27-Gauge vitrectomy

Abstract

Ten years or more have passed since the current concept of 25-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy with a trocar-cannula system emerged. There is no doubt that current microincision vitrectomy surgery with 25- or 23-gauge instrumentation has simplified the vitrectomy procedure and has provided numerous potential advantages over traditional 20-gauge surgery. The established theory regarding surgical wounds is that 'much smaller is better'. Along with the development of new-generation vitrectomy machines with ergonomic instruments, surgeons have been shifting dramatically from 20-gauge systems to 23- and 25-gauge systems over the last years. Thanks to recent innovations and improvements in high-end multifunctional vitrectomy machines and ultrahigh-speed cutters, the development of powerful light sources, and wide-angle viewing systems, several new techniques have also encouraged us to launch the development of a 27-gauge vitrectomy system over the past several years. Similar to the recent evolution in 23- and 25-gauge systems, further development and refinement of the functionality of instruments with a gauge of 27 or more are under way and will continue over the coming years, which in the future will allow us to establish this system for ultra-minimally invasive surgery for the full spectrum of vitreoretinal pathologies.