Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Temporary Vision Loss

Q: Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Temporary Vision Loss

Hello Janis： It is possible that the movement of the intraocular gas is the cause. <br>Please sit still and wait for the gas to stabilize, and then your vision should return to normal. <br>You can check to see if the intraocular gas is the issue. <br>In Taiwan, the Department of

Post-retinal detachment surgery

Hello doctor, my mother underwent her second retinal detachment surgery on Monday (the first one was around mid-March).
This time, in addition to gas injection, cryotherapy was also performed.
Over the past couple of days, she has experienced a brief period of vision loss in the affected eye (lasting about a few seconds) after sitting up from bed, but then her vision returns to the post-operative state.
The unaffected eye does not have this issue.
She is feeling very anxious about this and would like to know if this is normal and if she needs to return for a follow-up examination.
Thank you!

Janis, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/09

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Janis: It is possible that the movement of the intraocular gas is the cause.
Please sit still and wait for the gas to stabilize, and then your vision should return to normal.
You can check to see if the intraocular gas is the issue.
In Taiwan, the Department of Ophthalmology at Puzi Hospital is open on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and on Wednesday afternoons from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Please note that online responses are for reference only; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/05/09

More Info

Post-retinal detachment surgery, especially after multiple procedures, can lead to a range of visual changes and temporary vision loss, which can understandably cause anxiety for both the patient and their family. In your mother's case, experiencing temporary vision loss in the affected eye upon sitting up is not uncommon, especially in the days immediately following surgery. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors related to the surgical procedure and the healing process.

Firstly, after retinal detachment surgery, the eye undergoes significant changes as it heals. The injection of gas and the application of cryotherapy (freezing treatment) are intended to help the retina reattach and stabilize. However, these interventions can also lead to temporary fluctuations in vision. The gas bubble can create a sensation of pressure and may cause temporary obscuration of vision as the eye adjusts to the new internal environment. When your mother sits up, the change in position can affect how the gas bubble interacts with the retina and the surrounding fluids, leading to brief episodes of blurred or lost vision.

Moreover, the healing process itself can result in transient visual disturbances. As the retina heals, it may not function optimally right away, leading to moments of visual instability. This is particularly true if there has been any trauma to the retina or if there are residual effects from the previous surgery. The brain also needs time to adjust to the changes in visual input, which can contribute to temporary visual disturbances.

While these symptoms can be part of the normal healing process, it is crucial to monitor them closely. If your mother experiences persistent or worsening vision loss, increased pain, or any new symptoms such as flashes of light or a significant increase in floaters, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of complications such as re-detachment or other issues that may require prompt intervention.

In terms of follow-up care, it is generally advisable to have regular check-ups with the ophthalmologist after retinal surgery. These visits allow the doctor to assess the healing process, check for any complications, and provide reassurance to the patient. If your mother’s symptoms are causing her significant anxiety, it may be beneficial to contact her eye doctor for advice. They may recommend a follow-up appointment to evaluate her condition and provide peace of mind.

In summary, while temporary vision loss after retinal detachment surgery can be a normal part of the recovery process, it is essential to remain vigilant and communicate any concerns with her healthcare provider. Regular follow-ups and open communication with her ophthalmologist will help ensure that her recovery progresses smoothly and that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

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