Enucleation surgery, also known as an enucleation, is a surgical procedure in which an entire eye is removed. The procedure is typically performed to treat a variety of eye conditions such as retinoblastoma, uveal melanoma, and eye trauma. During the procedure, the eye and its associated muscles, tendons, and nerves will be removed. The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia and can take several hours.
Types of Enucleation Surgery
There are two types of enucleation surgeries: total and partial. Total enucleation involves the removal of the entire eye, including the muscles, tendons, and nerves, while partial enucleation involves the removal of only the eye itself. Depending on the type of procedure and the condition being treated, the doctor may also remove some of the surrounding tissues such as the conjunctiva and orbital fat.
Preparing for the Surgery
Before the surgery, the patient will need to be evaluated by their doctor to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. During the evaluation, the doctor will ask about any pre-existing conditions, medications, and allergies, as well as perform tests to evaluate the eye. The patient may also be asked to stop taking certain medications or supplements before the procedure.
Risks and Complications
Enucleation surgery is a major procedure and carries certain risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, damage to the surrounding tissues, and adverse reactions to the anesthesia. In rare cases, the procedure may cause double vision, dry eyes, or vision loss. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any potential risks or complications before the procedure.
Recovery
Recovery from enucleation surgery can take several weeks. During the recovery period, the patient may experience pain, swelling, and bruising around the eye. The patient may also need to wear an eye shield to protect the eye from injury. The doctor may also suggest the use of eye drops or ointments to help with healing and reduce the risk of infection.
