Nearly all older adults will develop cataracts at some point in their lives, but the rate of cataracts removed continues to increase as people age. In a recent study, it was found that the average age at which seniors undergo cataract surgery has increased by almost six years over the past decade. While there are many reasons for this increase, one likely contributor is the increasing use of laser technology in cataract surgery.
What is cataract Surgery?
Most cataracts are removed through a surgical procedure called cataract surgery. The surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure and can be completed in a few hours. During the surgery, the doctor uses a special lens to remove the cataract. Depending on the type of cataract, other procedures may also be necessary, such as the removal of the iris or lens capsule. After the surgery, patients usually need to wear glasses or contact lenses for a period of time to allow their eyes to heal. Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations performed in hospitals worldwide and is considered one of the best techniques for preventing blindness in older adults.
Considerations for cataract surgery in the Older:
There are a few things to consider when it comes to cataract surgery in the older population. For one, the surgery must be performed under general anaesthesia, since many older people may have difficulty with other forms of anaesthesia. Additionally, older patients are more likely to experience complications following surgery, such as infection or vision loss. Another factor to consider is whether or not the patient requires additional procedures after the cataract has been removed, such as glasses or contacts. Older patients should consult with their doctor before undergoing any type of eye surgery, in order to ensure that they are fully aware of all the risks and benefits involved.
How often do cataracts need to be removed?
Most cataracts in older adults will require removal at some point. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that cataract surgery be considered for adults aged 60 and over if there is a significant decrease in vision or if the patient experiences significant pain or difficulty with daily activities. Removal should also be considered if the cataract interferes with reading, driving, or close work.
Complications of cataracts:
As people age, the incidence of cataracts increases. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness and can occur in anyone over the age of 50. However, cataracts are also a common cause of visual impairment in younger people. In fact, up to 25% of young adults under the age of 40 have some degree of cataract. Complications from cataracts can include loss of vision, infection, and even glaucoma. Treatment options for cataracts vary depending on the severity and location of the eye disease. Surgery is typically required to remove a cataract but there are other treatments that may be effective as well. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment so that affected individuals can maintain their vision as best they can.
Types of cataract surgery:
Phacoemulsification Surgery
A small opening is made on the side of the eye, the clear, dome-shaped epithelium covering the front of the eyeball. Your doctor inserts a tiny probe into the eye. This instrument emits ultrasound waves that soften and rupture the lens so it can be suctioned out. Almost all cataract surgery today is performed by phacoemulsification, also known as small incision cataract surgery.
Extracapsular Surgery
In extracapsular surgery, the surgeon creates an incision in the cornea and removes the lens in one piece. As with SICS, the lens capsule left behind is used as a support for the artificial lens. Surgery of this type is frequently used where there is a cloudy lens, which cannot normally be treated with phacoemulsification.
Femtosecond Laser-assisted cataract surgery
A femtosecond laser can help cataracts be removed more quickly and easily than with conventional surgery. “The laser is able to break up the cataract without causing any damage to the optic nerve or surrounding tissue,” says Joshua Ackerman, MD, an ophthalmologist at Ackerman Eye Associates in Orlando, Florida. “This results in less pain and a faster recovery.”
There are two types of femtosecond lasers used for cataract surgery: the YAG laser and the argon-ion laser. The YAG laser heats up the lens material until it liquefies, while the argon-ion laser uses an argon gas wave to break up the lens. Both lasers produce relatively low levels of heat, which is one reason they’re popular for use during cataract surgery.
Risk factors for developing cataracts:
Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in the United States and are more common in older adults. The following are some risk factors for developing cataracts:
-Age
-Race/ethnicity
-Family history of cataracts
-Gender
-Smoking status
-Exposure to UV radiation.
Recovery of Cataracts Surgery:
There are many different types of cataracts, but the most common is a gradual accumulation of thick, dark material on the lens inside your eye. As this material builds up, your vision gradually becomes worse. Cataract surgery is a treatment that can remove cataracts and restore your vision. Recovery after cataract surgery varies depending on the type of surgery and individual circumstances, but most people experience some degree of discomfort and swelling following surgery. Most people recover within several weeks to months, but there are some possible complications that can occur along the way. If you’re considering cataract surgery, it’s important to discuss your recovery expectations with your doctor.
Conclusion:
It is clear that older people do get cataracts removed at a high rate. This is likely because the procedure is relatively simple and affordable, and the results are often positive. If you are age 60 or over, it is important to discuss your cataract concerns with a physician to determine if surgery is an option for you.
