Cataracts are a Cloudy and Painless Formation over the Eye Lens that can cause Blurring

Cataracts normally occur due to aging. A cataract surgery is performed to correct this condition, where the cataract is separated from the lens capsule and replaced with an intraocular lens implant or IOL. In cases where an IOL cannot be used, spectacles, or eye glasses are worn by the patient.

The most common surgical method to correct cataracts is called phacoemulsification. In this process, two small incisions are created in the region where the cornea meets the sclera of the eye. Ultrasound waves or a laser is used to break down the cataract formation into smaller pieces, which are then removed using a suction. An IOL is then placed in the lens capsule to replace the damaged lens.

The operated eye is kept bandaged for one night following the surgery. Once it is removed, a protective eye shield is worn for a week until the patient is ready to open the eye and see normally. In most cases, the patient may experience minimal or no pain after the surgery.

When a Cataract Surgery Fails

The following signs and symptoms experienced by a patient who has recently undergone cataract surgery, may indicate that the surgery may have failed:

· Increasing pain in the operated eye

· Diminishing vision

· Swelling surrounding the eye

· Increased redness in the eye

· Discharge oozing from the eye

· The patient experiences floaters, changes in the field of vision, or flashes of light

If any of these signs are experienced or observed, the patient must consult the eye specialist immediately to assess the situation.

Risks of Cataract Surgery

A cataract surgery is an out-patient procedure and involves minimum complications. However, every surgery involves risks. If a cataract surgery is not successful, it may lead to partial or complete loss of vision for the patient, which in most cases is irreversible. Some of the possible complications that can impact the outcome of the surgery include:

· The presence of endophthalmitis, or infection in the eye

· Bleeding in the eye (hyphema)

· Corneal edema, or the clear covering of the eye getting swollen

· The presence of fluid and swelling in the nerve layer, called cystoid macular edema

· Retinal detachment

· Glaucoma

· Rupture in the lens capsule

· Cataract fluid leaking into the back of the eye

· Inability to eliminate the cataract completely

· Damage caused to other parts of the eye

Almost all complications that arise during a cataract corrective procedure can be treated. However, when any of these complications arise due to negligence by the surgical team, it may raise the question of medical malpractice. Mistakes such as improper usage of surgical tools while operating the eye, or a failure to remove the cataract completely due to negligence, can lead to permanent vision damage.

You have Our Legal Support

The New York City medical malpractice attorneys are here to help you claim a rightful compensation for your pain and suffering due to negligence. Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff (RMFW) have law offices located in Astoria, Queens, New York City and two locations in Brooklyn.

RMFW attorneys have won millions of dollars in medical negligence cases. We know what a winning case looks like and we know how to execute. Let us help you increase the size of your bank account. We know you have bills to pay and we want the person or person who made this mistake to pay. You don't pay us anything until you are paid (until your case is won!). Call 212-344-1000now.