Evolution of Anesthetic Techniques for Optic Nerve Sheath Decompression

We have performed over 531 ONSD's from May 1992 to December 1996 on our neuro-ophthaJmic surgical service. Indications were PTC (72%), CRVO (8.4%), NAION (8.1%) (prior to moratorium), cryptococcal meningitis (5%), and other optic neuropathies (6.4%). During this period 57% of optic nerve sheath decompressions were performed utilizing local anesthesia and 43% were performed under general anesthesia