Our Summary

This study aimed to understand how successful retina surgery affects the quality of life related to vision in patients. The researchers studied 48 patients who had undergone surgery to repair a detached retina, focusing on how the retina was detached before surgery. They used a variety of tests to assess the patients’ vision one year after surgery, and asked them to fill out a questionnaire to evaluate their quality of life related to vision. Two areas where patients reported the most difficulty were general vision and driving. The study found that patients who had a certain type of retina detachment before surgery (stage 3) had better vision outcomes compared to other types. The researchers suggest that understanding the type of retina detachment could help predict a patient’s vision function after surgery.

FAQs

  1. What was the main aim of this study on retinal surgery?
  2. What were the two areas where patients reported the most difficulty after retinal surgery?
  3. How does the type of retina detachment influence the vision function after surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient undergoing retinal surgery to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activities. They may also advise the patient to report any changes in vision or symptoms such as pain or redness to their healthcare provider immediately. Additionally, the doctor may recommend wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear to prevent further damage to the retina and to maintain overall eye health.

Suitable For

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

  • Retinal detachment: Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye, causing a sudden loss of vision. Surgery is often necessary to reattach the retina and prevent permanent vision loss.

  • Macular hole: A macular hole is a small break in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Surgery can help close the hole and improve vision.

  • Epiretinal membrane: An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue that forms on the surface of the retina, causing distortion or blurriness of vision. Surgery can remove the membrane and improve vision.

  • Diabetic retinopathy: Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision loss. Surgery may be recommended to treat complications such as retinal detachment or macular edema.

  • Retinal vascular diseases: Conditions such as retinal vein occlusion or retinal artery occlusion can cause vision loss due to blockages in the blood vessels of the retina. Surgery may be necessary to restore blood flow and improve vision.

Overall, patients with retinal conditions that can potentially lead to permanent vision loss or significant impairment are typically recommended for retinal surgery to preserve or improve their vision.

Timeline

Before retinal surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as blurry vision, floaters, flashes of light, or a sudden loss of vision. They may undergo a comprehensive eye examination, including imaging tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography to diagnose the retinal issue.

During retinal surgery, the patient will be under local or general anesthesia, depending on the procedure. The surgeon will repair the detached retina using techniques such as vitrectomy, scleral buckle, or pneumatic retinopexy. The surgery aims to reattach the retina and restore vision.

After retinal surgery, the patient may experience temporary vision changes, such as blurry vision or sensitivity to light. They will need to follow post-operative care instructions, including using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon.

Over time, the patient’s vision should improve as the retina heals. They may undergo vision rehabilitation or therapy to improve visual function and adapt to any permanent changes in vision. The patient’s quality of life related to vision may improve as their vision stabilizes and they adjust to any visual changes post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of retinal detachment did I have before surgery?
  2. What is the success rate of the surgery for my specific type of retinal detachment?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with retinal surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care plan?
  5. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  6. How will the surgery affect my vision in the long term?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I should be aware of after the surgery?
  8. How will the surgery impact my quality of life related to vision?
  9. Can you provide me with any resources or support groups for patients who have undergone retinal surgery?
  10. What are the alternative treatment options available for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Ng H, Vermeer KA, van Meurs JC, La Heij EC. Journal: Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2020 Aug 3;61(10):34. doi: 10.1167/iovs.61.10.34. PMID: 32805003