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Questions and Answers
What is the primary purpose of vitrectomy surgery?
What happens to the vitreous gel in certain disease states?
Why is the surgeon unable to visualize the retina in certain cases?
What can the formation of membranes lead to?
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When is vitrectomy surgery indicated?
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Study Notes
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).
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Description
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.
