Type of Surgery
Information
Last updated: 11/24/2009
Alternatives to a conventional iridectomy for the treatment of closed-angle glaucoma include repeated laser iridotomies or the long-term use of such medications as pilocarpine. Another surgical alternative, which is most commonly done when the size...
of the lens is a factor in pupillary block, is removal of the lens.
Alternatives to iridectomy in the treatment of melanoma of the iris include watchful waiting, periodic eye examinations, and the use of medication to control any symptoms of closed-angle glaucoma.
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Most laser vision correction procedures like LASIK involve shaping the cornea so that light can be properly focused on the back of the eye, or retina. This video shows how the anatomy of the eye works to harness light so that we can see. The role of the cornea in vision is also discussed.
For an iridectomy, an incision is made in the cornea just below the iris (A). A piece of the iris is removed (B). This allows fluid to flow between the areas to the front and rear of the iris (C). (Illustration by GGS Inc.)
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Other Information
An iridectomy, also known as a surgical iridectomy or corectomy, is the surgical removal of part of the iris. These procedures are most frequently performed in the treatment of closed-angle glaucoma and iris melanoma.
Other Information
Approximately 56% of all patients achieve results of 20/20 or better and over 90% achieve 20/40 or better (which is good enough to drive without corrective lenses in most regions).1 Those with moderate to high myopia (greater than 7 diopters) have a lesser chance of achieving that result. As technique and technology improve, the results continue to improve.
From: Eye Surgery Education Council
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