Combined Phacoemulsification and Vitrectomy for Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy

John Alfred H. Lim, MD

Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital, Manila, Philippines

Purpose: To demonstrate the post-operative visual recovery of patients who underwent combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy for diabetic retinopathy

Methods: Retrospective, non-comparative case series of three patients with significant cataract and proliferative diabetic retinopathy requiring vitrectomy

Results: All three patients have surgical indications for vitrectomy, particularly vitreous hemorrhage and macular traction detachment, and visually significant cataracts, which also compromised the surgeon's view. All patients underwent phacoemulsification (superior approach) with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation, followed by a standard three-port 20G vitrectomy. Two patients required silicone oil injection because of intraoperative iatrogenic breaks secondary to membrane dissection. Post-operatively, all patients experienced rapid visual recovery, with stable vision after at least two months of follow up.

Conclusion: Combined surgery for patients with cataract and diabetic retinopathy requiring vitrectomy affords patients more rapid visual recovery.