The role of vitrectomy instrumentation in the treatment of severe traumatic hyphema.

Eight patients with severe traumatic hyphemas underwent clot evacuation with vitrectomy instrumentation. The patients were followed up for periods of one to four years. No significant intraoperative complications were noted, but one eye developed a postoperative flat anterior chamber and another developed multiple staphylomas with uncontrolled glaucoma, leading to the eventual enucleation. Seven of the eight operated eyes achieved intraocular pressure control in the early postoperative period, and this control was sustained throughout the course of follow-up without antiglaucomatous medication. These same seven eyes had final visual acuities of 6/12 (20/40) or better.

Duke Scholars

Author Brooks W. McCuen II Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Diseases & Surgery