Our Summary
This study looked at how the treatment of retinal detachment (a serious eye condition where the retina peels away from the back of the eye) has changed over the last 15 years. The researchers looked at the medical records of 5101 patients who had surgery for retinal detachment between January 2005 and March 2020.
They found that the number of surgeries for this condition has increased each year, going from 150 to 600 surgeries per year. They also noticed that more cases of retinal detachment happened in the summer months, about 20% more than in the winter.
The methods used in these surgeries have also changed. A technique called buckle surgery was used less often, dropping from more than 60% of cases to just 5%. Instead, a procedure called a vitrectomy became more common. An additional procedure, called an encircling buckle, was used less frequently, but this did not seem to negatively affect the success rates of the surgeries. The use of something called a silicone tamponade also decreased.
Overall, the success rates of these surgeries slightly improved over the 15 years studied. This suggests that the changes in surgical techniques are effectively treating retinal detachment.
FAQs
- Has the number of surgeries for retinal detachment increased over the years?
- How have the methods used in retinal detachment surgeries changed over the past 15 years?
- Have the success rates of retinal detachment surgeries improved with the change in surgical techniques?
Doctor’s Tip
A doctor might tell a patient undergoing retinal detachment surgery to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping their head in a certain position to aid in the healing process. They may also advise the patient to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and ensure the success of the surgery. Additionally, the doctor may recommend wearing protective eyewear and avoiding strenuous activities that could put pressure on the eyes during the recovery period.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended retinal detachment surgery include those who have a detached retina that is causing vision loss or other serious complications. Patients with symptoms such as sudden flashes of light, floaters in the eye, or a curtain-like shadow over their vision may be candidates for surgery. Additionally, patients with risk factors for retinal detachment, such as a previous history of retinal detachment in the other eye, high myopia, or a family history of the condition, may also be recommended for surgery. Ultimately, the decision to undergo retinal detachment surgery is made on a case-by-case basis by an ophthalmologist or retina specialist.
Timeline
Before retinal detachment surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as sudden flashes of light, floaters in their vision, or a curtain-like shadow over their visual field. They would then visit an eye doctor who would diagnose the retinal detachment through an eye exam and imaging tests.
After the diagnosis, the patient would undergo retinal detachment surgery, which may involve procedures such as vitrectomy or buckle surgery. The surgery aims to reattach the retina to the back of the eye and prevent further vision loss.
After the surgery, the patient would need to follow post-operative care instructions, which may include using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. The patient may experience some discomfort or blurry vision initially, but their vision should gradually improve over time.
Overall, the success rates of retinal detachment surgery have slightly improved over the years, indicating that the changes in surgical techniques are effectively treating this serious eye condition.
What to Ask Your Doctor
Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about retinal detachment surgery include:
- What are the risks and benefits of retinal detachment surgery?
- What type of surgery will be performed for my specific case of retinal detachment?
- What is the success rate of the surgery for my condition?
- What is the recovery process like after retinal detachment surgery?
- Are there any potential complications or side effects I should be aware of?
- How long will it take for my vision to improve after surgery?
- Will I need follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?
- How long will it take for me to resume normal activities after retinal detachment surgery?
- Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to help prevent future retinal detachments?
- What should I do if I experience any concerning symptoms after the surgery?
Reference
Authors: Radeck V, Helbig H, Barth T, Gamulescu MA, Prahs P, Maerker D. Journal: Ophthalmologe. 2022 Jan;119(Suppl 1):64-70. doi: 10.1007/s00347-021-01430-4. Epub 2021 Jun 17. PMID: 34137944