Definition of Surgery, cataract

Surgery, cataract: Removal of the clouded (cataractous) lens in its entirety via surgery and replacement of the lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) made of plastic. A typical cataract operation takes about an hour, requires local anesthesia only, and usually does not require hospitalization.

Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary
http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7948
Last Editorial Review: 3/30/2012