Cataract surgery is done with which type of anesthesia?

Appeared in: AIIMS Rishikesh NO - 2019

Explanation

Local anesthesia is the standard of care for cataract surgery in adults.
It provides excellent pain control (analgesia) for the eye while minimizing the systemic risks associated with general anesthesia.
Methods include topical drops/gels or regional blocks (peribulbar/retrobulbar), often supplemented with light IV sedation.
This approach allows the patient to remain awake and cooperative but comfortable, facilitating a rapid post-operative recovery.

Option A: General anesthesia is not the standard method for routine cataract surgery in adults due to its higher risks (cardiovascular and respiratory) and longer recovery time.
Option C: Spinal anesthesia involves injecting anesthetic into the subarachnoid space in the lumbar region. It has no effect on the head or eyes.
Option D: This option is incorrect because spinal anesthesia is never used for cataract surgery.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anesthesia for Ophthalmic Surgery as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's role includes preparing the patient for the procedure, explaining that they will be awake but will not feel pain, and monitoring vital signs, especially when IV sedation is used.
Post-operatively, the nurse provides instructions on eye care, activity restrictions, and signs of complications to report, such as severe pain, loss of vision, or signs of infection.
What if? If a patient scheduled for cataract surgery under local anesthesia has an uncontrollable cough or a severe tremor, the procedure may be postponed or switched to general anesthesia to ensure safety and prevent intraocular injury.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question: the type of anesthesia for cataract surgery.
Recall that cataract surgery is a common, quick procedure performed on the eye, often in older adults.
Evaluate each option's suitability for eye surgery. 'Spinal' anesthesia is for the lower body, so it can be eliminated immediately.
Compare 'Local' and 'General'. Local anesthesia is less invasive and carries fewer risks, making it ideal for this type of surgery. General anesthesia is a much more significant intervention.
Conclude that local anesthesia is the standard and most common method, making it the best answer. Since 'Spinal' is incorrect, 'all' must also be incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 1 p. 99-101

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 1 p. 103-105

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