Mr. Thua has been nearsighted for over 30 years and recently experienced glare and blurred vision. Mrs. Phung was diagnosed with cataracts 2 years ago but required only eye drops due to the less severe condition.

Dr. Dinh Trung Nghia, Deputy Director of the High-Tech Eye Center at Tam Anh General Hospital, diagnosed Mr. Thua with cataracts and dry eye syndrome. Mrs. Phung's cataracts had progressed to stage 3, necessitating surgery to prevent further deterioration and potential glaucoma.

Before the procedures, the couple underwent comprehensive eye exams, including biometry using the IOL Master to determine parameters such as axial length, corneal curvature, and thickness, to select the appropriate intraocular lenses. They also had A-scan and B-scan ultrasounds, endothelial cell counts, optical coherence tomography (OCT), corneal topography, and intraocular pressure measurements to detect potential risks like glaucoma. Blood tests and blood sugar levels were also checked to screen for diabetes and other underlying conditions.

Dr. performing phacoemulsification surgery on Mr. Thua. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Dr. performing phacoemulsification surgery on Mr. Thua. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Mr. Thua had his right eye operated on first, while Mrs. Phung had her left eye done initially, followed by the other eye a week later. The surgeons used phacoemulsification to break up the clouded natural lenses with ultrasound waves, suctioned them out, and replaced them with intraocular lenses (IOLs). The one-week interval between surgeries ensured optimal safety and treatment effectiveness. The doctors proceeded with the second eye surgery only after confirming the first eye had healed well without complications.

Mr. Thua and Mrs. Phung caring for each other after surgery. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Mr. Thua and Mrs. Phung caring for each other after surgery. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

A week after their phacoemulsification surgeries, both Mr. Thua and Mrs. Phung regained their vision. Mrs. Phung achieved 20/20 vision in both eyes, while Mr. Thua achieved 20/20 vision in his right eye and 20/25 in his left eye.

Dr. Nghia explained that phacoemulsification, involving small incisions for IOL implantation, allows for excellent vision restoration, often eliminating the need for glasses post-surgery.

Minh Huong