Vitreoretinal Surgery is a specialised procedure addressing conditions affecting the retina and vitreous of the eye.
The retina is located at the back of the eye and acts like the film in a camera, capturing light and visual images before transmitting them to the brain through the optic nerve. At its centre lies the macula, a vital region responsible for sharp central vision, allowing us to read, recognize faces, and perceive colours.
At Clarity, our experienced surgeons and state-of-the-art technology ensure the best possible care and outcomes for patients with retinal conditions, such as epiretinal membranes and macular holes.
We specialise in diagnosing and treating a variety of retinal conditions, including:
The retina is a delicate, thin layer of cells attached to the inner lining of the eye. It functions similarly to film in pre-digital cameras, capturing images and transmitting them to the brain via the optic nerve for interpretation.
Due to the eye’s curved structure, the retina is also curved, allowing for vision in all directions. Peripheral or side vision relies on the outer parts of the retina, while central vision depends on the macula at the centre of the retina. Within the macula is a tiny area responsible for fine detail, enabling activities such as reading, colour recognition, driving and face recognition.
The vitreous is a clear, jelly-like substance that fills the eye’s cavity. It plays a crucial role during a baby’s development in the womb, helping form various parts of the eye. In childhood, the vitreous is thick and challenging to remove. As we age, it becomes more watery and easier to remove.
The vitreous is firmly attached to the retina, which is why some retinal conditions are linked to vitreous changes. Many such conditions require surgical removal of the vitreous, performed by specialized Vitreo-Retinal Surgeons.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the inner lining of the eye, potentially causing vision loss.
Most detachments result from a break or hole in the retina, often triggered by changes in the vitreous. Detachments typically begin in the periphery, affecting side vision first. If the detachment reaches the macula, central vision may be severely impacted.
Symptoms can include flashing lights, floaters and loss of side vision. If untreated, detachment can lead to sudden loss of vision.
If you experience these symptoms, contact an optometrist or GP immediately. Urgent consultations and surgical repairs are available at specialist eye hospitals.
Macular holes develop at the centre of the macula, affecting structural integrity and causing blurred or distorted central vision.
Surgical Treatment:
Early treatment of small macular holes often yields significant vision improvement. Larger holes can also be treated surgically, but with less visual improvement.
Surgery involves a vitrectomy, membrane removal and insertion of a gas bubble.
This condition involves a membrane forming on the macula’s surface, leading to distorted central vision.
Surgical Treatment:
Treatment includes a vitrectomy with membrane removal, performed under local or general anaesthesia.
A vitreous haemorrhage involves bleeding into the eye, often due to diabetic retinopathy or retinal tears caused by vitreous detachment.
Symptoms:
Flashing lights
Sudden loss of vision
Treatment:
Urgent assessment and vitrectomy surgery are required to prevent complications such as retinal detachment.
