Surgical Release of Pressure Restores Vision

Increased pressure in cerebral spinal fluid can lead to stress on the optic nerve and result in a loss of vision. In many cases, a procedure to release the pressure is necessary to restore the ability to see. Rady Children’s Ophthalmology Division is expert in performing the highly specialized procedure called optic nerve sheath fenestration.

Dr. Harry O’Halloran is the only fellowship-trained pediatric neuro-ophthalomogist in the San Diego and Orange county area that performs the technique of making a small window in the meningeal sheath covering the optic nerve. The window allows excess fluid to escape and harmlessly absorb into surrounding tissues. Immediate relief of high pressure to the optic nerve is achieved, allowing for the return of normal vision.

“Whether caused by trauma, dehydration, coagulation disorders or congenital venous abnormalities, children who undergo the procedure experience immediate relief of their symptoms,” said Dr. O’Halloran. “Head and neck aches disappear, visual symptoms improve and vision returns to normal within a few weeks.”

Dr. O’Halloran states that all of Rady Children’s pediatric ophthalmologists are trained to assist with the highly technical procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. He adds that Rady Children’s is specifically set-up to care for acutely ill children and provides an extremely high quality of care.

Children's Specialists Division of Ophthalmology

© Children's Specialists of San Diego - Physician-to-Physician News - No.8, Winter/Spring 2004