Table of Contents
How common is posterior capsulotomy?
debating the need for a posterior capsulotomy. And even though the conventionally accepted incidence of 1 to 2 percent is low, the reality may be much lower, according to research1 conducted by Christopher Rudnisky, MD, a professor at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada.
Does posterior capsule opacification get worse over time?
With a posterior capsule opacification, the haziness you see will only get worse without treatment. Remember what your sight was like before undergoing cataract surgery? That’s what your vision may be like if you opt not to have a YAG laser capsulotomy. Left untreated, the capsule will continue thickening.
Is posterior capsule opacification an emergency?
What happens if PCO is not treated? PCO is not a serious disease nor is it an emergency. If it is not treated, it will increase with time and cause deterioration of vision.
How can posterior capsular opacification be prevented?
The most important contribution to preventing PCO is to use an IOL with a square edge. In particular, I recommend using a 360° square-edged IOL. I do not think that the implantation of a capsular tension ring can reduce the incidence of PCO.
How soon can posterior capsule opacification occur?
Posterior Capsule Opacification After Surgery It can occur within weeks or years after surgery. When cataract surgery is performed, the damaged cataract is removed, but the clear covering of the cataract (the posterior capsule) is left behind. This capsule provides protection for and keeps the new IOL in place.
Can I drive home after YAG laser capsulotomy?
Generally, driving should be possible as soon as 24 hours after the procedure. If you have questions about laser eye surgery and the options that are available for you, please call us on 0203 369 2020, or request a call back.
Is posterior capsule opacification painful?
PCO is treated by a very low risk, quick, painless laser treatment.
What are the symptoms of posterior capsule opacification?
Typically, the symptoms of posterior capsular opacification are the same as the symptoms for a cataract. The main complaint is blurry, foggy or hazy vision. Other symptoms include: Unlike a cataract in which the symptoms typically occur very slowly, the symptoms of posterior capsular opacification can occur suddenly, or gradually.
How does posterior capsule opacification occur?
A posterior capsule opacity will only occur after cataract surgery. If you have recently had a cataract operation, and you have blurred, hazy vision, or see a lot of glare from lights, it may be because of a posterior capsule opacity. Blurring and loss of vision from posterior capsule opacity is usually gradual, just as with real cataracts.
Does YAG cure posterior capsule opacification?
Yes. Posterior capsule opacification impairs visual acuity, reduces contrast sensitivity and causes glare – all of which degrade the quality of a patient’s vision. YAG capsulotomy cures posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and reverses all of these effects.
When are cataracts bad enough to require surgery?
Some cataracts never reach the stage where they need to be removed. But if your cataract worsens and you begin to have trouble seeing clearly for driving and other everyday tasks, it’s probably time to consider cataract surgery.