Vitrectomy techniques in the management of selected penetrating ocular injuries

Closed vitrectomy techniques provide new capabilities to treat severe penetrating ocular injuries involving posterior segment structures. With these methods damaged iris tissue, lens, and vitreous can be removed and intraocular opacities can be cleared to identify and treat any retinal damage. Removal of damaged vitreous also prevents later cyclitic membrane formation and traction on the retina. The vitrectomy technique can be combined with additional methods to treat other conditions including nonmagnetic intraocular foreign bodies. We present the rationale and technique of vitrectomy together with the results of treatment in 51 consecutive cases of penetrating ocular trauma. Guidelines are offered for management of severe penetrating injuries.