WHAT IS A CATARACT?

The term "cataract" refers to a foggy patch that has formed in the eye's lens and is now frequently observed. In actuality, cataracts are either present in adults beyond the age of 70 or have been removed surgically. The hazy eye’s lens is removed during a cataract procedure, which is a minimally invasive procedure and is then replaced with an artificial lens.

You might not initially be aware that you have a cataract, but with time, your vision will likely become blurry, foggy, or less colored, making it difficult to read or do daily tasks. In addition to aging, it can also happen for other reasons such as eye trauma or genetics. Unfortunately, no medication can effectively treat cataracts; therefore, surgery is the only option. 

WHAT IS MINIMALLY INVASIVE CATARACT SURGERY?

Using a 1.8–2.2 mm micro-incision, the novel minimally invasive cataract surgery enables patients to permanently remove the spectacles. An intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted inside the eye to replace the removed cataract.

To reduce the size and quantity of cuts or incisions created during an operation, it uses surgical techniques using small tools, cameras, and lighting. Because it causes fewer difficulties, a quicker recovery, less blood loss, improved results, and reduced hospital stays than open surgery, Minimally Invasive Cataract surgery is significantly safer.

CAUSE OF CATARACT

• Aging
• Diabetes
• Previous eye surgery
• Hypertension
• Smoking

SYMPTOMS OF CATARACT

• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Use of systemic corticosteroids
• Malnutrition
• Acute dehydrating diseases
• Cumulative exposure to sunlight

TYPES OF CATARACTS

1. Nuclear Cataract: Forms in the middle of the lens and causes the center to become yellow or brown.
2. Cortical Cataract: Forms around the edges of the nucleus.
3. Posterior Capsular Cataract: Forms with a faster speed and affects the back of the lens.
4. Congenital Cataract: Presents at the time of birth or form during the baby’s first year, less common than age-related cataracts.
5. Secondary cataract: Caused by diseases or some medications. The development of cataracts is linked to some diseases including Glaucoma and Diabetes. The use of certain steroids or other medications can sometimes lead to cataracts. 
6. Traumatic cataracts: Can develop after an eye injury.
7. Radiation Cataracts: Forms in the patients that undergo radiation treatment for cancer.