23-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy was developed to improve on the reported shortcomings of 25-gauge vitrectomy.
Every large opening of the conjunctiva and sclera, and every closure with resorbable suture material is associated with greater postoperative inflammation than a single small incision requiring no suture.
For patients, the milder inflammatory reaction and absence of astigmatism mean less postoperative irritation and speedier rehabilitation.
23-gauge vitrectomy is suited not only for treatment of surgically less complicated vitreoretinal pathologies, but also for even the surgically most difficult disorders.
The indications for 25-gauge vitrectomy, by contrast, are seen by many surgeons in the repair of the less surgically complex vitreoretinal pathologies.
The concept of 25-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy can also be applied with the larger 23-gauge Instrumentarium.
The closure achieved by self-sealing sclerotomies is so effective as to practically eliminate the risk of postoperative hypotony.
The stability and efficiency of the instruments allows repair not only of macular disorders but also of the surgically most complicated pathologies in all fundus regions.
The best possible preservation of the conjunctiva and sclera, beginning with the very first operation, is of inestimable value for all subsequent interventions.