The word "Vitrectomy" is pronounced as [vɪˈtrɛktəmi]. It is a medical procedure that involves the surgical removal of the vitreous humor, a transparent gel-like substance that fills the eye. The spelling of this word is composed of two parts: "vitre-" which means glass, and "-ectomy" which means the surgical removal of a part of the body. Therefore, the proper spelling of this word is essential to ensure accuracy in medical writing, and a clear understanding of the procedure.
A vitrectomy is a surgical procedure performed in the field of ophthalmology where the vitreous humor is removed from the eye. The vitreous humor is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina.
During a vitrectomy, a surgeon creates tiny incisions in the eye to access the vitreous cavity. This may be performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's condition. Specialized instruments, such as microscopes and microsurgical tools, are used to delicately remove the vitreous humor from the eye.
Vitrectomies are typically done to treat conditions that affect the back portion of the eye, including retinal detachments, macular holes, diabetic retinopathy, and vitreous hemorrhages. By removing the vitreous humor, the surgeon can access and repair these issues more effectively.
After the vitrectomy, the eye is usually filled with a gas or silicone oil to maintain the shape and position of the retina during the healing process. This substance gradually disappears or is removed in a subsequent surgery.
Post-surgery, patients may experience temporary changes in vision, such as blurriness or floaters, which generally improve over time. Depending on the specific condition being treated, additional treatments like laser therapy or the use of intraocular lenses may be necessary to restore vision fully.
The word "vitrectomy" is derived from the Latin words "vitreus" meaning "glassy" or "crystalline" and "tomia" meaning "cutting" or "surgical incision". "Vitreous" refers to the clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina in the human eye. "Vitrectomy" therefore refers to the surgical removal of a part or the entirety of the vitreous humor.