Intraocular pressure (IOP) reduced by a value less than 15% from the pre-intervention level (EC)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Intraocular Pressure (IOP) Reduction - Less than 15% from Pre-Intervention Level
Technical/Medical Term: Partial IOP Lowering
Summary
Intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction is a procedure aimed at lowering the pressure inside the eye. When the reduction is less than 15% from the pre-intervention level, it indicates a partial decrease in eye pressure without reaching the ideal target.
Purpose
The primary goal of reducing IOP is to prevent damage to the optic nerve and loss of vision that can be caused by conditions like glaucoma. Although a reduction of less than 15% might not be substantial, it still helps in managing and monitoring eye health.
Indications
- Patients diagnosed with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
- Individuals experiencing elevated intraocular pressure.
- Patients who are not responding adequately to medication or other less invasive treatments.
Preparation
- Patients may need to fast for a certain period if sedation is planned.
- Pre-procedure eye examinations and diagnostic tests, such as a thorough eye pressure assessment and optic nerve evaluation.
Procedure Description
- Topical Anesthesia: Numbing drops may be applied to the eye.
- Laser Treatment or Medication: Depending on the method, a laser is used to create small openings to improve fluid drainage, or medication might be injected to reduce fluid production.
- IOP Measurement: Post-intervention, intraocular pressure is measured to ensure it has decreased.
- Tools: Tonometry devices for measuring eye pressure.
- Equipment: Slit lamp, laser devices, or injection apparatus.
Duration
Typically, the procedure lasts between 15 to 30 minutes.
Setting
The procedure is usually performed in a hospital outpatient department, an outpatient clinic, or an optometrist’s office.
Personnel
- Ophthalmologist or Optometrist
- Nurse or Technician
- Anesthesiologist (if sedation is required)
Risks and Complications
- Mild discomfort or redness in the treated eye.
- Temporary blurred vision.
- Rare risks: Infection, bleeding, or an increase in IOP.
Benefits
- Partial reduction in IOP to slow the progression of glaucoma.
- Monitoring eye health and making necessary adjustments in treatment.
Recovery
- Patients are advised to rest for a short period after the procedure.
- Eye drops may be prescribed to prevent inflammation and infection.
- Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor eye pressure and adjust treatment.
Alternatives
- Medication: Eye drops or oral medications to manage IOP.
- Surgical Options: More invasive procedures like trabeculectomy if significant IOP reduction is needed.
- Pros: Surgery can offer more substantial pressure reduction.
- Cons: Higher risk of complications from surgery.
Patient Experience
- During the procedure, patients might feel slight pressure or discomfort.
- Post-procedure, minor discomfort or a sensation of something in the eye may be experienced.
- Pain management includes using prescribed eye drops and over-the-counter pain relievers.
This markdown text provides a comprehensive description of the procedure of reducing intraocular pressure by less than 15% from pre-intervention levels, tailored for easy understanding.