Related Experiment Videos
Transient central retinal artery occlusion after posterior sub-Tenon's anesthesia
Robert M Feibel1, David L Guyton
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|October 3, 2003
Summary
Transient central retinal artery occlusion can occur after sub-Tenon's anesthesia for eye surgery. While often temporary with no vision loss, one case resulted in profound visual impairment, highlighting the need for careful anesthetic administration.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Sub-Tenon's infusion of local anesthetic is a common technique for ophthalmic procedures.
- Complications, though rare, can significantly impact visual outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report cases of central retinal artery occlusion following sub-Tenon's anesthesia.
- To discuss potential mechanisms and preventative strategies for this complication.
Main Methods:
- Case series reporting three instances of central retinal artery occlusion.
- Review of anesthetic administration techniques and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Two patients experienced transient central retinal artery occlusion with spontaneous reperfusion and no visual sequelae after cataract surgery.
- One patient developed profound visual loss after strabismus surgery due to central retinal artery occlusion.
Conclusions:
- Sub-Tenon's anesthesia can lead to central retinal artery occlusion, ranging from transient to permanent visual loss.
- Potential causes include mechanical pressure or anesthetic-induced vasoconstriction.
- Recommendations include careful cannula placement, avoiding forceful injection, and using minimal anesthetic volume.