Cataract Complication: Fovea leakage

Hello,
My mother is recovering from a cataract operation, and is experiencing some complications.
We were reading the diagnosis and were wondering what does "fovea leakage" means. Her vision has deteriorated considerably. I imagine this has to do something with it. What could be done to solve this?
Thanks for any input,
Michelle

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

Hello Michelle,   the 'fovea' is the central part of the 'macula', the macula is the central part of the retina--the sight forming tissue at the back of the eye.  'Fovea leakage' most likely refers to 'macular edema' (edema=swelling). This is an extremely common problem in the post-operative period after cataract surgery. It can, and often does, occur after a perfect uncomplicated operation. It is more common in diabetics and if operative complications were present.

The condition often goes away without treatment although it can take weeks to months to resolve. While the fluid is present it blurs the vision the amount of blurring often proportional to the amount of fluid. (You can think of this as a tiny blister in the macula).

Ophthalmologists (EyeMDs) frequently treat the condition with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory eye drops (example: Acular) and steroid eyedrops. The condition usually responds to time and medical treatment.

JCH MD

[missa11]

Thank you for the explanation. This was very reassuring!

[shiloh311]

A related discussion, why is an angiogram needed for a fovea in the eye? was started.