What You Should Know Before Retinal Surgery: Preparation and Precautions

 

 Who Needs Retinal Surgery?

 

Retinal surgery is considered when retinal damage becomes severe and cannot be effectively treated with other methods. Conditions requiring surgery include:

 

Retinal Detachment

 

Retinal detachment is an ophthalmic emergency where the retina separates from underlying tissue, disrupting visual function. Without prompt treatment, permanent vision loss may occur. Symptoms include flashes of light, floaters, a dark curtain over part of vision, or blurred sight. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment by an ophthalmologist are essential.

 

Macular Degeneration

 

Macular degeneration, especially wet AMD, involves abnormal blood vessel growth beneath the retina. These fragile vessels may leak blood or fluid, causing central vision distortion, blurring, or dark spots.

 

The disease can progress rapidly. Treatments such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, or retinal surgery may slow progression and preserve vision.

 

Diabetic Retinopathy

 

Diabetic retinopathy results from chronic high blood sugar damaging retinal blood vessels, leading to leakage, swelling, or bleeding. This causes blurred vision and, if untreated, permanent vision loss.

 

Treatment includes blood sugar control, laser therapy, intraocular injections, or retinal surgery depending on severity. Regular eye exams are essential for early detection.

 

Macular Hole

 

A macular hole is a small defect in the central retina responsible for detailed vision. It may cause distorted central vision while peripheral vision remains normal.

 

Common causes include aging, vitreous traction, or eye injury. Surgery is often required to close the hole and improve vision.

 

Epiretinal Membrane

 

Epiretinal membrane is a thin scar tissue layer on the retinal surface, often affecting the macula. It can distort vision, causing curved lines or double vision.

 

Mild cases may not require treatment, but severe cases affecting daily life may require surgical removal.

 

Vitreous Hemorrhage

 

Vitreous hemorrhage occurs when blood leaks into the vitreous gel, causing hazy or dark vision. Severe cases may significantly impair vision.

 

Common causes include diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, trauma, or abnormal retinal vessels. Treatment ranges from observation to laser therapy or vitrectomy surgery.

 

 

Preparing for Retinal Surgery

 

Proper preparation helps reduce complications and supports faster recovery.

 

๐ Consult your ophthalmologist thoroughly and disclose medical history, medications, and chronic conditions. Preoperative tests may include blood tests or ECG.

๐ Inform your doctor about all medications. Some drugs affecting blood clotting may need temporary discontinuation.

๐ Fasting for at least 6–8 hours before surgery is typically recommended.

๐ Arrange transportation and a caregiver for post-operative support due to temporary blurred vision.

 

Retinal Surgery Procedures

 

Retinal surgery involves various techniques depending on disease type and severity.

 

Vitrectomy

 

This procedure uses very fine instruments inserted through small incisions in the white of the eye. The surgeon removes cloudy or blood-filled vitreous gel, treats underlying retinal conditions with laser therapy, and may inject gas or silicone oil to help reattach the retina. Dissolvable sutures close the incisions.

 

Scleral Buckling

 

This technique places a silicone band or sponge on the outer eye wall to support retinal reattachment. It is commonly used for retinal detachment caused by tears.

 

The material typically remains permanently without complications. Some patients may require fluid drainage beneath the retina. Temporary redness or blurred vision may occur initially.

 

Technology Used in Retinal Surgery

 

Modern retinal surgery combines surgical skill with advanced medical technology for improved safety and precision.

 

๐ Micro-instruments: Extremely small surgical tools minimize incision size and speed recovery.

๐ Surgical microscope: Provides magnified visualization of delicate retinal structures.

๐ ​Endolaser: Treats abnormal vessels or seals retinal tears internally.

๐ Silicone oil or gas: Helps press the retina back into position during healing.

๐​ OCT imaging: Provides detailed retinal scans before and after surgery.

 

Postoperative Care Guidelines

 

Proper self-care after surgery improves recovery and reduces complications.

 

๐ If gas or silicone oil is injected, patients may need specific positioning such as face-down or side-lying.

๐​ Use prescribed eye drops exactly as directed.

๐ Avoid water exposure to the eye during the first week and refrain from rubbing the eye.

๐ Avoid air travel if gas is present due to pressure changes.

๐ Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous activity, and contact sports.

๐ Rest adequately and limit intensive visual tasks.

 

Expected Results and Recovery Time

 

Retinal surgery helps correct abnormalities and prevent future vision loss. Outcomes depend on disease severity. Some patients see improvement quickly, while others may take months. Typical recovery lasts about 1–2 weeks, with activity restrictions during healing.

 

Cost of Retinal Surgery

 

Costs vary based on surgical technique, technology, and individual treatment needs. Fees typically include surgeon costs, operating room charges, medications, and intraocular lens expenses if required.

 

Retinal Surgery Technology at Bangkok Eye Hospital

 

Bangkok Eye Hospital utilizes advanced PPV (Pars Plana Vitrectomy) technology with the Constellation Vision System, internationally recognized for treating complex retinal conditions such as detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and macular disorders.

 

The ULTRAVIT® vitrectomy cutter operates at extremely high speeds, allowing gentle vitreous removal with minimal retinal traction. Intelligent intraocular pressure control maintains stable eye pressure throughout surgery, reducing complication risks.

 

High-resolution Xenon illumination enhances visualization of delicate retinal tissue, while PurePoint® endolaser technology precisely treats tears or abnormal vessels. These integrated technologies allow comprehensive retinal repair in a single procedure.

 

Small-gauge surgery results in tiny self-sealing incisions, minimizing irritation and accelerating recovery. Postoperative positioning may still be necessary if gas or silicone oil is used.

 

 

Why Choose Retinal Surgery at Bangkok Eye Hospital?

 

Bangkok Eye Hospital provides comprehensive retinal surgery services using advanced technology and experienced specialists from the Retina Center. Patients receive:

 

๐ Comprehensive eye examinations for precise treatment planning.

๐ Advanced technologies such as micro-surgery tools, laser therapy, and OCT imaging.

๐ Close postoperative monitoring and rehabilitation support.

๐ Personalized treatment advice tailored to lifestyle and eye condition.

๐ Comfortable care throughout surgery and recovery.

 

Summary

 

Retinal surgery is essential for conditions such as retinal detachment, macular holes, or diabetic retinopathy. Modern techniques including vitrectomy and scleral buckling, supported by advanced technology, enhance safety and treatment outcomes. Patients should follow preoperative instructions, arrange post-surgical care, and attend follow-up appointments. Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks depending on severity. Consult Bangkok Eye Hospital forcomprehensive retinal care.

 

source : Bangkok Eye Hospital