The Eye Foundation: Your Guide to High-Risk PDR and Vitreo-Retinal Treatment
What is High-Risk PDR?
Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is a severe stage of diabetic retinopathy, a complication of diabetes that affects the eyes. High-risk PDR is a particular form of PDR characterized by rapid progression and a high risk of vision loss.
Characteristics of High-Risk PDR
High-risk PDR is defined by specific features that indicate a heightened risk of vision loss. These features include:
- Extensive new blood vessels (neovascularization) on the surface of the retina or optic nerve
- Vitreous hemorrhage, bleeding within the gel-like substance that fills the eye
- Preretinal hemorrhage, bleeding between the retina and the vitreous
- Large areas of neovascularization (NVE) greater than half the size of the optic disc
Risks of High-Risk PDR
High-risk PDR poses a significant threat to vision due to the potential for:
- Vitreous hemorrhage: Bleeding into the vitreous can obscure the retina, leading to severe vision loss or blindness.
- Tractional retinal detachment: As new blood vessels contract, they can pull on the retina, causing it to detach. Retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss if not promptly treated.
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Treatment for High-Risk PDR
Timely and effective treatment is crucial for managing high-risk PDR and preventing vision loss. The primary treatment options include:
- Anti-VEGF injections: These injections inhibit the growth of new blood vessels, reducing the risk of bleeding and vision loss.
- Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP): This laser treatment aims to shrink new blood vessels and reduce their risk of bleeding.
- Vitrectomy: In severe cases with vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment, surgery may be necessary to remove blood from the vitreous or repair the detached retina.
Expert Vitreo-Retinal Care at The Eye Foundation
At The Eye Foundation, our team of experienced vitreo-retinal specialists is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for individuals with high-risk PDR. We offer advanced diagnostic and treatment modalities to effectively manage high-risk PDR and preserve vision.
Schedule a Consultation with Our Experts
If you have been diagnosed with high-risk PDR, prompt evaluation and treatment are essential to prevent vision loss. Schedule a consultation with our vitreo-retinal specialists at The Eye Foundation to discuss your treatment options and safeguard your vision.
