Issue 6/2025
Marinov, M.
MCOB Dr. Marinov – Shumen
Medical University „Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov“ – Varna, Department of Health Care, Shumen Branch
Cataract is a condition in which the natural lens in the eye has reduced transparency – becomes cloudy. The process is slow and takes many years, but unfortunately also irreversible. To date, there is no medical method to restore the transparency of the natural human lens. The modern approach to treating cataracts is surgical. Cataract removal surgery is the most common surgical intervention worldwide. Historically, cataracts have been treated in various ways since ancient times. Ancient Sumerian and Egyptian texts provide information about the treatment of various eye diseases through ointments, compresses and spiritual rituals. The first documented surgical method for cataract removal is called “couching”. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE) and Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (ICCE) were discovered and developed. In the 20th century, Intracapsular Cryo Cataract Extraction (ICCE) and Phacoemulsification – the modern gold standard for cataract extraction – were invented. Various intraocular lenses and equipment were developed, through which the effectiveness of the operation was significantly improved, the recovery period was shortened and patients regained normal vision. Thus, the quality of life improved, the demand for this medical service increased and the cataract operation became the most common surgical intervention in the world.
Key words: Cataract, Phacoemulsification, Intraocular Lenses, Surgery, Extracapsular Cataract Extraction ECCE, Intracapsular Cataract Extraction ICCE, Ophthalmic Surgery, History
Address for correspondence:
Dr. M. Marinov, MD
Medical University „Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov“ – Varna,
Department of Health Care, Shumen Branch