Iridectomy

Iridectomy is a surgical operation that involves removing part of the iris of the eye (iridectomy).

The purpose of iridectomy is to create an additional pathway for the outflow of intraocular fluid from the posterior chamber of the eye to the anterior chamber. This allows you to normalize intraocular pressure in diseases such as glaucoma.

The operation is performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the sclera and iris, and then removes a fragment of the iris (usually in the shape of a sector or oval). This creates an additional hole through which intraocular fluid can flow from the posterior chamber to the anterior chamber and then through the natural outflow tract.

Iridectomy can be performed as a stand-alone operation or in combination with other interventions for glaucoma. Removing a small portion of the iris is usually sufficient to reduce intraocular pressure. Properly performed surgery can prevent vision loss due to glaucoma.