Cataract and Aphakia

Abstract

Cataracts almost invariably accompany old age. The change from nuclear sclerosis or cortical spoking to frank cataract formation is gradual. Simply stated, a cataract is present when the physiologic changes of nuclear sclerosis and cortical spoking cause a diminution of vision that cannot be corrected with optical devices. Operation is successful in about 85 percent of patients, but restoration of visual acuity brings with it problems of optical aberrations. For those who can wear contact lenses, the visual world returns to near normal.