Vitrectomy consists of removing the vitreous gel, a transparent substance that fills the eye cavity. This surgical procedure was pioneered in Spain by IMO specialists more than 30 years ago.
In which cases is it performed?
The purpose of this technique is to cure diseases of the vitreous, although sometimes it is also performed to treat other diseases affecting the retina.
Ocular pathologies that may require vitrectomy:
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal detachment
- Ocular injuries or trauma
- Macular holes, macular degenerations with neovessels or other diseases of the macula.
- Secondary complications or inflammation of the eye
- Pathologies related to high myopia
- Complications after cataract surgery
- Complications arising from uveitis
Before surgery, a detailed eye examination and an ultrasound scan are performed to observe the condition of the ocular tissues.
Other tests may also be added:
- Retinal Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): scanner to capture the different layers of the retina in high definition.
- Fluorescein angiography: contrast test to detect possible fluid leaks or damage to retinal blood vessels.
- Electrophysiological test: test that examines the electrical stimulation of the eye to detect problems in the retina and in the entire optical pathway to the cerebral cortex.
During the operation
The procedure consists of making three small micro-incisions (less than 1 mm) in the outer wall of the eyeball. From there, the vitreous cavity is accessed and a fiber optic light is introduced to illuminate the retina, an irrigation cannula to maintain intraocular pressure and a vitrectome to section and remove the vitreous.
During surgery, gas is sometimes injected into the ocular cavity to promote the retinal repair process. On other occasions, silicone oil is used, although it does not disappear naturally and must be removed in a second operation.
Vitrectomy is performed under local anesthesia and lasts between one and two hours.