Dr. Kameen's Blog

There is a spectacular advancement in cataract surgery coming along that, I believe, will revolutionize how a modern cataract procedure is performed. For the past 30 years, a cataract has been removed using an ultrasonic procedure called Phakoemulsification, followed by the placement of an intraocular lens(IOL). As technology rapidly advances, there have been amazing improvements in the types of IOL's placed in the eye. For example, lenses that allow for both distance and near vision, lenses that correct astigmatism, and many others. The ultrasonic portion of the procedure (Phako) has not changed that much in the past 10 or 15 years, and the limitations of Phako has slowed the acceptance of some of these IOL's by both surgeons and patients alike.

The FDA has recently approved a laser method of performing approximately 70% of the cataract procedure. Although the results are still being evaluated, it looks as if the laser method (a femtosecond laser, the same wavelength we use for LASIK surgery) will allow greater reproducibility of results and make a procedure that is already great even greater! The importance of the reproducibility of the procedure translates into better visual results with these Advanced Technology IOL's.

I am always on the watch for better technology, but only when I feel it adds to the safety and accuracy as compared to procedures I am currently performing. I am watching this development eagerly, as I feel it has the potential to benefit my patients, who, by and large, desire visual improvement after cataract surgery. It may also reduce dependence on eyeglasses, bifocals or contact lenses. I feel that "Refractive Cataract Surgery" is going to revolutionize the current cataract procedure, how it is performed, and the quality of results. I will use this forum to keep you up to date on this very exciting technology. Please feel free to ask any questions that you may have here.