Cataract removal

Description:
The normal lens of the eye is transparent and focuses images on to the retina for vision. Children may be born with clouded lenses (congenital cataracts ). Normal aging can also cause clouding of the lens.

The surgery is performed in a hospital or in an outpatient setting. For children, it is done while the patient is deep asleep and pain-free (general anesthesia), and for adults it is performed while the patient is awake or sleeping and pain-free (local anesthesia).

A small incision is made at the edge of the outer lining of the eye (cornea). A special microscope is used. The lens can be removed in several ways: 1) with surgical tools, 2) with a

Indications:
Cataract surgery is usually recommended for people who have loss of vision ( vision abnormalities ) caused by clouding of the lens.

What to Expect After:
The outcome of cataract surgery is excellent. The operation has very few risks, the pain and convalescence period are minimal, and the improvement in sight is remarkable. Ninety-five percent or more of all cataract surgeries result in improved vision.

Convalescence:
Since this operation is often performed in the ophthalmologist's office or an outpatient basis, the patient returns home the same day. Expect complete healing in about 10 weeks. If no artificial lenses were implanted inside the eye, glasses or contact lenses can then be fitted.

Risks:
Risks for any anesthesia are:

Risks for any surgery are:



Cost:
The costs of any surgery varies significantly between surgeons, medical facilities, and regions of the country. Patients who are younger, sicker, or need more extensive surgery will require more intensive and expensive treatment.

Surgery charges can be separated into five parts: 1) the surgeon's fee, 2) the anesthesiologist's fee, 3) the hospital charges, which includes nursing care and the operating room, 4) the medications, and 5) additional charges.

1. Surgeon's fee: $1,500 and $2,000
2. Anesthesiologist's fee: averages $350 to $400 per hour
3. Hospital charges: basic rate averages $1,500 to $1,800 per day (more for the intensive care unit (ICU) or private rooms)
4. Medication charges: $200 to $400
5. Additional charges: assisting surgeon, treatment of complications, diagnostic procedures (such as blood or Xray exams), medical supplies, equipment use, etc.

Insurance coverage for surgery expenses depends on many factors and should be explored for each individual instance.


This is an illustration of a cross-section and frontal view of the eye.



This photograph shows a cloudy white lens (cataract) over the pupil. Cataracts are a leading cause of decreased vision in older individuals, but children may have congenital cataracts. With new surgical techniques, the cataract can be removed, a new lens implanted, and the person can usually return home the same day.