Our Summary

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a surgical procedure called 25G+ PPV in treating a condition called rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), where the retina separates from the back of the eye. The study involved 152 patients who underwent this procedure between July 2019 and May 2021.

The researchers found that the surgery was able to successfully reattach the retina in about 99% of the cases. In terms of visual acuity (clarity of vision), 33% of the patients achieved a level of 4/8 or higher post-surgery.

The study concludes that the 25G+ PPV is a useful procedure in treating RRD. In fact, in 87.5% of the patients, the surgery was successful even without the need for an intraocular tamponade (a technique used to help keep the retina in place).

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the 25G+ PPV surgical procedure?
  2. What percentage of patients had successful retina reattachment following the 25G+ PPV surgery?
  3. How often was the 25G+ PPV procedure successful without the need for an intraocular tamponade?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vitrectomy is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including proper eye care, medications, and follow-up appointments. It is important to protect the eye from injury and avoid strenuous activities that could put pressure on the eye during the healing process. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, can help promote overall eye health and recovery after vitrectomy surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vitrectomy include those with:

  1. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), where the retina separates from the back of the eye
  2. Diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina
  3. Macular hole, a small break in the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision
  4. Epiretinal membrane, a thin layer of scar tissue that forms on the surface of the retina
  5. Vitreous hemorrhage, bleeding into the vitreous gel that fills the eye
  6. Vitreomacular traction, where the vitreous gel pulls on the macula, causing distortion of vision

It is important for patients to consult with their ophthalmologist to determine if vitrectomy is the appropriate treatment for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before vitrectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms of retinal detachment such as flashes of light, floaters, and a shadow or curtain over their field of vision.
  2. Patient undergoes a comprehensive eye examination, including imaging tests like ultrasound and optical coherence tomography (OCT) to confirm the diagnosis of retinal detachment.
  3. Patient discusses treatment options with their ophthalmologist, including the possibility of vitrectomy surgery.

After vitrectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes pre-operative preparations, including fasting and receiving instructions on post-operative care.
  2. Patient undergoes the vitrectomy surgery, during which the vitreous gel is removed from the eye and any retinal tears are repaired.
  3. Patient may experience discomfort, redness, and blurred vision immediately after the surgery.
  4. Patient is instructed to follow specific post-operative care instructions, including using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
  5. Over time, the patient’s vision may gradually improve as the eye heals and the retina reattaches.
  6. Patient attends regular follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and address any complications that may arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of vitrectomy for my specific condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vitrectomy?
  3. What is the recovery process like after vitrectomy 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 vitrectomy?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider?
  7. How long will the effects of vitrectomy last?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after vitrectomy?
  9. What is the likelihood of needing a repeat vitrectomy in the future?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes I should make to support the success of vitrectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Chrapek O, Matušková V, Vysloužilová D, Beránek J, Souček J, Sičová K, Březík M. Journal: Cesk Slov Oftalmol. 2024;80(1):12-17. doi: 10.31348/2024/4. PMID: 38365577