Dec. 4, 2019

This paid piece is sponsored by Vance Thompson Vision.

Cataract patients now can experience the vision of their younger years thanks to breakthrough technology available in Sioux Falls.

As people continue to lead active lives long into retirement, cataract surgery also has evolved into a quick outpatient procedure with a shorter, easier recovery and better outcomes.

Recent advances in cataract technology can even help patients reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts for most activities. Vance Thompson Vision has made it a priority to be on the forefront  of advances in cataract treatment. Now, it offers the first and only FDA-approved trifocal lens: AcrySof® IQ PanOptix® trifocal intraocular lens.

From left to right: Vision with severe cataracts, vision with a monofocal IOL, vision with the PanOptix IOL.

Why do we need cataract surgery?

The human eye is a complex organ that translates light into an image, allowing us to see the world in real time. The part of the eye called the lens is especially critical in focusing light onto the back part of our eye. A healthy lens is perfectly clear and flexible and helps us zoom our vision to see things that are near or far away. As we age, the lens becomes less flexible and begins to cloud and even turn yellow. This is called a cataract. When a cataract develops, reading glasses are required for near vision, colors may seem more dull, and common activities — like driving at night — may become difficult. When vision changes start to impact life, it’s a good time to see your regular eye doctor and check for cataracts.

Why do I need a lens for cataract surgery?

During every cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye, which has become a cataract, is removed. The next step involves implanting a synthetic lens, often called an intraocular lens, or IOL. The whole procedure may last a mere 10 to 15 minutes, and most people resume their regular activities the day after the procedure.

Vance Thompson Vision offers a variety of IOLs, including advanced options that can help patients reduce their need for glasses or contacts. That’s where the PanOptix® trifocal lens comes in. It’s the first IOL to offer focal clarity for near, intermediate and distance vision.

“I think the most amazing thing we notice with the PanOptix®  lens is the range of vision it gives patients and how that excites them,” said Dr. Vance Thompson, founder and surgeon at Vance Thompson Vision. “Patients are surprised they can experience the vision of their younger years as part of their cataract surgery experience.”

Thompson was the first surgeon to implant the PanOptix® lens in South Dakota and looks forward to sharing the technology with patients who will benefit from the new technology. Vance Thompson Vision has long participated in research trials with the intention of bringing the most advanced technology to people in our community. Before patients choose a lens, the team at Vance Thompson Vision takes time to educate them on all of their IOL options.

“Until now, no single lens available in the U.S. provided distance, intermediate and near vision,” said Dr. John Berdahl, partner and surgeon at Vance Thompson Vision.

“The PanOptix® lens gives each eye the ability to see well at those distances.”

Vance Thompson Vision was one of 12 investigational sites in the U.S. that took part in the FDA-monitored clinical trial for PanOptix®. The results of the study showed high patient satisfaction, with more than 99 percent of PanOptix® patients saying they would choose the same lens again.

Most cataract patients, including those with astigmatism, are good candidates for the PanOptix® lens. The first step to cataract treatment is to visit your primary eye care provider to evaluate your vision.

To learn more, click here.