pneumatic retinopexy
Pronunciation: new-MAT-ik RET-ih-no-pek-see
Minimally invasive procedure using gas injection to repair certain types of retinal detachment.
Full Definition
Pneumatic retinopexy is an office-based procedure for treating selected cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment involving injection of an expandable gas bubble into the vitreous cavity combined with laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy to seal retinal tears. The gas bubble provides temporary internal tamponade, pressing the detached retina back into position while the laser or cryo treatment creates a permanent seal around the tear. This technique is most effective for superior retinal detachments with single breaks and offers advantages of outpatient treatment, rapid recovery, and preservation of the eye's natural anatomy.
In Context
- "Pneumatic retinopexy was successful in reattaching the superior temporal retinal detachment with C3F8 gas." — Treatment outcome report
- "The patient maintained strict head positioning following pneumatic retinopexy to optimize gas bubble contact." — Post-procedure instructions