POC eye most likely refers to Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO), a condition that can occur after cataract surgery. It's often called a "secondary cataract," even though it's different from the original cataract.
Understanding Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO)
Here's a breakdown of what PCO entails:
- What it is: According to the provided reference, Posterior Capsular Opacification is a clouding of your eye's lens capsule that can occur as a complication of cataract surgery. It's not a new cataract, but a clouding of the membrane behind the implanted lens.
- Why it happens: During cataract surgery, the clouded natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens (IOL). The natural lens sits within a capsule. The surgeon usually leaves the back part of this capsule in place to support the new lens. PCO happens when cells left behind on the lens capsule after cataract surgery grow and cloud the capsule.
- When it happens: PCO can develop months or even years after cataract surgery.
- Treatment: Fortunately, PCO is easily treated with a quick and painless laser procedure called a YAG laser capsulotomy. This procedure creates an opening in the clouded capsule, restoring clear vision.
Symptoms of PCO
The symptoms of PCO are similar to those of cataracts and can include:
- Blurred vision
- Glare, especially at night
- Difficulty reading
- Halos around lights
In summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO) |
| Commonly known as | Secondary Cataract |
| What it is | Clouding of the eye's lens capsule after cataract surgery |
| Cause | Growth of cells left behind on the lens capsule |
| Treatment | YAG laser capsulotomy |
| Reference Date | February 14, 2023 |
