Destruction of lesion, conjunctiva
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Destruction of Lesion, Conjunctiva Common name(s): Conjunctival lesion removal, Conjunctival lesion ablation Medical term: Conjunctival lesion destruction
Summary
The procedure involves removing or destroying abnormal lesions present on the conjunctiva, which is the thin, transparent tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids. It helps to address various benign or malignant growths to prevent discomfort and potential harm to eye health.
Purpose
- The primary condition it addresses is the presence of abnormal lesions on the conjunctiva, such as neoplasms, cysts, or inflamed tissues.
- The goals are to remove these lesions to alleviate symptoms like discomfort, irritation, or visual impairment, and to prevent further complications that could arise from untreated conjunctival lesions.
Indications
- Specific symptoms warranting the procedure include persistent redness, irritation, a visible mass on the conjunctiva, or discomfort.
- Conditions like pterygium, conjunctival neoplasms, or viral papillomas make the procedure appropriate. Patient criteria include persistent symptoms or risks associated with untreated lesions.
Preparation
- Patients may need to stop wearing contact lenses for a few days before the procedure.
- Fasting may not be necessary, but it's essential to follow specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider.
- Pre-procedure diagnostics may include a thorough eye examination and imaging tests to assess the lesion.
Procedure Description
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the affected area.
- Preparation: The eye and surrounding area are cleaned and prepared.
- Excision/Destruction: The lesion is either excised using fine surgical tools or destroyed using methods like cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or chemical agents.
- Wound Care: The treated area may be covered with an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
Duration
The procedure typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the size and type of lesion being treated.
Setting
It is commonly performed in an outpatient clinic or an ophthalmologist's office, under sterile conditions.
Personnel
Healthcare professionals involved include an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) and assisting nurses.
Risks and Complications
- Common risks include temporary discomfort, redness, or swelling.
- Rare risks may involve infection, bleeding, scarring, or changes in vision.
- Complications are managed with appropriate medications and follow-up care.
Benefits
- The expected benefits include the removal of the lesion, relief from symptoms, and prevention of potential eye complications.
- Benefits are generally realized within a few days to weeks after the procedure as the eye heals.
Recovery
- Post-procedure care involves using prescribed eye drops or ointment, avoiding rubbing the eyes, and wearing a protective eye patch if recommended.
- Recovery time varies but usually spans a few days to a week.
- Patients may need follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure no recurrence of the lesion.
Alternatives
- Alternative treatments might include observation (if the lesion is benign and asymptomatic), topical medications, or non-invasive procedures.
- The pros of alternatives might include avoiding surgery, but the cons could be incomplete treatment or recurrence of the lesion.
Patient Experience
- During the procedure, the patient might feel mild pressure but should not experience pain due to local anesthesia.
- Post-procedure, they may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Comfort measures include using cool compresses and following the healthcare provider’s recommendations for eye care.