👁 Cataract Surgery & Lens Anatomy Explained
Modern cataract surgery typically uses phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation,
a method first introduced by Kelman in 1967.
📌 Surgical Goal Evolution
- Transitioned from restoring cloudy vision to achieving
→ better refractive outcomes
→ fewer surgical complications - But complications like posterior capsule rupture, iris prolapse, radial tears can worsen prognosis
🧬 Basic Anatomy of the Crystalline Lens
ComponentDescription
| Lens Capsule | Extremely thin membrane (Anterior: 14 μm / Posterior: 4 μm) |
| Lens Epithelium | Lines the inner surface of the anterior capsule |
| Lens Fibers | Transparent, precisely arranged fibers that refract light |
| Zonules of Zinn | Thread-like fibers that suspend the lens 360° in the eye |
🌀 Suture Cataract
- A form of congenital cataract
- Occurs at lens fiber suture lines (Y-shape anterior / Inverted Y posterior)
- Often asymptomatic, no treatment required
✅ Summary
- Cataracts form from protein denaturation in the lens
- Modern surgery prioritizes visual performance & safety
- Understanding lens structure is crucial for avoiding complications
- Suture cataracts are usually benign and don't impair vision
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