Spotlight Video | Understanding Vitrectomy Surgery | Aryeh L. Pollack, MD
A trusted ophthalmologist, Dr. Aryeh L. Pollack is the Founder of New York Retina and Macula Institute, working with patients at his two new ultra-modern, comfortable, spacious, patient-oriented offices in midtown Manhattan and Brooklyn, New York. Passionate about teaching, Dr. Pollack is a member of the Eye Trauma Service... more
All About Vitrectomy Surgery
Undertaken by a retina specialist such as Dr. Pollack, vitrectomy surgery is a procedure used to address issues with the retina and vitreous of the eye. This type of eye surgery can be used to remove blood or other material that is preventing light from focusing properly on the retina, to remove scar tissue that is wrinkling or tearing the retina and causing poor vision, and to help repair a retina that has detached from the eye wall. It may also be used to remove a foreign object stuck inside the eye from an injury. People with diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, eye injury or infection may be candidates for this surgery.
The vitreous, a clear, jelly-like substance that fills the inside of the eyeball, is removed during a vitrectomy. This eliminates any debris that might be blocking the retina’s access to light, resulting in more stable and improved vision. During the procedure, tiny incisions are made in the white part of the eye and the vitreous is removed and replaced with either a saline solution or a bubble made of gas or oil. After surgery, you may need to wear an eye patch and experience some minor discomfort.
