If you or your family member is suffering from a retinal disease, you may have heard about vitrectomy from your eye doctor. But what exactly is vitrectomy? Is it safe? These are some of the questions that may be bothering you. To help you, our eye surgeons in Kolkata, have answered some of the frequently asked questions:
Question 1: What is vitrectomy?
Vitreous is the gel-like substance that fills the central portion of the eye. Vitrectomy is an eye surgery that is performed to treat the vitreous in the eye and other problems related to the retina. In this surgery, the damaged vitreous is replaced with another solution.
Question 2: When might I need a vitrectomy?
Vitrectomy is recommended in the case of:
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal detachment
- Vitreous haemorrhage
- To take biopsy to detect a serious Infection in the eye
- Fatal eye injury
When these eye conditions are left unchecked, they may lead to complete loss of vision. Hence, vitrectomy is performed.
Question 3: What happens at a pre-assessment appointment?
The doctor will explain the details of the surgery. You may be asked to get some necessary tests done such as ECG and blood tests. The doctor will ask you to provide information on your general health and the medications you are currently taking.
Question 4: How do I prepare for a vitrectomy?
You can prepare for a vitrectomy by:
- By asking your doctor whether you need to stop taking any medication before the surgery
- By avoiding eating after midnight before the surgery
Question 5: What happens during a vitrectomy?
Normally during a vitrectomy surgery:
- Vitrectomy is usually performed under general anaesthesia. However, in some cases, the surgery is performed under local anaesthesia.
- The surgeon will make small cuts in the sclera, that is the white part of the eye.
- The vitreous is gently taken out along with any scar tissue present or any foreign material present from the eye.
- The vitreous is then replaced with fluids such as silicone oil or saline.
- For diabetes, any leaking blood vessels are sealed using laser treatment.
- The surgical incisions are now covered with stitches.
- An antibiotic ointment is then placed on your eye to prevent infection.
- At the end, a patch is used to cover the eye.
Question 6: What are some important things to take into consideration after surgery?
- On the day of operation, wear loose fitting clothes to avoid contact with the eye when getting dressed.
- You will be prescribed different eye drops. Use them as advised.
- In some cases, you may be advised to keep your head tilted downwards for 4-14 days.
Question 7: What are the risks of vitrectomy?
Vitrectomy is mostly a safe and common eye surgery. However, just like any other surgery, there are some risks involved. Some people may experience:
- Infection
- Excess bleeding
- High pressure in the eye
- Retinal detachment caused by the surgery
- Lens damage
- Increase in the formation of cataracts
- Limited eye movement
- Change in refractive error
Note: The risks may depend on your age, your medical conditions, and your eye problem.
Question 7: Where can I find a good eye surgeon in kolkata?
Visit Disha Eye Hospitals. We have some of the best eye surgeons in Kolkata on board. Our retina specialist and eye surgeons will work together to recommend the appropriate course of treatment. You can also book an online consultation.