Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2025
Biobanking of Human Aqueous and Vitreous Liquid Biopsies for Molecular Analyses
Published on: September 11, 2023
Intraoperative Complications With Vitreous Biopsy for Molecular Proteomics
Objective:
To study the incidence of intraoperative complications while collecting a vitreous sample for proteomic biomarker analyses during small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).
Methods:
A retrospective case series was assembled from the surgical logs and charts of patients who underwent 23-, 25-, and 27-gauge PPV along with an undiluted vitreous biopsy. Primary surgical indication and detailed operative reports were reviewed. Complications specific to vitreous biopsy were assessed while complications related to vitrectomy in general without biopsy were not tabulated.
Results:
In 1190 eyes that underwent vitreous biopsy, the most common indications for PPV were rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (24.2%), epiretinal membrane (ERM) (21.7%), vitreous hemorrhage (11.0%), uveitis (8.3%), and macular hole (7.5%). An adequate sample of 0.5 cc to 1.0 cc was obtained in all cases. There was one sclerotomy break associated with biopsy, but no instances of lens touch, retinal contusion, retinal detachment, or intraocular hemorrhage.
Conclusions:
Undiluted vitreous biopsy obtained at the time of small-gauge vitrectomy is a generally safe procedure and may be considered for collection of samples for proteomic analysis. [.
Insights
Collecting undiluted vitreous samples during small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for proteomic analysis is generally safe. This vitreous biopsy procedure had a low incidence of intraoperative complications in 1190 eyes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Innovation
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) is a common ophthalmic surgical procedure.
- Vitreous samples are valuable for proteomic biomarker analysis.
- Small-gauge PPV offers potential advantages but requires careful sample collection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the incidence of intraoperative complications during vitreous sample collection.
- To evaluate the safety of undiluted vitreous biopsy during small-gauge PPV.
- To determine the feasibility of obtaining samples for proteomic analysis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 1190 eyes undergoing 23-, 25-, and 27-gauge PPV with vitreous biopsy.
- Review of surgical logs and operative reports.
- Assessment of complications specifically related to the vitreous biopsy procedure.
Main Results:
- The most common indications for PPV included retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane, and vitreous hemorrhage.
- Adequate sample volumes (0.5-1.0 cc) were obtained in all cases.
- One sclerotomy break occurred; no lens touch, retinal contusion, detachment, or intraocular hemorrhage were reported.
Conclusions:
- Undiluted vitreous biopsy during small-gauge PPV is a safe procedure.
- This method is suitable for collecting samples for proteomic biomarker analyses.
- The low complication rate supports its consideration in clinical practice.
