Our Summary

This research paper discusses the common eye problem that occurs after a type of eye surgery called vitrectomy. Vitrectomy is used to treat diseases in the back part of the eye. After this surgery, patients often experience an improvement in their vision, but it can be followed by a decrease in vision due to the development of a cataract, specifically a nuclear sclerotic cataract (NSC), which is the most common type that forms after vitrectomy. Scientists are not sure why this type of cataract forms after vitrectomy and have proposed several theories.

To treat the cataract that forms after vitrectomy, another surgery is performed where the cataract is broken up and removed, and a new lens is implanted in the eye. However, this surgery can also have complications, such as taking longer and having a higher risk of a certain type of rupture compared to when the surgery is performed alone.

In this review, the researchers discuss different theories about why NSC forms after vitrectomy, known ways to prevent NSC from forming, and treatments for NSC and their complications. They also aim to explain the biological process of how NSC forms after vitrectomy.

FAQs

  1. What is the standard therapy for the treatment of posterior segment disease?
  2. What is the most common type of cataract seen after vitrectomy?
  3. What measures are known to prevent post-vitrectomy NSC?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vitrectomy is to be aware that there is a risk of developing cataracts after the procedure. It is important to have regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist to monitor for any changes in vision and to discuss potential treatment options if cataracts develop. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV exposure may help reduce the risk of cataract formation.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended vitrectomy include those with conditions such as retinal detachment, macular hole, diabetic retinopathy, epiretinal membrane, vitreous hemorrhage, and vitreomacular traction. These conditions can lead to vision loss or distortion that may be improved or resolved with vitrectomy surgery. Additionally, patients with complications of cataract formation following vitrectomy may also be recommended for further surgery, such as phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation, to address their visual impairments.

Timeline

Before vitrectomy:

  • Patient undergoes a comprehensive eye examination to diagnose the condition requiring vitrectomy
  • Discussion with the ophthalmologist about the risks and benefits of the surgery
  • Pre-operative testing and preparation for the surgery
  • Surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition
  • Post-operative care and monitoring for complications such as infection or retinal detachment

After vitrectomy:

  • Initial improvement in visual acuity due to the removal of the vitreous gel and treatment of the underlying condition
  • Development of nuclear sclerotic cataract (NSC) as a common complication after vitrectomy
  • Symptoms of NSC include blurry vision, glare, and difficulty with night vision
  • Phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation is performed to correct the NSC
  • Possible complications of the cataract surgery, such as longer surgical time and increased risk of capsular rupture
  • Follow-up appointments with the ophthalmologist to monitor the healing process and visual acuity
  • Rehabilitation and adjustment to any changes in vision post-surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of vitrectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery period after vitrectomy surgery?
  3. What measures can be taken to prevent the formation of cataracts after vitrectomy surgery?
  4. What is the likelihood of developing cataracts after vitrectomy surgery?
  5. What are the treatment options for cataracts that develop after vitrectomy surgery?
  6. What are the possible complications of cataract surgery following vitrectomy?
  7. How long after vitrectomy surgery should cataract surgery be performed?
  8. What is the success rate of cataract surgery following vitrectomy?
  9. How will cataract surgery impact my visual acuity and overall eye health?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or preventative measures for cataracts after vitrectomy surgery?

Reference

Authors: Keyal K, Liao X, Liu G, Yang S, Wang F. Journal: Discov Med. 2017 Dec;24(134):305-311. PMID: 29373808