Browse articles on EyeWorld.org from the Cataract section. EyeWorld is the award-winning member publication of ASCRS. The magazine provides news and updates from the Society as well as clinical features in the areas of cataract, refractive, cornea, glaucoma, and practice management. It publishes quarterly with editorial direction from its medical editorial board and staff.
With its approval in 2017, many physicians have several years of lessons learned with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL, RxSight). With the more recent commercial launch of the LAL+, which has a modified aspheric surface to extend depth of focus slightly, ophthalmologists have even more to talk about.
With great opportunity in the world of IOLs also comes a challenge: how to discuss these options efficiently in a targeted manner without overwhelming or causing confusion for the patient. EyeWorld spoke with three members of its Cataract Editorial Board to learn how they manage this discussion.
“Many of our ‘tried and true’ methods for managing ophthalmic disorders are being revisited, rethought, and updated as we leverage new insights into their underlying pathology … ,” said Cataract Editor Mitchell Weikert, MD, in his introduction, in which he also previewed the articles in the section.
When performing cataract surgery in patients with keratoconus, there are considerations for surgical planning, lenses, and techniques that surgeons need to account for to ensure success. Two ophthalmologists discussed how they handle these patients, including testing, formulas, and IOL selection.
Floaters can impact patient perception and happiness with their vision after cataract surgery, but there is some division as to methods of treatment, especially as YAG laser vitreolysis is becoming more common. EyeWorld spoke with a cataract surgeon and two retina specialists on this topic.
With increased experience, physicians are discovering ways to use the IC-8 Apthera IOL (Bausch + Lomb) off label. Two of these physicians discussed their experience using the lens, including ways that it can apply to patients who previously had limited options, particularly those with irregular astigmatism.
Mitchell Weikert, MD, Cataract Editor, promoted the ASCRS Live! meetings and gave an overview of the articles in the section in his introduction.
“My eyes are irritated … they weren’t before cataract surgery.” “My vision fluctuates … it goes in and out.” These just a couple of phrases an ophthalmologist might hear when ABMD is missed prior to cataract surgery, causing them to wish they had found and treated it preoperatively.
The choice between using bimanual or coaxial I/A depends on a number of factors, including physician preference and the type of case. Two surgeons discussed what they use and what may be beneficial in certain cases.
Since its approval, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) has divided cataract surgeons into frequent users of the technology and those who do not think that it brings value to their practice. EyeWorld spoke with two surgeons who say they consistently benefit from FLACS in their practice.