Persistent Air Bubble After Vitrectomy: What to Expect and Next Steps

Q: Persistent Air Bubble After Vitrectomy: What to Expect and Next Steps

Hello Ms. Kelly： The air will be absorbed quickly under normal circumstances. As for why it has persisted for three weeks, it is indeed difficult to explain. However, aside from natural absorption, there should be no other methods. Dr. Ho Chien-Hsien, Ophthalm

After the minimally invasive vitrectomy for floaters, the doctor mentioned that the air would disappear in one day, but it has not dissipated after three weeks?

Hello, Doctor.
Thank you for taking the time to respond.
Three weeks ago, on November 22, I underwent a 27-gauge minimally invasive vitrectomy due to floaters (with no issues in the retina).
After the surgery, I noticed a circular black bubble in my visual field.
The next day, the doctor said that it was air that accidentally entered during the procedure, not intentionally infused (I had a similar surgery on my other eye, and there was no gas infusion at that time).
The surgeon mentioned that this was normal and would disappear within a day.
The following day, it had shrunk but remained a smaller black circle at the bottom of my visual field.
During my follow-up appointment the next week, the doctor seemed puzzled as to why it hadn’t disappeared.
After a lengthy discussion with the attending physician, I did not receive a clear answer, and I was told to return in two months.
Now, three weeks have passed, and the size of the black dot has not changed at all.
I would like to know what might be happening.
I found online that air typically dissipates within 2-10 days, while special gas can take 6-8 weeks, but according to the doctor, there was no special gas infused.
I would like to understand the possible reasons for this and how to proceed.
Thank you!

Kelly, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/11

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello Ms.
Kelly: The air will be absorbed quickly under normal circumstances.
As for why it has persisted for three weeks, it is indeed difficult to explain.
However, aside from natural absorption, there should be no other methods.
Dr.
Ho Chien-Hsien, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2023/12/11

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the persistent air bubble following your recent vitrectomy. It’s understandable to feel anxious about changes in your vision, especially after a surgical procedure. Let’s address your questions and provide some clarity on what you might expect moving forward.

Firstly, it’s important to note that during vitrectomy, air can inadvertently enter the vitreous cavity, which may lead to the formation of an air bubble. Typically, air bubbles are expected to be absorbed by the body within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, the timeline for absorption can vary based on several factors, including the size of the bubble, the individual’s healing process, and whether any additional substances were introduced during the surgery.

In your case, since the air bubble has not significantly changed in size over the past three weeks, it’s reasonable to seek further clarification. The fact that your surgeon indicated it was not a deliberate injection of gas suggests that it may be a residual air bubble from the procedure. While air bubbles usually resolve quickly, there are instances where they may persist longer than expected. This could be due to the bubble being larger than typical or the body’s absorption process being slower in your specific case.

Here are a few potential reasons for the persistent air bubble:
1. Size of the Bubble: Larger air bubbles may take longer to be absorbed. If the bubble is substantial, it may remain visible for a longer duration.

2. Positioning: The position of the bubble relative to your eye’s anatomy can affect how quickly it is absorbed. If the bubble is situated in a way that it is less likely to be absorbed, it may persist longer.

3. Individual Healing Variability: Each patient’s healing process is unique. Factors such as overall health, age, and the presence of any underlying conditions can influence recovery and absorption rates.

4. Surgical Technique: Variations in surgical technique or the specific circumstances during your procedure may have contributed to the bubble’s persistence.

As for next steps, it is advisable to follow up with your ophthalmologist. Since they have recommended a two-month follow-up, it may be beneficial to express your concerns during that visit. If the bubble remains unchanged or if you experience any new symptoms, such as increased visual disturbances or discomfort, it would be prudent to seek an earlier evaluation.

In the meantime, here are some general recommendations:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your vision or any new symptoms that may arise. This information will be valuable for your doctor.

- Avoid Strenuous Activities: While you may feel inclined to resume normal activities, it’s wise to avoid any strenuous exercise or activities that could strain your eyes until you have a clearer understanding of the situation.

- Stay Informed: Continue to educate yourself about the recovery process following vitrectomy. Understanding what is typical can help alleviate some anxiety.

- Communicate with Your Doctor: If you feel uncertain or anxious about the situation, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance or to discuss your concerns in more detail.

In conclusion, while it is not uncommon for air bubbles to persist longer than expected, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare team. They are best equipped to assess your specific situation and provide guidance tailored to your needs. Thank you for your patience, and I wish you a smooth recovery.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams

[Your Contact Information]

Similar Q&A

Understanding Post-Vitreous Surgery Complications: Air Bubbles and Risks

On November 25, I underwent a vitrectomy. My recovery has been quite good since the surgery. However, on December 25, I suddenly noticed a small bubble appearing outside the main bubble. I have returned for follow-up visits twice (over the course of three weeks), and my next appo...

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology
Theoretically, small bubbles are unlikely to form, and generally, bubbles do not pose any harm. I'm not entirely sure why they occur, but as long as the fundus is confirmed to be normal, there is no need for concern.

Understanding Post-Vitreous Surgery: Is Floaters Normal?

Hello Doctor: On February 17, I underwent a minimally invasive vitrectomy due to vitreous hemorrhage in my left eye, which was found to be caused by a small retinal tear. In the days following the surgery (as of February 22), the air bubble in my eye has gradually decreased in si...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: The appearance of small floaters in your vision is a normal phenomenon and is one of the common symptoms following a minimally invasive vitrectomy. These floaters may be due to residual vitreous or blood clot tissue after the surgery. Over the course of a few days or weeks...

Understanding Retinal Detachment and Trabeculectomy: A Patient's Journey

Hello Doctor, I have high myopia with -9.50 in my left eye and -14.50 in my right eye. I have a history of iritis in my right eye. In February 2019, due to persistent elevated intraocular pressure in both eyes, the doctor decided to perform bilateral trabeculectomy. After the sur...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. He: 1. Intraocular pressure may gradually decrease; it is not uncommon to experience elevated eye pressure postoperatively. 2. An evaluation is necessary to determine the appropriate management. 3. Initially, you can engage in light activities such as walking, and gradu...

Understanding Floaters and Bubbles After Retinal Surgery: What to Know

Doctor, I apologize for bothering you with a question. It has been one month and three days since my retinal detachment surgery, during which silicone oil was injected and no air was used. Today, I noticed a sudden appearance of numerous floaters and bubbles when I look up, but w...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello Mr. Hsu: It is likely still the bubbles in the silicone oil. We need to check if it is properly adhered, or a dilated fundus examination may be necessary to determine the situation; we cannot make assumptions without proper evaluation. If you are concerned, it is best to ha...