Role of Small-Gauge Proportionate Reflux-Assisted Hydrodissection In Elevated Symptomatic Vitreofoveal Traction

To describe a new technique to release the elevated symptomatic vitreofoveal traction.

This was a retrospective, interventional case series where a new technique of hydrodissection by proportionate reflux property of small-gauge vitrectomy cutter was used in cases of elevated symptomatic vitreofoveal traction as evident on optical coherence tomography. After vitrectomy, an opening was made in the taut posterior hyaloid face around the foveal elevation. Then, the cutter tip was insinuated inside the hyaloid opening, and the port opening was directed toward the tip of the fovea at its hyaloid attachment. The proportionate reflux property of the cutter was then used to cause reflux of cassette fluid. The hydrostatic force thus generated separates the vitreofoveal attachment. End point was separation of vitreofoveal traction.

Seven eyes of seven patients were operated by 27-gauge (n = 3) or 25-gauge (n = 4) vitrectomy system. Mean preoperative and postoperative BCVA were LogMAR 0.44 (20/55) ± 0.14 and LogMAR 0.27 (20/37) ± 0.11, respectively ( P = 0.23). Mean preoperative foveal elevation was 560.86 ± 196.57 micro m, which significantly decreased postoperatively to 251 ± 79.13 micro m ( P < 0.01). VMTs were successfully released in all cases. Mean follow-up was 184.00 ± 80.32 days.

Small-gauge proportionate reflux-assisted hydrodissection is an innovative technique for management of elevated symptomatic cases of vitreofoveal traction.