Treatment

Vitrectomy

Overview

Vitrectomy is a type of eye surgery that involves removing the vitreous humor — a gel-like substance that fills the middle of the eye. This procedure is often done to treat problems related to bleeding, retinal detachment, fluid under the retina or scar tissue inside the eye. The goal of vitrectomy surgery is to restore or preserve vision.

Why Vitrectomy Treatment is Required?

• To treat bleeding behind the eye (common in diabetic retinopathy)
• For retinal detachment or tears
• To remove scar tissue affecting vision
• When fluid collects under the retina
• In cases of vitreous hemorrhage
• For macular holes or macular puckers
• To remove foreign objects inside the eye (due to injury)
• To help with eye infections or severe inflammation

Key Advantages of Vitrectomy Treatment

• Improves or stabilizes vision in serious eye conditions
• Removes clouded vitreous or blood that blocks vision
• Helps reattach the retina in case of detachment
• Allows access for other procedures, like retinal laser or membrane peeling
• Can reduce eye pressure in some conditions
• Minimally invasive techniques offer faster recovery

How Should You Prepare Yourself Before Vitrectomy Treatment

• Undergo an eye examination and vision tests
• Your doctor may suggest ultrasound or imaging scans
• Share your medical history and any medications you take
• Stop blood thinners if advised by your doctor
• Arrange for someone to drive you home post-surgery
• Do not eat or drink anything for several hours before surgery

How Vitrectomy Treatment is Performed?

• The procedure is usually done under local or general anesthesia
• A surgeon makes tiny incisions in the eye to access the vitreous
• The vitreous gel is removed carefully using micro instruments
• The surgeon may fix retinal tears or remove scar tissue
• Sometimes, gas or silicone oil is placed inside the eye to support healing
• Incisions are closed and an eye patch is placed after surgery

What You Can Expect Before, During and After Procedure?

• Before Procedure:
• Eye testing, scans, and surgical counseling
• Fasting as instructed
• You will be asked to avoid makeup or eye creams
• During Procedure:
• You will receive anesthesia (local or general)
• The operation may take 1–2 hours
• Surgeon performs the vitrectomy procedure using precise instruments
• After Procedure:
• Eye will be bandaged, and vision may be blurred at first
• You may be advised to lie face-down if gas is inserted
• Use eye drops as prescribed to prevent infection
• Avoid rubbing your eye and follow post-op precautions
• You will have follow-up visits for recovery monitoring

Risk and Potential Complications

• Eye infection or inflammation
• Bleeding inside the eye
• Cataract formation (common long-term risk)
• Increase in eye pressure (glaucoma)
• Retinal detachment (rare, but serious)
• Temporary or permanent blurred vision
• Need for additional surgery in some cases

Results/Outcomes

• Most patients experience improved or stabilized vision
• Full recovery from vitrectomy may take several weeks to months
• Final outcome depends on the severity of the original eye problem
• In many cases, daily activities and vision clarity return gradually
• Success rate is high, especially when performed early