Familiarity with Treatment

This combined procedure, often referred to as phacovitrectomy, addresses both retinal detachment and cataract in a single surgery. It involves a vitrectomy to repair the retina and cataract surgery to replace the clouded lens with a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). This approach is beneficial for patients who need both procedures, reducing the need for multiple surgeries.

Procedure Explanation

1. Preparation: The eye is numbed with local or general anesthesia.
2. Vitrectomy: Small incisions are made in the sclera to remove the vitreous gel and repair the detached retina. Laser photocoagulation or cryopexy may be used to seal retinal tears.
3. Cataract Removal: The clouded lens is removed using phacoemulsification.
4. IOL Implantation: A monofocal IOL is implanted to replace the natural lens.
5. Completion: The incisions are closed, and the eye is monitored for any immediate complications.

Who is it Suitable For?

• Patients with retinal detachment and cataract.
• Individuals with visually significant cataracts obstructing the view of the retina.
• Patients who prefer to have both issues addressed in a single surgery.

Who is it Not Suitable For?

• Patients with severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy.
• Individuals with significant ocular trauma.
• Those with extensive retinal scarring or other underlying conditions like macular holes or diabetic retinopathy.

Advantages

• Addresses both retinal detachment and cataract in one surgery.
• Reduces the need for multiple surgeries and anesthesia.
• Faster overall recovery time.
• Improved visual outcomes by addressing both issues simultaneously.

Complications

• Infection or inflammation.
• Increased intraocular pressure.
• Displacement or failure of the IOL.
• Double vision or changes in refractive error.
• Posterior capsular opacification.
• Corneal edema, glaucoma, or cystoid macular edema.

Previous Care

• Comprehensive eye examination to determine suitability.
• Discontinuation of contact lenses prior to surgery.
• Detailed discussion of potential risks and benefits with the ophthalmologist.

Aftercare

• Use of prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.
• Avoid rubbing the eyes.
• Regular follow-up visits to monitor healing.
• Temporary use of protective eyewear.
• Avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks.

Stay at Hospital?

• This is typically an outpatient procedure, so an overnight stay at the hospital is not required. Patients can usually go home the same day after a brief observation period.