Iris Repair

Overview

Iris repair is a surgical procedure that uses various techniques and materials, one of which is sutures, to restore the iris and pupil to their original, circular shape. This repair is necessary when the iris, a crucial part of the eye, is significantly damaged due to congenital abnormalities, traumatic eye injuries, or previous eye surgeries, causing distress to our patients.

Iris repair helps restore function to the iris after significant loss or damage, which may result in light sensitivity, glare, and accompanying visual disturbances such as blurred vision, double vision, and difficulty in focusing. Therefore, iris reconstruction focuses on returning the function of the iris as well as its anatomical appearance.

Surgical Techniques for Iris Repair

• The Use of Sutures: Sutures are versatile medical tools used for a variety of surgical procedures. In iris repair, sutures are used to re-contour or reconnect segments of the iris, particularly in the event of iris detachment (iridodialysis), with the aim of forming a round, anatomically appropriate pupil.
• McCannel Technique: The McCannel technique is a highly specialised surgical technique for repairing iris lacerations. It relies on sutures to secure the peripheral iris to the scleral wall.
• Iridodialysis Repair: This meticulous, well-known surgical approach involves the use of sutures to reconnect the iris to the ciliary body. In some cases, both an intraocular lens and a synthetic iris are used to repair the defect.
• Prosthetic Irises: Prosthetic irises are medical devices used for expansive iris defects. Depending on the patient's preferences and eligibility, there are several different prosthetic iris options, such as an iris lens diaphragm and synthetic, customizable iris implants. This variety ensures that patients can make informed decisions about their treatment.

Factors to Consider for a Successful Outcome

• The size and extent of the iris defect influence treatment options.
• Take into account ocular co-morbidities
• The patient’s preferences, such as cosmetic goals and functional needs, are considered.