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Posterior capsulorrhexis gives access for vitrectomy
THOROFARE, N.J. — A posterior capsulorrhexis can be an alternative to pars plana access for vitrectomy in cases of endophthalmitis. Howard V. Gimbel, MD, discusses use of the posterior capsulorrhexis for this application in the next issue of Ocular Surgery News.
A smooth posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (PCCC) has the same well-noted advantages as an anterior capsulorrhexis, said Dr. Gimbel, a co-inventor of the capsulorrhexis technique. With this strong, regular opening, the capsule is secure enough to allow extensive surgical manipulation, he said. The continuous smooth margin of a PCCC enhances the safety of anterior vitrectomy by maximizing capsular bag integrity. The IOL can be displaced but remain in the capsular bag during vitrectomy, he added.
Among the advantages is the ability of anterior surgeons to perform the procedure safely and promptly if a vitreoretinal surgeon is not readily available, Dr. Gimbel noted. Also, surgeons do not need to make any additional incisions, and after the vitrectomy intravitreal antibiotics can be injected through the same opening.
One limitation to the technique is that vitrectomy is more restricted compared to a pars plana vitrectomy, Dr. Gimbel said.
A full description of the technique is in the Oct. 15, 2001, issue of Ocular Surgery News.