What are the risks of YAG laser capsulotomy?

NdYAG capsulotomy is generally a safe and successful method in relieving the symptoms of posterior capsular opacification. Documented complications include, transient rise in intraocular pressure,2 retinal detachment,3 lens subluxation or dislocation,4 lens pitting,5 and exacerbation of local endophthalmitis.

Can YAG laser cause vision problems?

There is no downtime after a YAG Laser Capsulotomy, but many patients experience floaters in their vision for a few weeks. These floaters may be small or large and are often described as a “bug” or “amoeba” in the patient’s visual field.

Can posterior capsule opacification cause double vision?

More serious complications can include a rupture of the lens capsule causing the artificial lens to shift position — which can lead to double vision or a loss of visual acuity.

How safe is YAG laser surgery?

YAG laser capsulotomy is a very safe procedure and complications are very, very rare. Potential pitfalls of the procedure include inadvertent damage to the patient’s lens replacement (intraocular lens) or retina, but these are very rare.

What are the symptoms of posterior capsule opacification?

What are the symptoms of posterior capsule opacification?

Hazy, cloudy or blurred vision.
Double vision.
Glare or ‘halo’ effect around lights.
Reduced ability to focus.

Why is my eyesight getting worse after cataract surgery?

The “big 3” potential problems that could permanently worsen vision after cataract/IOL surgery are: 1) infection, 2) an exaggerated inflammatory response, and 3) hemorrhage.

Can you have YAG laser twice?

In short, the answer is yes, but it’s not quite that simple. Each case is unique and when dealing with something as important as eyesight, maximum care must be taken to ensure that patients are suitable for treatment.

Can posterior capsule opacification be avoided?

The laser can also be used to remove the laminin layer of the posterior capsule, which can prevent posterior capsule opacification. The system is available in Europe and has just been FDA approved. The other new technology that may make a difference is the Zepto capsulotomy device.

How long is recovery after YAG capsulotomy?

What can I expect after my YAG posterior capsulotomy? It will take 1-2 days to see as clearly as possible. Continue to use the anti-inflammatory drops. There are no restrictions on your activities. You can return to your normal routine the day after the procedure. You will come to clinic for a check-up one week later.

What to expect after YAG surgery?

You may be given drops to reduce pressure in your eye.

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment may be given to reduce swelling and improve vision.

You should be able to return to most activities right away.

You may feel a mild ache in your eye or see flashes of light for a day or two.

Your vision may be blurry for up to a week.

Does YAG surgery always work?

YAG laser treatments are typically only needed once as the capsule does not regrow after it is vaporised by the YAG. Complications after YAG laser are very rare but can include vitreous floaters, raised eye pressure, retinal swelling, lens damage and very rarely retinal detachment.

Does YAG cure posterior capsule opacification?

Yes. Posterior capsule opacification impairs visual acuity, reduces contrast sensitivity and causes glare – all of which degrade the quality of a patient’s vision. YAG capsulotomy cures posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and reverses all of these effects.