Management of vitreous floaters: a review

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

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.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy / methods
  • Lasers, Solid-State / therapeutic use
  • Tomography, Optical Coherence
  • Vision Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Vision Disorders* / pathology
  • Vision Disorders* / surgery
  • Vitrectomy* / methods
  • Vitreous Body* / pathology
  • Vitreous Body* / surgery
  • Vitreous Detachment* / diagnosis
  • Vitreous Detachment* / pathology
  • Vitreous Detachment* / therapy

Supplementary concepts

  • vitreous floaters