Diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular edema: etiopathogenesis and vitreoretinal surgery as one of the methods of treatment

Complications of diabetes mellitus such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic macular edema (DME) remain major global health concerns. DME leads to swelling of the central retina and consequently to decreased visual acuity. The pathogenesis of these conditions is complex and multifactorial, and continues to be the subject of scientific research. Currently, intravitreal injections of angiogenesis inhibitors are considered the main method of DME treatment. However, their prolonged use may lead to patients developing treatment resistance. With the advancement of vitreoretinal surgery, its therapeutic potential in DME management is being actively explored. In patients with diabetes mellitus and DME, resistance may develop to antivasoproliferative therapy, laser treatment, or dexamethasone implant therapy. Introduction of vitreoretinal surgical techniques into DME management allows for improvement of anatomical and functional outcomes within a short time in patients with this pathology.