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10/17/08
11:18 AM
"What is the success ratio of a vitrectomy versus waiting for vision to clear after a retinal hemorrhage? "
Asked By:
rparant
Category:
Vision
Background Info Hide
55 year old on pump with good A1C's and in good health, had previous laser surgurey in both eyes . Cannot see out of right eye right now after the hemorrhage, and the left is weak due to laser. I do not want to wait for vision to clear and am considering vitrectomy.
Expert Answers (1)
11/17/08
12:58 AM
Hello,
To prevent progression of diabetic retinopathy, people with diabetes should control their levels of blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood cholesterol.
Scatter laser treatment works better before the fragile, new blood vessels have started to bleed. That is why it is important to have regular, comprehensive dilated eye exams. Even if bleeding has started, scatter laser treatment may still be possible, depending on the amount of bleeding.
If the bleeding is severe, you may need a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy. If you have a lot of blood in the center of the eye (vitreous gel), you may need a vitrectomy to restore your sight.
A vitrectomy is performed under either local or general anesthesia. Your doctor makes a tiny incision in your eye. Next, a small instrument is used to remove the vitreous gel that is clouded with blood. The vitreous gel is replaced with a salt solution. Because the vitreous gel is mostly water, you will notice no change between the salt solution and the original vitreous gel.
You will probably be able to return home after the vitrectomy. Some people stay in the hospital overnight. Your eye will be red and sensitive. You will need to wear an eye patch for a few days or weeks to protect your eye. You also will need to use medicated eyedrops to protect against infection.
To determine if the procedure is right for you, consider a second opinion from another eye specialist. The doctor can best determine if and when the hemorrhage might clear up by itself. Since there is a good chance that you can regain your vision with the procedure, do not delay in making your decision.
Take care.
Answered By:
Liz Quintana
Accreditations: EdD, RD, LD, CDE
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(1 Answer)
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*** All information contained on dLife.com is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Our Expert Q&A is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.
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