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Prof. dr. Rudy Nuijts ophthalmologist With several thousand procedures performed every year, it might seem like cataract surgery is settling into something of a routine. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth: we are constantly working on new innovations to improve the accuracy of the procedure to treat this eye disorder, to reduce side effects and to develop new lenses that achieve the best possible outcome. Even though a healthy lifestyle can delay the development of cataracts, surgery remains one of the only options available for the time being once a patient does develop a problem. In this procedure, the patient’s blurry lens is replaced with an artificial one. To fit the new lens, the surgeon makes an incision in the patient’s cornea. Here in Maastricht, we use a robotic laser in more complex cases. This technique is highly accurate: it produces a perfectly circular opening that facilitates much more precise placement of the artificial lens. The results and experience we gain by using this procedure are used in academic research to further improve the technique. This way, we are able to provide our patients with good care rooted in scientific evidence while simultaneously promoting innovation. Artificial lenses are also constantly improving. The options may have been rather limited in the past, but we can now choose from a wide range of lenses. With multifocal lenses, for example, reading glasses can become a thing of the past. We share our experiences with lens manufacturers, so we can work together to achieve even better and more effective solutions. Other partners are helping us reduce side effects through more efficient use of eye medication. We are currently investigating minuscule drug-releasing capsules that administer drugs locally in the eye. Regenerative medicine presents another avenue for progress and we are keeping a close eye on developments in this area. Stem cells that can grow into clear lens cells to replace blurry cells offer just one potential new solution. Whether we can replace cataract surgery with these types of techniques in future remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: as long as we keep generating and sharing knowledge, we will continue to progress towards the best possible care for patients. On the job


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