Our Summary

The researchers looked back at the cases of 126 patients (79 men, 47 women) with a specific type of retinal detachment, called rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). They all were treated with a specific type of eye surgery (25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy or PPV) and a gas bubble was inserted into their eye. The aim was to see how effective this treatment was to reattach the retina and improve eyesight.

They found that the surgery was successful in almost all cases (99.2%) after a single operation, and 100% successful after some follow-up treatment. The patients’ vision also improved significantly. The initial average vision was fairly poor, but it improved a lot by the end of the treatment period, a change that was statistically significant.

On the downside, on the first day after surgery, one patient (0.8%) had a reduction in eye pressure, while a little more than a quarter of patients (28.6%) had a temporary increase in eye pressure.

In conclusion, this study shows that for retinal detachment, this specific type of surgery combined with a gas bubble is very effective at reattaching the retina and improving vision, with a low risk of complications and need for additional stitches.

FAQs

  1. What is the success rate of the 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) surgery for patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD)?
  2. Does the 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) surgery improve the vision of patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD)?
  3. What are the potential complications of the 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) surgery for patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD)?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vitrectomy is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including using any prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending all follow-up appointments. It is important to report any changes in vision or any unusual symptoms to your doctor immediately. It is also important to protect your eyes from injury and to avoid rubbing or putting pressure on the eye during the healing process.

Suitable For

Patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) are typically recommended vitrectomy surgery with a gas bubble insertion. This type of surgery is effective at reattaching the retina and improving vision in the majority of cases.

Timeline

Before vitrectomy:

  • Patients experience symptoms of retinal detachment, such as floaters, flashes of light, and a curtain or shadow over their vision
  • Patients undergo a comprehensive eye examination to diagnose the retinal detachment
  • The decision is made to proceed with vitrectomy surgery, which involves removing the vitreous gel in the eye and repairing the detached retina

After vitrectomy:

  • Patients undergo the vitrectomy surgery, during which a gas bubble is inserted into the eye to help reattach the retina
  • In the immediate post-operative period, patients may experience temporary increases or decreases in eye pressure
  • Over time, the gas bubble dissipates and the retina reattaches, leading to improved vision
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the progress of the retina reattachment and assess vision improvement
  • In most cases, the surgery is successful in reattaching the retina and improving vision, with a low risk of complications or need for additional treatment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about vitrectomy for retinal detachment include:

  1. What is the success rate of vitrectomy for reattaching the retina in cases of retinal detachment?
  2. How many surgeries are typically needed to reattach the retina with vitrectomy?
  3. What are the potential risks or complications associated with vitrectomy for retinal detachment?
  4. What is the expected recovery time after vitrectomy surgery?
  5. Will my vision improve after vitrectomy for retinal detachment?
  6. Will I need any follow-up treatments or additional procedures after vitrectomy?
  7. How long will the gas bubble remain in my eye after vitrectomy surgery?
  8. What are the potential side effects of having a gas bubble inserted into my eye?
  9. What is the likelihood of experiencing changes in eye pressure after vitrectomy surgery?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after undergoing vitrectomy for retinal detachment?

Reference

Authors: Veith M, Stranak Z, Pencak M, Vranova J, Studeny P. Journal: Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub. 2019 Feb;163(1):80-84. doi: 10.5507/bp.2018.034. Epub 2018 Jun 21. PMID: 29967564