Pneumatic Retinopexy Surgery
in Baton Rouge, LA

Service Details

Pneumatic retinopexy is a minimally invasive and relatively new surgical procedure commonly used to repair a detached retina. It can be a great alternative to traditional surgery in certain patients. No stitches or sutures are required, and recovery time is usually shorter than with vitrectomy and scleral buckle. The benefits of pneumatic retinopexy are often greater than the risks.

How is it different from other retinal surgeries?

Pneumatic retinopexy can be performed in the retina specialists’ office rather than a surgical suite at the hospital, greatly reducing surgery cost. Instead of general anesthesia typically used in the operating room with other retinal surgeries, local anesthesia is used in-office when undergoing pneumatic retinopexy.

During the procedure, an expanding gas bubble is injected into the eye, in the vitreous cavity, to hold the retina in place so it can heal properly. Your head will be positioned so the gas bubble floats over the detached area of the eye. Cryotherapy or laser therapy is then used to seal the damage. If other surgical procedures are indicated, pneumatic retinopexy can be used in combination with these other procedures.

Recovery

Recovery from pneumatic retinopexy typically takes one to two weeks. During this time you should avoid strenuous activity and flying.
After a few weeks, the gas bubble will dissipate and the vision should slowly normalize.

Benefits and Risks

Pneumatic retinopexy (PR) has many benefits over traditional surgical procedures for repairing a detached retina. Along with a shorter recovery time, patients have a reduced risk of infection when compared to more invasive procedures. There is usually less pain and discomfort, and the cost is lower than other surgical options. Pneumatic retinopexy can be performed in less time than traditional surgery and does not require general anesthesia. In addition, there is a high rate of success with pneumatic retinopexy.

However, the benefits come with risks, just like any other surgery. The gas bubble placed during the procedure can get trapped and cause vision problems. Some patients experience inflammation or an increase in eye pressure. Most people who undergo pneumatic retinopexy experience no complications and have successful outcomes. You can discuss all potential benefits and risks with your doctor before choosing this procedure.

Schedule an Appointment

Learn more about pneumatic retinopexy for repairing a detached retina by talking with one of our experienced retinal surgeons. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment!

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