What Is a Vitrectomy?

A vitrectomy is a procedure that removes some of the vitreous, or gel, from the eye. The vitreous is removed to deal with problems in the back of the eye. It is also performed to remove blood, foreign objects or scar tissue from the eye.

Reasons for a Vitrectomy

• A vitrectomy may be performed if a patient is suffering from a detached retina, bleeding inside the eye, a macular hole or complications from previous eye surgery.

Procedure

• A vitrectomy is performed through tiny incisions in the eye. The surgeon inserts fiber optic lights and the instruments to cut and take out the vitreous through these tiny cuts.

Other Techniques

• Sometimes a laser is used during the procedure to stop bleeding within the eye. Following surgery, silicone oil is sometimes placed in the eye to keep the retina from detaching again.

Post-operative Results

• Though there may be some swelling and itchiness following the procedure, most post-operative discomfort will vanish a few days after the vitrectomy.

Side Effects

• Some patients will continue to experience blurry vision for up to one week following the procedure.