A cataract is defined as the opacification of the crystalline lens.
Congenital, metabolic, traumatic, senile, or medication-induced (steroids)
Capsulectomy removes the crystalline lens through an opening made in the anterior lens capsule through an 8-10 mm incision.
Using phacoemulsification, ultrasound energy fragments the lens, which is then aspirated through a 3 mm incision.
Silicone and acrylic intraocular lenses (IOL) are the most popular, as they can fold and slide in place through a smaller incision. The wound is closed with a suture or, if it is a small incision, can be self-sealing.
Supine, table rotated 90-180 degrees
15-60 min
May have eye shield/patch
Posterior capsule rupture, corneal edema, retinal detachment, choroidal hemorrhage
Eye drops before surgery – parasympathetic and sympathetic to dilate pupil
Possible peribulbar block by ophthalmologist
MAC
General anesthesia – LMA if no contraindications (GERD)
Keep pt still