Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy
Vitrectomy (pronounced vih-TREK-toh-mee) is a surgical procedure performed by a specialist ophthalmologist to remove the vitreous humor from the eye.
Etymology
The term "Vitrectomy" is derived from Latin 'vitreus' meaning 'glassy' and Greek 'ektome' meaning 'excision, removal'.
Procedure
During a vitrectomy, the ophthalmologist makes tiny incisions in the sclera (the white part of the eye). Through these incisions, the surgeon inserts small instruments to remove the vitreous, a gel-like substance that fills the back of the eye. The vitreous is replaced with a saline solution, gas or silicone oil to help maintain the eye's shape.
Indications
Vitrectomy is often used to treat eye diseases and conditions such as retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, macular hole, and vitreous hemorrhage.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, vitrectomy carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, high or low eye pressure, cataract, retinal detachment, and loss of vision.
Related Terms
- Ophthalmologist: A medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care.
- Retinal Detachment: A serious eye condition that occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye.
- Diabetic Retinopathy: A diabetes complication that affects the eyes, caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina).
- Macular Hole: A small break in the macula, located in the center of the eye's light-sensitive tissue called the retina.
- Vitreous Hemorrhage: Bleeding into the clear gel that fills the space between the lens and the retina of the eye.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Vitrectomy
- Wikipedia's article - Vitrectomy
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