CATARACT: TREATMENT WITH PHACOEMULSIFICATION AT CLINICAL HOSPITAL STIP IN 2023

Abstract

This work describes the concept of cataracts, the reasons for their occurrence, diagnostic procedures, and treatment, with a special focus on phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation. In ophthalmic surgery, cataracts are one of the most successfully treated conditions. Cataracts represent any opacity or cloudiness of the lens, whether it is a small, localized opacity or complete loss of vision. Cataracts can occur as a result of congenital or genetic anomalies, or as a consequence of various diseases or the normal aging process. Depending on the zones of the lens affected by opacity, it can be classified as subcapsular, cortical, or nuclear, and in terms of localization, it can be anterior or posterior. Additionally, it can be described according to its stage of development. If there is a clear cortex, it is considered an immature cataract, while if the cortex is fully opacified, it is considered a mature cataract. Treatment for cataracts can be conservative or operative. Conservative treatment is applied when visual acuity is 6/24 or better. Conservative treatment involves pupil dilation with 2.5% phenylephrine, refractive glasses, and sometimes cyclopentolate and atropine can also be useful. Operative treatment for cataracts is applied in conditions where visual acuity is worse than 6/24 or if there is a medical indication (phacolytic glaucoma, retinal ablation). Operative treatment for cataracts is performed in several ways: phacoemulsification and extracapsular extraction of the cataract. Phacoemulsification is an ultrasonic operation on the cataract that uses and ultrasonic probe. It is a modern method that takes less time, the patient recovers faster, and the risk of complications is reduced.
According to the statistical data we have covered, cataracts are more prevalent in women than men, unlike men, and in terms of age group, it is most common in individuals aged 60 – 70 years. All of this data represents our stimulus and motivation towards exploring new therapeutic aspects, as well as methods for timely diagnosis and prevention. With the topic of our research, we believe that the research would deepen into discovering less invasive methods for cataract treatment, as well as creating new strategies for timely cataract detection and patient support.
We believe that our research will be a stimulus and inspiration for the entire medical staff to discover new aspects that would be beneficial in improving the quality of life for patients with cataracts.