What is a vitrectomy?

A vitrectomy is the surgical removal of the vitreous gel in the center of the eye. The procedure is used to treat severe bleeding into the vitreous, and is performed under local or general anesthesia. Ports (temporary water-tight openings) are placed in the eye to allow the surgeon to insert and remove instruments, such as a tiny light or a small vacuum-cutter called a vitrector. A clear salt solution is gently pumped into the eye through one of the ports to maintain eye pressure during surgery and to replace the removed vitreous or blood from diabetic retinopathy. The same instruments used during vitrectomy also may be used to perform laser treatments, remove scar tissue, or to repair a detached retina.

Vitrectomy is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.  After surgery, the eye will be treated with eye drops as the surgeon monitors the healing of the eye.