Vitrectomy Surgery

Who is Suitable for Vitrectomy Surgery?

Patients who might require vitrectomy surgery include:

• Retinal Detachment: When the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, surgery may be necessary to reattach it and prevent vision loss.
• Macular Hole: This is a small break in the macula responsible for central vision. Vitrectomy can help close the hole and improve vision.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: In advanced cases, vitrectomy might be needed to remove blood or scar tissue affecting vision.
• Vitreous Haemorrhage: When blood leaks into the vitreous gel and obstructs vision, vitrectomy can help remove the blood and restore clear vision.
• Epiretinal Membrane: This is a condition where a thin layer of scar tissue forms on the retina's surface, causing distortion. Vitrectomy can remove this tissue and improve vision.
• Severe Eye Trauma: In cases of severe eye injury with vitreous involvement, vitrectomy might be necessary to remove damaged tissue and restore vision.
• Complications from Cataract Surgery: A vitrectomy might be required to address issues such as vitreous loss or retinal detachment if complications arise during or after cataract surgery.

Benefits of Vitrectomy Surgery

• Improved Vision: Vitrectomy surgery can improve vision by addressing conditions that can cause vision loss, such as retinal detachment, macular hole, and diabetic retinopathy.
• Removal of Blood and Debris: In cases of vitreous haemorrhage or other debris in the vitreous, vitrectomy can clear the visual pathway and restore clear vision.
• Treatment of Scar Tissue: Vitrectomy can address epiretinal membranes and scar tissue that can cause visual distortion.
• Prevention of Further Complications: Vitrectomy can prevent complications from progressing and causing more severe vision problems.
• Resolving Complications: In cases where complications arise from other eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery, vitrectomy can help resolve those issues and restore visual function.

Vitrectomy Surgery Procedure

• Anaesthesia: The surgery is usually performed under sedation with local anaesthesia, which numbs the eye area. In some cases, general anaesthesia might be used, especially if other procedures are being performed simultaneously.
• Incisions: Small incisions are made in the eye to allow access to the surgical instruments.
• Vitreous Removal: The vitreous gel is carefully removed using microsurgical instruments.
• Repair and Treatment: The surgeon will perform any necessary repairs to the retina, such as reattaching it in cases of detachment or removing scar tissue.
• Replacement of Vitreous: The removed vitreous is usually replaced with a saline solution or a temporary gas bubble, which helps maintain the eye's shape and pressure.
• Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or other methods, and a protective shield might be placed over the eye.