Vitrectomy

1. Home
2. Treatments
3. Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is a type of eye surgery used to treat various conditions affecting the retina, macula, and vitreous. In this procedure, a retina surgeon removes the vitreous body, which is the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina. Then, they replace it with saline, silicone oil, or a gas bubble. This approach allows the surgeon to access the retina to repair any damage and to remove blood, scar tissue, or foreign objects from the eye.

When is Vitrectomy Recommended?

A retina specialist may recommend a vitrectomy for various conditions, such as:

• Retinal detachment
• Macular holes
• Macular puckers (epiretinal membranes)
• Vitreous hemorrhage, often related to diabetic retinopathy
• Retained lens fragments or other complications after cataract surgery
• Certain eye injuries, such as penetrating trauma
• Severe or non-responsive uveitis
• Severe eye infections, such as endophthalmitis

What to Expect During the Vitrectomy Procedure

Vitrectomy surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, using local anesthesia and sedation. Before the procedure, the eye is cleaned with antiseptics. A smooth wire speculum is then used to gently hold the eye open. The retina surgeon makes three tiny incisions in the sclera, which is the white part of the eye, and uses a vitrectomy probe to carefully remove the vitreous gel. Depending on the specific retinal condition, the surgeon may also address a detachment or use a laser to repair any damage.

In some cases, the surgeon may replace the vitreous gel in the eye. Most of the time, stitches are not necessary to close the incisions. Finally, the retina surgeon applies antibiotic ointment, and the patient can go home after a period of observation in the post-operative area.

Vitrectomy Risks and Complications

While complications are rare, vitrectomy, like all surgical procedures, carries certain risks, including:

• Retinal tears
• Retinal detachments
• Infection
• Scar tissue formation
• Cataract formation

Patients who experience significant pain or vision loss after vitrectomy should consult their retina surgeon as soon as possible.

Vitrectomy Recovery

Recovery after vitrectomy surgery typically takes about one week, though this can vary on a case-by-case basis. Patients may experience irritation and redness in the eyes for several days after the procedure and will need to use antibiotic eye drops for a few weeks. Patients should avoid any strenuous or high-impact activities during the first week after surgery.