Vitrectomy techniques in retinal reattachment surgery.

Vitreous surgery techniques are useful in the management of selected retinal detachments with an otherwise poor prognosis. Vitrectomy methods can be used to remove intraocular opacities; cut vitreous sheets causing vitreo-retinal traction and separate epiretinal membranes covering or distorting the retina; provide a fluid space to aid in creation of a scleral buckle or use of an intravitreal gas bubble; perform other intraocular procedures, including transvitreal treatment of retinal breaks, transvitreal removal of subretinal fluid, and intraocular fluid-gas exchange. These surgical capabilities can be combined with conventional retinal reattachment methods to treat selected types of retinal detachment. The surgical techniques, indications for surgery, and role of vitrectomy methods in the current management of retinal detachment are reviewed.