Removal of Blood Clot, Anterior Segment of Eye

Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Blood Clot Removal from the Eye
• Medical Term: Anterior Segment Thrombectomy

Summary

This procedure involves the removal of a blood clot located in the front part of the eye, typically the anterior chamber. It helps restore vision and alleviate discomfort caused by the clot.

Purpose

• Addresses: Blood clot in the anterior segment of the eye.
• Goals: Remove the clot to restore vision, reduce eye pressure, and prevent damage to the eye structures.

Indications

• Sudden vision loss or severe vision impairment in the affected eye.
• Persistent eye pain or discomfort.
• Increased intraocular pressure.
• History of ocular trauma or surgery leading to clot formation.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: Fasting may be required for a few hours if general anesthesia is used.
• Medication Adjustments: Certain blood-thinning medications may need to be stopped beforehand.
• Diagnostic Tests: Comprehensive eye examination, imaging studies like ultrasound, and sometimes blood tests to assess clotting status.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Usually local anesthesia; however, general anesthesia may be employed depending on patient condition and preference.
2. Incision: A small incision is made in the cornea or sclera.
3. Clot Removal: Specialized instruments are used to carefully extract the blood clot.
4. Closure: The incision is closed with sutures if necessary. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are applied to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
   • Tools: Microsurgical instruments, operating microscope.

Duration

Typically, the procedure lasts around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity.

Setting

The procedure is commonly performed in a hospital or surgical center equipped with ophthalmic surgical facilities.

Personnel

• Primary Personnel: Ophthalmic surgeon.
• Additional Staff: Surgical nurses, anesthesiologist (if general anesthesia is used), and possibly, an ophthalmic technician.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, inflammation, increased intraocular pressure, or bleeding.
• Rare Complications: Damage to eye structures, vision changes, retinal detachment, or recurrence of clot formation.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Improved vision, relieved eye pain, and lowered eye pressure. These benefits are typically realized gradually over a few days to weeks.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Use prescribed eye drops, avoid strenuous activities, protect the eye from injury.
• Expected Recovery Time: Most patients recover within a few weeks. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and eye pressure.
• Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, swimming, or rubbing the eye.

Alternatives

• Other Treatments: Medications to dissolve the clot, laser treatment to break up the clot.
• Pros and Cons: Medications might be less invasive but may take longer to be effective. Laser treatment carries its own risks and may not be suitable for all types of clots.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Minimal discomfort due to local anesthesia; sedation can ease anxiety.
• Post-procedure: Mild pain or discomfort, usually managed with prescribed pain relievers. Vision may be blurry initially but should improve as healing progresses. Patients are typically advised on ways to keep the eye clean and safe during recovery.