Pars plana vitrectomy for the complications of diabetic retinopathy: a report on 131 cases.

The results of primary vitrectomy for the complications of proliferative diabetic retinopathy were explored in 131 eyes of 105 patients. A minimum of 6 months' follow-up was obtained. The primary indications for surgery were persistent vitreous hemorrhage (in 66% of the eyes) and progressive tractional macular detachment (in 31%). Technical (surgical) success (clearing of the ocular media or relief of macular traction, or both) was achieved by the time of the last examination in 69% of the eyes; it was achieved in 70% of those with persistent vitreous hemorrhage and in 68% of those with tractional macular detachment. Visual improvement was observed in 55% of all the eyes.