Name of the Procedure:

Dilated Retinal Eye Exam

• Common names: Dilated eye exam, Comprehensive eye exam
• Technical/medical term: Dilated retinal eye exam with interpretation by an ophthalmologist or optometrist (HCPCS code G2102)

Summary

A dilated retinal eye exam is a thorough examination of the back of the eye, performed by an ophthalmologist or an optometrist. Special eye drops are used to widen (dilate) the pupils, allowing the doctor to see the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels in detail. This helps identify any eye health issues that might not be visible otherwise.

Purpose

The procedure addresses various eye and vision problems such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. It aims to detect eye diseases early, monitor their progression, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments.

Indications

• Blurry vision or visual disturbances
• Diabetic patients (for diabetic retinopathy screening)
• Patients with a family history of eye diseases
• Sudden changes in vision
• Routine eye exams for people over 60

Preparation

• Patients may need to bring sunglasses to protect their eyes post-exam.
• No fasting required.
• Patients may need to adjust their schedule as they might have blurry vision for a few hours after the exam.
• Disclose any medications or eye drops being used.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives special eye drops to dilate the pupils.
2. After 15-30 minutes, the doctor uses a magnifying lens and a bright light to examine the back of the eye.
3. The retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels are carefully checked for any abnormalities.
4. The doctor interprets the findings and documents them.
5. The results are reviewed with the patient.

• Tools: Eye drops, ophthalmoscope or slit-lamp microscope
• No anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

Typically takes between 30-60 minutes, including the time needed for pupil dilation.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic or an eye care professional's office.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist or Optometrist
• Medical assistant (may assist with administering eye drops)

Risks and Complications

• Blurred vision for a few hours post-exam
• Light sensitivity due to dilated pupils
• Rare allergic reactions to the eye drops
• Very rare risk of narrow-angle glaucoma attack

Benefits

• Early detection of eye conditions
• Monitoring disease progression
• Informed treatment decisions
• Improved visual health

Recovery

• Wear sunglasses to protect eyes from bright light after the exam.
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until vision returns to normal.
• Follow-up appointments if any abnormalities are detected.

Alternatives

• Non-dilated retinal photography: Less comprehensive but useful for quick checks.
• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): Specialized imaging, useful for detailed cross-sectional views of the retina.
• Fundus photography: Captures images of the retina but may miss peripheral issues.

Patient Experience

Patients might feel slight stinging when the eye drops are administered. Vision will be blurry, and eyes will be sensitive to light for a few hours. Sunglasses can help manage sensitivity. Any discomfort typically resolves on its own without the need for medication.