The Diabetic Retinopathy Vitrectomy Study (DRVS) addressed the timing of vitrectomy for non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage due to proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Its key finding relevant to current practice was:

• A Early vitrectomy conferred no benefit in any subgroup
• B Early vitrectomy benefited young type 1 diabetic patients even before 6 months of observation ✓
• C Vitrectomy should always be delayed until exactly 12 months of non-clearing hemorrhage
• D Benefit was limited exclusively to patients older than 70 years

Explanation

DRVS showed that in severe vitreous hemorrhage, early vitrectomy improved the chances of regaining useful vision, with the clearest benefit in patients with type 1 diabetes, who tend to have aggressive fibrovascular disease and rapid progression. Current practice therefore favors earlier surgery, commonly within about 1 to 3 months for dense non-clearing hemorrhage, sooner in type 1 disease or when traction threatens the macula. Indefinite delay risks tractional macular detachment.

Reference: Ryan's Retina, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.