Outcome of 23-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy for Pediatric Vitreoretinal Conditions

Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and short-term outcome of 23-gauge vitrectomy in children for various vitreoretinal conditions. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted of consecutive children younger than 14 years who underwent 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy for various vitreoretinal conditions from January 2008 to December 2011 at a tertiary care center. Results: Thirty-seven eyes of 31 children were included. There were 20 boys and 11 girls, aged between 1.25 months and 14 years (median: 10 years, mean: 7.23 years). The surgical indications were subluxated crystalline lens, retinopathy of prematurity stage 4, post-traumatic cataract with ruptured capsule, vitreous hemorrhage, dislocated crystalline lens, endophthalmitis, retinal detachment with vitreous hemorrhage, dislocated intraocular lens, epiretinal membrane, and increased intraocular pressure after intravitreal steroid implantation. Postoperative complications included loose blood, retinal detachment, early postoperative hypotony, and preretinal bleeding. Conclusions: The 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy approach in children appears safe and effective.