Name of the Procedure:

Dilated macular or fundus exam

Summary

A dilated macular or fundus exam is a comprehensive eye examination where the pupil is widened using special eye drops. This allows the ophthalmologist to thoroughly inspect the retina and optic nerve for signs of damage or disease. The exam includes documentation of the presence or absence of macular edema (swelling) and the level of severity of retinopathy (damage to the retina).

Purpose

The procedure is used to detect and evaluate potential issues within the retina, particularly focusing on conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. The goal is to identify any abnormalities early, monitor existing conditions, and guide the appropriate treatment plans.

Indications

• Symptoms like blurry vision, floaters, or changes in visual acuity.
• Diabetes, which increases the risk of diabetic retinopathy.
• Age-related macular degeneration.
• Existing eye conditions that require regular monitoring.

Preparation

• No specific fasting is required.
• Patients should inform the doctor about all medications they are taking.
• Patients may receive a preliminary vision test before dilation.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated in an examination chair.
2. Eye drops are administered to dilate the pupils.
3. The ophthalmologist uses special instruments like an ophthalmoscope to examine the retina and optic nerve.
4. The practitioner documents the presence or absence of macular edema and assesses the level of severity of retinopathy.
5. Photos of the retina may be taken for further analysis.

Duration

The entire procedure, including dilation, typically takes about 30-60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an ophthalmologist’s office or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Ophthalmologist
• Trained medical assistant or nurse

Risks and Complications

• Temporary blurred vision due to dilated pupils.
• Light sensitivity.
• Rare allergic reaction to the dilation drops.
• Increase in eye pressure (very rare).

Benefits

• Early detection of retinal diseases.
• Accurate monitoring of existing eye conditions.
• Improved guidance for treatment plans.

Recovery

• Patients may experience blurred vision and sensitivity to light for a few hours following the procedure.
• Wearing sunglasses after the exam can provide comfort.
• Patients should arrange for someone to drive them home due to impaired vision.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on findings.

Alternatives

• Non-dilated retinal exams, although less comprehensive.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT), a different imaging technique for assessing retinal conditions.
• Regular eye examinations without dilation for low-risk patients.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient may feel mild discomfort from the eye drops and light sensitivity. Post-procedure, vision will be temporarily blurred, and eyes may feel sensitive to light. Pain management typically isn't necessary, but wearing sunglasses can help with comfort immediately afterward.