Post-Retinal Detachment Surgery: Vision Recovery and Complications

Post-retinal detachment surgery

I underwent scleral buckle surgery on September 1st.
The doctor only advised me to sleep on my side.
After a week, during my follow-up appointment, the doctor said there was already adhesion and scheduled another visit in about two weeks.
At this recent check-up, the doctor informed me that the procedure had failed and that fluid had entered through the retinal tear, approaching the center of the eye.
They first performed laser treatment to control the situation, and on September 27, I will undergo vitrectomy with silicone oil injection.
1.
It has now been 7 days since the surgery.
Although I still experience pain, my vision is very poor; everything is extremely blurry, and I can only see shapes.
I cannot even read large letters clearly.
Is it possible that I have injured another part of my eye? Will my vision recover?
2.
I found some information stating that silicone oil injection will definitely lead to cataracts.
Does this mean I will need another surgery to remove the oil? Will I need a separate surgery for cataracts, or can they be combined?

yow, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/10/03

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

1.
For clear vision, the retina must be properly adhered and its function restored; it may require further observation for accuracy.
2.
You can discuss this with your attending physician later; there is no need to worry about it now.
Dr.
He Jianxian, Department of Ophthalmology, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2021/10/03

More Info

Post-retinal detachment surgery, particularly after a scleral buckle procedure followed by vitrectomy and silicone oil injection, can lead to a range of visual outcomes and complications. Your concerns about vision recovery and the potential for cataracts are valid and warrant a detailed discussion.

1. Vision Recovery After Surgery: It is not uncommon for patients to experience blurred vision following retinal detachment surgery. The fact that you are currently seeing only shapes and experiencing pain can be indicative of several factors. First, the surgery itself can cause temporary inflammation and changes in the eye that may affect your vision. Additionally, the presence of silicone oil can also contribute to visual disturbances, as it can create a different refractive environment in the eye.
It is important to understand that while some degree of visual recovery is expected, the extent to which your vision will improve can vary significantly from person to person. Factors that influence recovery include the duration of the retinal detachment prior to surgery, the health of the retina, and any additional complications that may have arisen during or after the procedure. If there is concern about damage to other structures in the eye, such as the macula or optic nerve, further evaluation may be necessary.
Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are crucial. They can perform detailed examinations, including optical coherence tomography (OCT) or ultrasound, to assess the condition of your retina and other ocular structures. If there are signs of complications, such as a new retinal tear or issues with the macula, timely intervention can be critical.

2. Silicone Oil and Cataract Formation: It is well-documented that the use of silicone oil in the eye can lead to the development of cataracts. The likelihood of cataract formation increases with the duration that silicone oil remains in the eye. While it is true that many patients will eventually require cataract surgery after silicone oil removal, the timing of this surgery can vary.
In some cases, cataract surgery can be performed concurrently with silicone oil removal, especially if the cataract is significant enough to warrant intervention. However, this decision is highly individualized and depends on the specific circumstances of your case, including the severity of the cataract and the overall health of your eye. Your ophthalmologist will assess the best approach based on your recovery progress and visual needs.

In summary, while your current visual symptoms are concerning, they are not uncommon following retinal detachment surgery. Continuous monitoring and communication with your eye care provider are essential to navigate your recovery effectively. They will guide you on the best course of action regarding your vision and any necessary future surgeries, including those for cataracts.
In the meantime, ensure you follow all post-operative care instructions, including any prescribed medications, and report any significant changes in your vision or increased pain to your doctor promptly. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may also support overall eye health, although specific dietary changes should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

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