20
Vitrectomy in the case of tractional detachment is one of the most
difficult and subtle procedure in ophthalmology. The surgeon is asked
to separate structures and membranes, not thicker than a millionth
of a meter. This requires great experience and modern equipment.
27 – G Vitrectomy
Conventional vitrectomy was performed with surgical tools of 20G
diameter and sutures where needed to close the sections. Today
at Athens Eye Hospital we use even thinner surgical tools of 27G
diameter (same thickness as an insulin needle). The surgery is
atraumatic and the incisions do not need suturing.
A serious complication that might occur after attempting to separate
the inferior surface of the vitreous membrane from the retina is an
induced tear on the retina that can cause retinal detachment with
catastrophic consequence for vision. The 27-G vitrector minimizes
this possibility of tractional activity which can tear the retina, due to
the high frequency that it functions.
Tractional Retinal Detachment.
The development of new vessels is
followed by the creation of fibers tissue with neovascular membranes.
These membranes constrict and develop traction on the retina which
can cause detachment.
© 2015 ATHENS EYE HOSPITAL - NIKOLAOS PAPAZOGLOU M.D.
Νeovascular membrane
Retina
Retinal
detachment
Constriction of
the neovascular
membrane
«Eye of the needle».
Most eye centers perform
vitrectomy with tools that have a diameter of
about 1mm (0.9mm for a 20-G).
Today at Athens Eye Hospital we use tools
with 27-G (diameter 0.4 mm) for the utmost
accuracy and effectiveness.
Vitrous
Vitrous
23-G
20-G
20-G
0,9 mm
0,65mm 0,5mm
0,4mm
23-G 25-G 27-G
25-G
27-G
