Secondary cataract

Cataract surgery consists of removing the opaque crystalline lens, preserving the capsular envelope (thin transparent membrane) that contains it and then inserting an intraocular lens inside it. To do this, a small window at the front of the envelope (anterior capsule) is made, while preserving the integrity of the posterior capsule. It is this posterior capsule that can, in turn, become opaque months or years after cataract surgery. This is known as a “secondary cataract”.

Events

Progressive decrease in visual acuity months or years after the initial surgery.

Treatment

To restore vision, an opening is made with a laser Nd: YAG in the center of the posterior capsule (capsulotomy).

The capsulotomy is a simple and painless outpatient procedure. It is performed within a few minutes, after dilation of the pupil and instillation of anaesthetic drops. The patient can return home immediately with a treatment of drops.