Dilated Fundus Evaluation (DFE)

Name of the Procedure:

• Dilated Fundus Evaluation (DFE)
• Eye Dilation Exam
• Funduscopy

Summary

A Dilated Fundus Evaluation is an eye examination where the pupils are dilated with special eye drops to allow a comprehensive view of the retina and other structures at the back of the eye. This detailed examination helps in identifying any eye conditions that could affect vision, particularly necessary before cataract surgery.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: Cataracts and other retinal issues.
• Goals: To ensure there are no other underlying eye conditions that could complicate or affect the outcomes of cataract surgery.

Indications

• Presence of cataracts impeding vision.
• Patients scheduled for cataract surgery.
• Symptoms such as visual disturbances, reduced vision, or eye pain.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: No fasting required. Patients may be advised to bring sunglasses as their eyes will be sensitive to light after the dilation.
• Assessments: A baseline measurement of visual acuity and intraocular pressure may be performed.

Procedure Description

1. Eye Examination: Initial check of the eyes without dilation.
2. Dilation Drops: Eye drops are administered to dilate the pupils.
3. Waiting Period: It takes about 15-30 minutes for the pupils to fully dilate.
4. Fundus Examination: The eye specialist uses an ophthalmoscope or a slit-lamp biomicroscope to examine the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels.
   • Equipment: Ophthalmoscope, slit-lamp biomicroscope.
   • Anesthesia: None required.

Duration

• The entire procedure, including waiting for dilation, typically takes about 45-60 minutes.

Setting

• Often performed in an outpatient clinic or an ophthalmologist’s office.

Personnel

• Conducted by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist, with assistance from trained technicians.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Temporary blurred vision, light sensitivity.
• Rare Risks: Allergic reaction to the dilation drops, acute angle-closure glaucoma in susceptible individuals.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Identification of retinal conditions that could complicate cataract surgery, ensuring a higher success rate for the surgery.
• Realization of Benefits: Immediately after the examination.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Instructions: Patients should avoid driving immediately after the exam due to blurred vision and light sensitivity. Wearing sunglasses is recommended.
• Recovery Time: Normal vision usually returns within a few hours.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Non-dilated eye exam, but it does not provide as comprehensive a view of the retina.
• Pros and Cons: Non-dilated exams are quicker and more comfortable but less thorough. The DFE offers a more detailed examination essential for pre-surgical evaluation.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients may experience stinging from the drops and temporary blurred vision.
• After the Procedure: Vision may be blurred and light-sensitive for a few hours, but this is temporary. Comfort measures include wearing sunglasses and avoiding bright light.