A novel applicator for the selective painting of pre-retinal structures during vitreoretinal surgery.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate a novel applicator, the so-called vitreoretinal-internal limiting membrane colour enhancer to achieve the selective painting of pre-retinal structures.

METHODS

The VINCE is a modified backflush needle, containing an adjustable silicone tube, which is surrounded by a metal cannula. The tube is connected to a dye container in the handpiece of the applicator.

RESULTS

The instrument was successful in painting the retinal surface sufficiently and was found to be particularly useful to avoid unintended staining of the peripheral or foveal retina. The newly developed customized cartridge-loading system contains the ready prepared dye, avoiding time-consuming dilution and preparation of the vital dye during surgery in the OR. The VINCE is effective in restricting the dye only to the area of surgical interest.

CONCLUSION

The VINCE is a useful tool to limit intraocular dye to the required area to minimize possible side effects to intraocular retinal structures.