Hybrid clear corneal micro-incision surgical technique for stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity

ABSTRACT

A safe technique for entry incisions and closure in stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) surgery is being described. Three 23G clear corneal incisions are made which allow for safe and snug entry of 25G calibrated infusion and 25G instruments for performing lensectomy, membrane removal and vitrectomy. At the end of surgery, air is injected and corneal entries are hydrated for sutureless closure. The technique was performed in 50 eyes of 36 children with stage 5 ROP. The hybrid technique ensured safe entry and exit with stable anterior chamber during surgery. None of the cases developed retinal breaks during surgical entry nor had any complications such as hypotony, flat anterior chamber, hyphaema or corneal edema in post operative period. Clear corneal entry using 23G incisions for 25G instrument access is a safe and effective technique for performing lensectomy and vitrectomy with sutureless closure in cases with stage 5 ROP.