About Pneumatic Retinopexy
Pneumatic retinopexy (PR) is an office-based procedure that can be used to treat some cases of retinal detachment[1] (Hilton et al. 1987). It involves using a laser (photocoagulation) or cryopexy (freezing therapy) to seal a retinal tear as well as injecting a small gas bubble into the eye to help the retina reattach and heal.Our Retina Consultants of Texas physicians are experienced in performing pneumatic retinopexy, and it can be a less invasive treatment option (no incision required) for some retinal detachment patients. It is usually not an option for more complicated cases, which may require vitrectomy or scleral buckle surgery. Your retina physician will work with you to determine the best treatment option for your specific condition.
Treatment Technique
Our retina physicians perform pneumatic retinopexy in our office. We will begin by applying eye drops to dilate and numb your eye. Once numb, your doctor will inject a gas bubble into the area near your retina. Then, using a laser or cryopexy (freezing therapy), your surgeon will seal the affected area of your retina.
After Treatment
After your pneumatic retinopexy procedure, we will provide specific care instructions. You may need to use antibiotic eye drops to prevent infection. You may also need to wear an eye patch for a day or two. It is normal to feel mild discomfort in the treated eye. We will also provide you specific instructions for positioning and sleeping to ensure the inserted gas bubble is kept in the proper position for healing.
- Hilton GF, Kelly NE, Salzano TC, Tornambe PE, Wells JW, Wendel RT. Pneumatic retinopexy. A collaborative report of the first 100 cases. Ophthalmology. 1987 Apr;94(4):307-14. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3587909
