Iridectomy in Turkey: indications, techniques, recovery and cost

Types of Iridectomy

Depending on your state of health and the pathology to be treated, several types of iridectomy may be performed. Each type has specific objectives and is chosen based on your particular needs.

• Peripheral Iridectomy: This technique is performed at the outer edge of the iris, typically using a laser or a surgical incision. It does not alter the shape of the pupil. It is most commonly used to treat angle-closure glaucoma or to prevent an acute glaucoma attack.
• Sector Iridectomy: This procedure involves removing a section of the iris, resulting in a "keyhole"-shaped pupil. It is often recommended for treating certain types of glaucoma or other conditions that require targeted iris surgery.
• Optical Iridectomy: This highly precise technique aims to improve vision by enlarging the pupil or creating an artificial one, particularly in cases of central corneal opacity. It helps restore clearer vision and prevents symptoms from worsening.

Why have an iridectomy?

It may be necessary to undergo an iridectomy procedure when patients are affected by the following ocular conditions:

• Angle-closure glaucoma: This condition, often hereditary and more common in individuals with smaller eyes, can lead to increased intraocular pressure. If left untreated, it may cause permanent vision damage. Iridectomy can be a solution to prevent vision loss.
• Iris or ciliary body melanoma: These rare ocular tumors often require surgical intervention to prevent their spread and to preserve visual function. When a tumor cannot be treated by other means, iridectomy may be essential.
• Cataract: Although iridectomy is not always necessary for all cataract cases, it may be used in certain situations to help manage cataract-related complications or to prepare the eye for other procedures.

Preoperative preparation & examinations

If you are going to undergo an iridectomy in Turkey, careful preparation is essential to ensure the success of the procedure and your safety. A few days before the surgery, comprehensive tests will be conducted to assess your overall health and determine the most appropriate surgical approach.

Routine Tests

Before the surgery, you will undergo a series of standard tests, including:

• Blood tests and urine tests to assess your kidney function and other vital parameters.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to analyze the electrical activity of your heart and ensure it is healthy enough to undergo surgery.

Specific Eye Tests

Specialized tests will be performed to evaluate the precise condition of your eyes and tailor the surgery accordingly:

• Tonometry: This test measures intraocular pressure and checks for any excessive pressure buildup in your eyes.
• Gonioscopy: This examination assesses the drainage angle of the eye to determine the type of glaucoma, which is crucial for adjusting the surgical treatment.

During the operation

The procedure is performed in an eye clinic or hospital in Turkey under local anesthesia (drops),with medical monitoring throughout.

On the day, a health check is done, including oxygen level and heart activity. You are positioned comfortably and a sterile drape with an opening is placed over the eye.

The technique depends on the case. With a laser, the doctor opens a small hole in the peripheral iris. With a surgical iridectomy, the surgeon uses a microscope and fine instruments to make a small incision in the cornea and remove a section of the iris.

The procedure is short and you usually go home the same day. Your surgeon may advise an eye patch for a few days and avoiding strenuous activity for around three weeks.

Follow-up and potential complications

Like any eye procedure, an iridectomy carries risks. Following the post-operative instructions limits the chance of complications.

Potential risks include:

• Bleeding during or after the procedure.
• Small scars at the incision or laser site.
• Raised intraocular pressure.
• Infection or inflammation that may need treatment.
• Cataract developing after surgery.
• Drainage problems in the eye.

Follow-up visits are planned before you fly home. Contact the team promptly for eye pain, redness or a sudden drop in vision.