Pars plan vitrectomy (PPV) is a surgical procedure done with special tools inserted through the pars plana, an area in the white of the eye (sclera), to remove vitreous humor and/or scar tissue that affect the retina. Another treatment will be done at the same time, such as laser, gas, or silicone oil, to put pressure on the retina.
The procedure is used to treat retinal detachment and help the retina attach in the normal position. To improve vision by removing the vitreous gel that is no longer clear, such as due to bleeding or infection. To remove adhesions/scar tissue that restricts the retina. To correct lens that has moved or treat foreign substance that has remained in the eye.
Average Cost
$4,050
Price Range
$3,900 to $4,200
-Severe complications are rare and anatomic success for vitrectomy is over 90% for many conditions. -Surgery for diseases that were once incurable, such as macular hole, is now routinely performed with excellent results. -Advances in instrumentation, techniques, and understanding of diseases of the vitreous and retina have made this procedure more successful.
-Risks and complications
The nurse will administer eye drops to dilate the pupil of your eye being treated. This is done about 1.5-2 hours before the procedure. If local anesthesia is used, you will be awake during the procedure and a cloth will cover your face and body. Please carefully follow your doctor’s instructions, such as not moving your eyes during the procedure. After the procedure, the treated eye will be covered before you leave the room so it can rest. Please don’t remove the covering yourself.
You will be given information about any pre-operative preparations, including when and where you will need to come when you arrive to the hospital for the procedure. Wash your face and hair before you come to the hospital for the procedure. Avoid wearing make-up, powder, and/or perfume on the day of the procedure. If local anesthesia is used, you will be able to eat light foods as instructed by the doctor. If local anesthesia is used, if you are anxious or uncomfortable with a cloth covering your face, you might try practicing before the procedure to alleviate your discomfort. If general anesthesia is used, you will need to undergo a standard health screening and will need to avoid food and water for at least 6-8 hours before the procedure or as recommended by the doctor. If you are taking any anticoagulants, please let the doctor know. These will need to be stopped 5-7 days before the procedure. Please use the eye drops and take the medication prescribed by your doctor before the procedure (if any).
Avoid washing your face and hair. Cover your eye while sleeping. Please stay in the position instructed by the doctor, such as lying on your stomach or your side. Wash your hands before and after administering eye drops. Space your eye drops out every five minutes and use them for as long as instructed by the doctor. Do not rub your eye and do not let the affected eye get wet. Avoid lifting objects heavier than 10 kilograms. Try to avoid any accidents. You may eat all foods allowed by your doctor. Keep all follow-up appointments. If you notice any abnormal symptoms, such as worsening pain, redness, and/or blurry vision, please see your doctor before your appointment day.
Increased intraocular pressure, infection Reaction to anesthesia, such as nausea and/or dizziness Irritation of the eye due to the surgical incision Worsening cataracts
What are the travel recommendations?
You should have a family member or friend accompany you before and after the procedure. It is recommended you stay in a hotel close to the hospital for convenience in traveling to the hospital before and after the procedure. The doctor will carefully monitor the results of treatment with 2-3 follow-up appointments in the first week. If gas was used during the procedure, you should plan to stay in Thailand for between 2 weeks up to 2 months, depending on the type of gas used. Flying is not allowed if there is any gas remaining. The ophthalmologist will assess you after the procedure and let you know when it is appropriate for you to fly.
What is the likelihood of success?
This procedure may be used to treat many conditions of the vitreous humor and the retina, such as retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, and severe diabetic retinopathy, and improve vision.
What if this procedure is not performed?
The condition will worsen and may affect vision.
What are the common conditions that this procedure is used to treat?
Retinal detachment Vitreous hemorrhage Macular Pucker Macular Hole Retained lens fragments or other complications from cataract surgery Intraocular Foreign Body removal Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection) Traumatic eye injuries Giant Retinal Tears