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Freezing
or Cryo treatment of the Retina
What is cryosurgery?
'Cryo' means extremely cold or freezing. This operation
employs a delicate instrument that freezes small spots,
which are transformed into pinpoint scars that strengthen
the retina. The temperature required for cryosurgery is
approximately minus 70 degrees centigrade.
What are the do's and don'ts after cryosurgery?
Generally patients can return to their normal routine
the following day. But they are advised to relax on the day
of surgery. In cases where there has been a tearing of the
retina, the surgeon may ask patients to limit their
activities for at least ten days. The restrictions may
include the following:
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If an eye pad was used after the cryosurgery, it should be removed after one day of use.
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Do not bend over so that your head is below your waist.
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Do not lift anything that weighs more than five kilograms.
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Avoid rubbing the affected eye.
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Avoid strenuous activities: you may cook or wash dishes, but no housework that involves bending or lifting weights.
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You may watch television or read.
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Alcoholic beverages should be avoided.
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No sexual intercourse
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No automobile trips except to the doctor's office.
What are
the effects of cryosurgery?
Temporary side effects include blurred vision, redness
of the eye, mild pain, watering, double vision, swelling of
eyelids or a dilated pupil. These side effects usually clear
up within a few weeks. Most patients respond favourably to
this operation, but a small percent of patients may not.
What are the possible complications?
All surgery has some possible complications but,
fortunately, the occurrence of such problems with
cryosurgery is infrequent. At least 99% patients have no
complications. The complications that may occur include
bleeding within the eye or retinal detachment. There is the
very rare possibility that all vision might be lost.
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