Hi guys!
This is Dr. Mário Bulla from Retina e Vítreo, the most complete retina channel on KZread. Welcome! Don't forget to leave your likes and comments with your questions about retinal diseases or ophthalmology in general. Today, we're going to talk about proliferative diabetic retinopathy, the most serious form of diabetic retinopathy, and the treatment alternatives available.
What is Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy?
Diabetic retinopathy is one of the main causes of blindness in the world, especially among people with diabetes. Unlike cataracts, where sight recovery is possible through surgery, vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy often cannot be reversed. It is crucial to control diabetes and blood pressure to prevent this condition.
Stages of Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is divided into four main stages:
1. **Mild: Minor changes in the retina.
2. **Moderate**: More changes, but still no neovessels.
3. **Severe: Significant increase in changes, risk of developing neovessels.
4. **Proliferative**: Formation of neovessels, which can cause vitreous hemorrhage, retinal detachment and neovascular glaucoma.
Symptoms of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
In the early stages, diabetic retinopathy can be asymptomatic. It is therefore essential for diabetic patients to have annual eye examinations. In the more advanced stages, symptoms may include:
- Blurred vision
- Dark spots or areas of lost vision
- Flashes of light
- Loss of vision
Treatment of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
In the last 10 to 15 years, there has been a major change in the treatments available for proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
#### Laser Photocoagulation
Laser photocoagulation is a treatment that helps preserve vision, especially in proliferative diabetic retinopathy. There are two main types:
- **Focal laser**: Used to treat macular edema.
- Photocoagulation: Laser applied to the periphery of the retina to prevent the growth of neovessels.
#### Intravitreal Antiangiogenic Injections
Intravitreal antiangiogenic injections have revolutionized the treatment of diabetic retinopathy. This treatment involves injecting drugs that help neovessels regress quickly, improving vision faster than laser.
#### Vitrectomy
In more serious cases, such as persistent vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment, vitrectomy may be necessary. This surgery involves removing the vitreous (gelatin of the eye) and the hemorrhages, as well as the fibrosis caused by diabetes.
Prevention and Control
Prevention is the key to avoiding diabetic retinopathy. Some measures include:
- Strict glucose control
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure
- Annual eye examinations
Conclusion
The main pillars of treatment for proliferative diabetic retinopathy are laser photocoagulation and intravitreal injections of anti-angiogenic drugs. Always remember the importance of controlling diabetes and blood pressure.
If you have any more questions on this subject, leave a comment below. Don't forget to share this video with people who may need this information, leave a like and comment with your questions so that we can answer them.
Thank you very much for watching and see you in the next video on the Retina e Vítreo channel!
Follow us on instagram: / retina.bulla
This video and its comments are not a substitute for a doctor's consultation and are for educational purposes only. They should not be used for decision-making purposes, which requires a face-to-face consultation with a specialist doctor.
Author:
Dr. Mário César Bulla
Cremers 28120
Ophthalmologist - Retinologist
www.clinicabulla.com.br
www.especialistaemretina.com.br
Instagram: @retina.bulla
Video URL: • Tratamento da retinopa...
@Retina e Vítreo
#retina
#ophthalmology