Posterior capsular opacity is a common condition that occurs after cataract surgery, causing clouding of the artificial lens. A posterior capsulotomy can correct the issue. Cataracts can form due to age or disease, causing blurry vision and sensitivity to light. Surgery is not always necessary.
Posterior capsular opacity is an eye condition characterized by secondary cataract formation on the back of the eye’s lens after cataract surgery. Known as posterior capsular opacification, secondary cataract development is not uncommon and is often associated with lens replacement. Individuals with posterior capsular opacity usually undergo laser treatment to correct the residual opacity.
During cataract surgery, the damaged or clouded lens is removed and an artificial lens can be repositioned to replace it. The implanted lens is placed in the same position within the eye capsule as the natural lens. As the eye adjusts to the replacement lens, cellular activity within the capsule can trigger clouding of the artificial lens, known as posterior capsular opacity. Over time, continued cellular activity contributes to a clouding of the lens that impairs vision. To correct posterior capsular opacity, an office procedure known as a posterior capsulotomy may be performed.
Before a cataract can be diagnosed, a comprehensive eye exam is performed. An individual’s visual acuity is evaluated and an eye examination is performed. In order to evaluate the back side of the retina, specialized eye drops to dilate the pupil are often given. An instrument known as an ophthalmoscope, which has a curved mirror that allows a better view of the inner eye, is used to check for abnormalities. It’s not uncommon for an ophthalmologist to also use a slit lamp which uses focused light to further examine the inner workings of the eye, including the cornea.
Cataracts form when the lens of the eye deteriorates. Whether the degeneration is due to age or disease, the lens of an eye loses its ability to focus light. With loss of focus, images become blurry or fuzzy leading to reduced vision. Cataracts can form on any part of the lens, such as the front, back, or edge of the lens. The location of the cataract will generally determine the degree and presentation of one’s symptoms.
Cataract symptoms depend on the location and severity of the opacity. Some people experience blurry or blurry vision that gets progressively worse. Others may see rings or halos hovering over natural and man-made light sources, especially at night. As the cataract progresses, vision may undergo pronounced changes and he or she may suddenly develop sensitivity to light.
Individuals with cataracts don’t necessarily need to seek treatment after receiving a diagnosis. If vision hasn’t been significantly impaired, surgery can usually wait. For those seeking treatment, surgery does not require a hospital stay. Anyone who undergoes lens replacement during cataract surgery is at risk of posterior capsular opacities or secondary cataract development. As with any medical procedure, cataract surgery carries some risk of complications, including retinal detachment.
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