VITREOMACULAR TRACTION
When the gel-like fluid in the eye gets weaker, it can pull on the light-sensitive retina, causing vision problems like fuzzy sight and distorted images.
What is a Vitreomacular Traction?
Vitreomacular traction is a condition in which the vitreous
-- the gel-like substance in the eye – pulls abnormally on
the
retina, the light-sensitive innermost layer of the eye
that is responsible to processing visual images. When the
pulling of the gel distortsthe retina, it causes swelling and
decreased vision.
Vitreomacular Traction
What causes Vitreomacular Traction?
When one ages, the gel-like vitreous in the eye usually becomes more liquefied, causing it to pull on the retina. This pulling (or traction), causes wrinkling of the retinal surface or distortion of the retinal blood vessels, which lead to vision loss.
What are the symptoms of Vitreomacular Traction?
The symptoms of vitreomacular traction include a gradual worsening of central vision or vision distortion (seeing straight lines as wavy). The best way to detect the problem is through an
eye examination. Your eye doctor will administer eye drops to enlarge the pupils temporarily so that he or she can check the back of your eyes (the retina) for holes. The eyes are also painlessly scanned with optical coherence tomography (a light used to check the different layers of the retina).
What treatment is there for Vitreomacular Traction?
Macula holes may be treated with a vitrectomy, a form of keyhole surgery that uses small probes to enter inside the eye to remove the vitreous. A gas is then injected into the eye to replace the vitreous and prevent it from pulling on the retina. Following surgery, the patient will need to lie in a face-down position for one to two days to allow the gas bubble to press against the retina to smooth it out. The eye will refill naturally with fluid. The success of relieving vitreomacular traction ranges from 80 to 90 per cent. The surgery also helps to improve the symptoms of blurred or distorted vision and may help to prevent the deterioration of vision.
Please visit the following relevant links :-
Vitreo-Retina Service
Outcome Results on Vitreo-Retina Procedure
Vitreo-Retina Clinical Staff
I Want an Eye Examination / an Appointment
Importance of Eye Examination
How the Eye Works
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