The evolution of endoillumination.

Advances in endoillumination over the last decade have been numerous and were necessary to allow transition to smaller-gauge vitrectomy systems. Advances in light sources and their associated filters have resulted in safer, more powerful light sources that provide enough output to drive small fibers for 27-gauge surgery, chandeliers, and lighted instrumentation. Filtered light can also be used to enhance tissue visualization. This chapter will review the history and advances in light sources.