Retinal surgery: vitrectomy
Ophthalmology · Planning care in Germany and Czechia
- Clinical name
- Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV)
- German
- Pars-plana-Vitrektomie (PPV)
- Czech
- Pars plana vitrektomie (PPV)
Removes vitreous gel so a retinal surgeon can treat problems such as retinal detachment, vitreous haemorrhage or an epiretinal membrane. A gas bubble or silicone oil may be used inside the eye, depending on the repair.
Time, hospital stay & appointments
Times are planning guides, not national averages or guaranteed schedules. They reflect published provider examples and patient guidance. The treating team confirms the individual plan, time needed near the clinic and fitness to travel. Waiting lists are not included.
- Procedure or course duration
- Gloucestershire Hospitals describes approximately 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for more complex surgery. This does not include preparation and recovery from anaesthesia.
- Hospital stay
- Often day surgery; overnight observation may be needed depending on the operation, anaesthetic, health and support at home.
- Visits and repeat attendance
- Retinal assessment, 1 operation and an early postoperative check, often the next day, followed by further retinal reviews. Silicone oil may require a separate removal operation; complications can also add visits.
- Recovery and travel planning
- Do not fly while an intraocular gas bubble remains. The retinal surgeon must confirm when flying is safe; this can be weeks. Positioning instructions and the type of gas or oil can materially change travel plans.
Sources & finding a provider
Editorial source check: 29 October 2026. This is educational information, not an individual clinical assessment.
These country-specific sources document the service or its clinical use; their inclusion does not indicate a RAUQ partnership. Case acceptance, appointment availability and payment arrangements require separate provider confirmation.