2023-2024 Basic and Clinical Science Course, Section 11: Lens and Cataract

Section 11 of the Academy’s Basic and Clinical Science Course™ (BCSC^®) reviews the anatomy, physiology, embryology and pathology of the lens. This section covers the epidemiology, evaluation and management of cataracts and gives an overview of lens and cataract surgery, including special situations. Additionally, Section 11 provides the reader with an appropriate differential diagnosis and a management plan for intraoperative and postoperative complications of cataract surgery.

BCSC Section 11 includes key takeaways highlighted at the beginning of every chapter, 30 detailed illustrations and two animations on embryology and biochemistry and physiology.

This volume contains 13 technical videos (sample) to increase your understanding. Both print and eBook users have access to the videos.

Upon completion of Section 11, readers should be able to:

• Describe the normal anatomy, embryologic development, physiology, and biochemistry of the crystalline lens
• Identify congenital anomalies of the lens
• Describe the association of cataracts with aging, trauma, medications, and systemic and ocular diseases
• Describe the evaluation and management of patients with cataract and other lens abnormalities
• State the principles of cataract surgery techniques and associated surgical technology
• Describe an appropriate differential diagnosis and management plan for intraoperative and postoperative complications of cataract surgery treatment plans

Section chair: Linda M. Tsai, MD
Last Major Revision: 2020-2021

Print: 288 pages