What is vitreoretinal surgery?

A vitreoretinal (VR) surgeon is a type of ophthalmologist that deals with diseases of the vitreous and retina that can be treated with surgery. Up to 50% of patients requiring VR surgery present as emergency or urgent cases, for example retinal detachment and eye trauma. Other potentially sight-threatening conditions that are treated by VR surgeons include macular hole, epiretinal membrane, complications of diabetic eye disease amongst many others.

Vitreoretinal surgeons are also experienced cataract surgeons who specialise in complex cataract surgery. In these cases, there is a higher than normal risk of complications happening during the operation. As most of the serious complications that can occur usually require input from a VR specialist, these cases are usually referred directly to them. 

VR surgery involves advanced microsurgical techniques and VR surgeons typically undergo two additional years of sub-speciality training after completing their specialist ophthalmology training.

Considerable investment in equipment, staff training and support services is required to enable VR surgery to be performed. As a result not all ophthalmology departments or private hospitals provide a vitreoretinal surgical service and patients may need to be referred elsewhere for treatment. Departments that provide VR surgical services treat patients from their own locality and from neighbouring hospitals that do not have the required facilities.

From the British & Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons.