Purpose: To develop a quick and cost-effective alternative to a chandelier light for vitrectomy.
Methods: The surgical material available in an ophthalmologic operating room was used to create a sleeve for the vitrectomy light probe and tested on 30 consecutive retinal detachment cases for feasibility.
Results: A 64 × 5-mm cotton swab stick was cut into the length of the light probe minus the length of the trocar and subsequently pierced by a blunt needle. With this sleeve, the light probe could be safely handled similar to a chandelier light during surgery.
Conclusion: A sleeve for the light probe can serve as a substitute for a chandelier light during scleral depression in retinal detachment surgery.