What is the surgical technique often used to remove cataracts?

Phacoemulsification is the preferred surgical technique for cataract removal in veterinary ophthalmology. This method involves using ultrasonic energy to break up the cloudy lens (cataract) into small fragments. These fragments can then be easily aspirated out of the eye through a small incision, significantly reducing the trauma to the surrounding tissues compared to traditional techniques. The advantages of phacoemulsification include faster recovery times, less postoperative discomfort, and a reduced risk of complications.

Other techniques, while they may relate to lens or eye surgery, do not specifically target cataract removal with the same efficiency or effectiveness as phacoemulsification. Scleral flap surgery is more associated with procedures addressing issues related to glaucoma or other intraocular conditions, while laser-assisted cataract surgery may still incorporate phacoemulsification but is not the primary technique for removing cataracts. Lens aspiration is a broader term that does not specifically denote the method used in phacoemulsification, which is the standard approach for cataract extraction due to its established efficacy and safety profile.