[Ophthalmosurgical treatment possibilities in diabetic retinopathy]

On my being appointed to the Chair of Ophthalmology at the oldest university eye department in the world, the importance of ophthalmosurgery and research in the field of diabetic retinopathy at the 1st Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Vienna is presented against the background of a historical review of this department from its inception to the present day, in homage to my predecessors. The currently valid concept of the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy is outlined. The most effective treatment techniques in diabetic retinopathy, namely photocoagulation and vitrectomy or membranectomy, are described in detail with particular regard to the indications, success rates and complications.