Clinical analysis of 23-gauge vitrectomy for the treatment of acute endophthalmitis after cataract surgery.

PURPOSE: We performed a retrospective study to evaluate the surgical efficacy and timing of 23-G vitrectomy for acute endophthalmitis following cataract surgery, and to determine when silicone oil tamponade and intraocular lens (IOL) removal are indicated during vitrectomy for endophthalmitis.

METHODS: We enrolled 21 patients (21 eyes) diagnosed with acute endophthalmitis following cataract surgery who underwent endoscope-assisted 23-G vitrectomy using a wide-angle noncontact lens. Silicone oil tamponade was performed when retinal tear or detachment occurred. The IOL was not removed during primary vitrectomy. Postoperative systemic broad-spectrum antibiotics were used.

RESULTS: All infections were controlled by treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity was >0.05 in 14 patients (66.7%) after treatment, which was significantly higher than that before treatment (2/21, 9.5%). Two patients experienced retinal detachment at 10 and 14 days after primary vitrectomy; the IOL was removed during secondary surgery, and silicone oil tamponade was performed. One patient experienced endophthalmitis recurrence 2 months after vitrectomy; secondary surgery was performed to remove the peripheral vitreous body, the pars plana of the ciliary body, and the IOL and capsule.

CONCLUSIONS: Vitrectomy should be performed when acute endophthalmitis is diagnosed following cataract surgery. Silicone oil tamponade should be performed only when retinal break or detachment occurs. The IOL does not necessarily require removal.