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Vitreomacular Adhesion
Diseases of the Retina/Vitreous: Vitreomacular Adhesion
What is Vitreomacular Adhesion (VMA)?
When the vitreous (the gel that fills the inside of the eye) begins to shrink and liquefy, it can become stuck to the retina and begin to pull leading to VMA. This condition can affect vision significantly.
What are the Symptoms of VMA?
- Decreased vision
- Blurred central vision
- Distortion of straight lines
- Dark or blank spots centrally
If you notice any changes in your vision, please contact Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida.
To learn more about VMA, please visit the following website:
How is VMA Detected?
VMA usually start without symptoms. Only a comprehensive dilated eye exam can detect VMA. The eye exam may include the following:
- Visual acuity test: The eye chart will measure how well you can see at a distance.
- Dilated eye exam: Eye drops will be placed in your eyes to widen or dilate the pupils. This gives the doctor a better view of the back of your eye. Using a special magnifying lens, your doctor then looks at your retina and optic nerve for signs of VMA and other eye problems.
- Fluorescein Angiogram: With this test, dye is injected into your arm. Pictures are taken as the dye passes through the blood vessels in your eye. This test allows your doctor to identify leaking blood vessels and recommend the best treatment option for you.
Video: Fluroescein Angiography
- Ocular Coherence Tomography: With this test, special pictures are taken to show a three-dimensional view of your macula. This test allows your doctor to determine if abnormal swelling or fluid is present.
What are the Treatment Options?
Previously, the only treatment option for VMA was to surgically remove the vitreous from the eye. This procedure is called a vitrectomy.
Jetrea is now FDA approved and available for injection at all offices of Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida. It is administered via injection into the eye and is done with very little discomfort.
Retina Consultants began participation in clinical trials with Thrombogenics to evaluate this new treatment in 2007 and is honored to be the only clinical research site in our area to study this breakthrough therapy.
We are extremely proud to have been a part of bringing another treatment option for symptomatic VMA to affected patients in Fort Myers, Naples, Port Charlotte, Cape Coral, and Bonita Springs. The physicians of Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida and National Ophthalmic Research Institute and their support staff have the most experience surrounding the diagnosis of patients who are eligible to receive the drug, and the preparation and administration of the drug in our area.
If you have any questions regarding this new therapy, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
What Are The Causes And Risk Factors Of VMA?
Patients with VMA have the potential of developing a range of eye disorders, including macular pucker, macular hole, retinal tears, detachment, and macular edema. Symptomatic VMA left untreated can lead to eye conditions that may result in vision loss and even total blindness.
What You Can Do to Protect Your Vision
It is important not to delay evaluations and treatment. Patients with VMA are at risk for other retinal disorders. You will need to have frequent eye examinations as directed by your doctor.
Making the Most of Your Remaining Vision
Early detection and treatment may reduce the loss of vision from macular degeneration. However, if some loss of vision should occur, it doesn’t have to rob you of life’s simplest pleasures if you learn how to use your remaining eyesight to see your best. Low vision aids, special lenses, or electronic systems and training can maximize your ability to read and perform other activities.
The Low Vision Rehabilitation Center of Retina Consultants of Southwest Florida can give you more information about the training and devices available.
