Possible extension of the operations
Due to complications or unforeseen additional difficulties during the operation, the chosen surgical method may have to be modified and additional measures may have to be taken.
Complications
Surgical treatment of retinal detachment may result in secondary bleeding or hemorrhaging. Structures located near the eye can be injured during the operation. By suturing the seal, for example, the eyeball wall can be pierced.
The operation on the eye can cause infections. It is also possible that the increase in intraocular pressure caused by the operation has a negative effect on the retina and the sharpest point of vision (macula), thus impairing vision. Repeated retinal detachment can occur as a result of the operation, which then often occurs together with changes in the vitreous body.
After the seal has been sewn on, double images sometimes occur. Sometimes the treatment leads to permanent visual deterioration up to blindness or loss of the eye. Allergic reactions to the materials used are possible, which may mean that the seal or stitches have to be removed again.
Prognosis
The smaller the area of the detached retina, the better the chances of success. If there are no vitreous alterations, the prognosis is even better. After the operation, vision improves in about 85% of cases.
If the macula (site of sharpest vision) is also affected, the original vision can rarely be completely restored. Even after years a new retinal detachment is still possible and occurs in about 20% of patients. Vitreous opacities are another long-term complication. In addition, connective tissue strands can develop, which can lead to a shifting of the retina.
Before the operation
Drugs that inhibit blood clotting should be discontinued in consultation with the doctor. This is the case with Aspirin and Marcumar, among others.
After the operation
The operation is usually performed on an inpatient basis. If the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, the patient must be picked up, as he/she is prohibited from driving a motor vehicle for 24 hours.Significant decisions and the operation of machines are also not permitted by law. The freshly operated eye must be handled with care and no strenuous physical activity should be performed in the days following the surgery.
Depending on the type of operation, bed rest must be maintained and the head must be held in a certain position. Medication prescribed by the doctor and eye drops/eye ointments should be used regularly as recommended. If a gas mixture was therapeutically introduced into the eye during the operation, the patient must not be exposed to large pressure fluctuations, such as those that occur during diving or flying.
If a follow-up operation of any kind is necessary, the treating anesthesiologist (anaesthetist) must be informed that such an operation has been performed. If there are any abnormalities, the doctor should be informed quickly, as these may indicate complications and must be acted upon quickly in order to maintain vision.
