Name of the Procedure:

Removal of Epithelial Downgrowth, Anterior Chamber of Eye
Common names: Epithelial Downgrowth Removal, Anterior Chamber Epithelial Excision

Summary

Epithelial downgrowth removal involves surgically excising abnormal epithelial cells that have grown into the anterior chamber of the eye. This procedure restores proper eye function and prevents complications caused by the unwanted cell growth.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to remove aberrant epithelial cells that can cause vision problems or lead to further complications such as inflammation or secondary glaucoma. The goal is to alleviate symptoms and restore the normal anatomy and function of the eye.

Indications

• Presence of epithelial downgrowth into the anterior chamber detected via diagnostic imaging.
• Symptoms such as decreased vision, discomfort, or recurrent inflammation.
• Previous eye surgeries or trauma that predispose to epithelial cell migration.
• Ineffectiveness of non-surgical treatments.

Preparation

• Patients may need to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, especially for blood thinners.
• Preoperative imaging and eye examinations to assess the extent of epithelial growth.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is typically administered to numb the eye area.
2. Incision: A small incision is made at the cornea.
3. Removal: Using specialized instruments, the surgeon carefully removes the epithelial cells from the anterior chamber.
4. Closure: After removing the cells, the incision is closed with fine sutures or allowed to self-seal.
5. Antibiotics and Anti-Inflammatories: Medications may be applied to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical center equipped with the necessary ophthalmic surgical tools.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic Surgeon
• Surgical Nurses
• Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist (if sedation is required)

Risks and Complications

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Incomplete removal of epithelial cells, requiring additional surgery
• Corneal damage
• Post-surgical inflammation
• Vision loss (rare)

Benefits

• Improved visual acuity
• Relief from discomfort and inflammation
• Prevention of further eye complications such as secondary glaucoma

Recovery

• Patients may need to wear an eye patch for a day or two post-surgery.
• Eye drops (antibiotics and steroids) to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and eye strain for a few weeks.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure complete removal of epithelial cells.

Alternatives

• Observation and regular monitoring if the downgrowth is not causing significant symptoms.
• Laser treatments to manage minor epithelial growth (less common and less effective).
• Enucleation (removal of the eye) in severe cases, though extremely rare and only considered as a last resort.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel slight pressure but no pain due to anesthesia. Post-surgery, mild discomfort, and eye irritation are common, which can be managed with prescribed medications. Vision may be blurry initially but should improve as healing progresses.