PPV with 25ga Technology – Initial Results

Stephan Nikolic, C. Niederstadt, H. Bleckmann, M.-G. Theophil (Eberswalde/Berlin)

Microsurgery using 25ga Technology allows transconkunktival, suture-free “mini”- sclerostomies for PPV surgery. Advantages include a reduced post-operative trauma and potential reduction in required surgery time. Advantages and disadvantages are to be assessed with comparison to conventional 20ga surgery. Initial clinical results and experience will be compared for evaluation.
Since the introduction of 25ga technology, approximately 40 patients have undergone 25ga 3 port PPV`s. Indications included central epiretinal membranes, ILM peeling and simple vitreous removal. Postoperative evaluation period was defined at 6 months. Postoperative irritability, postoperative intraocular pressure as well as intra and postoperative complications are all to be included in the evaluation in addition to the reduction of OR-time and operative expenditure.
First results show, that uncomplicated, central vitreous removal applying 25ga technology can be achieved safely and with a time saving factor. Basic operational procedure and handling with 25ga instrumentation is almost identical to conventional 20ga technology. On more technically complex vitrectomies the 25ga Instrumentation and procedure shows slight disadvantages albeit small.
Complications did include a spontaneous, resorptive vitreous hemorrhage and on a different patient a short term hypotonie of the globe. There were no cases under which an endophthalmitis could be observed. Patients acceptance was generally well received due to minimal inflicted trauma.


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