Machemer, who is widely considered to be the “father of vitreoretinal surgery.” Vitreoretinal refers to treatment of the retina, macula, and vitreous - the gel and fluid that fill the eye. Many of our senior surgeons trained under Dr. The field of retinal surgery was pioneered at Duke by Robert Machemer, MD, the former chair of our ophthalmology department. We are frequently called upon to help people who have recurrent retinal detachments or other complex problems following previous surgeries elsewhere. Also, out doctors are national leaders in using OCT and interpreting the results.Īs a result of our advanced training and skill in handling complex retinal detachments such as recurrent retinal detachments with proliferative vitreoretinopathy, we receive a high volume of referrals from other doctors. Our researchers and doctors are pioneers in this intraoperative imaging technology. The technology allows us to visualize the layers of the eye with greater detail and identify subtleties and patterns that guide our treatment recommendations. to use optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging in the operating room. We are one of the few centers in the U.S. The resulting retinal swelling or break and decreased vision require advanced care from our subspecialists, who have additional training in retinal diseases. Our retinal specialists are also experts in treating other common conditions, such as vitreomacular traction, which occurs when the vitreous gel in your eye becomes “stuck” to - and, over time, pulls on - your retina, leading to a macular hole. A permanent, external band of silicone rubber is placed around the eye, similar to a belt. Our subspecialty trained retina doctors can quickly determine the severity of your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment. Scleral buckle surgery is conducted in the operating room. If you experience these symptoms or are at risk for retinal detachment due to nearsightedness, family history, genetic predisposition, a previous history of retinal detachment, a history of any eye surgery, or a serious eye injury, you need to be seen by an eye specialist immediately. New floaters and flashes may be a sign of a retinal tear or detachment, especially if they suddenly increase in frequency or are accompanied by a dark curtain or any loss of vision. Treatment includes removing the vitreous from the eye with a gas bubble and laser or placing a silicone band around the eye, with a gas bubble and a freezing.

Band around eye after retina surgery