$Unique_ID{BRK01045}
$Pretitle{Nervous System and Sense Organs}
$Title{What are the Chances for a Good Result From Cataract Surgery?}
$Subject{eyes cataracts surgery}
$Volume{F-21}
$Log{
Figure 1*0003101.scf
Figure 2*0003102.scf
Figure 3*0003103.scf
Figure 4*0003104.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What are the Chances for a Good Result From Cataract Surgery?


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  I'm always nervous when it comes to my health, more so these days
as I await the day for my cataract surgery.  My doctor has been very
accommodating, and explained about the insertion of a new lens.  I am going to
have a new lens put in, but I would like the truth about my chances for a good
result.  Would you please oblige me with one of your clear explanations?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  You probably have no reason to be nervous about the operation because
cataract surgery is currently the most common major surgical procedure
performed on people over 65-years old who are on Medicare.  Most of the
operations are very successful and a very high percentage of those who have
lens implantation report a big improvement in their vision.
     In one study I found researching your question's answer, the results of
cataract surgery with lens replacement on patients between the ages of 70 and
95 years old were reported.  Before the operation 91 percent of the
participants rated their own vision as fair or poor.  Four months after the
surgery, 66 percent of the cataract patients rated their vision as excellent
or good.
     On a more scientific level, the doctors also noted a significant
improvement in the participants' vision:  using a more precise means of
measuring vision, doctors found that visual acuity after surgery improved from
about 20/100 before the operation to 20/40 four months afterwards.
     With this recovered vision, your daily chores will be more easily
accomplished, and you can return to the joys of reading which you mentioned in
your letter as being so important to your mental stimulation.  Good luck, and
please let me know how your surgery turned out.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
