[Vision loss after uncomplicated pars plana vitrectomy].

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Vascular Diseases
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Intraocular and orbital surgeries carry inherent risks, including potential vision loss.
• Epimacular membrane surgery, such as 23G pars plana vitrectomy, is a common procedure.
• Patient-specific factors like age and underlying conditions can influence surgical outcomes.

Observation:

• A case of retinal arterial occlusion occurred during the perioperative period following epimacular membrane surgery.
• The patient experienced a drastic decrease in visual acuity from 20/63 to counting fingers.
• Associated risk factors included age-related changes, underlying diseases, systemic hypotension, and mild anemia.

Findings:

• Retinal arterial occlusion resulted in irreversible loss of visual function in the operated eye.
• Standard topical and systemic therapies were ineffective in improving the patient's vision.
• The event underscores the potential for severe vascular complications despite technically successful surgery.

Implications:

• Highlights the critical need for vigilant monitoring of patients undergoing intraocular surgery.
• Suggests a potential link between systemic factors (hypotension, anemia) and perioperative retinal vascular events.
• Emphasizes the limitations of current therapeutic interventions for such severe post-surgical complications.