Certified Ophthalmic Assistant Practice Exam

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How long can a Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO) be salvaged if treatment is sought?

1 hour
2 hours
3 hours
4 hours

The correct answer is: 2 hours

In the context of Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO), timely intervention is crucial to preserve vision. Research suggests that the retina's viability decreases significantly over time after arterial occlusion occurs. If treatment is sought within about two hours from the onset of symptoms, there is a greater likelihood of salvaging retinal function and minimizing permanent vision loss. Beyond this window, the retinal cells can suffer irreversible damage due to the lack of oxygen (ischemia) resulting from the blockage of blood flow. Thus, while some attempts at treatment beyond this time may still occur, the critical window for effective intervention to restore vision is indeed around two hours. This aligns with clinical guidelines emphasizing the urgency in management of CRAO, highlighting the importance of rapid access to care for patients presenting with this condition.