What is iridectomy?
Excision of an iris tumor, together with adjacent iris.

How is it performed?

• The operation is performed under local or general anesthesia.
  
• A corneal incision is made at the limbus (i.e., at the edge of the cornea).
  
• A sectorial iris excision is performed. 
  
• The edges of the iris wound are sutured together, if possible, to re-form the pupil.
  
• The cornea is closed.
  

What are the indications?
Iris melanoma not exceeding two clock hours of iris. 

What are the contra-indications?

• Iris melanoma exceeding two clock hours in circumferential extent.
  
• Diffuse iris melanoma, with indistinct margins.
  
• Availability of other methods such as proton beam or plaque radiotherapy.
  
• Tumor extension to the angle, which would require iridocyclectomy.

What are the intra-operative complications?

• Incomplete tumor excision.
  
• Lens damage.
  
• Corneal endothelial damage.
  
• Hemorrhage.
  

What are the post-operative complications?

• Local tumor recurrence, which can occur after many years.
  
• Cataract from lens damage.
  
• Corneal edema ('waterlogging') from endothelial damage.