There are a number of conditions that require a procedure known as a ‘vitrectomy’. These conditions include haemorrhage in the eye (‘vitreous haemorrhage’), retinal detachment, macular hole formation and scar tissue on the surface of the macula (so called ‘cellophane maculopathy’ or ‘epiretinal membrane’).

The symptoms that may be caused by these conditions include fairly rapid (days to weeks) reduction in vision, “floaters” and “flashes” In the field of vision and visual distortion. It is always important to seek the advice of an optician or doctor if these symptoms occur.

With a vitrectomy, three small incisions are made in the eye and while fluid is passed through one of the incisions to maintain pressure within the eye, the other incisions are used to introduce a fibre optic light pipe for illumination and other instruments such as a vitreous cutter, scissors or a laser probe.

The following video is of a vitrectomy that was performed for treating a retinal detachment. After removal of the vitreous jelly, scar tissue is removed from the surface of the retina and the retina is then reattached by injecting a bubble of gas. Finally, laser burns are applied to the retina in a controlled fashion to prevent recurrence of the problem.