The bell pepper experiment: a novel self-sealing “screwcut” incision for sutureless vitrectomy

Flattened sclerotomies are an essential step in ensuring postoperative wound stability in transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy. However, in complex cases involving complete vitrectomy with shaving of the vitreous base, laser application and peeling of surface membranes, conventional angled incisions often leak at the end of the procedure. Here, we present a novel curved and twisted (screw-like=“screwcut“) self-sealing incision technique using a 23-gauge one-step microcannula array with sharp solid trocar blades. Based on a simple kitchen experiment, we demonstrate that this approach provides excellent wound closure and potentially minimizes the risk of wound leak in sutureless vitreoretinal surgery.

Lars-Olof Hattenbach

Augenklinik des Klinikums Ludwigshafen, Ludwigshafen am Rhein, Germany