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. 2016 Jan-Feb;113(1):58-62.

The Evolution of Cataract Surgery

The Evolution of Cataract Surgery

Geetha Davis. Mo Med. 2016 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed worldwide. It is also one of the oldest. Alongside advancements in cataract surgical techniques have been improvements in intraocular lens replacement technology. Cataract surgery may be considered among the most successful treatments in all of medicine. This article discusses the fascinating evolution of cataract surgery, from the earliest approach of couching to modern day phacoemulsification and lens replacement.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Sectional view showing the layers of the lens.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Hypermature age-related corticonuclear cataract with a brunescent (brown) nucleus.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Couching, the earliest known method of treating cataract.
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