Pneumatic Retinopexy

Pneumatic retinopexy (PR) is a two-step outpatient procedure that repairs a retinal detachment. When the jelly-like substance (vitreous) in the middle of the eye disconnects from the retina, it can distort or blur a patient’s vision. Board-certified retina surgeon Dr. Shalesh Kaushal has performed countless PR procedures and has years of expert experience. With his keen eye and steady hand, Dr. Kaushal uses modern techniques to repair the tear. Unlike a vitrectomy that requires an incision, a pneumatic retinopexy involves the injection of a single gas bubble to correct the retinal break. This procedure is safe and effective for those with single or multiple tears. Call Comprehensive Retina Consultants in Ocala, FL to schedule a private consultation.

At the beginning of the procedure, Dr. Kaushal will dilate the eyes and apply medicated eye drops to numb the treatment area for better comfort. The affected eye will then be thoroughly cleansed to protect against infection. The gas bubble will be carefully injected into the vitreous cavity, and once it floats to the location of the tear, a laser will be used to seal the break. The laser technology or cryopexy utilizes a form of freezing to make the correction. Once the procedure is done, patients will be free to return home. The main advantage of this treatment is that it significantly minimizes the chance of complications as opposed to scleral buckling or vitrectomy.

Following pneumatic retinopexy, patients may experience mild discomfort for the rest of the day, and will commonly see a glow or sparkle for a few weeks due to where the laser was applied. The recovery period is generally 1 – 3 weeks. During this time, patients will need to remain in an upright position while they sleep and will not be able to lie on their back. The reason for this is to prevent the gas bubble from moving in an unfavorable position, like the front of the eye, where it can put pressure on the lens instead of the retina. Additional restrictions include avoiding air travel until the eye has naturally absorbed the gas bubble and a cohesive seal has formed between the retina and the eye wall.

Pneumatic retinopexy typically has a high success rate for most patients and offers a safe avenue for repairing retinal detachments. Call our Ocala, FL office today to set up a consultation with Dr. Kaushal. During your visit, Dr. Kaushal will be able to answer all your questions and can discuss if this treatment is right for you. We look forward to serving you!