Phacoemulsification

Under phacoemulsification (from gr phakos (eye ) lens ) is the disintegration of the nucleus of the lens using ultrasound and the subsequent extraction of the debris by means of a Saugspülvorrichtung. Phacoemulsification is currently the most common technique of surgical treatment of cataracts.

In the extracapsular cataract extraction, the posterior lens capsule remains stationary and there is only one central hole etched into the front cap; In contrast, the lens is removed together with the capsule in the example, in developing countries widespread intracapsular cataract extraction. This method is faster, cheaper and simpler, but has more serious complications.

After removal of the lens refractive power to be compensated for either by the insertion of an intraocular lens, or by means of a pair of spectacles. Most today a posterior chamber lens is used; often post-operatively - when both eyes were operated - no glasses needed. Should glasses adjustment is necessary, as this takes place approximately 3-4 weeks postoperatively. In extracapsular cataract extraction, a dense membrane may be increased by proliferation of lens epithelial cells remaining behind the artificial lens form ( " PCO "), which can be removed by laser treatment ( Yag laser capsulotomy ).

• Therapeutic procedures in ophthalmology