Name of the Procedure:

Excision of lesion, conjunctiva; up to 1 cm
Common names: Lesion removal from the eye, Conjunctival lesion excision

Summary

This procedure involves the surgical removal of a small lesion from the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. The excised lesion is typically 1 cm or smaller.

Purpose

The procedure aims to address abnormalities such as benign or malignant growths, infections, or other conditions affecting the conjunctiva. By removing the lesion, it can help alleviate symptoms, prevent further complications, and provide a tissue sample for further diagnostic evaluation.

Indications

• Presence of a visible lesion on the conjunctiva
• Symptoms such as irritation, redness, or discomfort in the eye
• Suspicion of malignant growth
• A lesion that causes visual disturbances or cosmetic concerns

Preparation

• The patient may need to refrain from eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure, depending on the type of anesthesia used.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are currently taking, as some might need to be adjusted.
• Pre-procedure assessments might include a thorough eye exam and possibly imaging studies of the eye.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned comfortably, and the eye is thoroughly cleansed.
2. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the lesion.
3. Using specialized microsurgical instruments, the surgeon carefully excises the lesion.
4. The surgical site may be closed with fine sutures or left to heal naturally, depending on the size and location.
5. A topical antibiotic ointment may be applied to prevent infection.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or a specialized ophthalmology surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist or eye surgeon
• Nurse or ophthalmic assistant
• Anesthetist (if general anesthesia is required, which is rare for this procedure)

Risks and Complications

• Minor bleeding or swelling
• Infection at the surgical site
• Scarring, which could affect vision if located on the cornea
• Rarely, damage to surrounding eye structures

Benefits

• Removal of potentially harmful or bothersome lesions
• Relief of symptoms such as irritation or visual disturbance
• Improved ocular health and appearance
• Obtain a tissue sample for precise diagnosis

Recovery

• The patient will be given instructions on how to care for the eye, including the use of eyedrops or ointments.
• Avoiding strenuous activities and protecting the eye from contaminants is recommended.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing.
• Recovery typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the patient and the extent of the procedure.

Alternatives

• Observation: If the lesion is benign and asymptomatic, monitoring it without immediate removal might be an option.
• Laser therapy: Used in certain cases to remove or reduce lesions non-surgically.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion can be an alternative treatment.

Patient Experience

Patients may feel slight pressure but should not experience significant pain due to the anesthesia. Post-procedure, mild discomfort or a sensation of something in the eye may be present and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Visual improvement and symptom relief are often noted shortly after recovery.