Our Summary
This research looks at the changes in small blood vessels in the eye after surgery for a specific type of retinal detachment (a condition where the retina, the layer at the back of the eye, comes off). The study monitored 34 eyes for a year after surgery. Two important aspects they focused on were the size of a certain area in the retina without blood vessels and the density of blood vessels around the fovea (the part of the eye responsible for sharp vision). They used a special type of imaging (swept-source optical coherence tomographic angiography) to measure these.
The findings showed that these two aspects were worse in the operated eye compared to the non-operated eye at different time points after surgery. However, they improved a year after the operation.
The thickness of a layer of the retina before surgery and the type of surgery performed were linked to the decrease in blood vessel density a year after surgery. More damage was seen in eyes that underwent a certain type of surgery (pars plana vitrectomy) compared to another type (buckling).
In simple terms, although the surgery is successful in fixing the detachment, some changes in the small blood vessels in the eye occur, but they improve over a year. The type of surgery could affect the extent of these changes.
FAQs
- What changes occur in the small blood vessels in the eye after retinal detachment surgery?
- How does the type of surgery for retinal detachment affect the condition of the eye a year after the operation?
- Did the study find any improvement in the condition of the small blood vessels in the eye a year after retinal detachment surgery?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about retinal detachment surgery is to be aware that there may be changes in small blood vessels in the eye after the surgery, but these changes typically improve over time. It is important to follow up with your doctor regularly to monitor these changes and ensure proper healing. Additionally, the type of surgery performed can impact the extent of these changes, so it is important to discuss the options with your surgeon.
Suitable For
Patients who are typically recommended retinal detachment surgery are those who have experienced a detachment of the retina, leading to symptoms such as sudden flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over their field of vision. Additionally, patients with a high risk of retinal detachment, such as those with a history of retinal detachment in the other eye, severe nearsightedness, or a family history of retinal detachment, may also be recommended for surgery to prevent future complications.
Timeline
Before surgery: The patient may experience symptoms of retinal detachment such as flashes of light, floaters in vision, and a curtain-like shadow over part of their visual field. They would undergo a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose the detachment and determine the best course of treatment.
Day of surgery: The patient undergoes retinal detachment surgery, which may involve procedures such as scleral buckle surgery or vitrectomy to reattach the retina to the back of the eye.
Post-surgery: The patient may experience some discomfort, blurred vision, and redness in the eye. They would need to follow post-operative care instructions, which may include using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
Weeks to months after surgery: The patient’s vision gradually improves as the retina heals and reattaches to the back of the eye. They may still need to have regular check-ups to monitor their progress and ensure that the retina remains attached.
1 year after surgery: The patient undergoes imaging tests to assess the changes in the small blood vessels in the eye. The findings show that although there were some changes in blood vessel density after surgery, they improved over time. The type of surgery performed may also impact the extent of these changes.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with retinal detachment surgery?
- How long is the recovery period after surgery and what can I expect during this time?
- Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions or restrictions?
- How will the surgery affect my vision in the long term?
- Are there any specific factors that could impact the outcome of the surgery for my individual case?
- What are the success rates for this type of surgery and what are the chances of the detachment reoccurring?
- Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
- How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
- Will I need to undergo any additional tests or imaging studies to monitor the changes in my eye post-surgery?
- Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to protect my eye health after the surgery?
Reference
Authors: Nam SH, Kim K, Kim ES, Kim DG, Yu SY. Journal: Ophthalmologica. 2021;244(1):34-41. doi: 10.1159/000508464. Epub 2020 May 7. PMID: 32380497