Iridectomy is a treatment option in:
**Core Concept**
Iridectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the iris, typically performed to improve the drainage of aqueous humor in patients with glaucoma or to relieve angle-closure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The primary goal of iridectomy is to create a new drainage pathway for the aqueous humor, bypassing the blocked or damaged angle of the anterior chamber. This procedure is often performed in cases of angle-closure glaucoma or pupillary block, where the iris is obstructing the drainage of aqueous humor. The removal of a small portion of the iris, typically at the 3 o'clock or 9 o'clock position, allows for the free flow of aqueous humor and reduces intraocular pressure.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Iridectomy is not typically used to treat cataracts, as the procedure is focused on improving drainage and does not address the underlying cause of cataract formation.
**Option B:** Iridotomy, not iridectomy, is the procedure of choice for treating pupillary block, which involves creating a small hole in the iris using laser or surgical techniques.
**Option C:** While iridectomy can be used in some cases of glaucoma, it is not a primary treatment option for open-angle glaucoma, where the drainage channels are not physically blocked.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key consideration when performing iridectomy is to avoid damaging the adjacent structures, including the trabecular meshwork, the ciliary body, and the posterior chamber, to prevent complications such as chronic inflammation or vision loss.
**Correct Answer:** C.