The EYE
The eye is a remarkable organ.
It is derived from brain tissue and connects directly to the brain. The frequently used comparison of the eye and the camera
is useful in understanding how the eye works. Light enters the camera through the small aperture, passes through the lens
and is focused on the film, thus forming a picture. Similarly, light the eye through the pupil and passes through the lens,
which focuses light on the retina, forming the picture we see. The retinal cells (rods and cones) connect directly to the
brain, thus forming the visual image.
What is a Cataract?
The lens of the eye is normally crystal clear. However, in some diseases,
following injury or in the normal aging change of the eye, the lens may become cloudy. When the lens becomes cloudy it is
called a Cataract. Removal of a cataract is actually the removal of the cloudy lens. An IOL (intraocular lens implant)
is placed inside the eye after the cataract has been removed. The intraocular lens implant restores the focusing power to
the eye and allows the patient to see well without thick glasses or contact lenses. Intraocular lens implants are safe and
effective for most people. Since they are made of an artificial, man-made material they will never become cloudy.
What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
The symptoms of cataracts vary somewhat from patient to patient, but usually
include some combination of the following: progressive blurring of vision, differences in vision of one eye as compared to
the other, subdued color vision, and increased glare sensitivity. Increase glare sensitivity is one of the more common symptoms
and is especially noted in bright sunlight and in night driving with oncoming headlights striking the cloudy lens. Most patients
who have moderately advanced cataracts find night driving to be difficult.
There is no medical treatment or prevention for development of cataracts.
Once the cataract begins to develop, there is no way to alter its progression.
How is a Cataract Removed?
Cataracts are surgically removed when they become advanced enough to interfere
with the patient’s lifestyle. Techniques of cataract surgery have changed dramatically in the past 30 years. The doctors
here at Western Rockies Eye Care Center use the most up-to-date techniques called Phacoemulsification. This technique requires
very small incisions and no stitches are required to close the incision. This modern technique allows the patient to safely
have surgery in an outpatient setting, return home immediately, and resume normal activities very soon after the cataract
surgery.
We are frequently asked if we use lasers in performing cataract surgery. Ophthalmologists
use lasers to treat many eye problems, but not to perform cataract surgery. Lasers are being used, but for research only now.
However, one of the more frequent complications of modern cataract surgery is called “posterior capsular clouding”.
This means that a membrane behind the artificial lens becomes and interferes with the vision, somewhat like the original cataract
did. This type of clouding can be remedied with a laser treatment that is painless and takes only a few moments. This use
of the laser may be confused by some patients as using laser surgery to remove cataracts.
No surgical procedure is without risk. Fortunately, major complications in
modern cataract surgery are unusual and can often be corrected if they do occur. In rare instances severe or even total loss
of vision may result from surgical complications. These instances are quite unusual. However, you should know of the existence
of these complications. Your doctor will discuss these with you in more detail if you desire.
Where is Cataract Surgery Performed?
Day Surgery of Grand Junction is located adjacent to our clinical area.
This modern outpatient facility is designed to offer the best and most cost effective environment for cataract surgery. It
is Medicare approved and licensed by the State of Colorado.
The professional staff of Ophthalmologists, Anesthesiologists, Registered
Nurses, and Certified Ophthalmic Technicians provides quality care, encouraging family participation in a caring and professional
atmosphere. After discussing surgery with your ophthalmologist, the Surgery Counselor will schedule your surgery, giving you
written instructions and an opportunity to ask questions. Our receptionist greets you the day of surgery and assists you and
your family during the admission and discharge process.
What can I expect after Surgery?
Modern, small incisions, no-stitch cataract surgery is very different from
previous techniques of cataract removal. Now it is safe to allow the patient to go home immediately after surgery and return
to normal activities very soon. Daily care consists of cleansing the eye and applying drops several times daily. Even patients
who live alone find the after care quite simple.
Detailed instructions will be given to you in written form after your surgery.
What about the cost of surgery?
Much of the cost of cataract surgery is covered by private insurance or by
Medicare. In the Grand Junction area many of our patients have Rocky Mountain HMO insurance which covers cataract surgery.
Our patient accounts advisor will see that all insurance precertification requirements are met and file your insurance clams
as well. The total cost of surgery in an outpatient facility is considerably lower then the cost if performed in a hospital.
