Transconjunctival plain gut "tape" for 23-gauge sclerotomy closure

Small-incision "sutureless" vitrectomy has become increasingly popular, but wound leaks still occur in some cases. This can lead to postoperative hypotony and may increase the risk of endophthalmitis. I have developed a new wound closure method using transconjunctival 6-0 plain gut suture fashioned as a "tape." Since the suture ends remain under the conjunctiva, the risk of both wicking and foreign body sensation is minimized. The patients treated with 6-0 plain gut "tape" are more comfortable than those managed with transconjunctival polyglactin 910 sutures and have low rates of hypotony. The plain gut sutures are well tolerated, showing little postoperative inflammatory reaction. This is a low-cost, effective, and simple method for wound closure when needed in small-incision vitrectomy.