A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or fogged with steam. Common symptoms of a cataract include a slow, painless blurring of vision, light sensitivity or increased problems with glare, poor night vision, or fading or yellowing of colors. The most common cause of cataracts is related to the aging process of the eye. Cataracts can also be caused by medical problems such as diabetes or long-term use of medications like oral steroids.

Surgery is the only way your doctor can remove the cataract. If your symptoms are mild, a change of glasses may be all that is needed to improve your vision. There are no medications, dietary supplements or exercises that have been proven to prevent or cure cataracts.

The current technique utilizes a procedure called phaco-emulsification. A small incision is made at the junction of the clear cornea and the white sclera. The cellophane thin membrane called the lens capsule, which surrounds the lens and holds it in place, is opened. An ultrasound instrument is then used to shatter the lens into tiny fragments and simultaneously suction this debris to remove the cataractous lens. An artificial lens called an implant is then inserted into the eye and is supported by the lens capsule. Since a self-sealing small incision was used, it does not require suture closure, thus the term "no stitch cataract surgery". The entire process is rapid and is accomplished less than an hour under local anesthesia.

With Alcon's new INFINITI system, cataract surgeons now have three options for removing a cataract: ultrasonic phacoemulsification, ultrasound with oscillation, and liquification.

Ultrasonic phacoemulsification has long been the "gold standard" for cataract surgery. In phacoemulsification surgery, a small ultrasonic probe is inserted into a very small incision on the edge of the eye. This probe gently breaks the cloudy lens into tiny pieces and suctions the cataract out of the eye.

The INFINITI offers a new method that uses both ultrasound and mechanical oscillation to help break up the cataract faster, and may allow the surgeon greater control of lens tissue than traditional ultrasound.

The doctor may also choose to use a completely new lens removal method, called AquaLase® Liquefaction. This uses a warm, naturally-balanced solution to safely break up and "wash away" the natural lens.

After the cataract is removed, a folded intra-ocular lens (IOL) is inserted through the micro-incision, then unfolded and locked into permanent position. The small incision is self-sealing and usually requires no stitches. This type of incision heals quickly and provides a much more comfortable recuperation.

Why we've invested in the Alcon INFINITI System:

- The increased flexibility and multiple removal options provide surgeons with more control over the lens removal procedure.
- Physicians can choose the method of cataract removal that will most benefit the patient.