Vitreous humour or vitreous is a transparent gelatinous fluid in the posterior chamber of the eye between the retina and the lens. The fluid helps in keeping the retina in its place by pressing it against the choroid.
Vitrectomy refers to a microsurgical procedure done in the inner layer of the eye to remove part or all of vitreous humour. Vitrectomy Surgery can help in removing scar tissues, blood and in replacing some or all of vitreous humour which can, otherwise, lead to blurred vision. Vitrectomy may also be performed if the vitreous humor changes the normal position of the retina by pulling or tugging it.
What are the Eye Conditions that Require Vitrectomy?
Listed below are some of the common eye conditions that need vitrectomy:
- Retinal detachment
- Pre-retinal membrane fibrosis
- Macular pucker or epiretinal membrane
- Macular hole
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Vitreous hemorrhage
- Infection or injury to the eye
- Uveitis
How is Vitrectomy Surgery Performed?
Vitrectomy is performed under local or general anesthesia in an operating room. Three tiny incisions are made in the eye wall (sclera) through a handheld cutting device. With the help of a fiber optic light (high intensity) the inside of the eye is illuminated. An incision port is used to suck out and replace the vitreous with a special saline solution or silicone oil/gas. This helps in maintaining normal ocular pressure. After replacing the vitreous gel, the surgeon may cut or remove scar tissues from the retina or perform laser photocoagulation.
Vitrectomy Complications
What to Expect from Vitrectomy?
You may expect your eyes to be red, swollen and sensitive. Applying cold compress may alleviate pain and swelling to some extent. Your recovery rate may depend on your preoperative condition and your ability to follow postoperative instructions among other factors. You may be expected to go for a follow-up 1-2 weeks after vitrectomy surgery. It might take several months to restore your vision.
What are the Possible Side Effects of Vitrectomy?
Common complications that can arise after vitrectomy are cataract, retinal detachment, intraocular pressure, further bleeding and infection in the vitreous gel, etc.
