Pneumatic Retinopexy

A Pneumatic Retinopexy is used for a relatively uncomplicated detachment with the tear located in the upper half of the retina.

What to expect

Repair of the retinal detachment may require softening the eye by withdrawing a small amount of fluid from the space between the cornea, the clear dome at the front of the eye and the iris, or colored part of the eye.

The surgeon will inject a bubble of expandable gas into the vitreous part of the eye. Over the next several days the gas bubble will expand, sealing the retinal tear by pushing against it and the detached area that surrounds the tear. With no new fluid passing through the retinal tear, fluid that had previously collected under the retina is absorbed, and the retina is able to reattach itself to the back wall of the eye. The gas eventually disappears after several weeks. This procedure is done under local anesthetic.

How to prepare

Patients will need to make arrangements for a ride home after the procedure. The doctor will advise patients of any medications they will need to stop taking prior to the procedure. Doctors will also advise about limiting solids and liquids before the procedure. Patients will need to wear protective eyewear for a certain amount of time afterwards as well.