Normal intraocular pressure during enucleation for choroidal melanoma.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Oncology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Choroidal melanoma is a rare intraocular malignancy.
• Enucleation is a common treatment, but IOP fluctuations can risk tumor cell dissemination.
• Maintaining stable intraocular pressure during surgery is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a simple surgical technique for maintaining intraocular pressure during enucleation for choroidal melanoma.
• To evaluate the efficacy of this technique in minimizing IOP fluctuations.
• To discuss the potential impact on preventing metastatic disease.

Main Methods:

• A novel surgical approach involving anterior chamber cannulation with balanced salt solution.
• Use of a microvitreo-retinal blade for corneal incision.
• Introduction of a 21-gauge or 23-gauge needle attached to a closed system.
• Measurement of IOP fluctuations during five enucleation procedures.

Main Results:

• The described technique successfully maintained the anterior chamber during enucleation.
• Intraocular pressure fluctuations were minimized using the closed balanced salt solution system.
• Quantitative measurements of pressure stability were recorded during the procedures.

Conclusions:

• This simple surgical technique effectively controls intraocular pressure during enucleation for choroidal melanoma.
• Minimizing IOP fluctuations may reduce the risk of hematogenous spread of tumor cells.
• The technique offers a potential strategy to improve outcomes for patients with choroidal melanoma.