Plaque radiation therapy for choroidal melanoma

Choroidal melanoma starts in pigment-producing cells within the choroid, the vascular layer behind the retina. During plaque treatment, an eye surgeon positions a thin plaque on the outside of the eye over the tumour. The plaque delivers radiation locally while limiting exposure to tissues farther away. It is usually removed after the prescribed treatment time, so it is not left in the eye permanently.

The aim is to control the tumour while preserving the eye when this is suitable. Vision can change because the tumour or radiation may affect the retina, optic nerve or lens. The likely effect depends on tumour position and size, baseline vision and the dose plan.

Your team will examine the eye and use imaging to map the tumour and plan plaque placement. Tell them about medicines, allergies and any difficulty following eye-drop instructions. Arrange transport if sedation or anaesthesia is planned, and follow directions about fasting and medicines.

After removal, use prescribed drops and keep the eye protected as instructed. Mild soreness, redness or blurred vision can occur during healing. Avoid rubbing the eye and attend scheduled eye examinations; follow-up may include vision checks, pressure measurement and retinal imaging.

Contact the treating eye team promptly for worsening pain, increasing redness, discharge, a new curtain or shadow across vision, sudden loss of vision, new flashes or many new floaters. Seek urgent help for severe eye pain with vomiting, heavy bleeding or an injury to the treated eye.

Ask where the tumour sits in relation to the macula and optic nerve, how plaque placement will be performed, how long it will remain in place, which vision changes are possible, and how often follow-up scans are needed.