A closed microsurgical technique for anterior vitrectomy using a continuous air infusion.

A new technique of anterior vitrectomy using a continuous air infusion is described. It has a number of advantages over conventional techniques and is recommended for the management of vitreous loss during cataract extraction. The vitreous gel is displaced posteriorly by the surface tension of an air bubble. The identification of vitreous strands is facilitated by the air/vitreous interface. Air in the anterior chamber reduces the refractive power of the cornea, providing direct visualisation of the posterior segment.