65235 Removal of foreign body, intraocular; from anterior chamber of eye or lens

Name of the Procedure:

• Removal of Foreign Body, Intraocular; from Anterior Chamber of Eye or Lens
• Anterior Chamber Foreign Body Removal, Lens Foreign Body Removal

Summary

This procedure involves the extraction of a foreign object from the front part of the eye, known as the anterior chamber, or from the lens. The surgery is aimed at preventing or minimizing damage to the eye and restoring vision.

Purpose

• Condition Addressed: Presence of a foreign body in the anterior chamber or lens of the eye.
• Goals: To safely remove the foreign object, prevent infection, alleviate pain, and restore normal vision.

Indications

• Symptoms such as pain, vision disturbance, redness, or infection in the eye.
• Clinical confirmation of a foreign body in the anterior chamber or lens through imaging like an ultrasound or an eye examination.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication Adjustments: Discontinuation of blood-thinning medications may be required.
• Diagnostic Tests: Eye examination, ultrasound, or X-ray to locate the foreign object.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia may be administered to ensure comfort.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the cornea or sclera (white part of the eye).
3. Removal: Specialized tools or lasers are used to extract the foreign body safely.
4. Closure: The incision is then closed with fine sutures or may be left to heal naturally.
5. Final Step: Application of antibiotic ointment and a protective eye shield.

Duration

• The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity.

Setting

• Usually performed in a hospital operating room or specialized outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, increased eye pressure.
• Rare Complications: Retinal detachment, vision loss, cataracts.
• Management: Antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and follow-up examinations.

Benefits

• Removal of the foreign object alleviates symptoms and reduces the risk of complications.
• Improved or restored vision.
• Pain relief and reduced risk of infection.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Use of prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
• Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and do not rub the eye.
• Follow-up: Several follow-up appointments to monitor healing and eye health.
• Recovery Time: Typically a few days to a few weeks for full recovery.

Alternatives

• Observation: In some cases, the foreign body may not require immediate removal.
• Non-surgical Methods: Use of magnets for certain metal objects.
• Pros and Cons: Non-surgical methods might be less invasive but are not always effective; surgery provides a definitive solution but comes with surgical risks.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Minimal to no pain due to anesthesia.
• Post-procedure: Possible mild discomfort, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light.
• Pain Management: Pain relief medications can be prescribed as needed.
• Comfort Measures: Use of an eye shield or patch to protect the eye during recovery.