Vitrectomy Surgery Procedure

Vitrectomy

• Vitrectomy is the removal of all or part of the vitreous gel (body) in the eye.
• In a broader sense, vitrectomy surgery can also involve the excision and removal of:
  • Fibrotic membranes
  • Epiretinal membranes
  • Electrocoagulation of bleeding vessels

Normal Vitreous Gel

• In its normal state, the vitreous gel is transparent.

Disease States

• In certain disease states, bleeding from damaged or newly formed vessels may cause the vitreous to become opaque.
• Opaque vitreous can severely decrease vision.
• The surgeon is unable to visualize the retina and treat the underlying pathologic condition before permanent damage occurs.

Indications for Vitrectomy Surgery

• Vitrectomy surgery is indicated to:
  • Restore the patient's vision
  • Allow the surgeon to institute treatment if indicated
  • Relieve underlying pathologic processes leading to decreased vision

Formation of Membranes

• Formation of membranes can block the visual axis and cause decreased vision.
• Contraction of these membranes may produce traction-type or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD).

Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of vitreous gel from the eye, often performed to treat conditions causing vision loss. The surgery also removes fibrotic membranes and bleeding vessels.