Outcomes after combined 1.8-MM microincision cataract surgery and 23-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy for posterior segment disease: a retrospective study.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to retrospectively review indications, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and outcomes of combined coaxial microincision cataract surgery and 23-gauge vitrectomy for posterior segment disease.

METHODS: The outcomes and findings of surgery in 50 patients (50 eyes) who underwent coaxial microincision cataract surgery and foldable intraocular lens implantation combined with 23-gauge vitrectomy for a variety of indications between January 2010 and March 2012.

RESULTS: No posterior capsule tear was observed during surgery. Intraoperatively, a retinal break was found in 9 eyes (18%), which were successfully treated with laser and/or cryotherapy. Corneal suture was done in 6 eyes (12%), 5 of them left and 1 right. Sclerotomy was sutured in 2 left and 2 right eyes, respectively, a total of 4 eyes (8%). In 1 case, 23-gauge vitrectomy was converted to 20-gauge vitrectomy. The postoperative intraocular pressure (millimeters of mercury, mean ± standard deviation) was 16.7 ± 9.8. Hypotony (intraocular pressure < 9 mmHg) occurred in 9 eyes (18%). In 1 eye (2%) posterior iris synechia were observed 2 weeks after surgery, and intraocular pressure was >40 mmHg. Intraocular pressure was normalized after Nd:YAG laser iridotomy. Fibrin reaction in the anterior chamber was observed in 1 eye (2%) Day 1 after surgery. Posterior capsule opacification, which required Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy, was observed in 11 eyes (22%) during the follow-up.

CONCLUSION: Combined sutureless coaxial microincision cataract surgery and 23-gauge vitrectomy offers the advantages of both coaxial microincision cataract surgery (less wound leakage, good anterior chamber stability, and safety) and 23-gauge vitrectomy (decreased inflammation and faster rehabilitation after surgery).