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What is a
Vitreous Hemorrhage? The vitreous is the clear gel that fills the inside of the eyeball. When blood collects in the gel, this is known as a vitreous hemorrhage. There are a number of causes of vitreous hemorrhage. The most common is bleeding from abnormal blood vessels growing on the retina (neovascularization). When portions of the retina receive inadequate blood supply, usually as the result of diabetes or blockage in a blood vessel, these areas produce a chemical which stimulates blood vessel growth. Unfortunately, the blood vessels that grow in response to this chemical are abnormal – they grow from the retina into the vitreous gel and may bleed causing a vitreous hemorrhage. Other common causes of vitreous hemorrhage are retinal tears, and trauma. When blood collects in the vitreous, it impairs the passage of light to the retina and results in foggy vision. Affected individuals often notice black strings in their vision followed later by a diffuse fog or haze. These symptoms often come on quite abruptly. The bleeding is usually short-lived but the blood may take anywhere from a few weeks to several years to be absorbed. Unfortunately, recurrent bleeding can occur and may result in a vitreous hemorrhage which persists indefinitely. The treatment of vitreous hemorrhage depends on its cause and severity. Even severe hemorrhages may clear spontaneously and so observation is commonly recommended. If a retinal tear is found, this is usually treated with laser treatment or cryotherapy (freezing treatment) to reduce the risk of retinal detachment. Vitreous hemorrhage can be surgically removed with an operative procedure known as a vitrectomy. During vitrectomy, fine instruments are placed inside the eye to remove the vitreous gel and hemorrhage and replace it with a sterile saline solution. This procedure allows a rapid visual recovery in most cases and is often accompanied by laser treatment or other procedures to treat the cause of the hemorrhage and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Dr. Goldman has extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of vitreous hemorrhage. If you or a someone you know has a vitreous hemorrhage or other retinal problem, please call us to arrange a comprehensive evaluation at either of our convenient locations. |
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