Our Summary

This study was conducted to find out if a specific eye surgery, called a pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), produces aerosols (tiny particles in the air). The researchers used pig eyes for their experiment and took 200 measurements using a device that can count particles that are 10 micrometers or smaller. They looked at the amount of aerosols in the air before the surgery, during the surgery, and after when they used two different techniques to get rid of the air and fluid in the eye. They found that the surgery did not significantly increase the amount of aerosols in the air. One of the techniques they used to remove air and fluid from the eye actually reduced the amount of aerosols. This means that this type of eye surgery is not likely to produce aerosols that could potentially spread disease.

FAQs

  1. What is a pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and does it produce aerosols?
  2. What techniques were used in the study to remove air and fluid from the eye during the surgery?
  3. Does the pars plana vitrectomy surgery increase the risk of spreading diseases through aerosols?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing a vitrectomy to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a period of time after the surgery to allow for proper healing of the eye. They may also recommend wearing an eye patch or protective shield to prevent any potential injury to the eye during the recovery process. Additionally, the doctor may advise the patient to follow any specific post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended vitrectomy include those with:

  1. Retinal detachment
  2. Macular hole
  3. Diabetic retinopathy
  4. Retinal vein occlusion
  5. Epiretinal membrane
  6. Vitreous hemorrhage
  7. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy
  8. Vitreomacular traction syndrome

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

Timeline

Before Vitrectomy:

  1. Patient experiences symptoms such as blurry vision, floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow over their field of vision.
  2. Patient consults with an ophthalmologist or retina specialist who recommends a vitrectomy to treat their condition.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing and evaluation to ensure they are a good candidate for the surgery.

During Vitrectomy:

  1. Patient is given local or general anesthesia to numb the eye and prevent discomfort during the procedure.
  2. Surgeon makes small incisions in the eye and uses specialized instruments to remove the vitreous gel and any scar tissue or debris causing vision problems.
  3. Surgery typically lasts 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the case.

After Vitrectomy:

  1. Patient may experience some discomfort, redness, or swelling in the eye immediately following the surgery.
  2. Patient is instructed to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or bending over for a period of time to allow the eye to heal properly.
  3. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the eye’s healing progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.
  4. Patient gradually regains clear vision as the eye heals and adjusts to the changes made during the surgery.

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after vitrectomy can vary depending on the individual case and the specific condition being treated. It is important for patients to follow their doctor’s instructions closely and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best possible outcome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a vitrectomy and why is it recommended for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a vitrectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during the post-operative period?
  4. Will I need to take any special precautions or follow a specific post-operative care regimen?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing a vitrectomy?
  6. How experienced are you in performing vitrectomy procedures?
  7. Will I need to undergo any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?
  8. What are the potential long-term effects of having a vitrectomy?
  9. How successful is a vitrectomy in improving my vision or treating my condition?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions I need to follow after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Naveed H, May Chew F, Lee H, Hughes E, Nanavaty MA. Journal: Br J Ophthalmol. 2021 Sep;105(9):1313-1317. doi: 10.1136/bjophthalmol-2020-317214. Epub 2020 Oct 14. PMID: 33055085