Vitreous opacity is a common eye disease with age, and it is a very annoying disease. It negatively affects vision, and can be treated surgically, but this entails some health risks.
German ophthalmologist Professor Hans Horauf said that the vitreous is the mass that makes up the majority of the inner part of the eyeball, and it is a gelatinous substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina.
Horauf added that the vitreous body consists of about 89% water, and the rest is collagen fibers and “hyaloid” cells, which are a specific type of cell.
The German professor added that the composition of the vitreous changes throughout life. The collagen fibers can compress and clump together, while the gel-like part becomes more elastic.
It can then happen that these small structures within the vitreous cast shadows on the retina, which is called opacity.
As we age – usually from age 40 onwards – the vitreous shrinks and its structure changes. The risk of vitreous opacity is also higher in people who suffer from myopia.
Flying flies
Symptoms of vitreous opacity include seeing clouds and the appearance of small black spots moving in the field of vision, which are also known as “flying flies.” These spots can be especially noticeable on a light background such as white walls or paper.
In any case, an ophthalmologist should be consulted, especially if clouds and black spots are accompanied by flashes of light. These symptoms can indicate serious diseases such as retinal detachment and diabetic retinopathy, which is a disease that affects the retina due to diabetes.
Treatment methods
For his part, German ophthalmologist Matthias Bullhammer said that vitreous opacity is a tolerable problem for most patients. However, if the opacity is severe or significantly limits quality of life, then surgery is indicated.
Bullhammer explained that in what is called a vitrectomy, it is surgically removed and fluids are replaced. This procedure reliably removes vitreous opacity.
But, according to Bullhammer, it entails risks. Where infections or very serious complications can occur, namely retinal detachment. The patient then has to undergo another operation quickly. Depending on the extent of the separation, the ability to read may be lost.
Another problem associated with vitrectomy is cataracts. Starting at a certain age, retinal surgeons combine vitrectomy with cataract surgery; Where an artificial lens is replaced with the lens of the eye.
Another, newer option is vitreoretinal analysis using a laser; Where the collagen fibers in the vitreous are torn. This procedure is appropriate for some cases.