Severing adhesions of anterior segment of eye, incisional technique (with or without injection of air or liquid) (separate procedure); anterior synechiae, except goniosynechiae
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Severing Adhesions of Anterior Segment of Eye, Incisional Technique (with or without injection of air or liquid); Anterior Synechiae, except Goniosynechiae.
Summary
This procedure involves cutting adhesions (abnormal tissue connections) in the front part of the eye using an incision. It may include injecting air or liquid to aid in the process.
Purpose
The procedure addresses anterior synechiae, which are abnormal attachments between the iris and the cornea or other parts of the anterior segment of the eye. The goal is to restore normal anatomy and function of the eye, improving visual acuity and relieving discomfort.
Indications
- Presence of anterior synechiae not caused by goniosynechiae.
- Symptoms such as blurred vision, eye discomfort, or elevated intraocular pressure.
- Compromised eye function due to adhesions.
Preparation
- The patient may need to fast for several hours before the procedure, as advised by the healthcare provider.
- Medication adjustments might be necessary, especially if the patient is on blood thinners.
- Diagnostic tests such as an eye examination and imaging studies will be conducted to assess the extent of the adhesions.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the eye.
- Incision: A small incision is made in the affected part of the anterior segment of the eye.
- Adhesion Severing: Surgical tools are used to carefully sever the adhesions.
- Injection if needed: Air or liquid may be injected during the process to aid in the separation of tissues.
- Closure and Dressing: The incision is closed if necessary, and a protective dressing is applied over the eye.
Duration
The procedure typically takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Setting
This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized surgical center.
Personnel
- Ophthalmic surgeon
- Surgical nurses
- Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist (for administering local anesthesia)
Risks and Complications
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Increased intraocular pressure
- Damage to surrounding eye structures
- Need for additional surgery
Benefits
- Improved vision
- Relief from eye discomfort
- Restoration of normal eye anatomy and function Benefits are usually realized shortly after the procedure, with vision improvements occurring as healing progresses.
Recovery
- Patients will need to rest for the remainder of the day.
- Eye drops or medications will be prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor healing.
- Patients should avoid strenuous activities and protect the eye from injury.
Alternatives
- Observation and monitoring of the condition if it is not causing severe symptoms.
- Medical treatment using eye drops that might help to manage minor adhesions.
- Laser treatments which might be less invasive but not suitable for all types of adhesions.
Patient Experience
- During the procedure, patients may feel slight pressure but should not experience pain due to anesthesia.
- Post-procedure, there might be mild discomfort or a sensation of grittiness in the eye.
- Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relief and prescribed eye drops to ensure comfort.
This markdown description provides a comprehensive guide to the procedure, making it easy for patients and healthcare providers to understand and prepare.