Peripheral iridotomy is a surgical procedure that's primarily used to treat or prevent a type of glaucoma called angle-closure glaucoma. The term 'peripheral' refers to the edge of the iris, while 'iridotomy' refers to the process of making a small hole in the iris. Peripheral iridotomy essentially involves creating a small hole in the iris's outer edge.

The hole acts as an additional drainage route for the aqueous humor, the fluid in the eye. In angle-closure glaucoma, the drainage route gets blocked, causing an increase in intraocular pressure. This can lead to severe eye pain, blurry vision, and, if left untreated, permanent vision loss.

Why is Peripheral Iridotomy Important?

Peripheral iridotomy plays a crucial role in preventing and managing angle-closure glaucoma. In this type of glaucoma, the route through which the aqueous humor drains gets blocked. This leads to an increase in intraocular pressure, which, over time, can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss.

Without a peripheral iridotomy, the risk of suffering an acute angle-closure attack is considerably higher in individuals with narrow or closed angles. An acute angle-closure attack is a medical emergency and can lead to permanent vision loss if not promptly treated. Thus, the peripheral iridotomy is a preventative measure to avoid such situations.

The Process of Peripheral Iridotomy

The peripheral iridotomy procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Prior to the procedure, the ophthalmologist will administer numbing eye drops to ensure the patient's comfort. They will then use a laser to create a tiny hole in the iris's outer edge.

The procedure is generally quick and relatively painless, usually taking just a few minutes. After the procedure, the patient will be asked to stay in the clinic for a while to allow the ophthalmologist to monitor the eye's response to the treatment.

How Peripheral Iridotomy Helps Prevent Future Vision Loss

The primary way in which peripheral iridotomy helps prevent future vision loss is by effectively managing intraocular pressure. By providing an additional drainage route for the aqueous humor, the procedure helps prevent the buildup of pressure within the eye.

The primary way in which peripheral iridotomy helps prevent future vision loss is by effectively managing intraocular pressure. By providing an additional drainage route for the aqueous humor, the procedure helps prevent the buildup of pressure within the eye.
 

Conclusion

Peripheral iridotomy plays a vital role in eye care, particularly in the treatment and prevention of angle-closure glaucoma. It's a relatively quick and low-risk procedure that can help prevent serious vision loss.

Eye health should never be taken for granted. Regular eye checkups can help detect any potential issues early, and treatments like peripheral iridotomy can help manage these issues effectively.

For more information on peripheral iridotomy as a preventative measure for future vision loss, call North Texas Ophthalmology Associates in Wichita Falls at  (940) 240-8400 today.