Cataract extraction is a surgical procedure that involves removing a cloudy lens from an eye and replacing it with an artificial one. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The IPA transcription for "cataract" is /ˈkætərækt/, while "extraction" is /ɪkˈstrækʃən/. The "c-" in cataract is pronounced as a hard "k" sound, while the "-tion" suffix in extraction is pronounced as "shən." Therefore, the correct spelling of this medical term is "cataract extraction," pronounced as /ˈkætərækt ɪkˈstrækʃən/.
Cataract extraction is a surgical procedure performed to remove a clouded lens known as a cataract from the eye. A cataract refers to the gradual clouding of the natural lens of the eye, causing vision impairment. This condition commonly occurs with aging but can also result from eye injuries, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions.
During cataract extraction, the surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea, the transparent front part of the eye. Then, either a phacoemulsification technique or manual extracapsular extraction is employed to break up and remove the cloudy lens. Phacoemulsification involves the use of ultrasonic vibrations to emulsify the cataract, enabling its aspiration through a tiny tube. In manual extracapsular extraction, a longer incision is made to remove the cataract in one piece.
Once the cataract is removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the natural lens and restore vision. This IOL is typically made from plastic, silicone, or acrylic materials, and its power is selected specifically to match the patient's vision needs.
Cataract extraction is a well-established and commonly performed procedure, with high success rates. It is usually an outpatient surgery, allowing patients to return home the same day. After the surgery, patients may experience improved vision, reduced glare, and better color perception. However, it is important to note that the natural aging process of the retina and other eye conditions may still affect visual quality after cataract extraction, and correcting these issues may require additional treatments.
The word "cataract" originates from the Greek word "katarrhátēs", which means "a waterfall". This is because the visual appearance of a cataract in the eye resembles the cloudy, opaque appearance of water flowing rapidly over a waterfall.
The word "extraction" comes from the Latin word "extrahere", which means "to draw out" or "to pull out". In medical terminology, "extraction" refers to the removal of a bodily structure or substance, in this case, the removal of the cataract from the eye.
Therefore, "cataract extraction" refers to the surgical procedure of removing a cataract from the eye, wherein the cloudy lens is pulled out or extracted, restoring vision.