Name of the Procedure:

Ophthalmic Ultrasound, Diagnostic: B-Scan and Quantitative A-Scan

Summary

An ophthalmic ultrasound combined with B-scan and A-scan is a non-invasive imaging technique used to evaluate the eye and the surrounding structures. The B-scan provides detailed cross-sectional images, while the A-scan measures the eye's size and structure.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose various eye conditions such as retinal detachment, tumors, and vitreous hemorrhage. The goal is to provide detailed images and measurements to help in diagnosing eye-related problems and planning treatments.

Indications

• Symptoms like sudden vision loss, flashes of light, or floaters
• Known or suspected eye tumors
• Assessment of eye structure before cataract surgery
• Unexplained eye pain or redness
• Trauma to the eye

Preparation

• No specific fasting or medication adjustments are usually required.
• Patients are advised to remove contact lenses or glasses.
• Any known ocular conditions or previous surgeries should be disclosed.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated in a comfortable position.
2. Anesthetic eye drops may be administered to numb the eye.
3. A probe is gently placed against the closed eyelid.
4. The B-scan generates cross-sectional images, while the A-scan captures linear measurements.
5. Both techniques are non-invasive and usually painless.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an ophthalmologist’s office or an outpatient clinic equipped with ultrasound technology.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist
• Ultrasound technician

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort or irritation during the procedure
• Rare risk of infection if the eye surface breaks
• Very rare allergic reaction to anesthetic drops

Benefits

• Provides critical information on the internal structure of the eye
• Helpful in diagnosing serious eye conditions promptly
• Non-invasive and generally painless procedure

Recovery

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results and plan treatment if necessary.

Alternatives

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
• MRI or CT scans (used less commonly for eye issues)
• Clinical examination with specialized equipment

Patient Experience

Patients will feel the application of the probe against the eyelid, but thanks to anesthetic drops, there should be minimal discomfort. Most patients can go about their day as usual following the procedure. Pain management is typically unnecessary.