Laser iridectomy: indications and the essence of the operation

Glaucoma is a rather serious disease of the visual apparatus, often accompanied by unpleasant symptoms and increased intraocular pressure, which must be constantly monitored. Several years ago, her treatment was practically not possible. Today, thanks to high-precision scientific research in the field of medicine and development, it is enough to conduct one surgical procedure with a laser.

Method definition

Laser iridectomy (iridotomy) is a surgical operation using a laser, consisting in the artificial creation of a very thin hole (in some cases, several) about iris of the eye. This procedure is necessary to adjust the intraocular pressure, which can significantly reduce the risk of such complications as loss of vision.

According to statistics, ninety-five percent of operations performed around the world give a positive result of treatment.

This allows us to speak of iridotomy as the most effective method of treating glaucoma. In addition, the result can be observed immediately after the procedure.

Despite the fact that in private clinics laser surgery is usually more expensive than in public hospitals, the equipment of these hospitals is usually much better.

Application area

Iridectomy is currently used to treat many types of eye glaucoma. The main indications for the operation are:

• Closed glaucoma (both primary and secondary);
• Pupillary block;
• Glaucoma of mixed type;
• Pathology of the anterior chamber of the eye;
• Too much pigment, which adversely affects the purification of the liquid;
• Complications after operations.

The operation has contraindications. These include swelling and clouding of the cornea.

Kinds

Iridotomy for today has only one form - laser. This is due to the fact that such thin holes, capable of creating an outflow of excess liquid inside the eye, can be achieved only with the help of modern technology and laser. Also its undoubted advantage is that it does not leave scars and does not require after the intervention of a long rehabilitation period.

Treatment

Operation for the treatment of glaucoma can not be called a long and tedious. Moreover, it is conducted on an outpatient basis and does not require long preparation. However, treatment should still begin with the diagnosis and analysis of the individual characteristics of each patient.

Preparation of the patient

Usually, a few days before surgery, the patient is prescribed a course of myotics, which serve as a means of narrowing the pupil of the eye. In this case, dig in them should be regularly prescribed by the doctor, not allowing overdoses and omissions.

Pilocarpine is used to narrow the pupils

Procedure

The laser operation should be aimed at achieving the following goals:

• Open the angle of the anterior chamber of the eyeball;
• To stop (prevent) dangerous attacks of glaucoma, threatening loss of sight;
• Normalize too high a pressure.

As a rule, iridotomy is carried out in several stages:

1. Use of local anesthesia (anesthetic drops);
2. Applying specialized goniolysis to the eye to provide an overview during the operation;
3. Direction of the laser beam to selected areas;
4. Burning holes for outflow of excess liquid.

   Laser iridectomy

Rehabilitation period

Given the fact that the operation is bloodless and does not require suturing, there are no special difficulties in the rehabilitation period.As a rule, the patient feels well almost immediately after the operation and does not experience pain syndrome.To prevent the occurrence of infections, antibacterial drugs are prescribed.They also accelerate and simplify the healing process.Eye drops can rarely be shown to reduce intraocular pressure.

Drops to reduce intraocular pressure.

During the rehabilitation period, it is necessary to provide the visual apparatus with valuable rest and try to avoid physical exertion.

results

With the successful completion of laser iridectomy, the risk of sudden loss of vision in glaucoma is significantly reduced. The patients undergoing surgery do not experience discomfort and do not suffer from regular seizures. However, in rare cases, complications are possible. Among them:

• Hole growth;
• Blocks in the area of ​​the holes;
• Visual defects caused by too large apertures;
• Complications associated with damage to blood vessels and the lens (rarely).

In the case of overgrowing, adhesion, or the appearance of serious optical defects, a second operation may be indicated.

Advice to patients

In order to successfully pass the rehabilitation period after surgery and reduce the risk of possible complications, the following rules should be observed:

1. Proper hygiene of the eyes and face is mandatory without the use of aggressive detergents.
2. Do not use cosmetics after iridotomy until complete healing.
3. It is necessary to provide the eyes with proper rest and to sleep regularly.
4. It is important to give up bad habits and establish a healthy lifestyle.
5. Under no circumstances should you miss the appointment of prescribed medications and refuse to prescribe a doctor.
6. Too much exercise is undesirable.

If you have the previous symptoms of glaucoma, any unpleasant sensations and visual impairment, you should immediately contact your doctor.

Video

conclusions

Undoubtedly, glaucoma is a dangerous disease that can quickly and practically asymptomatically deprive a person of sight. That is why her treatment and cupping is especially important for every patient. Laser iridectomy is able to help in this quickly and almost painlessly. However, it is worth taking into account that it is important for each patient to strictly follow all the recommendations of the attending physician in order to avoid complications and the need to conduct a repeat operation.