A Microsurgical Vacuum Pick for Membrane Peeling Without Forceps During Vitreoretinal Surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Innovation
• Retinal Surgery

Background:

• Vitreoretinal surgery often requires delicate membrane peeling.
• Current techniques for internal limiting membrane (ILM) and epiretinal membrane (ERM) removal can involve forceps and multiple instrument exchanges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel micro-vacuum-pick (MVP) device for membrane peeling.
• To describe a new, forceps-free method for ILM and ERM removal in vitreoretinal surgery.

Main Methods:

• A novel micro-vacuum-pick (MVP) was utilized in 24 consecutive pars plana vitrectomy procedures.
• The MVP was employed to initiate membrane peeling, strip membranes from the retinal surface, and aspirate removed tissue.
• The MVP served as the sole instrument for membrane peeling and removal in all cases.

Main Results:

• The MVP successfully peeled and removed ILM and/or ERM in all 24 cases without complications.
• The device facilitated fluid-air exchange when indicated.
• No surgical complications were reported during the procedures using the MVP.

Conclusions:

• The micro-vacuum-pick (MVP) presents a new, forceps-free approach to ILM and ERM peeling.
• This method potentially reduces instrument exchanges and the need for separate devices for membrane edge creation and fluid-air exchange.
• The MVP offers a streamlined and safe alternative for membrane removal in vitreoretinal surgery.