Performance, Safety and Efficiency Comparison Between 10,000 and 5,000 Cuts Per Minute Vitrectomy Using a 25G Cutter - A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study

Purpose:

This study aims to compare the performance of the Alcon 25+® UltraVit® 5000 cpm vitrectomy probe versus the 25+® Ultravit 10,000 cpm® beveled tip, dual drive vitrectomy probe. The safety profile and efficiency were compared.

Method:

Prospective, randomised study. Consecutive patients from January 2019 to August 2019 requiring vitrectomy for retinal detachment, epiretinal membrane, vitreous haemorrhage, and macula hole were randomized into either the 10K or 5K vitrectomy group. Both groups underwent vitrectomy using the proportional vacuum mode with the cut rate set at the fastest rate. Patients with previous vitrectomy, other ocular diseases (glaucoma, corneal disease, or significant corneal opacities), or trauma were excluded from the study. The primary endpoint was vitrectomy time, while secondary endpoints included posterior vitreous detachment time, intraoperative complications, and number of instruments used. The preoperative, postoperative 1 month and 3 month best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications were recorded.

Inclusion criteria

• Consecutive patients over the age of 18 requiring vitrectomy for vitreous haemorrhage (VH), epiretinal membrane (ERM), macular hole (MH), dislocated lens, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and diabetic tractional retinal detachment were randomized into the study from January 2019 till August 2019

Exclusion criteria

• Patients with ocular comorbidities affecting surgical view including corneal opacities or scar, previous vitrectomy, history of trauma or requiring silicone oil were excluded from the study