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An eye condition as old as time itself, cataracts and their treatment have evolved and improved with recent technological advances. Specifically, an innovative method involving lasers has revolutionized treatment in recent years.
"As one of the few ophthalmologists in the area that performs laser-assisted cataract surgery, I feel it offers another solid, safe and effective option to people with cataracts," said Dr. Michael Cohen, director of ophthalmology at CareMount Medical.
The traditional cataract surgery often requires the doctor to make a tiny incision by hand on the side of the eye’s cornea to remove the cloudy lens.Through the incision, an artificial lens is inserted and moved into place, and stitches are used to close the cut. By comparison, laser-assisted cataract surgery doesn’t rely on the eye surgeon’s steadiness of hand. Instead, doctors use special software to map a surgical plan with 3D images of the eye. No stitches are necessary with laser-assisted cataract surgery, as the incision is self-healing.
"Compared to traditional cataract surgery, the laser-assisted approach offers a myriad of advantages," said Cohen. "First, the use of a computer-guided laser means the surgical incision is up to 10 times more accurate than a corneal incision done by hand. The laser also requires half as much ultrasonic energy to dissolve the lens, and the computer makes the placement of the replacement lens more precise."
Recovery is also smoother after minimally invasive cataract surgery. With traditional surgery, common side effects include discomfort in and around the eye for several days afterward, along with blurred vision and irritation. Meanwhile, laser-assisted surgery is often pain-free, since the eye has been subject to less trauma.
To learn more about Dr. Michael Cohen and the cataract treatments available at CareMount Medical, click here.
