Vitrectomy Surgery

Who might need 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 hole 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.
• 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 heavy twilight sedation with local anaesthesia. 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/air bubble, which helps maintain the eye's shape and pressure.
• Closure: The incisions are closed and a protective shield is placed over the eye.