Leighton Hospital has introduced pioneering surgery that allows patients with cataracts in both eyes to have them operated on at the same time.
Traditionally, patients with bilateral cataracts have surgery on one eye before returning weeks later for the second eye to be operated on.
A number of those patients now have the option of Immediate Sequential Bilateral Cataract Surgery (ISBCS) at Leighton Hospital.
It involves operating on both cataracts during the same hospital visit.
It is most commonly carried out as day surgery under local anaesthetic, meaning patients can also expect to go home the same day.
Dan Nguyen, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon and Clinical Lead for Ophthalmology at Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer Immediate Sequential Bilateral Cataract Surgery to suitable patients in the local area.
“Having both cataracts operated on at the same time has a number of benefits for the patient, including the quicker restoration of visual function and fewer hospital visits.
“It also means they have just one period of recovery.”
All patients who are due to have cataract surgery at Leighton Hospital attend a pre-operative appointment where it’s highlighted to them if ISBCS is a potential option.
Mr Nguyen added: “Not all patients are eligible for ISBCS.
“Those who are potentially suitable are at their consultation given a full explanation of their options so that they can make an informed decision.”
A sight test can detect early signs of conditions such as glaucoma, which can be treated if found soon enough.
Other health conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure may also be detected during a test.
(Pic: Dan Nguyen (left), Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon and Clinical Lead for Ophthalmology and Alan Hubbard, Consultant Ophthalmologist)
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