Twenty-gauge Transconjunctival Vitrectomy

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a new 20-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy procedure that we designed, to evaluate its usefulness, and to compare two different methods of use.

Methods: The records of 431 patients (433 eyes) who underwent 20-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy at the Surugadai Hospital of Nihon University between March 2003 and January 2004 were studied retrospectively. In surgical method 1, 20-gauge wounds were made through the conjunctiva and sclera together. In surgical method 2, 20-gauge conjunctival openings were made 2 mm posterior to the sclerotomies. Absorbable sutures were used to stitch the scleral and conjunctival openings simultaneously in both methods.

Results: A 20-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy has various benefits and is indicated for nearly all ocular diseases. Moreover, it is not limited by the intraocular instruments required. However, since cannulas were not placed in all ports, conjunctival edema occurred more easily with surgical method 2 owing to the leakage of perfusion fluid.

Conclusions: This new 20-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy procedure has various benefits and is indicated for nearly all ocular diseases. It is not limited by the intraocular instruments required.