iridectomy /ī′ridek″təmē/ [Gk, iris, rainbow, ektomē, excision] , surgical removal of part of the iris of the eye. It is performed most often to restore drainage of the aqueous humor in glaucoma or to remove a foreign body or a malignant tumor. An incision is made through the cornea, and the iris is grasped with forceps or a hook and drawn out through the incision. The affected area is cut away, and the elastic iris is allowed to slip back into place. Subjunctival antibiotics may be instilled, and an eye pad is applied. After surgery, the patient is observed for signs of local hemorrhage or excessive pain.
