Combined phacoemulsification--vitrectomy surgery: technique, indications and outcomes

Abstract

Purpose and methods: Cataract extraction may be combined with vitrectomy to improve the operative view and/or enhance post-operative rehabilitation. A retrospective review of the records of all patients undergoing combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy procedures since 1993 was performed. Surgical technique is discussed.

Results: Fifty operations on 49 patients are described. Visual acuity improved overall (mean LogMAR acuity 1.58 +/- 0.74 pre-operatively and 1.17 +/- 0.76 LogMAR post-operatively), with 57% of patients having improved acuity post-operatively. Operative complications were few and post-operative complications were acceptable given the severity of the posterior segment disease.

Conclusions: Combined phacoemulsification-vitrectomy surgery is a viable option in the management of posterior segment disease in the presence of cataract. It has a number of advantages over other approaches, and can be combined with intraocular lens insertion into the capsular bag in most cases.