The ophthalmologist or doctor may use mydriatrics (medications which dilate the pupils of the eye) to examine the interior of the patients eyes. An instrument known as an opthalmoscope will be used to view the interior or the eye. The qualified trained practitioner will be able to diagnose any and all of the following:
- posterior vitreous detachment,
- retinal tear,
- retinal detachment and
- intraocular bleeding
Individuals who report occasional floaters and flashes should have an annual eye examination. This will facilitate early detection and treatment of any abnormality which may arise.
IMPORTANT ROLE OF YOUR OPHTHALMOLOGIST
I have written this article with the sole intention of providing information to the general public and nursing students. Please do not consider this article as expert advice. It cannot replace the role of a qualified ophthalmologist or a medical practitioner. This article does not contain all information about floaters, flashes, retinal detachment etc.
After you have read this article you may have questions which are unanswered. Write them down carefully and your doctor and ophthalmologist will be pleased to answer them for you. If you are still not convinced of the risk to benefit ratio then you should seek a second or third opinion.
CONSENT FOR PROCEDURE FORM: In most institutions you will need to sign a document agreeing to the surgical treatment or procedure. Your ophthalmologist will explain the risks associated with the procedure. Please read the consent carefully.
There is usually a clause which states that the surgeon may perform any other procedure which may become necessary when doing the agreed procedure.
COMMON TREATMENTS: FLOATERS AND FLASHES
Generally, floaters and flashes are an annoying phenomenon with no long term consequences. However, in some instances they can indicate underlying problems. If these are not treated or managed properly the consequences can be a significant, deterioration of quality of life for the patient.
For many people treatment of floaters and flashes is not necessary and should not be considered because the side effects and complications of treatment could have disastrous consequences. Floaters and flashes usually subside over time, causing no permanent deterioration to vision. Wearing sunglasses during driving or reading may be helpful in controlling the “symptoms” associated with floaters and flashers. However, if there is a sudden onset of new floaters and/or flashes then the condition must be taken seriously. These indicate serious potential problems including potential tears and retinal detachment.
Treatment of Floaters: Large and persistent floaters that obstruct vision can be surgically removed during a procedure known as a vitrectomy. This involves using special instruments to remove the floaters, among with some or all of the vitreous body. The vitreous is usually replaced with a clear salt solution; rarely, a synthetic gas or silicon oil may be used. Vitrectomy surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia or, occasionally, general anesthesia.
As possible complications can be serious and may not be worth the risk, vitrectomy surgery is recommended only in unusual cases. Complications can include retinal detachment, cataract information, glaucoma and ultimate loss of vision in the operated eye, among other possible acceptable option if floaters drastically affect driving, reading or the ability to work.
Management of Flashes:
Flashes which are due to posterior vitreous detachment, as a rule, do not need treatment. This rule holds true as long as the retina is not torn at any point. However, if retinal tear is present then quick and early treatment must be initiated. The goal of such treatment is to seal the tear and arrest further retinal detachment.
Retinal tears are best managed by both or either of these methods:
- Laser treatment which brings about photocoagulation and fibrosis of the affected area. The beam is focused on the area to be treated through the pupil. The tiny resultant burns heal and scar tissue holds the tear in one place.
- Freezing or cryotherapy is another frequently used and recognised intervention. Cryotherapy is sometimes called freezing treatment. During this treatment a probe is applied to the exterior of the eye. The cold freezes through to the retinal tear and holds the two ends together as a consequence of the newly formed fibrous tissue.
Cryotherapy and photocoagulation are usually performed under local anesthesia in the operating theatre under aseptic conditions. Slight discomfort is often experienced and this is usually explained to the patient. There is always the possibility of reduced vision and a need for further treatment. Sometimes retinal detachment occurs and surgery becomes necessary. Statistical studies show that the risk associated with surgery is lower than the risk of vision loss due to leaving the retinal tear untreated.
If you require surgery for a detached retina, your ophthalmologist will have more information about the benefits, risk and limitations of treatment
Management & treatment costs.
In Australia costs may be covered by your private insurance plan. Alternatively, you can seek help from state hospitals. Your ophthalmologist and doctor can help you reduce out-of-pocket expenses. If you are paying out of your pocket you may want to ask for a written estimate before you agree to the procedure and treatment.
It is generally considered better to get an accurate estimate of costs before treatment rather than seeking remedies afterwards.
