Our Summary

This research paper investigates the effect of riding in an elevator on the pressure within the eye (intraocular pressure) after a specific type of eye surgery. The surgery, known as vitreoretinal surgery with gas insertion, is compared to the same procedure without gas insertion.

Researchers gathered 54 patients, half of whom had the gas insertion surgery, and the other half did not. After the surgery, on day one, researchers measured the pressure in the patient’s eyes three times, both on the fourth floor and then again after quickly riding an elevator up to the twelfth floor. They also asked patients if they felt any pain or nausea for at least 15 minutes after the elevator ride.

The results showed that the pressure in the eyes of the patients who had the gas insertion surgery increased significantly more than the patients who did not have the gas inserted. This increase in pressure was statistically significant even after only going up eight floors in an elevator.

This indicates that riding in an elevator can have a significant effect on eye pressure after this type of surgery, and more research is needed to understand how different gases and different heights might further impact this.

FAQs

  1. What is the impact of elevator travel on intraocular pressure after vitreoretinal surgery with gas tamponade?
  2. Are there any symptoms experienced by patients after an elevator ascent post vitreoretinal surgery?
  3. How does the intraocular pressure change in patients who undergo vitreoretinal surgery with gas insertion compared to those without gas insertion?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vitrectomy with gas tamponade is to avoid rapid changes in altitude, such as taking an elevator to higher floors, as this can cause a significant increase in intraocular pressure. It is important to discuss any potential travel plans or situations that may involve changes in altitude with your healthcare provider before undergoing this procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vitrectomy include those with:

  1. Retinal detachment
  2. Macular hole
  3. Diabetic retinopathy
  4. Epiretinal membrane
  5. Vitreous hemorrhage
  6. Vitreomacular traction syndrome
  7. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy
  8. Intraocular foreign body
  9. Endophthalmitis
  10. Complications from previous eye surgeries.

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

Timeline

  • Before vitrectomy: The patient undergoes a pars plana vitreoretinal surgery with or without gas tamponade. Intraocular pressures are measured on the fourth floor of the hospital.

  • After vitrectomy: The patient is taken to the 12th floor of the hospital in an elevator, causing a rapid ascent. Intraocular pressures are measured again, and patients are observed for any symptoms of pain or nausea for at least 15 minutes.

  • Results: Patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery with gas insertion experienced a statistically significant rise in intraocular pressure compared to those without gas insertion. Further studies are needed to evaluate the change in intraocular pressure at different altitudes and with different gases.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. How will a vitrectomy affect my vision in the long term?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vitrectomy surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after vitrectomy surgery?
  4. Will I need to wear an eye patch or take any medications after the surgery?
  5. How soon can I resume normal activities such as driving or working?
  6. Are there any specific precautions I should take to protect my eyes during the recovery period?
  7. Will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery, and if so, how often?
  8. How will the gas tamponade used during the surgery affect my daily life, such as flying in an airplane or going up in elevators?
  9. What symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication or infection after the surgery?
  10. Are there any specific dietary or lifestyle changes I should make to help with the recovery process?

Reference

Authors: Wong PPY, Tsim NC, Chan KKW, Lau IHW, Mak ACY, Chen GLJ, Iu LPL, Ho M, Young AL, Brelén M. Journal: Sci Rep. 2023 Aug 28;13(1):14088. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-40416-x. PMID: 37640777