Back to Search Start Over

Current treatment strategies for symptomatic vitreous opacities

Authors :
Edwin H. Ryan
Source :
Current Opinion in Ophthalmology. 32:198-202
Publication Year :
2021
Publisher :
Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health), 2021.

Abstract

Purpose of review Symptomatic vitreous opacities are increasingly recognized as a significant burden to patient well-being. There is growing interest in the use of vitrectomy or laser treatment to address these problems. This review is intended to update current assessment, management, and risks of treatment for persistent severely symptomatic vitreous opacities. Recent findings Despite studies showing the value of quantitative ultrasound, reading speed measurements, and contrast sensitivity for assessing dysfunction caused by vitreous opacities, the decision of whether to proceed with surgery remains a very subjective, clinical one. Visual Function Questionnaire-25 score studies show a very large improvement postvitrectomy consistent with relief from symptoms and patient satisfaction. The risk of retinal tear and detachment appears to be higher than in most conditions treated with vitrectomy. Summary Vitrectomy for the management of severe vitreous opacities is increasingly accepted because of the tremendous relief of symptoms reported by patients. The risks of retinal tear and detachment remain a concern, particularly in patients who have an attached posterior hyaloid. Yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser treatment of floaters may offer benefit in a subset of patients but appears to be less definitive than vitrectomy, and also may carry significant risk.

Details

ISSN :
15317021 and 10408738
Volume :
32
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Current Opinion in Ophthalmology
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........7946b84dedf02f674b24cb092d221ea9
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1097/icu.0000000000000752