Rajya Sabha member and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Raghav Chadha recently underwent emergency eye surgery in London to prevent potential blindness. The surgery, known as vitrectomy, was performed due to a retinal hole threatening retinal detachment, which could have led to irreversible vision impairment or even blindness.
Vitrectomy is a surgical treatment used to treat a variety of eye conditions that involve the vitreous and retina. During the surgery, the gel-like substance called vitreous gel inside the eye is removed, providing access to the retina for necessary modifications. This gel may be replaced with a saline solution, a gas bubble, or silicone oil.
Vitrectomy becomes necessary for individuals with certain eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, macular hole, macular pucker, severe eye injuries, or complications arising from cataract surgery. These conditions can lead to vision loss if left untreated and may require surgical intervention to prevent further damage.
The surgery is recommended for individuals experiencing cloudy vision due to bleeding in the eye, damage to the retina caused by friction or pulling, or conditions that are difficult to diagnose. It may also be performed to deliver drugs or therapeutic devices directly to the affected area.
While vitrectomy is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. These risks include infection, excessive bleeding, retinal tearing or detachment, the development of new cataracts, changes in eye pressure, and the need for repeat surgery. However, post-surgery outcomes are typically favorable with low complication rates.
Raghav Chadha's vitrectomy was necessitated by a retinal hole, followed by complications that posed a significant risk of eyesight loss. According to reports, the surgery was successful, and Chadha is currently recovering well. His absence during the crucial election period has been addressed by Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj, who assured that Chadha would join the party's Lok Sabha poll campaigning once he has recovered.
According to Dr. Amit Jain, Retina specialist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund, the lifetime risk for retinal detachment in individuals with high myopia is about one in 20. Dr. Amit Jain highlights that individuals with high myopia are at greater risk of retinal detachment due to elongation of the eye, emphasizing the importance of early detection and regular eye exams.
Dr. Uma Malliah from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals explains that vitrectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia, with most patients experiencing improved vision within weeks or months post-surgery.
Following the successful completion of the vitrectomy surgery, Raghav Chadha is currently recovering and is expected to resume his political duties once he has fully recovered. His absence during the crucial election period has been addressed by AAP leaders, assuring supporters that Chadha will join the party's Lok Sabha poll campaigning as soon as he feels better.
(Input from various media sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)
