Degenerative vitreous opacities (also known as myodesopsia) can cause permanent and relevant visual impairment. Neodymium-YAG laser vitreolysis is an alternative treatment option to pars plana vitrectomy for the treatment of disturbing degenerative vitreous opacities. This article critically discusses the different causes of vitreous opacities, the symptoms and functional impairments as well as clinical patient management. The aim is to support patient-oriented care and counselling of patients with vitreous opacities.
Keywords: Floater; Myodesopsia; ND:YAG laser; Weiss-Martegiani ring; YAG vitreolysis.