25 gauge vitrectomy 2006, the revolution continues
William V. Aldred (Pensacola)
Twenty five gauge vitrectomy continues to expand its role in the retinal treatment portfolio.
Despite impressive strides in equipment improvement, allowing for increasing indications, this
technology remains “untested” by some surgeons. By 2006, all of the bioengineering issues
involving instrument capabilities, illumination, and metallurgy have been solved. There are no
longer any valid objections to the 25 gauge procedure as the primary intervention in vitreous
surgical practice.
This paper is the third in a series of discussions of 25 gauge vitrectomy which I first introduced
at the 2003 VRS. The aforementioned instrument refinements are discussed in detail and illustrated
by video. Applications of sutureless vitrectomy to a wide variety of retinal conditions,
from the straightforward to the most complex, are demonstrated. Approaches to mastering the“learning curve” and tips in the avoidance of complications of 25 gauge vitrectomy in light of these newly available technologies
are reviewed.