Diabetic Retinopathy

The retina is a light sensitive membrane lining the inner eyeball and connected by the optic nerve to the brain. One of the most common retinal problems requiring surgical treatment is diabetic retinopathy.

Because diabetes is prevalent among Asian and Polynesian populations, diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in Hawaii's working age population. Diabetes causes abnormal vascular changes in the retina, resulting in leaking or blockage of blood vessels. This can lead to swelling of the retina. Advanced complications can include retinal detachment or bleeding into the center of the eye (vitreous hemorrhage). Symptoms include progressive blurring of vision, seeing "spots" and a sudden haziness of vision.

Treatment

Surgery is required to correct most cases of diabetic retinopathy. Procedures performed at The Retina Center at Pali Momi include:

• Laser Surgery: Argon, Krypton and Dye lasers are used to seal retinal tears and prevent detachment, and treat diabetic retinopathy.
• Vitrectomy: This procedure may be necessary in severe cases of diabetic retinopathy, or when retinal detachment results in bleeding or scarring in the center of the eye. Vitrectomy involves use of a fiberoptic light and tiny microscopic instruments to remove the vitreous (the fluid or gel at the center of the eye), blood and scar tissue. The central vitreous is then replaced with substitutes, including air, gas, fluid or oil to hold the retina in place while it heals.