Vitreoretinal surgery: what you need to know

When considering any surgical procedure, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of what it involves, especially when it concerns something as delicate as your eyes. Vitreoretinal surgery is a specialised field focusing on the treatment of conditions affecting the retina and the vitreous humour, the gel-like substance inside your eye. Miss Susan Sarangapani explores what this surgery entails and the conditions it can treat.

What is vitreoretinal surgery?

Vitreoretinal surgery encompasses various procedures aimed at treating disorders of the retina and vitreous. The retina, located at the back of your eye, is a light-sensitive layer similar to the film in a camera. When the retina is damaged, your vision can become blurred or distorted. The vitreous humour, which fills the space between the lens and the retina, can also be involved in these conditions.

Imagine the vitreous humour as a clear, jelly-like substance that supports the shape of your eye and allows light to pass through to the retina. Over time, or due to certain eye conditions, this "jelly" can become less transparent or detach from the retina, leading to vision problems. Vitreoretinal surgery aims to address these issues by removing the vitreous and sometimes replacing it with a clear fluid or gas to help the retina heal properly.

What conditions are treated by vitreoretinal surgery?

Several eye conditions may necessitate vitreoretinal surgery, such as retinal detachment, which occurs when the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue, much like wallpaper peeling away from a wall. If not treated quickly, it can lead to permanent vision loss. Surgery involves reattaching the retina to restore vision.

Another condition treated is macular hole, a small break in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It can be likened to a tiny tear in a piece of paper, disrupting your ability to see fine details. Surgery can help close the hole and improve vision.

Diabetic retinopathy can also be treated by vitreoretinal surgery. This condition affects individuals with diabetes and involves damage to the blood vessels in the retina. It's similar to how plumbing issues can cause leaks and damage in a house. Vitreoretinal surgery can help manage these complications and preserve vision.

Additionally, a vitreous haemorrhage can be treated by the surgery.  Sometimes blood vessels in the eye can bleed into the vitreous, causing "foggy" vision, much like trying to see through a dirty window. Surgery can remove the blood to clear your vision.

What happens during the procedure?

During vitreoretinal surgery, a small incision is made in the eye to remove the vitreous humour. Depending on the condition being treated, the surgeon might use tiny instruments to repair the retina, remove scar tissue, or address other issues. The eye may be filled with a special gas or silicone oil to help the retina stay in place as it heals.

What should I expect during the recovery?

Recovery from vitreoretinal surgery varies depending on the specific procedure and individual patient factors. Generally, you may need to wear an eye patch for a short period and use eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation. Your vision may be blurry initially, but it should gradually improve as your eye heals.

In summary, vitreoretinal surgery is a vital and effective treatment for various serious eye conditions. By understanding what the procedure involves and the conditions it treats, you can make a more informed decision about your eye health and treatment options.

If you would like to book a consultation with Miss Sarangapani, simply visit her Top Doctors profile today.