What does PCO mean in PHYSIOLOGY
Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) is a common vision disorder that occurs after cataract surgery. It is the leading cause of visual disability after cataract extraction. The primary symptom of PCO is the reduced clarity and sharpness of vision, usually due to the formation of a fibrous scar or epithelial growth on the back surface of the artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It can affect any age group, however very rarely in children.
PCO meaning in Physiology in Medical
PCO mostly used in an acronym Physiology in Category Medical that means Posterior Capsule Opacification
Shorthand: PCO,
Full Form: Posterior Capsule Opacification
For more information of "Posterior Capsule Opacification", see the section below.
» Medical » Physiology
Treatment Options
In its early stages, PCO can often be managed nonsurgically with YAG laser capsulotomy. Laser capsulotomy involves using an intense beam of infrared light to make an opening in the center of the closed capsule so that visual adaptations can take place visually without compromising structural integrity. In more advanced cases, surgically removing opacities may be necessary. This procedure involves penetrating through layers of tissue until reaching places where subtle microsurgery must take place to restore vision affected by PCO.
Essential Questions and Answers on Posterior Capsule Opacification in "MEDICAL»PHYSIOLOGY"
What is Posterior Capsule Opacification?
Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO) is a common eye condition in which the back of the eye's lens capsule becomes opaque and cloudy. This causes blurred vision and may require treatment.
What are the symptoms of PCO?
Patients with PCO may experience reduced sharpness of vision, difficulty reading, loss of contrast sensitivity, increased light sensitivity, double vision and decreased night vision.
Who is at risk for developing PCO?
Those who have had cataract surgery are more likely to develop PCO due to scarring that takes place during the operation.
How is PCO diagnosed?
An ophthalmologist will typically diagnose PCO after conducting a comprehensive eye exam or a slit lamp examination. The doctor may also use special imaging tests such as ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans to confirm diagnosis.
What treatments are available for PCO?
In most cases, posterior capsulotomy (a non-invasive procedure) or laser capsulotomy can be used to treat PCO. In some cases, a second cataract surgery might be necessary if other options fail.
What should I expect during posterior capsulotomy?
During posterior capsulotomy, the patient may experience mild discomfort while eye drops are administered and bright light from the laser is used to flatten the capsule’s edges so that it stops causing blurry vision.
Is posterior capsulotomy painful?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during posterior capsulotomy as long as they follow all pre-operative instructions given by their doctor.
Are there any risks associated with posterior capsulotomy?
While posterior capsulotomy is generally considered safe when performed by a trained professional, there is always a slight risk of complications such as inflammation or infection due to perforation of the lens capsule during surgery.
Can I wear contact lenses after undergoing posteriorcapsulotomy?
Yes, it is possible to wear contact lenses again after undergoing posteriorcapsulotomy as long as it has been sufficiently healed and your eyes have returned to normal functioning levels. However, it is important to get professional advice from your doctor before doing so.
Final Words:
Posterior Capsule Opacifications (PCO) can significantly reduce both quality and clarity of vision post-cataract surgery if left untreated or undiagnosed for too long. With timely diagnosis and management, however, patients dealing with PCO can regain some level of clear vision, though regular monitoring may still be necessary for ongoing care.
PCO also stands for: |
|
| All stands for PCO |