Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure undertaken by a specialist where the vitreous humor gel that fills the eye cavity is removed to provide better access to the retina. This allows for a variety of repairs, including the removal of scar tissue, laser repair of retinal detachments and treatment of macular holes. Once surgery is complete, saline, a gas bubble or silicone oil may be injected into the vitreous gel to help hold the retina in position.

Procedure

Vitrectomy surgeries are performed under either local or general anesthesia. The surgeon makes tiny incisions in the sclera (the white part of the eye). Through these incisions, the surgeon inserts small instruments, such as a light pipe and a vitrector. A vitrector is a cutting instrument that cuts the vitreous gel and suctions it out of the eye. After the vitreous gel is removed, the surgeon may treat the retina with a laser (photocoagulation), cut or remove fibrous or scar tissue from the retina, flatten areas where the retina has become detached, or repair holes in the retina or macula.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, vitrectomy has risks. These risks include infection, bleeding, high or low eye pressure, cataract, retinal detachment, and loss of vision. The risk of a serious complication that results in loss of vision is generally less than 1%.

Recovery

After surgery, the eye may be covered with a patch for days to weeks. If a gas bubble was placed in the eye, the patient may need to position the head in a specific way for a period of time. Vision may be blurry for a period of time. The patient will use medicated eye drops for several weeks to help the eye heal.

See also

• Retina
• Macular hole
• Retinal detachment

Vitrectomy Resources
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