67299 Unlisted procedure, posterior segment

Name of the Procedure:

Unlisted procedure, posterior segment

Summary

This procedure involves surgical or medical intervention on the posterior segment of the eye, which includes the retina, choroid, vitreous humor, and optic nerve. The exact steps and techniques used vary widely depending on the specific condition being treated.

Purpose

The procedure addresses various medical conditions affecting the back part of the eye, such as retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, or severe macular degeneration. The goal is to stabilize, improve, or restore vision and prevent further deterioration of the eye structures.

Indications

• Symptoms like sudden vision loss, flashing lights, or floaters
• Diagnosed conditions such as retinal tears, macular holes, or diabetic retinopathy
• Persistent issues not resolved through less invasive measures

Preparation

• Patients may be required to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medications, especially blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Diagnostic tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or a fluorescein angiogram may be conducted.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned appropriately, and local or general anesthesia is administered.
2. A small incision is made in the eye to access the posterior segment.
3. Specialized instruments may be used to perform necessary repairs, such as a vitrectomy (removal of vitreous humor) or laser treatment.
4. The incisions are closed, and protective eye coverings may be applied.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 1 to 2 hours, though this can vary.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital operating room or a specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic surgeon
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist
• Surgical nurses and technicians

Risks and Complications

Common risks:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Increased intraocular pressure

Rare but serious complications:

• Retinal detachment
• Vision loss
• Cataract formation

Benefits

• Potential stabilization or improvement of vision
• Prevention of further damage to the eye
• Improved quality of life

Benefits are typically realized within weeks to months post-procedure.

Recovery

• Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing.
• Patients may need to use prescribed eye drops.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and protecting the eye from injury is recommended.
• Recovery time varies but generally ranges from a few days to a few weeks.

Alternatives

• Watchful waiting in less severe cases
• Medical treatments such as medications or laser therapy
• Other surgical procedures tailored to specific conditions

Each alternative has its own risks and benefits which should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel discomfort or mild pain during and after the procedure. Pain management typically includes prescribed analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications. Visual improvements are gradual, and patients may initially experience blurred vision or sensitivity to light.