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Phacoemulsification

Overview

Phacoemulsification (commonly referred to as "phaco") is a modern cataract surgery technique used to remove a cloudy lens (cataract) and replace it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Cataracts cause vision impairment and occur commonly with aging. Phacoemulsification is a minimally invasive procedure that uses ultrasound energy to emulsify the cataract, followed by its removal through a small incision.
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How is Phacoemulsification Done?

Preoperative Evaluation:
  • A comprehensive eye exam is performed to assess the cataract and overall eye health.
  • Measurements (biometry) of the eye are taken to determine the correct intraocular lens (IOL) power.
  • General health checkups to ensure fitness for surgery.
  • Patients may be asked to stop using certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) before surgery.
Preoperative Instructions:
  • Fasting a few hours before surgery may be required.
  • Eye drops (antibiotic and anti-inflammatory) are prescribed before the procedure to reduce infection risk and inflammation.
  • Patients should arrange for someone to accompany them home after the surgery as vision may be blurry initially.

Anesthesia:
  • Local anesthesia (topical or injected) to numb the eye is used.
  • Sedatives may be provided to relax the patient, but general anesthesia is rarely needed.
  • Incision: A small incision (approximately 2.2-2.8mm) is made on the cornea.
  • Phacoemulsification: A phacoemulsification probe, which emits ultrasonic vibrations, is inserted through the incision. The vibrations break up the cataract into tiny pieces, which are then suctioned out of the eye.
  • Insertion of Intraocular Lens (IOL): Once the cataract is removed, a foldable IOL is inserted through the same incision and positioned in the lens capsule.
  • Incision Closure: The small incision is often self-sealing, requiring no stitches.
  • Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients are given eye drops to prevent infection and control inflammation. They may need to wear a protective eye shield, especially during sleep.

  • Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO): A common side effect where the lens capsule becomes cloudy. It can be easily treated with laser capsulotomy.
  • Infection:Although rare, an infection called endophthalmitis can occur.
  • Intraocular Lens Dislocation: The IOL may become misaligned and require repositioning.
  • Retinal Detachment: Though uncommon, it can occur after surgery, especially in high-risk patients.
  • Vision Issues: Glare, halos, or refractive errors may happen after surgery but can often be corrected.
What are the Benefits of Phacoemulsification
  • Minimally Invasive: Small incision and faster recovery compared to traditional methods.
  • Quick Recovery: Most patients experience significant improvement in vision within days to weeks.
  • Improved Vision: Restores vision by replacing the cloudy cataract with a clear artificial lens.
  • Reduced Dependence on Glasses: In many cases, patients may need weaker glasses or none at all after surgery.
  • Low Risk: It has a high success rate and minimal risk when performed by an experienced surgeon.
Specialty

Phacoemulsification is typically performed by ophthalmologists specializing in cataract surgery. These surgeons are trained in advanced microsurgical techniques and have expertise in lens implantation.

Infrastructure Facilities

  • Operating Room Setup: A sterile, well-equipped operating room with phacoemulsification machines, microscopes, and surgical tools.
  • Diagnostic Equipment: Equipment such as ultrasound machines for biometry and tools for ocular examination (slit lamp, OCT).
  • Postoperative Care Area: A recovery area for patients to rest after the procedure before discharge.
  • Sterilization Unit: To sterilize surgical instruments.
  • Trained Surgical Team: Experienced ophthalmic surgeons, nurses, and technicians.

FAQs

The surgery itself takes about 15 to 30 minutes, but patients may spend a few hours at the facility for preoperative preparation and postoperative monitoring.

No, local anesthesia ensures the surgery is pain-free. Some patients may feel mild pressure during the procedure.

Most patients can resume light activities the day after surgery, but strenuous activities, swimming, and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks.

Most patients can resume light activities the day after surgery, but strenuous activities, swimming, and heavy lifting should be avoided for a few weeks.

Some patients may need glasses for reading or distance vision, depending on the type of IOL implanted.

The success rate is very high, with over 90% of patients experiencing improved vision.

Manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS) and extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) are alternatives but are typically used in cases where phacoemulsification isn’t suitable.

Many patients notice an improvement within a few days, though full visual recovery may take up to a few weeks.

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Copyright 2025 TRSCH - All Rights Reserve

Website Design and Development by Sterco Digitex

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