions of assimilation, secretion and construction of the lens itself. Epithelial cells during development turn into transparent fibers (substance) of the lens. This is a very important circumstance for understanding the causes of cataracts.

The lens differs from other tissues in that as it grows, old cells are not rejected, because the capsule interferes with this. They become more compact and are compressed in the center of the lens by young cells from the periphery, which are again covered with new fibers and also gradually move towards the center. The cut of the lens is very similar to the cut of a tree trunk: the oldest rings lie in the center, and the youngest ones around the circumference.

So far, the only radical method of treating patients with cataracts is to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens. But for a number of reasons, surgery is not always possible, and surgical treatment can sometimes be delayed for many years.

Prevention program

The program includes phonation of the eye area, the cervical spine area, the kidney and liver area.

Vasomotor and trophic functions for the organ of vision are carried out by the upper cervical sympathetic nerve nodes, located in the cervical spine on both sides of the spinal column at the level of 2-3 cervical vertebrae on the border of the scalp. At the same time, this is also the area where the vertebral veins pass, affecting the hemodynamics of the brain. Phonics in this area helps improve blood supply to the eye and brain.

The kidneys and liver are involved to one degree or another in the disposal of metabolic products. Therefore, these organs also need to receive an additional microvibration resource.

Phonics technique for preventing the development and progression of cataracts using Vitafon or Vitafon-T devices:

Impact parameters

Start time

Phoning time increase rate

End phonation time

Kidney area, “K” points

Plus 1 min. daily

Liver area, “M” points

Plus 1 min. in 2 days

Left eye area

Plus 1 min. in 2 days

Right eye area

Plus 1 min. in 2 days

Spine, points “D1”

Plus 1 min. in 2 days

Spine, points “E40”* (Fig. 3)

Plus 1 min. in 2 days

* Impact on “E40” points is carried out whenever possible.

Radiation of each area 1-2 times a day. It is recommended to follow the sequence indicated in the table.

The duration of treatment is not limited. Local drug treatment (instillation of drops) is not canceled. There is no need to take special breaks during vibroacoustic therapy. Intervals of 3-5 days a month are formed by themselves according to life circumstances. It is not recommended to take breaks for more than three months. If this happens, then the procedures should be resumed from the starting time indicated in the table.

Contraindications – severe concomitant diseases (condition after a stroke or heart attack, the presence of an implanted pacemaker).

Preparing for lens replacement surgery

If clouding of the lens has already occurred, then surgery is necessary to replace it with an artificial intraocular lens. Despite the fact that modern technology for cataract extraction practically makes it possible to equate such an operation to an outpatient one, for an elderly person this situation is undoubtedly stressful and requires special preparation for it from a number of specialists - a therapist, endocrinologist, otolaryngologist (ENT), dentist, etc.

We recommend additionally, before the operation, to carry out a three-month general strengthening course of phonation according to the above method for preventing the development of cataracts. It includes phonation not only of the kidney, liver and cervical spine area, but also of the eye area. Such resource support of the body has a beneficial effect on the general condition of the patient and allows the eye tissues to more easily respond to surgical intervention due to improved drainage of metabolic end products. After replacing the lens, the operated eye does not need phonation.

Eye cataract is a complex ophthalmological pathology characterized by clouding of the lens. Lack of timely treatment threatens vision loss. The disease usually progresses slowly in adulthood. However, certain types of cataracts develop rapidly and can lead to blindness in the shortest possible time.

People over fifty years of age are at risk. Age-related changes and metabolic disorders in the eye structures often lead to loss of lens transparency. Cataracts can also be caused by eye injuries, toxic poisoning, existing ophthalmological pathologies, diabetes mellitus and much more.

All patients with cataracts experience a progressive decrease in visual acuity. The first symptom is foggy eyes. Cataracts can cause double vision, dizziness, photophobia, and difficulty reading or working with small parts. As the pathology progresses, patients even stop recognizing their acquaintances on the street.

Conservative treatment is advisable only at the initial stage of cataracts. It is worth understanding that drug therapy protects against the rapid progression of the disease, but it is not able to rid a person of the disease and restore transparency to the lens. If the cloudiness of the lens worsens, cataract surgery is required.

Overview of Cataract Surgery

In the first stages of lens opacification, dynamic observation by an ophthalmologist is indicated. The operation can be performed from the moment the patient’s vision begins to significantly decline.

A direct indication for lens replacement surgery is visual impairment, which causes discomfort in everyday life and limits work activity. A specialist selects an intraocular lens. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. Anesthetic drops are instilled into the conjunctival sac before surgery. Typically, lens removal takes half an hour. The patient can be home on the same day.

ATTENTION! In case of complete blindness, cataract surgery will not bring any results.

Modern medicine does not stand still, so replacing the lens of the eye with cataracts can be done in various ways. The essence of the procedure is to remove the natural lens. It is turned into an emulsion and removed. An artificial implant is placed in place of the deformed lens.

Surgery may be used in the following cases:

  • overripe stage of cataract;
  • swelling form;
  • lens luxation;
  • secondary glaucoma;
  • abnormal forms of lens opacification.

There are not only medical, but also professional and everyday indications for the operation. Workers in some professions place high demands on vision. This applies to drivers, pilots, and operators. The doctor may also recommend lens replacement if a person is unable to perform normal household chores due to decreased vision, or if the visual field is significantly narrowed.

Contraindications

Any eye surgery has a number of limitations, and lens replacement is no exception. Cataract removal with lens replacement is prohibited in the following cases:

  • infectious diseases;
  • exacerbation of a chronic process;
  • ophthalmological disorders of an inflammatory nature;
  • recent stroke or heart attack;
  • period of pregnancy or breastfeeding;
  • mental disorders accompanied by patient inadequacy;
  • oncological processes in the eye area.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers are prohibited from performing surgery due to the fact that during surgery the patient needs medicinal support. Doctors prescribe antibacterial, sedative, analgesic drugs, which may not have the best effect on the condition of the woman and child.

Age under eighteen years is a relative contraindication to surgery. In each case, the doctor makes an individual decision. It largely depends on the patient's condition.

It is dangerous to perform surgery for decompensated glaucoma. This can lead to hemorrhage and loss of vision. Surgical intervention should be carried out after normalization of intraocular pressure.

If the patient has no light perception, surgical treatment is not performed. This indicates that irreversible processes have begun to develop in the retina and surgical intervention will no longer help. If during the study it turns out that vision can be partially restored, surgery is prescribed.

Complicating factors during surgical treatment include:

  • diabetes;
  • hypertension;
  • chronic pathologies;
  • age up to eighteen years.

Most often, cataracts occur in old age. Elderly people often have serious illnesses. In some of them, anesthesia is a big health risk. Many modern techniques involve the use of local anesthesia, which does not place an increased burden on the cardiovascular system.


Lens replacement surgery cannot be performed for infectious diseases.

Techniques

Let's talk about four modern techniques that help completely get rid of lens clouding.

Laser phacoemulsification

The operation requires extreme precision and concentration from the surgeon. It is prescribed when hardening is detected in the ocular media, which is absolutely insensitive to ultrasound. Laser phacoemulsification is not available to many patients, as it requires the use of special, expensive equipment.

The operation can be performed in extremely difficult cases:

  • for glaucoma;
  • diabetes mellitus;
  • subluxation of the lens;
  • dystrophic changes in the cornea;
  • various injuries;
  • loss of endothelial cells.

Before the procedure, the patient is given anesthetic drops. The healthy eye is covered with a medical napkin, and the area around the affected eye is treated with an antiseptic.

Next, the surgeon makes a small incision through the cornea. The laser beam crushes the clouded lens. It focuses deep within the lens without damaging the cornea. After this, the cloudy lens splits into tiny particles. During surgery, patients may see small flashes of light.

Then the capsule is prepared for implantation of an artificial lens (about the rules for choosing an artificial lens). A pre-selected intraocular lens is installed. The incision is sealed using a seamless method.

IMPORTANT! During the operation, the surgeon does not insert instruments into the eye, thereby reducing the risk of postoperative complications.

Complications appear quite rarely, but they are still possible. Negative consequences include bleeding, displacement of the artificial lens, and retinal detachment. Following all doctor's recommendations and observing hygiene rules is the best way to avoid the development of dangerous complications!

Laser phacoemulsification does not require mandatory hospitalization. A few hours after the procedure, the person can return home. Restoration of visual function occurs within several days.

Still, some restrictions will have to be taken into account for some time. During the first two months, try not to overstrain your eyes. It is better to stop driving a car. To minimize the risk of complications, you will have to take medications and vitamins prescribed by your doctor.

Ultrasound phacoemulsification

This technique is recognized as one of the most effective and safe in the treatment of cataracts. If already at the first stage a person experiences discomfort, then, at his request, the lens can be replaced.

The surgical treatment is absolutely painless, the patient does not experience any discomfort during the procedure. Anesthetize and immobilize the eyeball using topical agents. Drops with an anesthetic effect can be used: Alcaine, Tetracaine, Proparacaine. Injections are also given into the area around the eyes for anesthesia.

Using ultrasound, the damaged lens is crushed into small particles, turning into an emulsion. The removed lens is replaced by an intraocular lens. It is made individually, taking into account the characteristics of each patient's eye.

ATTENTION! Concomitant eye pathologies reduce the effectiveness of surgical interventions.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision. This became possible due to the high flexibility of the IOL. They are introduced in a folded state, and once inside the capsule they straighten out and take the desired shape.

During the recovery period, intense physical activity and high temperatures should be avoided. Doctors categorically prohibit visiting saunas and steam baths. It is not recommended to sleep on the side on which the eye was operated on. To avoid infection, it is better to temporarily stop using decorative cosmetics. Your eyes should not be exposed to aggressive sunlight, so do not forget to use glasses with an ultraviolet filter.

Extracapsular extraction

This is a simple traditional technique without the use of expensive equipment. A large incision is made in the shell of the eye, through which the clouded lens is completely removed. A characteristic feature of EEC is the preservation of the lens capsule, which serves as a natural barrier between the vitreous body and the artificial lens.

Extensive wounds require stitches, and this affects visual function after surgery. Patients develop astigmatism and farsightedness. The recovery period takes up to four months. Extracapsular extraction is performed for mature cataracts and hardened lens.


When extracting a cataract, the surgeon has to make a large incision followed by stitches.

The tunnel technique is most often used. During the operation, the lens is divided into two parts and removed. In this case, the risk of developing postoperative complications is reduced.

Removing sutures does not require anesthesia. After about a month, glasses are selected. A postoperative scar can cause astigmatism. Therefore, to avoid its divergence, injuries and excessive physical exertion should be avoided.

Despite the high effectiveness of modern techniques, in some cases specialists prefer traditional surgery. EEC is prescribed for weakness of the ligamentous apparatus of the lens, overripe cataracts, and corneal dystrophy. Traditional surgery is also indicated for narrow pupils that do not dilate, as well as for detection of secondary cataracts with IOL decay.

IMPORTANT! Vision begins to recover during the operation, but it takes time for complete stabilization.

Intracapsular extraction

It is carried out using a special instrument – ​​a cryoextractor. It instantly freezes the lens and makes it hard. This makes it easier to remove later. The lens is removed along with the capsule. There are risks that particles of the lens will remain in the eye. This is fraught with the development of pathological changes in visual structures. Unremoved particles grow and fill the free space, which increases the risk of developing secondary cataracts.

One of the advantages of IEC is its affordable cost, since it eliminates the need to use expensive equipment.

Preparation

What tests need to be taken before surgery? The visual apparatus and the entire body are checked to exclude contraindications to surgical intervention. If during the diagnosis any inflammatory processes were identified, before the operation the pathological foci are sanitized and anti-inflammatory therapy is carried out.

The following studies are mandatory:

  • general blood and urine analysis;
  • coagulogram;
  • hematological biochemistry;
  • blood glucose test;
  • analysis for HIV infection, syphilis and viral hepatitis.

Disinfecting and dilating pupil drops are injected into the operated eye. Eye drops or injections into the area around the eye may be used for anesthesia.

Selecting an artificial lens is a complex and time-consuming process. This is perhaps one of the most important stages of preparation, since the patient’s vision after surgery depends on the quality of the chosen lens.

Recovery period

The operation is in most cases well tolerated by patients. In rare cases, specialists complain of unpleasant sensations, including:

  • photophobia,
  • discomfort,
  • fast fatiguability.

After the operation, the patient goes home. A sterile bandage is placed over the person's eye. During the day he must observe complete rest. After about two hours, eating is allowed.

IMPORTANT! During the first time after surgery, patients should avoid sudden movements, lift heavy objects, and abstain from alcohol.

For a speedy recovery, you must follow medical recommendations:

  • observe the rules of eye hygiene;
  • for three weeks after surgery, do not go outside without sunglasses;
  • do not touch or rub the operated eye;
  • refuse to visit swimming pools, baths or saunas;
  • reduce time spent in front of the TV and computer, as well as reading;
  • during the first two weeks, do not drive a car;
  • compliance with the dietary regime.

Learn more about rehabilitation after surgery.

Vitasite https://www.site

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye, the part of the eye that helps focus light on the retina. This disease is mainly associated with age as a result of cellular aging, but can sometimes develop due to eye injury, after radiation, intoxication, or be congenital. Risk of developing cataracts may be increased by certain diseases, such as diabetes, as well as by smoking, drinking alcohol, and exposure to ultraviolet rays. Cataracts can occur in one or both eyes at the same time, but are not transmitted from one eye to the other. Cataracts cannot be eliminated by drug treatment, only surgically. Surgery to remove cataracts is not required as long as your vision allows you to lead a normal lifestyle and there are no other urgent eye conditions. The moment and type of operation is chosen together with the doctor.

Cataract surgery usually performed on an outpatient basis and may require some preparation on the part of the patient shortly before the operation: perhaps taking medications, changing lifestyle, which in a certain way should be determined during the recovery process after the procedure.

The surgical procedure itself usually takes about fifteen minutes on one eye. However, you should plan to spend at least two hours in the clinic, including preparation and recovery time. In most cases, you will need to return to your surgeon for a check-up a few days after the procedure. After surgery, the eye will be covered with a protective bandage until the next morning.

Memo for the patient

Some things you may need to do are to prepare for surgery for cataract removal include:

  • Diet. Avoid drinking liquids and eating food for up to 12 hours before your procedure.
  • Makeup. Avoid cosmetics during the operation and recovery period.
  • Prepare your body for anesthesia: stop taking certain medications that may affect the outcome of the operation. Discuss this point with your doctor.
  • In some cases, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops one to two days before surgery to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery.

To speed up the healing process after surgery you will need to monitor yourself for several days:

  • Follow all instructions from your doctor.
  • To eliminate irritation and discomfort, eye drops are prescribed, which should be instilled strictly according to the scheme.
  • Do not tilt your head down the first day after surgery.
  • Do not sleep on the side of the operated eye for the first days, do not rub or press it, and avoid contact with soap and cosmetics.
  • Avoid any strenuous activity, bending over or lifting weights, and do not take a steam bath for a month after surgery.
  • Stay away from direct sunlight and bright lights and protect your eyes with sunglasses.
  • Do not drive a car until your vision stabilizes.

Vision of objects is usually blurry during the first few days. The entire healing process usually takes about eight weeks; if you experience any vision problems, eye redness, swelling, nausea, vomiting, or tics, be sure to contact your doctor.

Find out more about cataract surgery and what you can expect from the procedure by consulting a variety of resources.

Doctor's recommendations for cataract removal: before and after surgery

Ultrasound phacoemulsification of cataracts followed by implantation of an artificial lens is the best modern method of surgical treatment of this disease.
Cataract surgery performed at the Clinic of Professor E. N. Eskina. "Sphere" is an excellent result and safety. In this case, the patient needs to carefully follow the doctor’s recommendations before and after cataract surgery.

Preoperative preparation

Before the operation, you will need to do and submit to the Clinic the results of examinations from medical specialists, including the necessary tests (with a specified validity period):

  • Complete blood count with ESR (14 days).
  • Blood test coagulogram (14 days).
  • General urine test (14 days).
  • Blood test for glucose levels (1 month). If the level is elevated, it is necessary to obtain a conclusion from an endocrinologist.
  • ECG tape with interpretation (1 month).
  • Blood test for syphilis (RW) (3 months).
  • Blood test for hepatitis (Hbs and HCV antigens) (3 months).
  • Blood test for HIV (3 months).
  • Dentist (oral sanitation) (1 year).
  • Fluorography (1 year).
  • X-ray of the paranasal sinuses and ENT report.
  • Therapist - the conclusion should reflect the diagnosis, as well as the patient’s working blood pressure. It should contain the phrase: “There are no contraindications for eye surgery.”

On the day of surgery

  • take a shower;
  • wash your hair;
  • wear clean underwear (preferably cotton);
  • take sunglasses with you;
  • do not experience increased physical activity.
  • light breakfast.

It is strictly forbidden to drink alcohol and, especially, take drugs before eye surgery; the doctor will also recommend refraining from smoking and taking a number of medications - their list is determined after the examination.

Do not cancel the appointments of the attending physician (therapist, cardiologist, endocrinologist, etc.), except antithrombotic drugs(Aspirin, Thrombo-ACC, Cardiomagnyl, etc.). Their intake is necessary stop in 7 days before surgery.

You must have with you to the operation: a change of clothes, shoes, a passport and an insurance policy (for glaucoma patients, anti-glaucoma drops, if used).

Procedure for cataract surgery

  • Cataract removal is performed under local anesthesia, most often with drops. The patient is conscious, but does not experience any pain.
  • During eye surgery, the patient himself lies in a surgical chair, in which it is convenient for him to remain motionless.
  • Caring medical workers in the excellent operating room of the Sfera clinic will tell the patient which direction to look, and the doctor performing eye surgery will help to remain calm and not blink. After anesthesia it will be easy.
  • The first direct surgical action: the doctor makes an approximately one and a half millimeter (1.2-1.8 mm) incision with a self-sealing profile at the very edge of the cornea (limbal area).
  • After providing access to the lens, the phacoemulsifier begins to act on it with ultrasound, it crushes the lens so that cataract removal does not require a larger incision.
  • The ultrasound-crushed lens is absorbed by a micropump, and a rolled intraocular lens is placed in its place (they come in various types, including multifocal; the type of lens is determined together with the patient before cataract surgery). The lens straightens out in the capsular bag of the eye and begins to replace the patient’s lens.
  • The self-sealing profile allows you to do without seams - the micro-cut heals itself.
  • This eye surgery lasts from 15 to 30 minutes, after which a bandage is applied to the operated eye - it is only needed on the patient’s way home; it can be removed at home. There are no restrictions on visual stress (watching TV, reading, etc.) from the very first day.

Cataract surgery at the Sfera Clinic is performed in one day, meaning you do not need to be in the hospital. The intervention itself lasts on average 10 – 15 minutes.

After cataract surgery

The operated patient will be examined by the attending physician, give the necessary recommendations - and you can go home. You can watch TV, read, write, eat any food.

The operation requires pupil dilation. Therefore, to prevent light from causing discomfort during the first time after the intervention, it is recommended to wear sunglasses.

Cataract surgery allows the patient to see with his own eyes after returning home from the clinic, the full positive effect will become obvious after one or two days. In rare cases, when the patient has glaucoma or retinal diseases in addition to cataracts, maximum vision may take a little longer to achieve, but usually the early postoperative period takes no more than one week.

For a faster recovery period, your doctor will determine the order of use of eye drops.

In the first weeks after cataract surgery, the patient will need to attend follow-up examinations with a surgeon at the Sfera Clinic on an individual schedule.

Typically, patients are examined the next day after surgery, then after a week, one month, three months, and more often if necessary. It all depends on the individual characteristics of the visual system.

  • sleep on your back or side so that the side of the operated eye is on top;
  • protect your eyes from excessive strain;
  • avoid sharp bends and heavy lifting, incl. give up fitness, yoga, running for a couple of months
  • do not expose your eyes to sudden temperature changes;
  • do not rub your operated eyes;
  • Do not abuse alcoholic beverages for 2–4 weeks after surgery.
  • do not use cosmetics, varnish, or aerosols for 2 weeks.
  • When going outside, use a bandage for the first 7 days after cataract surgery.