Name of the Procedure:

• Common Name: Detached Retina Surgery
• Technical/Medical Term: Ocular device for intraoperative use in detached retina repair (HCPCS C1784)

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves using a specialized ocular device to repair a retina that has become detached from the back of the eye. The goal is to restore the retina to its proper position to prevent vision loss.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Retinal detachment.
• Goals/Expected Outcomes: To reattach the retina, restore normal retinal function, and prevent permanent vision loss.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions: Sudden onset of floaters, flashes of light, shadow or curtain over part of the visual field.
• Patient Criteria: Diagnosed with a detached retina through clinical examination and imaging. Suitable candidates are those who are experiencing acute symptoms and are at risk of severe vision loss.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Follow fasting guidelines, usually no food or drink for at least 8 hours before surgery. Inform the doctor of all medications being taken; some may need to be adjusted.
• Diagnostic Tests: Comprehensive eye examination, ocular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and possibly a fluorescein angiography.

Procedure Description

• Steps:
  1. Anesthesia is administered (local or general).
  2. A small incision is made in the eye to access the retina.
  3. The ocular device (such as a silicone band or pneumatic retinopexy) is used to reattach the retina.
  4. Laser or cryotherapy may be used to secure the retina in place.
  5. The eye is closed with sutures or allowed to heal naturally.
• Tools/Technology: Microsurgical instruments, laser or cryopexy device, intraocular gas or silicone oil.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Duration

• The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

• Performed in a hospital or a specialized outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Healthcare Professionals: Ophthalmic surgeon, anesthesiologist, surgical nurses, and possibly a retinologist.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Infection, bleeding, increased intraocular pressure, cataract formation.
• Rare Risks: Retinal re-detachment, damage to the eye structures, persistent vision problems.
• Complications Management: Postoperative medications, additional surgery, close follow-up.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Restoration of retinal attachment, preservation of sight, and prevention of further vision loss.
• Realization Timeline: Some improvement may be immediate, but full recovery of vision can take several weeks to months.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Use prescribed eye drops, avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities, wear an eye patch or shield.
• Recovery Time: Usually a few weeks; follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing.

Alternatives

• Other Treatment Options: Laser surgery alone, scleral buckling, vitrectomy.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may be less invasive but might not be as effective in severe cases.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Sedation ensures minimal discomfort; patients might feel pressure but not pain.
• After the Procedure: Some discomfort managed with pain medication; temporary blurred vision; specific instructions for positioning and activity restrictions to ensure proper healing.