20-gauge transconjunctival pars plana vitrectomy.
This article describes a transconjunctival technique for pars plana vitrectomy using 20-gauge instruments. Sclerotomies are performed directly through the conjunctiva, Tenon's capsule, and sclera with a 19-gauge microvitreoretinal blade. A sutureless 20-gauge infusion cannula is then inserted and pars plana vitrectomy is performed in a standardized fashion using 20-gauge instruments. Each sclerotomy and its corresponding conjunctival incision is closed with a single stitch using a 7-0 polyglactin suture. This transconjunctival technique is a reasonable alternative surgical approach to minimize surgical trauma of tissues (eg, conjunctiva) and hasten postoperative recovery without the additional risks and costs associated with 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy.
Retina and Vitreous Section, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine of Ribeirdo Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil.
Rodrigo
R
Jorge
André Vieira
AV
Gomes
Rubens C
RC
Siqueira
Rogério A
RA
Costa
Ingrid U
IU
Scott
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003228:Conjunctiva / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation; D012599:Sclerostomy; D013536:Suture Techniques; D014821:Vitrectomy / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*