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Review
. 2024 Sep 1;35(5):365-368.
doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000001075. Epub 2024 Jul 11.

Management of vitreous floaters: a review

Alexis Ivan Aleman  1 , Lauren Kiryakoza  2 , Jayanth Sridhar  1   3 , Jesse Sengillo  2
Affiliations
Review

Management of vitreous floaters: a review

Alexis Ivan Aleman et al. Curr Opin Ophthalmol. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Vitreous floaters, characterized by the perception of spots or shadows in the visual field, commonly result from posterior vitreous detachment and can cause chronic symptoms in affected patients. The diagnosis of posterior vitreous detachment is typically determined clinically and can sometimes be confirmed with optical coherence topography (OCT) [1 ▪▪ ] . The objective of this review is to review management options for symptomatic vitreous floaters.

Recent findings: Symptoms of vitreous floaters may be mild or may significantly affect patient quality of life. Observation is the most common management strategy. Procedural management options include pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) vitreolysis. PPV is considered the most definitive management option for vitreous floaters. PPV, however, carries inherent risks, notably infection, cataract formation, and retinal detachment [2] . Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis is a less invasive alternative with studies demonstrating varied success [1 ▪▪ ,3,4] .

Summary: This review provides insights into the current state of knowledge regarding the management of vitreous floaters and can guide clinical decision-making.

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References

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    1. Sommerville D. Vitrectomy for vitreous floaters: analysis of the benefits and risks. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2015; 26:173–176.
    1. Kokavec, Wu Z, Sherwin JC, et al. Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis versus pars plana vitrectomy for vitreous floaters. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 6: doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011676.pub2. - DOI
    1. Delaney Y, Oyinloye A, Benjamin L. Nd:YAG vitreolysis and pars plana vitrectomy: surgical treatment for vitreous floaters. Eye Lond Engl 2002; 16:16–26.
    1. Kakulavarapu S, Kiryakoza L, Sridhar S. Complications of treatment for symptomatic vitreous floaters: a review. Int Ophthalmol Clin 2022; 62:131–155.

MeSH terms

Supplementary concepts