Optical Iridectomy procedure in Istanbul Turkey 2025

Optical Iridectomy procedure: An overview

An optical iridectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a small portion of the iris, the colored part of the eye. This procedure is typically performed to improve vision in patients with certain eye conditions, such as corneal opacities, cataracts, or iris abnormalities.

There are two main types of optical iridectomy:

• Sector iridectomy: In this type of iridectomy, a wedge-shaped portion of the iris is removed.

• Segmental iridectomy: In this type of iridectomy, a larger portion of the iris is removed.

Indications for Optical Iridectomy

The specific indications for an optical iridectomy vary depending on the underlying eye condition. However, some of the common reasons why this procedure may be performed include:

• Corneal opacities: If an opacity in the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, is blocking the light from reaching the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye, an optical iridectomy may be performed to create a new pathway for light to enter the eye.

• Cataracts: In some cases of cataracts, the clouding of the lens inside the eye can cause light to scatter and make it difficult to see clearly. An optical iridectomy may be performed to create a clear pathway for light to pass through the eye.

• Iris abnormalities: If there are abnormalities in the iris, such as a hole or a tear, an optical iridectomy may be performed to repair the iris and improve vision.

Reasons for undergoing iridectomy

Iridectomy surgery is required if patients are affected by the following eye conditions:

• Closed-angle glaucoma or acute congestive glaucoma: commonly more frequent in women who generally have small eyes (hyperopia). The closing of the angle is the result of the affixing of the trabecular and the periphery of the iris that obstructs it.

The risk of this ophthalmic pathology begins at the age of 35 and progresses over time, following the increase in the size of the lens. Moreover, it should be noted that this risk refers to a family character, so it is necessarily recommended for the whole family to consult an ophthalmologist to assess the potential risk.

• Iris melanoma: is a slowly evolving ocular tumor, whose uncontrolled growth can lead to vision loss, exteriorization outside the eyeball, and even spread to preferential liver damage (metastases). Its excessive local progression no longer allows keeping the eye, and enucleation becomes indispensable. Its local exploration is done through two medical examinations: liver ultrasound and chest radiography.
• Ciliary body melanoma: is an uveal melanoma that is a rare intraocular tumor that is usually common in people with light eyes. Its symptoms are manifested in decreased visual acuity or sometimes in severe pain.

Process of iridectomy in Istanbul, Turkey

The process of getting an iridectomy typically involves several steps:

Pre-surgery phase

For subjects undergoing iridectomy surgery in Istanbul, Turkey, the following tests must be performed a few days before surgery:

• Routine tests: Blood tests, urine tests, and an electrocardiogram (ECG) to measure electrical activity and heart function.
• Specific tests: This is a detailed examination of the eye that is articulated through two important tests concerning tonometry (to evaluate the eye pressure in the eyeball.),and a gonioscopy (an examination used to explore the drainage angle of the eye to specify the type of glaucoma found).

Surgical process

On the day of the procedure, the patient will undergo local anesthesia at one of the top clinics in Istanbul, Turkey. A nurse will be assigned to assist you and accompany you to the operating room. Various tests, including those to monitor oxygen levels and heart activity, will be performed.

Once you are positioned on the operating table, a sterile cloth with an opening will be placed over your eye to allow the surgeon to see. Using a small microscope and specialized miniature surgical instruments, the surgeon will then make an incision in the cornea, followed by a partial removal of the iris.

You can expect to go home the same day. It is recommended that you wear an eye patch for a few days and avoid strenuous activities for three weeks.

Post-surgery care: Risks & complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks and complications associated with optical iridectomy. These include:

• Bleeding
• Scars in the incision area or at the point of laser beam contact.
• No release of fluid pressure in the eye.
• Risk of infections or inflammations.
• Risk of cataract formation.
• Temporary increase in intraocular pressure.

To minimize these risks and complications, it's important to follow your doctor's instructions for post-surgical care. Regular follow-up visits and adherence to prescribed medications or eye drops can help monitor and manage any potential problems that may arise after surgery.

Comparison of Iridotomy and Iridectomy