Fox Cataract Surgery Program Improving Vision for Nearly 1,000 Patients Each Year

Cataracts are a common and often inevitable part of aging. These cloudy areas that develop on the lens of the eye can lead to blurry vision, glare, and difficulty seeing at night. In fact, more than 50% of Americans over the age of 80 will either have cataracts or will have already undergone cataract surgery. Each year, more than 2 million cataract surgeries are performed across the United States, making it one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in the country. At A.O. Fox Hospital in Oneonta, New York, approximately 1,000 patients benefit from cataract surgery each year, helping restore their vision and quality of life.

The success of the Fox Cataract Surgery Program has been bolstered by the recent addition of cutting-edge equipment, thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous benefactor. The hospital replaced its aging cataract surgery equipment with a state-of-the-art phacoemulsification machine, which has significantly enhanced the precision and efficiency of the procedure.

What is Phacoemulsification?

Phacoemulsification, commonly referred to as "Phaco," is a minimally invasive cataract surgery technique that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to break up the cloudy lens of the eye. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a small, handheld device to direct ultrasonic energy at the cataract, causing it to break apart. The fragmented lens is then gently suctioned out of the eye and replaced with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

This advanced procedure allows for smaller incisions, minimal disruption to surrounding tissues, and a faster recovery time compared to traditional cataract surgery methods. The Phaco machine's array of specialized tools—including various angled tips and an irrigation-aspiration system—ensures greater precision in lens removal, which in turn improves surgical outcomes.

A High Standard of Care

Cataract surgery is known for its low risk of complications, and with Phacoemulsification, A.O. Fox Hospital has further enhanced its ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning most patients are able to go home the same day. While some patients experience immediate improvement in their vision following surgery, for others, the full benefit of the procedure may take four to five weeks to materialize as the eye heals and adjusts to the new lens.

Fox Hospital’s skilled ophthalmologists and surgical staff are dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring each patient’s experience is as smooth and comfortable as possible. With this new technology and ongoing investment in patient care, the hospital is helping thousands of individuals regain their vision and live more independent lives.

A Vision for the Future

The upgrade to the Phacoemulsification machine reflects A.O. Fox Hospital's ongoing commitment to advancing medical technology and improving patient outcomes. The hospital’s Cataract Surgery Program continues to be a vital resource for individuals experiencing vision loss due to cataracts, and the new equipment ensures that patients receive the most effective and innovative treatment available.

As the number of cataract surgeries performed continues to grow nationwide, Fox Hospital remains at the forefront of providing excellent care for those in need. Whether it’s restoring clear vision for an aging population or improving the quality of life for individuals who have been living with cataracts, the Fox Cataract Surgery Program is making a meaningful impact on the lives of nearly 1,000 patients each year.