๐ Corneal abrasion is the most common ocular complication after general anesthesia
๐ Ischemic Optic neuropathy (ION) and Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) are the commonest causes for postoperative visual loss
๐ ISCHEMIC OPTIC NEUROPATHY (ION)
๐ตMore common among the two
๐ตMost often seen after prolonged surgery in prone position
๐ตVenous congestion--> Raised Intra Ocular Pressure (IOP) due to Raised Intra Orbital Pressure --> Intra Orbital ‘Compartment Syndrome’
๐ตHypotension, Diabetes, Vascular disease, Smoking etc also may be important in the etiopathogenesis
๐ตTreatment:
➖ Reduce optic nerve edema as it passes through posterior scleral foramen with steroids and mannitol
➖ Optimal oxygen delivery by ensuring normal blood pressure and hematocrit
➖ Clear all obstruction to venous drainage
๐ตChance of visual recovery is less
๐ CENTRAL RETINAL ARTERY OCCLUSION (CRAO)
๐ต External pressure on eye and embolism are risk factors
๐ต An echocardiogram and carotid ultrasound may help us to find an embolic source
Reference: White E, David DB. Care of the eye during anaesthesia and intensive care. Anaesth Intens Care Med. 2007; 8(9): 383–386.
