Name of the Procedure:

Intraocular Telescopic Lens Implantation (C1840) Common name: Telescopic Lens Implant Medical term: Intraocular Telescopic Lens (IOL) Implantation

Summary

The intraocular telescopic lens implantation is a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of a tiny telescope lens in the eye. This lens helps magnify images and is designed to improve vision for those with central vision loss.

Purpose

This procedure is primarily aimed at improving vision in patients suffering from advanced macular degeneration or similar conditions that cause significant central vision loss. The goal is to enhance the quality of life by allowing patients to perform daily activities more easily and independently.

Indications

• Advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Central vision loss unresponsive to other treatments
• Patients who have a large contrast in visual acuity across both eyes
• Sufficient peripheral vision to support the use of the telescopic lens

Preparation

• Pre-procedure fasting may be required.
• Patients must discontinue certain medications as advised by their healthcare provider.
• A comprehensive eye exam and imaging tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) may be required.
• Patients may need to arrange for someone to drive them to and from the surgery.

Procedure Description

1. Administer local anesthesia or sedation as needed.
2. Make a small incision in the cornea.
3. Remove the natural lens of the eye using phacoemulsification.
4. Insert the telescopic intraocular lens in place of the natural lens.
5. Close the incision with sutures if necessary and apply a protective shield over the eye. Tools: Microsurgical instruments, phacoemulsification device, intraocular lenses. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or sedation is commonly used.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis in a hospital or specialized surgical center.

Personnel

• Ophthalmic surgeon
• Surgical nurses
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Infection, bleeding, inflammation, increased intraocular pressure.
• Rare risks: Retinal detachment, corneal edema, loss of visual acuity.
• Complications can usually be managed with appropriate medical or surgical intervention.

Benefits

• Significant improvement in the ability to perform daily activities.
• Enhanced central vision.
• Immediate, though gradual, improvement in vision post-surgery.

Recovery

• Patients will need to use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process and eye health.
• Most patients can resume normal activities within a week but should avoid strenuous activities for a month.

Alternatives

• Regular intraocular lens implants that do not magnify images.
• External low vision aids such as magnifying glasses or electronic devices.
• Pros: Less invasive alternatives; Cons: May not provide as significant an improvement in central vision.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel mild discomfort and light sensitivity immediately post-surgery.
• Pain management will include prescribed medications and use of eye shields to prevent injury.
• Most patients report significant visual improvement within a few weeks to months.