This form is for patients with a currently scheduled surgical appointment. 

    Client Information 

    Cataract Surgical Consent

    Procedure

    The vast majority of patients will undergo a technique called phacoemulsification, a small incision, high frequency ultrasonic procedure . Extracapsular or Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (lensectomy) is a large incision technique that is used in patients with a luxated lens. Lensectomy patients have a longer post-op healing time and greater potential for complications. The doctor will determine which technique is best for the individual pet. Intraocular Lens Implants (artificial lens) are placed in most patients. Typically, patients with an intraocular lens implant(s) have improved vision compared to patients without lens implants. Not every patient is a candidate for an intraocular lens implant, and animals without lens implants still have functional vision, but are far-sighted. Most patients show signs of vision immediately after surgery and this continues slowly over the next several weeks.
    Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure. Cataract surgery typically lasts about 40-60 minutes per eye. Patients are then hospitalized for the day to monitor for post-operative complications. Barring any complications, patients are usually discharged between 3 and 5 pm. If complications are seen, the doctor may recommend your pet be hospitalized overnight for continued monitoring (additional fees WILL apply).

    ​Post Operative Period
    ​
    ​ The post operative period is very important to a successful outcome. After surgery, there is an 8 week period of intensive home medical care. Patients are typically sent home on several topical medications 4-6 times daily, as well as oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatories. Due to the delicate sutures placed in the eye, an Elizabethan collar (cone) is required to be worn 24 hours a day for an average of 14 days following surgery. Self-trauma is the most common cause of incisional rupture, and will require additional surgery if allowed (at additional costs). Your pet may act strangely while adjusting to the collar as their peripheral vision is impaired by the collar. The will usually adjust in 24-48 hours. Patients are also kept on very restricted activity limits. Activities should exclude using a dog door, playing with toys, rough play and pulling on a leash. Some patients may require chemical sedation.

    Follow-up Visits

    ​​Follow up visits are very important in order to monitor the healing process . Most patients are examined at least 4 times during this 6-8 week period. If complications arise, additional recheck appointments may be necessary. The initial surgical cost includes the first 4 follow up visits after surgery. Additional visits will be charged at standard office pricing. Thereafter, your pet should have a 4-12 month follow-up ophthalmic exam.

    Potential complications of cataract surgery

    he vision, which is obstructed by the cataract, will be regained if the cataract can be removed without complications. Fortunately, cataract surgery is successful in most cases . Nevertheless, complications can occur in approximately 10% of cataract patients and a good result can not be guaranteed. Many eyes with cataracts have other abnormalities, which may not be evident at initial examination. Eyes with cataracts have a greater than normal risk for developing diseases including, but not limited to, retinal disease and detachment, glaucoma, corneal edema, intraocular hemorrhage, prolonged uveitis, intraocular adhesions, endophthalmitis and phthisis bulbi (shrinking of the eye).
    After cataract surgery it is not uncommon to be able to see a small white membrane or film inside the pupil of the eye. This thin membrane is a portion of the lens capsule (like a sandwich baggie) that surrounded the cataract and serves as a barrier to maintain the vitreous in back of the eye. This is a very important function for the eye and it is not removed unless absolutely necessary. The white membrane is termed posterior capsular opacity (PCO) and in rare cases may extensively progress to limit vision.
    Diabetic patients and certain breeds may be at a slightly greater risk for of post-operative complications and may take longer to heal. Medical therapy and surgical procedures may be necessary to treat newly acquired disease as it occurs (at additional costs). At the time of you pet's initial ophthalmic examination, the doctor will advise you if your pet is a suitable candidate for cataract surgery and the potential complications.

    ​​I, the undersigned, do hereby certify that I am the owner (or authorized agent of the owner) of the above described animal, and I authorize the performance of diagnostic, therapeutic, anesthetic, surgical and preventative procedures described in the estimate or emergency procedures as may be deemed necessary by the veterinarian.
    I have been advised as to the nature of the procedures or operations and of the risks involved. I realize that surgical results can not be predicted or guaranteed. I understand that complications or concurrent medical issues may arise and that the fees associated with treatment of such issues are not included in the estimate I was given, but are costs I may be responsible for above and beyond the estimated price.

    In the event the clinic is not staffed or if overnight or weekend observation by a veterinarian is required, I authorize the transfer of my pet to the emergency clinic for observation and treatment. I understand that I will be billed by the emergency clinic at a rate dependent upon the care required and those charges are in addition to the estimate quoted to me.

    By signing below I acknowledge that the technician assisting me today has reviewed the surgical estimate previously provided to me to my satisfaction. I understand the estimate quoted may vary, depending upon the extent of treatment required. A veterinarian or member of the staff will make reasonable efforts to notify me prior to any additional treatment when the actual cost is expected to exceed this estimated by 10% unless the additional treatment is required as an immediate life saving measure.

    I have discussed and indicated with the technician any recommended treatments and/or services that I am declining. These procedures have been strongly recommended by the veterinarian and I am aware that I am declining the procedures against medical advice by initialing individual items.

    I understand that full payment for services is due at the time of discharge. I have read and understand this authorization and consent.