Keitumetse Sepeng-Selole
In a commendable initiative to restore vision and enhance the quality of life for patients living with cataracts, Dr. George Mukhari Academic Hospital recently hosted a successful cataract marathon.
The event brought together a dedicated team of ophthalmologists determined to combat preventable blindness and offer hope to those affected. A total of 140 patients received cataract removal surgery at the hospital’s eye clinic during this marathon. The surgeries were performed across two theatres, both accommodating 26-28 patients daily.
This remarkable effort was aimed at restoring independence by improving patients’ vision, reducing reliance on glasses, and ultimately transforming lives, pointed Dr Lucky Nkombyane, a consultant ophthalmologist at the eye clinic.
“A cataract develops when the eye’s lens, which is naturally transparent, becomes cloudy. This obstructs light from entering the eye, leading to blindness. Cataracts are common in elderly individuals, typically those aged 65 and above,” he explained.
Dr. Nkombyane further clarified that cataract growth is not a disease but a natural part of the eye’s aging process. “Once removed surgically, cataracts do not recur,” he assured. He explained the surgical procedure in detail, noting that an artificial lens made of durable plastic is inserted into the eye to replace the damaged lens providing patients with clear vision for the rest of their lives.
This minimally invasive technique does not require stitches, allowing the wound to heal naturally. “This approach enables the eye to regain its original shape,” assures Dr Nkombyane, adding that to ensure the safety of elderly patients, who make up the majority of those treated, careful pre-operative preparations are essential.
“During surgery, we closely monitor patients’ vital signs and manage age-related conditions like diabetes and hypertension,” Dr. Nkombyane emphasised.
Recovery times vary among patients, with eye wounds typically healing within one to two weeks and full recovery taking up to six weeks. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities such as bending, running, or exposure to dusty or smoky environments. Even seemingly simple household chores like sweeping can irritate the healing eye due to dust particles and should be avoided.
This marathon of sight-restoring surgeries exemplifies the hospital’s dedication to serving and addressing the needs of its community and providing patients with the priceless gift of vision. The operations could not have come at a more opportune time for the patients as it will enable them to enjoy the festive period with clear vision.
Community members, particularly the elderly, are urged to visit their nearest health facility for annual eye screenings to ensure early detection and treatment of potential cataracts.
SOURCED FROM THE GPG WEBSITE.
