About Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy is an advanced intraocular (vitreoretinal) surgery based on surgically clearing the clear, gel-like vitreous that fills the back cavity of the eye and carrying out the procedures needed on the retina. The aim is to resolve the problem impairing vision and to protect the retina.
Today, vitrectomy is performed with a microincisional technique using small, suture-free entries (23, 25 or 27 Gauge). This increases comfort and shortens recovery time. When required, steps such as retinal laser, membrane peeling and intraocular tamponade (gas or silicone oil) are combined during the procedure.
Vitrectomy most often comes into play in the advanced treatment of retinal diseases. For the general treatment of retinal diseases you can review our Retinal Treatment page.
Who Is It For and When Is It Used?
Vitrectomy is planned for a range of retinal and vitreous diseases that threaten vision:
- Retinal detachment: In cases where the retina has separated from its bed and urgent intervention is required.
- Diabetic intraocular bleeding: In vitreous haemorrhage and tractional detachment caused by diabetic retinopathy.
- Macular hole: In the repair of a macular hole that disturbs central vision.
- Epiretinal membrane: In removing the membrane that forms on the retinal surface and distorts vision.
- Intraocular infection (endophthalmitis): In severe intraocular inflammation, to clear the infected material.
- Dense vitreous opacities: In selected cases of persistent floaters and clouding that significantly impair vision.
Suitability is determined after a detailed retinal examination and imaging (OCT, ultrasound).
Vitrectomy and Combined Techniques
During vitrectomy, different steps are combined according to the disease:
- Pars plana vitrectomy: Controlled clearance of the vitreous through the safe zone of the sclera (the pars plana).
- Membrane peeling: Removal of the fine membranes on the retinal surface in macular hole and epiretinal membrane.
- Endolaser and diathermy: Treating retinal tears and abnormal vessels with laser from inside the eye.
- Intraocular tamponade: Temporary filling with gas or silicone oil to hold the retina in place.
The type of tamponade and the head/positioning advice afterwards are personalised according to the disease.
Key Surgical Steps
Pars Plana Vitrectomy
Microsurgery in which the vitreous is cleared and the retina is treated safely through small, suture-free entries.
Planning
Surgery is planned with a retinal examination and OCT.
Clearance
The vitreous gel is cleared in a controlled way.
Repair
Tears and abnormal vessels are treated with laser.
Sutureless Microsurgery
Tamponade & Recovery
Gas/silicone tamponade to hold the retina in place, followed by positioning and follow-up.
Delicate Step
The fine membranes on the macular surface are removed.
Support
The retina is supported with gas or silicone oil.
Monitoring
Recovery is monitored with positioning advice and regular check-ups.
Protecting the Retina
Is vitrectomy right for you?
The need for surgery and the tamponade plan are decided together based on your retinal findings.
Benefits & Aftercare
Benefits of Modern Vitrectomy
Sutureless microincisional surgery provides a more comfortable process and faster recovery.
- Small, suture-free entries
- Less tissue trauma
- Effective treatment in vision-threatening disease
Aftercare & Follow-up
In cases with tamponade, positioning and follow-up are an important part of success.
- Adherence to recommended head/face-down positioning
- Avoiding air travel with gas tamponade
- Regular check-up examinations