Our Summary
This study investigates a case of a 58-year-old woman who suffered from traction retinal detachment (TRD), a condition where the retina (back of the eye) pulls away from its normal position, linked with an underdevelopment of the retinal blood vessels.
The patient had experienced a gradual loss of clear vision and distorted vision in her left eye, which had been weaker than her right eye since childhood. The doctors found no problems with her right eye, but noticed severe issues in her left eye, including abnormal pull on the optic nerve (nerve that transmits visual information to the brain), twisted retina, and a non-functioning area of the retina in the upper outer quadrant.
The doctors performed a surgical procedure called vitrectomy, which involved removing the vitreous (gel-like substance filling the eye) and the problematic membrane, and artificially detaching the back part of the vitreous. After the surgery, the patient’s vision slightly improved.
The researchers concluded that the patient’s condition was likely due to a combination of the detachment caused by the vitreous and the underdevelopment of the retina’s blood vessels and optic nerve.
FAQs
- What is traction retinal detachment (TRD) and how is it related to the underdevelopment of retinal blood vessels?
- What is the surgical procedure called vitrectomy and how does it help in improving the condition of a patient suffering from TRD?
- What were the findings of the doctors in the case of the 58-year-old woman with TRD and how did her condition improve post-surgery?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient undergoing retinal detachment surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including taking any prescribed medications, keeping the eye clean and protected, and attending all follow-up appointments. It’s important to avoid any strenuous activities that could put pressure on the eye and to report any changes in vision or symptoms to your doctor immediately. Proper post-operative care is essential for the best possible outcome and to prevent any complications.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended retinal detachment surgery include those who have experienced sudden or gradual vision loss, distorted vision, flashes of light, floaters in the eye, or a shadow or curtain coming over their field of vision. Patients with a history of eye trauma, previous retinal detachment, myopia (nearsightedness), diabetes, or a family history of retinal detachment are also at a higher risk and may be recommended for surgery. It is important for patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms, as early detection and treatment can help prevent permanent vision loss.
Timeline
Before the retinal detachment surgery, the patient experienced gradual loss of clear vision and distorted vision in her left eye. After the surgery, the patient’s vision slightly improved.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about retinal detachment surgery include:
- What is the exact nature of my retinal detachment and how severe is it?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
- What is the success rate of this surgery for my specific condition?
- What is the recovery process like and how long will it take to fully recover?
- Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery to prevent further complications?
- How will this surgery affect my vision in the long term?
- Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could be considered for my condition?
- What can I expect in terms of pain management during and after the surgery?
- How experienced are you in performing retinal detachment surgery and what is your success rate with this procedure?
Reference
Authors: Miyamoto T, Kobayashi T, Kida T, Sato T, Fukumoto M, Ikeda T. Journal: BMC Ophthalmol. 2020 Oct 7;20(1):398. doi: 10.1186/s12886-020-01671-y. PMID: 33028264