Treatments for Retina Vitreous Problems

Scleral Buckling

In most cases of retinal detachment, a flexible band, or scleral buckle, is placed around the eye. It lessens the pull of the vitreous on the retina, helps prevent further displacement of the retina and holds it in place. It is often combined with laser surgery or cryotherapy.  This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis in the hospital operating room with local anesthesia.

Pneumatic Retinopexy

This outpatient procedure performed in the office is done to correct a retinal tear and detachment. A gas bubble is injected into the vitreous cavity. The patient must keep his or her head in a specific position so the bubble will rise and seal the tear so that the retina will reattach. The tear is treated with either cryotherapy or laser to seal the retina in place.

Vitrectomy

This procedure is commonly performed for vitreous hemorrhage, diabetic retinopathy, macular hole, macular pucker or for complicated retinal detachments. This procedure allows the doctor to remove hemorrhage or internal membranes the are affecting the function of the retina. This procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis in the hospital operating room with local anesthesia.