Diagnostic and therapeutic vitrectomy for endophthalmitis.

The introduction of a compact portable vitreous suction cutter enables the aspiration and resection of infected ocular tissues for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Four cases of postoperative bacterial endophthalmitis are presented in which mechanical anterior vitrectomy was performed in addition to conventional antimicrobial therapy. Three of these eyes were saved and 2 retained the possibility of useful vision. A rationale for the aggressive managements of endophthalmitis is presented.