Ocular surface changes following vitreoretinal procedures

Abstract

Dry eye disease (DED) can lead to ocular discomfort as well as visual disturbances. Older adults are more likely to develop DED. They are also more likely to develop retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, which may require vitreoretinal surgeries, lasers, and intravitreal injections. Posterior segment surgery may cause or worsen existing dry eye symptoms, albeit temporarily. Despite good anatomic and functional outcomes, ocular surface dysfunction can have a significant impact on the quality of life, lowering a patient’s satisfaction with the retinal treatment. Preexisting DED, intraoperative tissue handling, and postoperative treatment may all contribute to the severity of ocular surface dysfunction. In this article, we have reviewed all relevant studies on the development of ocular surface changes and DED, as well as the impact of vitreoretinal surgeries and procedures on the ocular surface.

Ocular surface morbidity related to vitreoretinal interventions

“…[ 25 26 27 28 ] Noncontact retinal viewing systems such as the binocular indirect ophthalmic microscope (BIOM) being increasingly used in modern day vitreoretinal procedures help to mitigate the damage to the corneal epithelium. [ 29 ] Optimal preoperative ocular surface stabilization with use of lubricant therapy and anti-inflammatory therapy, bandage contact lens placement at the end of the surgical procedure, and avoiding long duration of surgery can help in better ocular surface comfort in these eyes.…”