Posterior Vitrectomy

Posterior vitrectomy is a type of surgical procedure where the vitreous body (the transparent gel – like substance inside the eyeball, if we imagine the eye as a balloon) is removed to repair damage or alterations to the retina and macula (the posterior part of the eye), with the goal of improving and stabilizing patient’s vision. Posterior vitrectomy is surgical procedure of highly difficulty, which is performed by a specialized ophthalmic surgeon.

The vast majority of vitrectomies are performed under local anesthesia with the presence of an anesthesiologist. Small incisions typically do not require stitches. There is no need for the patient to stay in a clinic or be hospitalized. The procedure usually lasts between 30 and 90 minutes, depending on the severity of the eye condition. A posterior vitrectomy can also be combined with cataract surgery removal, using the phacoemulsification method. In this case, the combined surgical procedure is called phacovitrectomy. During a posterior vitrectomy, a surgeon may also use an endo – laser for intraoperative photocoagulation.

After posterior vitrectomy surgery, it is expected that the patient may feel slight discomfort or mild pain in the operated eye, which is usually covered with a bandage. Special medication with coils (eye drops) is administered postoperatively. If gas or silicone oil was used during surgery, the surgeon will provide instructions on the correct postoperative positioning of the patient’s head for the next days. In the case of gas use, the patient should not travel by airplane or go to high altitudes.