The role of vitrectomy for diabetic retinopathy.

BACKGROUND

Diabetic retinopathy is an important cause of severe vision loss. The risk of vision loss from diabetic retinopathy is substantially reduced by intensive control of diabetes and appropriate laser surgery for proliferative diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema.

METHODS

The Diabetic Retinopathy Vitrectomy Study (DRVS) helped identify the indications and most propitious time for performing diabetic vitrectomy for nonresolving vitreous hemorrhage. The DRVS also highlighted the risks and potential complications of vitrectomy surgery.

RESULTS

Diabetic persons with severe vision loss from severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy are candidates for vitrectomy after vitreous hemorrhage and severe fibrous changes in the retina.

CONCLUSION

In cases in which vision loss occurs, pars plana vitrectomy frequently can restore useful vision, and reduce the risk of vision loss from traction retinal detachment.