Vitrectomy: Surgical Removal of Eye Gel for Posterior Segment Diseases

Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is the surgical removal of the clear gel-like substance (vitreous) located inside the eye. Certain diseases and conditions occurring in the posterior segment of the eye may require removal of the vitreous. Vitrectomy surgery performed for the treatment of such disorders is currently considered a highly common and successful method. In this article prepared for you, we will attempt to answer all your questions about vitrectomy.

What Is the Purpose of Vitrectomy Surgery?

The fundamental purpose of vitrectomy surgery is the treatment of diseases occurring in the posterior segment of the eye that require removal of the vitreous. The surgery provides better access to the retina and other tissues located in the posterior segment of the eye, helping doctors overcome various disorders. Additionally, removal of the vitreous contributes to reducing abnormal traction forces on the retina and clearing internal eye hemorrhages. Thus, the aim is to preserve and improve patients' visual function.

In Which Eye Diseases Is Vitrectomy Preferred?

Vitrectomy surgery may be preferred in the following eye diseases and conditions:

• Vitrectomy can be used when the retinal layer separates from the back wall of the eye.

• Vitrectomy may be preferred in the treatment of damage and hemorrhages occurring in retinal blood vessels due to diabetes mellitus.

• Vitrectomy can be applied in the treatment of holes formed in the central vision area (macula) of the eye.

• Vitrectomy can be used to remove thin membranes forming on the retina and causing visual disturbances.

• Vitrectomy may be preferred in the treatment of infections spreading within the eye and causing inflammation of the vitreous.

• Vitrectomy can be applied in the treatment of hemorrhages and damage resulting from eye trauma.

How Is Vitrectomy Surgery Performed?

Vitrectomy surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 1-2 hours. During the operation, the surgeon enters the eye with fine and specialized instruments and carefully removes the vitreous. After removal of the vitreous, problems occurring in the posterior segment of the eye are addressed. At this stage, problems such as retinal detachment, hemorrhages, membranes, and infections are treated. After the necessary interventions are completed, gas or silicone oil is typically injected into the eye to replace the vitreous. These substances help keep the retina in its proper position and facilitate the beginning of the healing process. After surgery, the patient should rest while wearing a protective bandage and glasses over the eye, as recommended by the doctor.

What Are the Complications Following Vitrectomy?

Although vitrectomy surgery is currently quite safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it has some complications. Complications that may occur following vitrectomy can be listed as follows:

• Although infection developing in the eye after surgery is rare, it is a serious complication. Infection symptoms can be observed as redness, swelling, pain, and discharge.

• Hemorrhage within the eye may occur during or after vitrectomy. This condition can negatively affect vision and may require additional treatment.

• Separation of the retinal layer from the back wall of the eye may occur during or after surgery. This condition is a serious complication requiring emergency treatment.

• The risk of cataract formation increases following vitrectomy, particularly in elderly patients. Cataract results in the loss of transparency of the natural lens in the eye and blurred vision.

• Increased intraocular pressure after surgery can damage the optic nerve and lead to a condition called glaucoma.

What Should Be Considered After Vitrectomy Surgery?

There are some important points that patients should pay attention to following vitrectomy surgery. These points reduce the risk of complications and promote faster healing.

• Use the medications prescribed by your doctor regularly. These medications are usually in the form of eye drops, reduce the risk of infection, and keep intraocular pressure under control.

• It is important to keep the eye clean and dry after surgery. Be careful that water does not enter your eye and clean your eye as recommended by your doctor.

• Your doctor may recommend that you maintain your head in a specific position for a certain period, especially if gas or air injection was performed. This position reduces pressure on the retina and promotes faster healing.

• During the healing process, avoid heavy lifting, exercise, and bending and straightening movements. Such activities can increase intraocular pressure and increase the risk of complications.

• Wearing glasses after surgery protects your eyes from external factors, reducing the risk of infection. Additionally, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunlight.

• During the healing process, attend follow-up appointments at intervals specified by your doctor. These examinations are important for early diagnosis and treatment of possible complications.

Gaining knowledge about points to be observed after vitrectomy and possible complications enables patients to experience a faster and healthier healing process. Contact your doctor if you notice any abnormal symptoms.

Are Vitrectomy and Cataract Surgery Similar Procedures?

Vitrectomy and cataract surgeries are two different procedures performed in the field of eye surgery. Both surgeries target different areas of the eye and are performed for different purposes. Therefore, vitrectomy and cataract surgeries cannot be considered similar procedures.

Vitrectomy is the surgical removal of the vitreous, a gel-like substance inside the eye. This surgery is performed to treat problems occurring in the posterior segment of the eye. Vitrectomy surgery is preferred when there are conditions such as hemorrhages, holes, tears in the retinal layer, or clouding of the normally clear vitreous. It is also used in the treatment of conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and macular hole.

Cataract surgery, on the other hand, is performed when the natural lens of the eye (crystalline lens) becomes cloudy and visual quality decreases. Cataracts can develop due to aging, trauma, genetic factors, and certain systemic diseases. During cataract surgery, the clouded lens is removed and an artificial lens is implanted in its place. This significantly improves the patient's visual quality.

The common aspect of both surgeries is that they are performed using microsurgical techniques and under local anesthesia. However, the targeted areas and the purpose of the surgery differ. While vitrectomy treats problems related to the vitreous and retina located in the posterior segment of the eye, cataract surgery concerns the lens located in the anterior segment of the eye.

Is Vitrectomy Surgery Dangerous?

Like any surgical procedure, vitrectomy surgery carries certain risks and complications. However, when performed by an experienced eye surgeon and with appropriate precautions taken, the chance of vitrectomy surgery being completed successfully is quite high.

Potential risks of vitrectomy surgery include:

• Infection,

• Hemorrhage,

• Retinal tear or hole,

• Cataract formation,

• Increase in intraocular pressure,

• Vision loss,

• Recurrent vitreous hemorrhage,

It is possible to minimize these risks by carefully following your doctor's recommendations before and after surgery and not neglecting regular follow-up appointments. Additionally, choosing an experienced and competent eye surgeon is important for the success of the surgery and reduction of complication risk.

Vitrectomy Treatment Costs in Turkey

Turkey has made a name for itself in the world through its investments and efforts in the healthcare sector. Particularly, the latest technological devices used in diagnostic and therapeutic procedures have brought hope for many diseases. Furthermore, there has been an increase in medical tourism to Turkey.

• Hospitals being large, clean, spacious, and fully equipped with technological instruments,

• Turkish doctors being expert, successful, and talented in their field,

• Nurses and care attendants being friendly and compassionate,

• Questions being answered quickly and accurately,

• All personnel, including the intermediary company assisting the patient, being patient and understanding,

• Turkey offering natural and historical attractions along with vacation opportunities,

• Easy accessibility,

• The availability of diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, food, beverages, clothing, and vacation needs at affordable prices,

are listed among the reasons for preference. We can see that patients and patient relatives wishing to come to Turkey are conducting research regarding Vitrectomy Treatment Costs in Turkey. However, it would not be appropriate to provide definitive price information at this stage. Many factors such as the type and stage of the disease, diagnostic process, treatment process, and length of stay in Turkey affect the cost. If you wish to obtain more detailed price information, you can contact us. Additionally, if you come to Turkey for treatment through our mediation, we can facilitate your visa application process through an invitation letter sent by us to the consulate.