Combined phacoemulsification-vitrectomy surgery: technique, indications and outcomes

Purpose and Methods Cataract extraction may be combined with vitrectomy to improve the operative view and/or enhance post-operative rehabilitation, A retrospective review of the records of all patients undergoing combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy procedures since 1993 was performed. Surgical technique is discussed. Results Fifty operations on 49 patients are described. Visual acuity improved overall (mean LogMAR acuity 1.58 +/- 0.74 preoperatively and 1.17 +/- 0.76 LogMAR postoperatively), with 57% of patients having improved acuity post-operatively. Operative complications were few and post-operative complications were acceptable given the severity of the posterior segment disease. Conclusions Combined phacoemulsification-vitrectomy surgery is a viable option in the management of posterior segment disease in the presence of cataract. It has a number of advantages over other approaches, and can be combined with intraocular lens insertion into the capsular bag in most cases.