Name of the Procedure:

Mitomycin, Ophthalmic, 0.2 mg

• Common Name: Mitomycin Eye Injection
• Technical Term: Mitomycin Intravitreal Injection (J7315)

Summary

Mitomycin ophthalmic injection is a medical procedure that involves the administration of a medication called Mitomycin directly into the eye. The drug is used to treat specific eye conditions and is commonly performed in an outpatient setting.

Purpose

Mitomycin eye injections are primarily used to address:

• Conditions: Glaucoma, particularly to prevent scarring after surgery.
• Goals: To reduce intraocular pressure and prevent scar tissue formation, promoting better surgical outcomes and preserving vision.

Indications

The procedure is indicated for:

• Persistent or severe glaucoma unresponsive to other treatments.
• Patients who have undergone or are undergoing glaucoma surgery and are at high risk for scarring.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may be advised to stop certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) before the procedure.
• Diagnostic Tests: The doctor may perform an eye examination and imaging studies to assess the condition of the eye and plan the injection.

Procedure Description

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is applied to numb the eye.
2. Sterilization: The eye area is cleaned and sterilized to prevent infection.
3. Injection: Mitomycin is carefully injected into the specified area of the eye using a fine needle.
4. Monitoring: The patient’s eye pressure and response to the injection are monitored immediately after the procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

Mitomycin eye injections are usually performed in:

• Outpatient Clinics
• Ophthalmologist’s Offices
• Surgical Centers

Personnel

The procedure involves:

• Ophthalmologist: Performs the injection.
• Nurse: Assists with preparation and monitoring.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Mild discomfort, redness, temporary blurred vision.
• Rare Risks: Infection, increased intraocular pressure, bleeding.
• Complications Management: Proper post-procedure care and follow-up appointments to address any issues promptly.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Reduction in intraocular pressure, prevention of scar tissue formation, improved surgical outcomes.
• Realization Time: Benefits are often observed within a few days to weeks following the injection.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Use prescribed eye drops, avoid rubbing the eye, attend follow-up appointments.
• Recovery Time: Most patients recover within a few days. The eye may feel slightly irritated but this typically subsides.
• Restrictions: Limit strenuous activities and avoid swimming until advised by the doctor.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Laser therapy, other medications for glaucoma, different surgical procedures.
• Comparative Pros and Cons: Other treatments may be less invasive but might not be as effective in preventing scar tissue formation post-surgery.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: The patient might feel pressure but should not experience significant pain due to local anesthesia.
• After Procedure: The eye may feel gritty or irritated. Pain management involves prescribed eye drops and over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

This overview serves as a basic guide. Always consult with a healthcare provider for detailed information tailored to individual health needs.