At the High-tech Eye Center, Tam Anh Hanoi General Hospital, Quan's eye showed vitreous hemorrhage and extensive fibrous membranes causing retinal detachment, a severe complication of diabetic retinopathy. He had no vision in his right eye, and his left eye could only distinguish hand movements at close range.

According to Doctor Bui Viet Hung, Head of the Vitreoretinal Department, prolonged and poorly controlled diabetes can damage the microvascular system in various organs, with the retina being particularly vulnerable. Chronic ischemia prompts the retina to form abnormal blood vessels, which are fragile and prone to hemorrhage. Over time, fibrous tissues can develop, leading to retinal detachment and severe vision impairment.

Previously, Quan had lost vision in his right eye due to diabetic complications and underwent surgery, but it did not recover. His delay in seeking eye examinations allowed the complications to affect his left eye, according to Doctor Hung.

Doctor Hung performing surgery on Quan. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*

The patient had multiple underlying conditions, including heart failure, obesity, and end-stage chronic kidney failure requiring dialysis. Therefore, before surgery, he underwent stabilization treatment in the Nephrology - Dialysis Department to ensure safety. Following this, the medical team convened and decided to operate on his left eye to address the hemorrhage, peel fibrous membranes, and reattach the retina. The surgery lasted for three hours, with close hemodynamic monitoring due to his cardiovascular and renal risks.

After the surgery, vision in his left eye improved significantly. He could count fingers at approximately 5 meters and distinguish colors, enabling him to perform basic daily activities independently.

Diabetes is a common chronic disease that can lead to many dangerous complications if poorly managed. Retinal complications often progress silently and are easily overlooked. Doctors advise patients to seek early specialist eye examinations if they experience symptoms such as persistent blurred vision, distorted images, or rapid vision loss. Effective blood sugar control and regular eye check-ups are important measures to limit the risk of irreversible vision loss.

Thu Giang