Statistical risks for vitrectomy?

[keyshawn]

I'm trying to research this for my mom (shes computer illiterate). My mom has a posterior vitreous detachment (shes 62, has a history of uveitis and is nearsighted) She sees a classic 'cobweb' in 1 eye which is severely limiting her vision in that eye. Its been a long while and is really limiting her/affecting her quality of life. She's seen 2 retina specialists. We know the risks of a vitrectomy but really want to know if you can give specifics re infection, bleeding, etc.  Thanks for any help - its a big decision.

[JodieJ]

Your mother's risk of accelerated cataract progression post-vitrectomy is very high (probably a sure thing.)  Her risk of RD is about 3%-5% (depending on which study provides the statistics.)

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

It all depends on what you mean by severely limiting her vision.  If there is really a very large clump of floaters that has been present for a few years with no improvement and the vision is decreased on the eyechart significantly, and there is a reasonable expectation that the surgery will help, then it can definitely be considered.  She has seen two reputable retinal specialists at different practices, I hope and if both agree, then, again I think it is definitely worth considering the surgery.  I don't do retinal surgery so I cannot give you risk ratios off the top of my head for vitrectomy, but I put a lot of trust in the retinal surgeon I utilize.  You really need to address these questions to your retinal surgeon.  A general infection rate after vitrectomy has been placed at 0.07% in one study but there are other possible problems that can occur such as retinal detachment, macular edema, and cataract formation.

Michael Kutryb, MD
Kutryb Eye Institute
Titusville, FL
Edgewater, FL

[malog]

There is a Dr. in London with a good website which describes causes of floaters, types of floaters and treatment risks. If you Google " Alistair Laidlaw Eye Surgery" you will find it.