Vitrectomy in complicated retinal detachments

In this paper complicated traction retinal detachments are discussed in relation to aetiology, techniques of treatment and results of treatment. Complicated traction detachments are caused by pathological vitreous membranes or bands and epiretinal membranes. These membranes are found in the following groups of eyes: aphakia were vitreous loss, penetrating trauma, chronic vitreous inflammation and failed retinal detachments. Patients with extramacular traction detachments are not necessarily treated. Patients with diabetic traction retinal detachment are not included in this series. Of 150 consecutive pars plana vitrectomy operations--34 operations were for complicated traction retinal detachments.