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Perioperative visual loss: what do we know, what can we do?
1Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of Chicago, 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Box MC 4028, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. sroth@dacc.uchicago.edu
British Journal of Anaesthesia
|December 17, 2009
Summary
Perioperative visual loss (POVL) is a rare complication after non-ocular surgery, particularly cardiac and spine procedures. This review covers the incidence, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of POVL caused by retinal vascular occlusion and ischemic optic neuropathy.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Anesthesiology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Perioperative visual loss (POVL) is a rare but severe complication following non-ocular surgery.
- Cardiac and spine surgeries exhibit the highest incidence rates of POVL.
- Key causes include retinal vascular occlusion and ischemic optic neuropathy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated review on the incidence of POVL.
- To discuss suspected risk factors associated with POVL.
- To outline diagnostic and treatment strategies for POVL.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of perioperative visual loss.
- Analysis of incidence and risk factors for POVL.
- Synthesis of diagnostic and treatment approaches for POVL.
Main Results:
- POVL is a recognized complication, with elevated risks in specific surgical populations.
- Retinal vascular occlusion and ischemic optic neuropathy are primary etiologies.
- Current understanding of risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment is evolving.
Conclusions:
- POVL necessitates awareness and proactive management strategies.
- Further research is needed to elucidate risk factors and optimize treatments.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing POVL.
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