Cataract removal

Cataract removal

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens, the part of the eye responsible for focusing light and producing clear, sharp images. The lens is contained in a sealed bag or capsule. As old cells die they become trapped within the capsule. Over time, the cells accumulate causing the lens to cloud, making images look blurred or fuzzy.

This can be easily remedied by surgical removal of the cataract by phaco-emulsification. The phaco technique allows this to be done as a day case procedure.

Your GP can refer you to one of our consultants for an initial consultation at Sancta Maria Hospital. The consultant will carry out an examination of your eye, which may include putting in eye drops. At this time the date and time of your operation can be discussed.

About the operation

On the day of your operation you should wear normal day clothes that you feel comfortable, are not high necked and are loose around the neck area. You will be asked to bring with you any medication you are taking. Upon admission you will be taken to the ward where your temperature, pulse and blood pressure will be recorded. Prescribed eye drops will be applied and you will be taken in a wheelchair to theatre.

In most cases the operation is carried out with local anaesthesia. Although you will be awake and aware of touch and slight movement, there should be no discomfort. Do not worry if you cannot lie flat, as the theatre staff will make you comfortable. A thin paper drape is used to keep the area around the eye clean. This will cause no restrictions to your breathing as fresh air freely circulates under the drape.

At the start of the operation you will be aware of a bright light from the operating microscope, but this will quickly become blurred and comfortable. Both the theatre staff and surgeon will talk to you during the operation and you may ask questions in a relaxed atmosphere. At the end of the operation a shield will be applied to the eye for protection.

On return to the ward you will be seated in a recliner chair and encouraged to rest. Your temperature, pulse and blood pressure will be recorded again and you will be given light refreshments.

After the operation most patients have some degree of mild discomfort. This is usually nothing more than a gritty sensation. You may find that your eye is a bit sensitive to light but this should settle in days. Your eyelashes may be a bit sticky for a few days but can easily be cleaned.

On discharge you will be given take home eye drops, any follow-up outpatient appointments that may be required and an aftercare information sheet.

You will find that the effect of the drops and operating light mean that your vision takes a day or so to clear. Fairly quickly you should notice an improvement in your vision, colour appreciation and clarity.

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