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What is Vitrectomy Surgery?
Vitrectomy surgery is a surgical procedure to remove vitreous gel from the eye. Vitrectomy surgery is often the first step in an eye surgery procedure and is carried out to repair retinal detachment, repair extensive tears in the retina, treat proliferative retinopathy, clear severe cases of vitreous floaters, repair a macular pucker, or as part of the procedure to treat diabetic retinopathy. Vitrectomy surgery is also used to clear blood in the vitreous gel if it fails to clear naturally.
How is Vitrectomy Surgery carried out?
The surgeon makes small cuts in the vitreous gel and suctions the gel from the eye.
After the vitreous gel has been removed the surgeon will continue to treat the retina to repair the underlying eye condition.
The surgeon refills the eye with solution or a gas bubble to retain the eye’s pressure and keep the retina in place.
What surgeon performs Vitrectomy Surgery?
Vitrectomy surgery is carried out by a specialist eye doctor (Ophthalmologist).
About Vitrectomy Surgery
Key facts to plan your treatment: how long it takes, your hospital stay, anaesthesia, risks and recovery.
Duration of surgery/treatment
2 to 3 hours.
Days admitted
Vitrectomy surgery is normally carried out on an outpatient procedure, with no overnight stay required.
Anesthesia
Usually general anesthesia, but local anesthesia may also be used.
Recovery
- Patients usually resume normal activities after 1 or 2 days, although should avoid strenuous activities or those that put pressure on the eye.
- Full recovery usually occurs 6 weeks after the surgery.
Risks
- Elevated eye pressure (glaucoma).
- Loss of vision or blurring of vision.
- Swelling, red or painful eyes.
- Infection.
- Retinal detachment.
- Fluid build-up in the eye’s clear covering.
- Cataract.
After care
- Use eye drops to minimize infection and promote healing.
- Avoid heavy lifting and air travel until the eye has sufficiently healed.
- If a gas bubble has been used, you will need to position your head in a specific way to maintain the retina’s position.
- Take pain killers and apply ice compresses to alleviate pain.
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