Cataract Care at University of Colorado Hospital

Why Choose Treatment for Cataracts at University of Colorado Hospital?

Our Cornea Service specializes in the most up-to-date surgical techniques for corneal transplantation, diseases of the ocular surface, and treatment of cataracts.  All of our doctors are fellowship trained which means they have achieved the highest level of expertise.  They are able to diagnose and treat the most complicated cases. The Ophthalmology service at University of Colorado Hospital was recently named as one of the Top 10 clinical programs in the U.S. by Opthalmology Times. 

What are Cataracts?

One of the most common ailments of the eye is cataracts.  A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s lens. Cataracts may initially have no symptoms but eventually cause a painless, gradual decrease in vision.  Fortunately, the vision loss caused by cataracts can be reversed by having cataract surgery. Cataracts are very common in older people. By the age of 80, more than half of all Americans will have had cataracts or cataract surgery. 

Causes of cataracts include:

  • Aging
  • Sunlight exposure
  • Smoking
  • Poor nutrition
  • Eye trauma
  • Systemic diseases such as diabetes
  • Certain medications such as steroids

Common symptoms are:

  • Blurred vision
  • Glare
  • Halos
  • Dimness of color vision

Testing for Cataracts

Cataracts are detected through a comprehensive eye exam that includes:

  • Visual acuity test
  • Dilated eye exam

Treatment for Cataracts

Cataract Surgery

Changing glasses or using other visual aids may be useful in improving vision in the short term. However, cataract surgery is often the most effective treatment option due to the fact that having a cataract is like having a “dirty window” inside the eye. 

The decision to perform surgery will depend on the severity of the vision loss and the impact it has on the quality of the patient’s life. Surgeons are now able to offer patients the option of cataract surgery at a much earlier stage.

Cataract removal is one of the most effective and commonly performed surgeries in the U.S. Improved vision is achieved in about 90% of cases.

Patient Education

Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.

After administering eyedrops and perhaps a mild sedative, the doctor will make a small incision in the eye to remove the cloudy lens.  A clear intraocular lens is then implanted in the eye to replace the natural lens that was removed.  The intraocular lens that is placed in the eye now has the ability to correct your distance and near vision as well as astigmatism.  This allows many patients to be less dependant on glasses and oftentimes glasses-free following surgery.  Our physicians offer the latest intraocular lens technology.

After the procedure, you will stay for a short time in the outpatient recovery area and then be allowed to go home. The doctor may give you an eye patch to wear for protection.

Getting a Second Opinion

As with any surgery, it is important to feel comfortable with both your doctors and the staff. University of Colorado Hospital is happy to offer a second opinion and to work with you if you choose to come to our hospital for your surgery. 

Please contact us at (720) 848-2020 to schedule your first appointment.

Additional Resources

National Eye Institute

Eye Care America: The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology