Vitreous membrane formation after experimental vitreous haemorrhage.

The formation of vitreous membranes after intravitreal haemorrhage was studied in rabbit eyes. Early detachment of the posterior vitreous was followed by the formation of large cellular membranes, composed of aggregated giant macrophages within fine collagen sheets. Progressive reabsorption of the cellular material resulted in acellular membranes composed of endogenous vitreous collagen. Fibroblastic activity was not observed, and it was considered that the vitreous body, particularly its hyaluronic acid component, may present a barrier to the invasion of fibroblasts and other cells during the resolution of vitreous clots.