New viscodissection instrument successful for treating retinal detachments

A newly developed method for microincisional vitrectomy is effective for complex diabetic tractional retinal detachment, according to a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology.

Dr Jorge A. Fortun et al., Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, conducted a single-surgeon, noncomparative, consecutive case series on 30 eyes with severe diabetic tractional retinal detachment. All patients underwent viscodissection-assisted 25-gauge vitrectomy with the new instrument.

The mean visual acuity was 20/400 preoperatively. Mean postoperative visual acuity was measured at 20/70. In 17 eyes visual acuity increased by 2 or more lines and remained the same in 11 eyes.

Overall, the newly developed viscodisssection instrument successfully aids microincisional vitrectomy for complex diabetic tractional retinal detachment.