Sämisch

Sämisch Operation

The Sämisch Operation is a surgical procedure used in the treatment of keratoconus, a progressive eye disease that affects the cornea, leading to its thinning and bulging into a cone-like shape. This operation, named after the German ophthalmologist Theodor Sämisch, involves the removal of a portion of the corneal tissue to reshape the cornea and improve vision. The Sämisch Operation is considered a last resort treatment for severe cases of keratoconus that do not respond to other interventions such as corneal cross-linking, corneal transplant, or the use of contact lenses.

Indications

The primary indication for the Sämisch Operation is advanced keratoconus that cannot be managed with conservative treatments. Patients who have significant corneal scarring, acute hydrops, or intolerable contact lens-related issues may also be considered for this procedure.

Procedure

The Sämisch Operation is performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a partial-thickness incision in the cornea, removing a wedge-shaped section of the corneal tissue. This removal is aimed at flattening the cornea, thereby reducing the cone shape and improving the refractive error associated with keratoconus. The incision is then closed with sutures. The procedure may be performed in one eye or both eyes, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient's visual needs.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, the Sämisch Operation carries risks and potential complications. These may include infection, corneal scarring, changes in astigmatism, and the possibility of needing further surgical interventions. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with their ophthalmologist to make an informed decision.

Postoperative Care

After the Sämisch Operation, patients will typically need to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. The sutures are usually removed several weeks to months after the surgery, depending on the healing process. Visual recovery can vary among patients, and some may still require the use of glasses or contact lenses for optimal vision.

Outcomes

The outcomes of the Sämisch Operation can vary, with some patients experiencing significant improvements in their vision, while others may have more modest results. The procedure aims to stabilize the cornea, reduce the progression of keratoconus, and improve the patient's visual acuity. However, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand that additional treatments may be necessary in the future.

See Also

• Keratoconus
• Corneal transplant
• Corneal cross-linking
• Ophthalmology