YAG Laser
Capsulotomy
Posterior capsule tear in
secondary cataract
What exactly is secondary cataract?
The natural crystalline lens of the eye is protected within an elastic sac – like capsule, which holds it in place behind the iris. In a cataract surgery removal, using the phacoemulsification technique, the ophthalmic surgeon carefully opens the front part of the capsule (capsulorhexis) to fragment and suction – remove out the natural lens and implant an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in its place. The posterior capsule continues to function as a barrier for the intraocular lens (IOL), separating it from the posterior part of the eye.
Postoperatively, following cataract surgery removal, the capsule can produce cloudy cells, which may result in blurry vision. This specific phenomenon is known as secondary cataract and can occur in a percentage of about 40% of patients who have undergone cataract surgery. Secondary cataract appears months after primary surgery. Many patients believe that they have developed cataract again, but the situation is much simpler.
What is YAG laser capsulotomy and how is it performed?
The method used to treat secondary cataract is YAG laser capsulotomy, also known as posterior capsulotomy. In this procedure, a special laser system (YAG) is used to create an opening (hole) in the center of the cloudy capsule, after applying mydriatic drops to the patient so as to dilate the pupil, and after using a local anesthetic to numb the area.
Through the opening, created by YAG laser capsulotomy in the posterior capsule, light rays can pass normally through, so as to reach the retina smoothly. This effect actually clears up vision. YAG laser capsulotomy procedure lasts only a few minutes, and the patient can immediately return to his / her daily activities. YAG laser capsulotomy is a very safe technique that can be performed in a regular physician’s practice (examination room), provided that the necessary laser (YAG) equipment is available. Usually, during the same visit, immediately after the treatment, tonometry measurement is performed, so as to check the intraocular pressure levels (glaucoma).
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