Vitreoretinal Surgery

Vitreoretinal Surgery in India - Treatment for Vision-Threatening Eye Conditions

This short explains vitreoretinal surgery, a term for several procedures inside the eye. It is used to treat conditions affecting the retina and the vitreous gel.

Understanding vitreoretinal surgery

• A group of procedures. It is not a single operation. The term covers many advanced surgical techniques performed on the back of the eye.
• The retina and vitreous. The surgery treats problems with the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer, and the vitreous, the gel-like substance that fills the eye.
• Performed by a specialist. This type of surgery is carried out by a vitreoretinal surgeon, an ophthalmologist with extra training in this specific area.

When is this surgery considered

A specialist may suggest this surgery for several conditions that can cause severe vision loss.

• Retinal detachment. This is when the retina pulls away from its normal position at the back of the eye.
• Macular hole. This is a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision.
• Diabetic retinopathy. Surgery may be needed for advanced stages of this condition, which is caused by diabetes.
• Vitreous haemorrhage. This refers to bleeding into the vitreous gel, which can block light from reaching the retina.

What the procedure can involve

• Type of anaesthesia. The surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia, meaning you are awake but the eye is numb. General anaesthesia may also be used in some cases.
• Surgical steps. The surgeon makes tiny incisions in the eye to insert instruments. They may remove the vitreous gel and replace it with a saline solution, a gas bubble, or silicone oil.
• Recovery period. Recovery can take several weeks or months. Your vision may be blurry at first, and you may need to hold your head in a certain position if a gas bubble was used.
• Follow-up care. You will need several follow-up appointments to monitor your eye as it heals. Adhering to this schedule is important for your recovery.

Whether vitreoretinal surgery is suitable for you depends on your specific condition, your general health, and a full assessment by a specialist. An ophthalmologist will need to review your medical reports and recent eye imaging to make a recommendation.