Specifications

77 III For Providers
The EyePACS Handbook: Tools for Program Success
A vitrectomy is performed under either local or general anesthesia. The doctor makes a
tiny incision in the 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.
The patient is usually able to return home after the vitrectomy. Some people stay in the
hospital overnight. The eye will be red and sensitive. The patient will need to wear an
eye patch for a few days or weeks to protect the eye and will need to use medicated eye
drops to protect against infection.
Are scatter laser treatment and vitrectomy effective in treating proliferative
retinopathy?
Both scatter treatment and vitrectomy are very effective in reducing vision loss. People
with proliferative retinopathy have less than a five percent chance of becoming blind
within five years when they get timely and appropriate treatment. Although both
treatments have high success rates, they do not cure diabetic retinopathy.
Once a patient has proliferative retinopathy, they will always be at risk for new
bleeding. They may need treatment more than once to protect their sight.
What can patients do if they already have lost some vision from diabetic
retinopathy?
Patients that have already lost some sight from diabetic retinopathy should be advised
to ask their eye care professional about low vision services and devices that may help
make the most of any remaining vision. These patients should be referred to a specialist
in low vision. Many community organizations and agencies offer information about low
vision counseling, training, and other special services for people with visual
impairments. A nearby school of medicine or optometry may also provide low vision
services.
References:
National Eye Institute [http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/diabetic/retinopathy.asp]