A technique for excisional optic nerve biopsy

ABSTRACT

Purpose

To describe a transconjunctival technique for full-thickness (excisional) optic nerve biopsy.

Method

A medial transconjunctival approach to the optic nerve with disinsertion of the medial rectus is used. A small right-angle Mixter forcep is used to clamp the optic nerve far posteriorly, and then a microscalpel is directed metal-on-metal to cut the posterior optic nerve. The cut nerve is then rotated anteriorly to complete the proximal nerve cut.

Result

A full-thickness specimen of 11 mm of more can be obtained without undue traction on the globe. The globe remains viable.

Conclusion

A long length, excisional optic nerve biopsy can be readily and safely performed without endoscopic techniques.

KEYWORDS:

• Biopsy
• optic nerve

Acknowledgement

We thank Ashna Nijhawan and Nayna Nijhawan for their artwork in the Figure.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.