Ophthalmic Surgery

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this topic, learners should be able to:

1. Identify common ophthalmic surgical conditions and their indications.

2. Understand surgical techniques for cataracts, glaucoma, retinal, and corneal surgeries.

3. Recognize post-operative complications and nursing priorities.

4. Apply perioperative care principles specific to ophthalmic surgery.

 Key Glossary Terms

1. Cataract Surgery

• Definition: Surgical removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL)

• Indications: Visual impairment due to lens opacity

• Post-Op Considerations: Monitor vision, prevent infection, avoid increased intraocular pressure, pain management

2. Glaucoma Surgery

• Definition: Procedures to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP)

• Types:

  • Trabeculectomy

  • Tube shunt surgery

• Indications: Uncontrolled glaucoma, progressive optic nerve damage

• Post-Op Considerations: Monitor IOP, infection prevention, eye patching

3. Retinal Surgery

• Definition: Surgery to repair retinal detachments or other retinal disorders

• Types: Scleral buckle, vitrectomy, pneumatic retinopexy

• Indications: Retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, macular holes

• Post-Op Considerations: Positioning, vision monitoring, prevent infection, avoid heavy lifting

4. Corneal Surgery

• Definition: Surgery on the cornea to restore vision

• Types: Corneal transplant (keratoplasty), laser procedures

• Indications: Corneal scarring, keratoconus, dystrophies

• Post-Op Considerations: Monitor graft clarity, infection, suture integrity

5. Post-Operative Complications

• Infection (endophthalmitis, conjunctivitis)

• Increased intraocular pressure (IOP)

• Hemorrhage (hyphema, vitreous hemorrhage)

• Vision loss or decrease

• Graft rejection in corneal transplants

6. Nursing & Medical Student Focus

• Nursing: Eye protection, monitor visual acuity, prevent infection, pain management, patient education

• Medical Students: Understand ocular anatomy, surgical indications, post-op complications, and emergency signs

7. Ophthalmic Surgery Mnemonics

• “EYES” for post-op care:

  • E – Eye protection (patch, shield)

  • Y – Your infection precautions

  • E – Evaluate vision and IOP

  • S – Supportive care and positioning

• “CAREFUL” for cataract surgery post-op:

  • C – Careful handling of eye

  • A – Antibiotic drops

  • R – Rest and avoid straining

  • E – Eye patch/shield

  • F – Follow-up appointments

  • U – Urgent signs monitoring

  • L – Limit lifting/pressure

 Tables

Table 1: Common Ophthalmic Surgeries

Table 2: Post-Operative Nursing Care in Ophthalmic Surgery