Clinical applications of auto indirect ophthalmoscopy.

A phakic eye that has undergone vitrectomy and gas-fluid exchange produces a real, inverted aerial image anterior to the cornea similar to that produced by a lens for indirect ophthalmoscopy. This image can be used during surgery to perform a variety of maneuvers that would otherwise require a contact prism, high-minus contact lens, or handheld indirect ophthalmoscope lens. Applications of auto indirect ophthalmoscopy include visualization of the retina and vitreous during endophotocoagulation and while using a vitreous cutter.