Outcomes of Combined Phacovitrectomy Without Corneal Suturing

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques
• Retinal Surgery

Background:

• Combined phacovitrectomy commonly involves suturing corneal incisions to prevent leaks.
• Self-sealing corneal incisions, as used in cataract surgery, may offer an alternative to suturing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the clinical outcomes, safety, and complications of combined phacovitrectomy performed without prophylactic corneal suturing.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case series of 106 eyes undergoing combined phacovitrectomy between January 2018 and June 2019.
• All surgeries were performed by two experienced retinal surgeons at a tertiary university hospital.
• Corneal sutures were used at the surgeon's discretion, not routinely planned.

Main Results:

• Suturing was required in only 5% of cases (5 eyes) due to incision leak or shallow anterior chamber.
• No other complications related to the absence of prophylactic sutures were observed during surgery or follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Prophylactic corneal suturing may not be essential for combined phacovitrectomy.
• Sutures can be reserved for specific cases where wound integrity is compromised during the procedure.