Cataract Surgery
The described techniques have been approved by many
Ophthalmological and Scientific Societies; the text used is
commended by the B.S.C.R.S (Belgian Society of Cataract &
Refractive Surgeons) in its brochures on Cataract Surgery, a common
work of a panel of Ophthalmologists. The B.S.C.R.S. has 426
members, all Ophthalmologists.
The crystalline lens (see Eye) becomes more opaque with time;
this is a natural ageing process. Most of the patients being operated
on are over 65 years. However, in some patients, the cataract
can start earlier than for others; diabetics, high myopes are
more at risk of having a cataract earlier; some systemic diseases
or the use of drugs (cortison) can play a role.
The effect of cataract is that the vision diminishes, becomes
more foggy with time, and cannot be corrected by glasses anymore.
It is then necessary to undergo a surgical operation.
The surgeon will remove the crystalline lens
and implant an artificial lens in the eye,
most of the time in the same position of the crystalline lens.
This happens under local anaesthesia (called topical); only drops
are applied in the eye a few minutes before surgery. A sedative
is given for patient comfort.
General anaesthesia can be done for very nervous patients, or
in special cases, like very high myopia, etc.
The patient is able to leave the surgical centre 1 hour after
the surgery; the eye is protected by a special shield, to avoid
any shock at night, for instance.
The day after the surgery, a visit is scheduled
to check the eye, the eye pressure, and to be sure that the patient
fully understands what he/she has to do with his/her treatment
(eye drops).
If necessary, the second eye can be operated on shortly after
the first one.
It must be understood that a pair of glasses
could be needed after cataract surgery to improve visual results.
Visual recovery is fast after surgery, with most patients able
to watch TV the next day(s).
It is important to remember that the cost of
the surgery is not fully reimbursed by the I.N.A.M.I. Some sterile
and disposable components used during the surgery are at patient's cost, but
might be reimbursed by a private insurance or a "complementaire"
from the mutual insurance.
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