A vitrectomy is a surgical technique used to treat a variety of retinal and vitreous problems by removing the vitreous gel, the transparent, jelly-like material inside the eye. It is frequently carried out by a retina specialist and can be used in conjunction with other therapies such as gas/silicone oil injection or laser therapy.
When is a Vitrectomy Needed? (Symptoms & Indications)
A patient may be advised to have a vitrectomy if they have:
1. Signs of Retinal Detachment:
- Cobwebs or dark patches in eyesight are known as sudden floaters.
- Light bursts (photopsia).
- A shadow or dark curtain extending across the field of vision.
2. Symptoms of Vitreous Hemorrhage and Diabetic Retinopathy:
- Visual impairment (blood seeping into the vitreous).
- Unexpected loss of eyesight (if bleeding is severe).
3. Macular Pucker, also known as Macular Hole or Epiretinal Membrane, symptoms:
- Distorted vision (wavy appearance of straight lines).
- Loss of central vision (dark spot or blur).
4. Signs of severe endophthalmitis (eye infections):
- Redness, swelling, and eye pain.
- Pus or severe blindness.
5. Cataract Surgery Complications
- Intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation.
- Pieces of the lens retained.
Types of Vitrectomy
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Most common, done through tiny incisions in the white of the eye (sclera).
- Anterior Vitrectomy – Used during cataract surgery if the vitreous leaks into the front of the eye.
