Name of the Procedure:

Prophylaxis of retinal detachment (e.g., retinal break, lattice degeneration) without drainage; photocoagulation (laser or xenon arc).

Summary

This procedure involves using a laser or xenon arc light to create small burns around retinal breaks or areas of thinning (lattice degeneration) in the eye. These burns form scars that help seal the retina to the underlying tissue, reducing the risk of retinal detachment.

Purpose

Conditions Addressed: Retinal breaks, lattice degeneration, high risk of retinal detachment. Goals: To prevent retinal detachment by stabilizing weak areas of the retina and ensuring it remains attached to the underlying supportive tissue.

Indications

• Presence of retinal breaks or tears.
• Lattice degeneration observed during an eye exam.
• High-risk factors for retinal detachment (e.g., myopia, family history).
• Symptoms such as sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: No specific fasting required. Avoid eye makeup.
• Diagnostic Tests: Comprehensive eye examination, dilated fundus examination, and sometimes imaging tests like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT).

Procedure Description

1. Preparation: The patient's eye is numbed with anesthetic drops.
2. Laser Application: A special contact lens is placed on the eye to focus the laser. The surgeon uses the laser to create a series of small burns around the retinal tears or lattice degeneration.
3. Goal: These burns form scars that seal the retina to the underlying tissue, preventing detachment.
4. Tools: Laser or xenon arc light source, contact lens, slit lamp.
5. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia through eye drops.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic or specialized ophthalmology office.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist (Eye Surgeon)
• Ophthalmic Technician or Nurse for preparation and assistance.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Temporary blurred vision, mild discomfort, temporary increase in intraocular pressure.
• Rare Risks: Permanent vision loss, infection, increased risk of cataracts, retinal detachment.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Stabilizing weak areas to prevent retinal detachment.
• Realization of Benefits: Improved retinal stability immediately, with long-term prevention of retinal detachment.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Use of prescribed eye drops to prevent inflammation.
• Recovery Time: Most patients can resume normal activities within a day. Avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits to monitor retinal health.

Alternatives

• Other Treatments: Cryotherapy (freezing treatment), observation for patients at lower risk.
• Pros and Cons: Cryotherapy is another effective treatment but can be more uncomfortable.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Patients may see flashes of light and feel mild discomfort.
• After Procedure: Mild soreness and blurred vision are common; pain is usually minimal and managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.