Our Summary

This study looked at the impact of leftover bits of the eye’s vitreous (a jelly-like substance that fills your eye), called peripheral vitreoschisis-induced vitreous cortex remnants (p-VCRs), on retinal detachment (when the retina at the back of your eye separates from its supporting layers). The researchers wanted to see if these remnants increase the risk of the retina detaching again, especially because of a condition called Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR), after a certain kind of eye surgery (pars plana vitrectomy).

They studied patients who had this surgery for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (the most common type of retinal detachment) between 2016 and 2018. They divided the patients into two groups: one group had the surgery without the p-VCRs being removed, and the other group had the p-VCRs removed during surgery.

The results showed that patients who had the remnants removed had a higher success rate with their surgery and less risk of their retina detaching again due to PVR. Therefore, the researchers suggest that surgeons should be more aggressive in removing the p-VCRs during the initial surgery to prevent future complications.

FAQs

  1. What are peripheral vitreoschisis-induced vitreous cortex remnants (p-VCRs) and how do they impact retinal detachment?
  2. How does the removal of p-VCRs during pars plana vitrectomy surgery affect the risk of retinal re-detachment?
  3. Why do researchers suggest that surgeons should be more aggressive in removing the p-VCRs during the initial surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may advise a patient undergoing retinal detachment surgery to discuss with their surgeon the importance of removing any leftover bits of the vitreous to reduce the risk of complications and improve the success rate of the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended retinal detachment surgery are those with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, where the retina detaches from its supporting layers due to a tear or hole in the retina. Additionally, patients with risk factors for Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy (PVR), a condition where scar tissue forms on the retina leading to recurrent retinal detachment, may also be recommended for surgery. In these cases, removing peripheral vitreoschisis-induced vitreous cortex remnants (p-VCRs) during the surgery may improve the success rate and reduce the risk of future complications.

Timeline

Before retinal detachment surgery:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as sudden onset of floaters, flashes of light, and blurred vision
  • Patient will undergo a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose the retinal detachment
  • Patient may undergo imaging tests such as ultrasound or optical coherence tomography to determine the extent of the detachment
  • Patient will discuss treatment options with their ophthalmologist, including surgery to repair the detachment

After retinal detachment surgery:

  • Patient will undergo the surgery, which may involve removing the vitreous gel and repairing the tear in the retina
  • Patient will be monitored closely post-surgery for any complications or signs of the detachment recurring
  • Patient may experience some discomfort, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light post-surgery
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to ensure the retina is healing properly and to monitor for any long-term complications
  • Patient may need to follow specific post-operative care instructions, such as using eye drops or avoiding strenuous activities, to aid in the healing process.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is retinal detachment surgery and why do I need it?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How will the surgery be performed?
  4. Will I need to stay overnight in the hospital after the surgery?
  5. What is the success rate of this surgery in preventing future retinal detachments?
  6. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  7. How soon after the surgery can I expect to see improvements in my vision?
  8. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after the surgery?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider?

Reference

Authors: Rizzo S, de Angelis L, Barca F, Bacherini D, Vannozzi L, Giansanti F, Faraldi F, Caporossi T. Journal: Eur J Ophthalmol. 2022 Sep;32(5):2833-2839. doi: 10.1177/11206721211057672. Epub 2021 Nov 15. PMID: 34779683