Cataracts

Cataracts are the result of the clouding of an originally clear eye lens. Together with the cornea the lens is responsible for the bundling of light and projecting it as an image onto the retina. From there, the information is passed on through the optic nerve to the brain for further processing. The lens has approximately the same function as the lens of a camera: It's responsible for the creation of a focused image. Cataracts diffuse the light rays in such a way that the creation of a focused image isn't possible. The world is seen as though one is looking through a haze.

There are many reasons for cataracts. Rarely, cataracts are hereditary. Even injuries can lead to the development of cataracts. Heavy inflammation of the inner eye or different metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, are too further causes of cataracts. Most frequently, however, cataracts are the result of the natural aging process of the eye lens. Similar to the graying of hair or the development of wrinkles in the skin, the lens becomes cloudy with age.

Some people already get so called "age-related cataracts" at the age of 50, normally however, they occur after the age of 60 or 70.

At a very early stage a cataract alters the optical characteristics of the eye. In this case, glasses often help. Some notice in this early stage, that they can suddenly see better without glasses.

Presently, an effective medication is not available. In later stages, only an operation helps, which generally is painless. The eye surgeon removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear synthetic one. Most operations are carried out in an out-patient procedure.

The proper time frame for an operation is dependent on many personal factors. If you get along fine in every day situations, without a large alteration of vision, there is no hurry. For those who operate vehicles, however, there are other standards: for these individuals, clear vision is a matter of safety. This is also valid, for those needing clear vision in his/her occupation. In these cases, the opthalmologist can recommend an earlier operation.

First, an anesthesiologist examines you and takes your medical history, using this for the decision as to which type of anesthesia to choose and whether or not to operate in- or out-patient. On the day of the operation you may receive medications for the purpose of relaxation and sedation. Parallel, you receive eye drops that are responsible for expanding the pupil's opening. Then, you are taken into the operating room. Either your eye gets a local anesthetic or you receive a general anesthesia. In both cases, the operation is completely painless.

Immediately before the operation your eye is thoroughly disinfected and you are covered with sterile cloths. In the operating room the eye surgeon carries out the operation with the help of a surgical microscope. After the operation you are cared for in special relaxation room. When the anesthesiologist determines if you are ready to leave the clinic, you may leave with accompaniment.

The next days and weeks following your operation, you will be required to regularly apply eye drops, according to the instructions from your physician. The percentage of those who develop complications as the result of a cataract operation, is very small. You will receive a temporary pair of glasses that will be replaced with permanent ones in approximately 3 months. After the treatment is completed, you should have your operated eye examined every six to twelve months.