Muscle Inflammation caused by Cataract Surgery of the eye

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a procedure used to remove the cloudy lens (cataract) from inside the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This surgery is done to restore vision loss that results from this condition. It is one of the most common operations done in North America.

Muscle Inflammation Caused by Cataract Surgery

Although cataract surgery is generally considered safe and effective, it can sometimes lead to inflammation of the eye muscles. Such muscle inflammation can cause symptoms such as redness, pain, burning, blurry vision, and aching. This is called post-operative inflammation and it usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.

What Causes Muscle Inflammation?

There are several factors that can contribute to post-operative inflammation. These include:

• Infection – Infection can occur after surgery if bacteria enters the eye. This happens if the eye is exposed to the environment, if there is damage to the surface of the eye, or if there are pre-existing eye infections.
• Immune Response – The body’s natural response to foreign material (like an artificial lens) can create inflammation.
• Surgical Trauma – Any surgery can cause some degree of inflammation. If the eye muscles are placed under stress during cataract surgery, this can create inflammation.
• Tear Duct Obstruction – If there is an obstruction to the tear ducts, this can lead to inflammation in the eye muscles.

Treatment for Muscle Inflammation

The treatment for muscle inflammation depends on the cause. If the inflammation is due to infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the inflammation is a result of the immune response, steroids may be necessary. If the inflammation is a result of surgical trauma, anti-inflammatory medications may help. If there is tear duct obstruction, a surgery to correct the obstruction may be required.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery is generally safe and effective, however, it can sometimes lead to muscle inflammation. Such inflammation can cause symptoms such as redness, pain, burning, blurry vision, and aching. The cause of the inflammation must be determined in order to determine the best course of treatment. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after cataract surgery, be sure to follow up with your eye doctor.