Our Summary

This study looked at the use of a specific type of laser treatment, known as laser retinopexy, in treating patients with tears or holes in their retinas - a condition that could lead to retinal detachment. The researchers used a green laser called IQ 532 IRIDEX for the treatment and studied the results over a period from December 2019 to August 2022.

The results showed that the treatment was successful in repairing all the detected tears. It was also successful in preventing retinal detachment in 93% of the patients. Only one patient needed further surgery due to a progression of retinal detachment from an undetected hole. After the surgery, the patient’s retina was back to normal with good results. All other patients did not need any additional treatment.

The researchers found that the vision of all patients either improved or remained stable. The patients were observed for a period ranging from 3 to 36 months after the treatment. The study concluded that laser retinopexy is a safe, effective, and non-invasive method for treating retinal tears. The technique also works well in cases of partial bleeding in the eye or initial retinal detachment. There were no recorded complications during or after the treatment.

FAQs

  1. What is laser retinopexy and what conditions does it treat?
  2. How effective was the IQ 532 IRIDEX laser treatment in preventing retinal detachment and repairing retinal tears?
  3. Were there any complications recorded during or after the laser retinopexy treatment?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about retinal detachment surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and prevent any complications. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, taking prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and reporting any unusual symptoms or changes in vision to your doctor immediately. It is also important to protect your eyes from injury and to wear any recommended eye protection during the recovery period. Following these guidelines can help ensure a successful outcome and optimal recovery after retinal detachment surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended retinal detachment surgery include those with:

  • Retinal tears or holes that could potentially lead to retinal detachment
  • Partial bleeding in the eye
  • Initial retinal detachment
  • Those who have a high risk of retinal detachment due to factors such as a history of retinal detachment in the other eye, severe nearsightedness, previous eye surgeries, or a family history of retinal detachment

It is important for patients to consult with their ophthalmologist to determine if retinal detachment surgery is the most appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before retinal detachment surgery, patients may experience symptoms such as floaters, flashes of light, blurry vision, or a curtain-like shadow over their vision. They may undergo a comprehensive eye exam, including dilating the pupils and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis of retinal detachment.

After retinal detachment surgery, patients may experience some discomfort, redness, or swelling in the eye. They will need to follow post-operative instructions, such as using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist. Over time, their vision should gradually improve as the retina heals and reattaches properly. It is important for patients to continue monitoring their vision and informing their doctor of any changes or concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about retinal detachment surgery include:

  1. What is the specific type of surgery that will be performed for my retinal detachment?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to take?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  5. What are the chances of the surgery being successful in repairing my retinal detachment?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  8. Will I need any additional treatments or procedures in the future?
  9. What can I expect in terms of my vision and overall eye health after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent future retinal detachments?

Reference

Authors: Kristian P, Cholevík D. Journal: Cesk Slov Oftalmol. 2023 Spring;79(3):126-133. doi: 10.31348/2023/18. PMID: 37344214