There are two main methods of removing a cataract and replacing it with an artificial lens; these are phacoemulsification and extracapsular extraction.
Phacoemulsification is the most common used technique, as the surgery only lasts up to one hour and the incision is usually small enough so that stitches are not required. This form of surgery removes the cataract but leaves most of the lens capsule in place. A small incision, around 2-3mm in length, is made where the cornea and conjunctiva meet and a thin probe is inserted. This probe transmits ultrasound waves to break up the cataract and suction out the fragments. The lens capsule remains in place to provide support for lens implants (IOL).
If the lens is too tough to remove by phacoemulsification, the technique of extracapsular extraction is used. A 10 – 12mm incision is made where the cornea meets the sclera, the front capsule is then opened and the lens removed. An Intraocular lens is then fixed into position, leaving a large incision, which must then be closed with several stitches.
The removal of cataracts is the most commonly performed eye operation in Australia and New Zealand. The success rate is particularly high because of the modern surgical methods implemented and the continually advancing technology.
This impacts society significantly as patients acquire a greater quality of life and allows them to lead more independent lives. Those who live with the continual burden of cataracts and choose not to do anything about it can expect to see a lower life expectancy compared to those who take action.
Cataracts are most commonly found in the older population. Partaking in a cataract surgery leads to a significant increase in their vision and reduces the burden on health care facilities that would otherwise need to care for their continuing lack of vision. The constant technology advances also make the cost of the surgery decrease over time; making the surgery more affordable, even to those living in the lower socioeconomic areas. The Fred Hollows Foundation is an example of a team of surgeons who are bringing affordable sight-restoring eye surgery to those living in these destitute conditions. Those in remote areas of Australia, and third world countries have higher prevalence rates of cataracts and many of them will die within 4 years of going blind. The intraocular surgery performed by the Fred Hollows Foundation takes 20 minutes and is conducted by trained surgeons. These aspects lead to a better standard of living in society and the continual advances in technology will only improve the health status of those with vision complications.
Although cataract surgery can be deemed as a wonderful technological advancement, it can also leave people permanently blind if the eye ruptures or the cornea is damaged during the surgery. This negative effect may be reflected in society as others may choose not to proceed with the sight-restoring surgery, as the possible negative effects could be too great for them to risk. Now, with the introduction of phacoemulsification, this chance is greatly minimised.
Overall, cataract surgery prevents blindness, granting people the chance to retain independence and improve their quality of life. Society also benefits by spending considerably less time and money caring for those with cataract blindness. Foundations such as the Fred Hollow’s Foundation provide this life improving surgery to third world countries, which results in increased life expectancy and productivity in third world countries.