Our Summary

This paper discusses a new surgical technique for treating full-thickness retinal folds, a common issue after retinal detachment surgery. These folds, especially when they occur in the macular area of the eye, can significantly impair a patient’s vision.

The researchers treated 6 patients between January 2017 and June 2020 using a new technique. They started by re-detaching the retina using a balanced salt solution and then injecting filtered air beneath the retina. They then smoothed out the retinal fold using a substance called perfluorocarbon. After the surgery, they didn’t need to drain the air and fluid from the eye because they absorbed naturally.

The results were promising. None of the patients experienced vision loss after the procedure, and 4 out of 6 saw an improvement in their vision. Distorted vision, a symptom known as metamorphopsia, improved in 5 out of 6 patients, with 2 reporting it disappeared completely. Only one patient reported no change in their distorted vision, even though their retina appeared smoother after the surgery.

In conclusion, this new technique seems to be a safe and effective way to treat full-thickness retinal folds following retinal detachment surgery. However, it’s crucial to select suitable patients for this procedure carefully.

FAQs

  1. What is the new surgical technique for treating full-thickness retinal folds?
  2. What were the results of the new surgical technique used between January 2017 and June 2020?
  3. How were the patients selected for the new method of treating full-thickness retinal folds?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing retinal surgery to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome. This may include avoiding strenuous activities, taking prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and reporting any changes in vision or symptoms to their doctor immediately. It’s also important for patients to have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery and to be patient during the recovery process.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended retinal surgery are those with retinal detachments, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal disorders that can lead to vision loss. In the case of full-thickness retinal folds following retinal detachment surgery, patients experiencing significant vision impairment due to these folds may be candidates for this new surgical technique. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation by an ophthalmologist to determine if they are suitable candidates for retinal surgery.

Timeline

Timeline:

Before retinal surgery:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of retinal detachment, such as sudden flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over their field of vision.
  2. Patient undergoes a comprehensive eye examination, including imaging tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT) to confirm the diagnosis of retinal detachment.
  3. The ophthalmologist recommends retinal surgery to repair the detachment and prevent permanent vision loss.

After retinal surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the new surgical technique for treating full-thickness retinal folds, which involves re-detaching the retina, injecting air beneath the retina, and smoothing out the fold with perfluorocarbon.
  2. The surgery is successful, and the patient does not experience vision loss post-operatively.
  3. Four out of six patients experience an improvement in their vision after the surgery, with distorted vision improving in five out of six patients.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and ensure that the retina remains stable.
  5. The patient continues to follow up with their ophthalmologist for regular eye exams to monitor their vision and overall eye health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of this new surgical technique for treating full-thickness retinal folds?
  2. Are there any potential risks or complications associated with this procedure?
  3. How long is the recovery process after undergoing this surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  5. How soon can I expect to see improvements in my vision after the surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures available for treating full-thickness retinal folds?
  7. How many times have you performed this specific surgical technique, and what is your experience with it?
  8. What is the long-term outlook for my vision following this surgery?
  9. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments or treatments after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to protect my eyesight following the procedure?

Reference

Authors: Radeck V, Helbig H, Prahs P. Journal: Ophthalmologe. 2022 Apr;119(4):381-387. doi: 10.1007/s00347-021-01485-3. Epub 2021 Aug 30. PMID: 34459964