Cataract surgery is among the most effective procedures done worldwide. Traditional cataract surgery entails the use of an automated or manual blade to create a small incision in the cornea.

Advancements in technology allowed for the introduction of bladeless cataract surgery. It offers many advantages over the conventional technique. Read on to explore the pros and cons of bladeless cataract surgery.
 

What Is Bladeless Cataract Surgery?

Bladeless cataract surgery utilizes a femtosecond laser to perform significant steps of the procedure, hence its other name, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. The laser can create precise incisions. It can fragment the cataractous lens and correct astigmatism with high accuracy.
 

Enhanced Precision

Bladeless cataract surgery allows for precise incisions, capsulotomies, and lens fragmentation. The incisions made in traditional, manual cataract surgery may vary in size and shape. In contrast, the laser creates incisions with micron-level accuracy, resulting in improved outcomes.
 

Consistent Capsulotomies

In traditional eye surgery, eye specialists manually make a circular opening in the front of the eye lens capsule in preparation for removing the cataractous lens.
Bladeless cataract surgery creates a perfectly centered and sized capsulotomy to ensure optimal positioning of the intraocular lens (IOL). It minimizes the risk of complications like lens dislocation or tilt.
 

Accurate Lens Fragmentation

Fragmenting the cataractous lens is a crucial step in cataract surgery. To accomplish this, eye specialists use a handheld instrument called a phacoemulsification probe in traditional surgery to break up the lens into smaller pieces for removal.

With bladeless cataract surgery, the laser divides the lens into manageable fragments. It allows for easier and safer removal. This accuracy reduces the amount of ultrasound energy needed during the procedure. It results in faster recovery and improved visual outcomes.
 

Reduced Energy and Time

The use of a femtosecond laser in bladeless cataract surgery effectively reduces the ultrasound energy required to break up the cataractous lens. The energy reduction translates to decreased stress on the eye.

This leads to a quicker recovery period. The laser-assisted steps performed in bladeless cataract surgery are efficient and time-saving. They contribute to shorter surgical times, which translates to less time spent under anesthesia. It results in less surgical stress for the patient.
 

Enhanced Safety 

Bladeless cataract surgery provides enhanced safety. Using a laser for critical steps such as incisions and lens fragmentation reduces the risk of human error that can occur with manual techniques.

Surgeons can rely on the precision and consistency of the laser. It ensures accurate and predictable outcomes. The femtosecond laser creates self-sealing incisions. It reduces the chances of postoperative complications such as infection and leakage.
 

Customization for Individual Eyes

Each patient has unique eyes. Bladeless cataract surgery allows for a high level of customization to address specific needs. The advanced imaging technology integrated with the femtosecond laser enables surgeons to create a detailed three-dimensional map of the eye.

The combination provides valuable information about the eye’s structure and characteristics. The data guides the surgical plan. It ensures personalized treatment tailored to each patient.

For more information about bladeless cataract surgery, visit Raleigh Eye Center. Our offices are in Raleigh, Durham, Reidsville, Henderson, North Carolina, or South Hill, Virginia. Call (919) 876-2427 or (252) 492-8021 to book an appointment today.