A 52-year-old with proliferative diabetic retinopathy undergoes pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). After core vitrectomy and removal of fibrovascular membranes, a 'relieving retinotomy' is performed. What is the primary indication for a relieving retinotomy during PPV for tractional retinal detachment?
- A To close a peripheral retinal break
- B To facilitate silicone oil injection
- C To relieve residual tangential traction preventing retinal reattachment ✓
- D To drain subretinal fluid through the retinotomy site
Correct answer: C. To relieve residual tangential traction preventing retinal reattachment
Explanation
A relieving retinotomy (or relaxing retinotomy) is performed when residual tangential or circumferential traction cannot be adequately relieved by membrane peeling alone, preventing the retina from lying flat. The cut releases the traction to allow retinal reattachment. It is not performed primarily to close breaks, drain fluid, or enable silicone oil — though internal drainage can be performed through existing breaks.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.