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).