This article is only available in the PDF format. Download the PDF to view the article, as well as its associated figures and tables.
It is now five years since Robert Machemer, MD, revolutionized surgery of the posterior segment of the eye. His vitreous infusion suction cutter (VISC) that is inserted through a small incision in the pars plana and manipulated under the direct visual control afforded by an operating microscope has led to capabilities in vitreoretinal surgery that are transforming ophthalmology.
In this 136-page monograph, Dr Machemer organizes and brings up-to-date the rapid evolution of vitrectomy techniques and instrumentation, based on his experience with more than 500 vitrectomies. Chapters on instrumentation, patient selection, surgical techniques, complications, and postoperative evaluation should be required reading for anyone performing or considering performing vitrectomy surgery. A chapter on vitrectomy in rabbit eyes by William E. Benson, MD, is valuable for the student of vitrectomy prior to operating on patients.
The monograph is not without its weak points. No other instrument besides the VISC is described in detail.