Purpose: To reveal the differences in anatomical and functional results following standard 20-gauge vitrectomy and modern transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy in macular surface pathology.
Materials and methods: Retrospective, interventional, comparative evaluation of macular pathology cases operated by standard 20-gauge vitrectomy and transconjunctival 23 G sutureless vitrectomy. In evaluation were included a comparable number of epiretinal membranes (both idiopathic and secondary) and stage 3 and 4 macular holes. A postoperative anatomical and functional analysis was performed and also the incidence of pre-and postoperative complications was noted.
Results: Transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy was associated with a shorter operating time and quicker anatomical and functional results. If in epiretinal membranes there was no significant difference in final results, in macular holes anatomical and functional results were better with sutureless vitrectomy.
Conclusions: These results confirm the efficacy and safety of both surgical procedures in macular surface pathology. Better anatomical and functional results in macular holes and quicker functional rehabilitation in all cases promote sutureless vitrectomy as new standard procedure in these cases.