ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To summarize current concepts and recent data from the literature about different vitrectomy machines and small-gauge systems based on physical laws. DESIGN: Interpretive essay. METHODS: Review and synthesis of selected recent literature with interpretation and perspective. RESULTS: Pars plana vitrectomy can be performed with a wide variety of treatment strategies, for multiple diseases, and with different materials (solids and fluids). We discuss a variety of machines and system settings (peristaltic pump, duty cycle, aspiration, and infusion controls) targeting safer and the most effective surgery with detailed explanations of the physical properties. CONCLUSIONS: Effective management of new surgical strategies is based on recognizing and addressing various physical characteristics in disease and ocular settings. Although the properties of machine are expanding, the long-term efficacy and safety of most new approaches have yet to be established in controlled clinical trials.