Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery

Introduction

Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes that affects the blood vessels in the retina, leading to vision problems and, in severe cases, blindness. Surgeons perform operative intervention for diabetic retinopathy in advanced cases when intravitreal injections or laser therapy prove ineffective. This method preserves the retina and prevents its degeneration.

What is Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery?

Diabetic retinal surgery involves advanced techniques to repair damage to the retina caused by diabetes. These techniques are created for scar tissue ablation, sealing leaking blood vessels and treatment of retinal detachment and restoration/maintenance of vision.

Why is Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery Needed?

Surgical treatment is required for proliferative diabetic retinopathy to resolve issues of:

• Vitreous Hemorrhage: Blood leaking into the vitreous gel, obstructing vision.
• Retinal Detachment: This retina detachment can lead to blindness if unaddressed.
• Macular Edema: Swelling in the macula due to fluid leakage.
• Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy: Growth of abnormal blood vessels that damage the retina.

Types of Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery

1. Vitrectomy:

• Cleaning blood, scar tissue, and debris from the vitreous gel.
• Often performed for vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment.

2. Laser Photocoagulation:

• Closure with laser sealing of ruptured leaky vessels and subsequent hemorrhage.
• Effective for non-proliferative and proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

3. Focal Laser Treatment: 

• Selects focal regions of retinal fluid leakage.
• Commonly used for macular edema.

4. Scatter Laser Treatment (Panretinal Photocoagulation): 

• Filed on large areas of the retina to constrict abnormal vessels.

5. Intravitreal Injections:

• Although non-operative, intra-muscular injection with anti-VEGF agents or steroids can be performed together with surgery to obtain optimum results.

Procedure Steps

1. Pre-Surgery Evaluation: Examination of the ophthalmology, imaging analysis (OCT, fluorescein angiography), and glycemic control.
2. Anesthesia: Local or general anesthesia ensures patient comfort.
3. Surgical Intervention: Surgeons treat the condition using vitrectomy, laser therapy, or a combination of these techniques (Claypool, 2020).
4. Retinal Repair: Surgeons thin scar tissue, seal leaks, and repair the retina if it has detached.
5. Post-Surgery Care: Doctors prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing.

Benefits of Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery

• Preserve Vision: There is a protective effect against further decline of vision and, in a few cases, vision is restored.
• Addresses Complications: Treats retinal detachment, macular edema, and vitreous hemorrhage.
• Improves Quality of Life: Enhances daily activities and independence.
• Reduces Risk of Blindness: Protects the retina from severe damage.

Cost of Diabetic Retinopathy Surgery

• United States: $4,000 – $10,000 
• United Kingdom: $3,500 – $8,000 
• Thailand: $2,000 – $5,000 
• India: $1,500 – $4,000 

Best Hospitals in India for Treatment

India offers world-class facilities for diabetic retinopathy surgery, including:

• Metro Hospital Faridabad—endoscopically focuses on the latest technological advances in diabetic ophthalmology and surgery.
• Max Healthcare (Delhi) It is widely recognized for its skilled and advanced ophthalmologists as well as its technology.
• Fortis Healthcare (Delhi) — All aspects of comprehensive diabetic retinopathy treatment with excellent cure rates.

Risks and Complications

While diabetic retinopathy surgery is effective, potential risks include:

• Infection: Rare with proper postoperative care.
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur during or after surgery.
• Retinal Detachment: In rare cases, further surgery may be needed.
• Vision Distortions: Temporary or permanent changes in vision.
• Cataract Formation: Common after vitrectomy in older patients.

Recovery

Recovery after diabetic retinopathy surgery depends on the procedure:

• First Week: Mild discomfort, swelling, or redness is common. Follow prescribed medication and avoid strenuous activities.
• 1-3 Months: Vision gradually improves, and the retina heals.
• Long-Term: Recurrent disease prevention requires adequate follow-up and blood sugar (BS) monitoring.