Vitrectomy for pars planitis complicated by vitreous hemorrhage: visual outcome and long-term follow-up

To characterize the visual results of vitrectomy for nonclearing vitreous hemorrhage in pars planitis.

Case series.

All six eyes (100%) had a visual acuity of 20/200 or less preoperatively. Postoperatively, five eyes (83%) improved to a final visual acuity of better than 20/30, and one eye improved to 20/100. The poorer vision of the latter patient was attributed to cystoid macular edema. Postoperative follow-up range was from 1.3 to 9 years (mean, 4.2 years).

A substantial long-term benefit is seen in patients with pars planitis treated with vitrectomy for nonclearing vitreous hemorrhage. A larger case series will be needed to confirm whether such excellent outcomes can be expected.