Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.
In ophthalmology, a paracentesis is a small self sealing incision at the edge of the cornea that gives access to the anterior chamber. Surgeons use it to deliver instruments, remove fluid, or inject medication. The opening is precise and usually closes without stitches. It plays a supporting role in many microsurgical steps.
read more about paracentesis ...Common uses include cataract surgery, pressure lowering in acute angle problems, sampling fluid for infection testing, and drug delivery. The site is planned to avoid vital tissue and to allow easy instrument angles. Balanced salt solution maintains chamber depth during work. The incision architecture promotes quick sealing.
This tiny entry point creates safe access to the anterior chamber. Surgeons rely on it for fluid control and tool placement. Its size and shape help the wound close quickly without sutures. Good technique maintains stability throughout the procedure.
A disposable blade or keratome enters at a shallow angle through peripheral clear cornea. The track forms a valve that resists leakage. Viscoelastic protects the corneal endothelium and iris. Careful hydration at the end helps closure.
Leakage, infection, or iris trauma can occur but are uncommon with sterile technique. Pressure fluctuations are monitored during and after the step. Patients may notice mild scratchiness as the surface heals. Instructions cover shields and drop schedules.
Vision can blur briefly from surface dryness or swelling but clears as healing proceeds. The tiny wound rarely leaves a visible mark. Follow up checks confirm a watertight seal. Most people resume routine tasks quickly.
Is it painful? Anesthetic drops make the step comfortable.
Are stitches needed? Not usually; the tunnel architecture closes on its own.
Can the opening be reused? Fresh incisions are preferred for control and sterility.
“IRIS Registry Data Show Low Usage of AC Tap.” American Academy of Ophthalmology (EyeNet). https://www.aao.org/eyenet/article/iris-registry-low-usage-ac-tap. Published May 1, 2024
“Ocular decompression retinopathy after anterior chamber paracentesis.” Hsu ST, et al. Turkish Journal of Ophthalmology. https://journals.lww.com/tjop/fulltext/2025/10000/ocular_decompression_retinopathy_after_anterior.10.aspx. Published 2025
“Multiple anterior chamber paracentesis or washout for a complex hyphema case report.” Li J, et al. Frontiers in Ophthalmology. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/ophthalmology/articles/10.3389/fopht.2025.1621845/full. Published 2025
“Anterior chamber paracentesis for increased intraocular pressure.” Zaman M, et al. Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology. https://www.canadianjournalofophthalmology.ca/article/S0008-4182%2825%2900274-1/fulltext. Published 2025
“Portal: Uveitis.” EyeWiki (American Academy of Ophthalmology). https://eyewiki.org/Portal%3AUveitis. Updated June 16, 2025