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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
14:54
Rat Model of Photochemically-Induced Posterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy
Published on: November 29, 2015
Posterior ischemic optic neuropathy after minimally invasive prostatectomy
Eric D Weber1, Marcus H Colyer, Robert L Lesser
1Ophthalmology Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
Summary
Two patients experienced vision loss (ischemic optic neuropathy) after prostate surgery using laparoscopic techniques. Prolonged surgery times in a head-down position may increase the risk of this complication.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, offers patient benefits.
- These procedures often require steep supine head-flexed (Trendelenburg) patient positioning.
Observation:
- Two patients developed ischemic optic neuropathy (ION) post-prostatectomy.
- One surgery was robot-assisted, the other conventional laparoscopic.
Findings:
- Prolonged operative times may be associated with steep Trendelenburg positioning in laparoscopic surgery.
- Extended surgical duration in this position may increase the risk of ION.
Implications:
- Surgeons need to master new laparoscopic techniques to reduce operative times.
- Awareness of ION risk is crucial during prolonged laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.
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