Complications after Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a very common surgery in the United States. Unfortunately, as with all surgical procedures there are risks associated with the surgery. Complications after cataract surgery are rare, but can be caused by natural occurrences or medical malpractice. Below is some further information on complications after cataract surgery and possible surgery malpractice. 

Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is the removal of the natural lens in the eye which has over time changes and become calcified, creating a cataract. An individual with cataracts has loss of vision either temporarily or completely. There are two types of cataract surgery, phacoemulsification, and extracapsular cataract extraction. The first, phacoemulsification, is the most common method used today. Phacoemulsification uses a very small incision and waves to break apart the cataract and then suction to remove it. Then the clear lens is put in its place. Extracapsular cataract extraction is used in instances where the cataract is too hard or cannot be removed by the waves. The incision is bigger and the calcification removed in one piece then the lens placed in. 

Complications

Serious complications can occur with cataract surgery. Some of the most serious can included total loss of vision and even extreme pain. Listed here are some of the most common complications. 

• Retinal Detachment - seeping of fluid thru a tear in the retina. This could include light flashes, seeing spots or seeing shadows. 
• Cystoid Macula Edema - swelling of the nerve cells in the retina. This causes decreased vision.
• Posteriorly Dislocated Lens Material - parts of the cataract have fallen into the cavity behind the lens. 
• Endophthalmitus -an infection in the eye. This can cause extreme pain, sensitivity and loss of vision. 
• Choroidal Hemorrhage - the blood vessels of the retina begin to bleed during surgery. This can cause minor or severe vision loss.
• Secondary Cataracts - cataracts that develop years after the surgery has been performed. This is very easily repaired

Surgery Malpractice 

Surgery malpractice occurs when a surgeon performs an act outside of the standard and accepted practices that causes injury or even death to the patient. Surgery malpractice is very serious and a victim should make a claim and can even file suit against the surgeon or facility where the malpractice occurred. Juries have been known to compensate a victim very well for surgery malpractice. 

Getting Legal Help

If you feel your complications after cataract surgery may have been caused by medical malpractice it is important to contact a qualified attorney. An attorney will be able to assist with your case and determine if medical malpractice may have been involved.