Pneumatic Retinopexy: Effective Treatment for Retinal Detachment

Pneumatic retinopexy is an innovative, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat retinal detachment. Gain understanding of its benefits and process.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Pneumatic retinopexy is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure designed to repair a detached retina and restore vision. This treatment uses a small gas bubble injected into the eye to gently push the retina back into place while a freezing device seals it for secure reattachment. Understanding this procedure is essential for anyone facing retinal detachment, as prompt treatment can prevent irreversible vision loss.

What is Pneumatic Retinopexy?

Pneumatic retinopexy is a specialized procedure performed by our eye doctors to treat a type of retinal detachment known as rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). When a tear or hole in the retina allows fluid to seep underneath, the retina begins to separate from the underlying tissue, preventing it from functioning normally. In this procedure, our eye doctors inject a small, expandable gas bubble into the vitreous cavity of your eye, which then rises and presses against the detached retina, helping it reattach to the eye’s inner wall.

Understanding the Importance of Retinal Attachment

Your retina is a thin, delicate layer of cells located at the back of the eye that captures light and sends visual signals to your brain. When the retina detaches, these cells cannot perform their vital role, leading to distorted or diminished vision, and if left untreated, permanent vision loss may occur. Pneumatic retinopexy plays a critical role in treating early or moderately complicated detachments by repositioning the retina in a safe, controlled manner.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Contact us today to find a top ophthalmologist near you and explore if pneumatic retinopexy is right for you.

Who Might Need Pneumatic Retinopexy?

Certain individuals are more predisposed to retinal detachment and may be considered for pneumatic retinopexy. This procedure is typically suggested when the retinal tear is located in the upper part of the retina, is relatively small, and is free from significant scarring. Here are some factors that might increase your risk:

  • High nearsightedness
  • Prior cataract surgery
  • Older age
  • Other eye conditions such as uveitis
  • Presence of lattice degeneration
  • Occasional trauma or injury to the eye

If you notice sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, or a dark curtain appearing over your vision, it is important to seek prompt advice from our eye doctors. These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment, which may require timely intervention.

How Does the Pneumatic Retinopexy Procedure Work?

The procedure itself is quite streamlined and is typically performed in an office setting, reducing the need for a more invasive operating room setting. Here’s a closer look at how the process unfolds:

  • Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb your eye, ensuring that you remain comfortable and pain-free during the process.
  • Gas Injection: After numbing your eye with specialized drops and possibly an injection, our eye doctors use a syringe to remove a small amount of fluid from inside the eye. Then, a predetermined volume of a special gas is injected into the vitreous cavity.
  • Retina Reattachment: The injected gas bubble naturally rises within the eye and comes into contact with the detached area of the retina. By positioning your head strategically, the bubble is guided to press gently against the retinal tear, aiding in proper reattachment to the eye wall.
  • Cryopexy or Laser Treatment: Once the retina is in place, a freezing probe (cryopexy) or a laser is used to create scar tissue around the tear. This scar tissue helps to firmly secure the retina and prevents it from detaching again.

The entire procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and most patients are able to return home the same day, making it one of the more convenient options available.

Pneumatic Retinopexy: Effective Treatment for Retinal Detachment

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Contact us today to find a top ophthalmologist near you and explore if pneumatic retinopexy is right for you.

Common Questions

Many patients experience sudden flashes of light, an increase in floaters, and a shadow or curtain effect across part of the vision.
The gas bubble typically remains in the eye for about two to six weeks, aiding in the reattachment of the retina.
Avoid air travel until the gas bubble completely dissipates, as pressure changes can cause complications.
Vision improvement is gradual; it can take several weeks to stabilize as the retina heals.
The procedure is generally not painful due to local anesthesia, though mild discomfort may occur during recovery.
If re-detachment occurs, additional treatment options may be necessary, and follow-up appointments are crucial for early detection.
Follow specific guidelines on head positioning, medication use, and activity restrictions after the procedure.
Contact our office immediately if you notice worsening vision, pain, or swelling around the eye for prompt assistance.
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Pneumatic Retinopexy: Effective Treatment for Retinal Detachment

Pneumatic retinopexy is a minimally invasive procedure for retinal detachment, crucial for restoring vision. Find out more about this eye treatment.

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