Suction-assisted one-piece self-retaining wide-angle contact lens for vitrectomy.

INTRODUCTION We have developed a suction-assisted one-piece self-retaining wide-angle contact lens for vitrectomy. DESIGN The wide-angle contact lens is a one-piece lens without the case, making it lightweight. The contact inferior surface is enhanced by four quadrant plate extensions. A metal housing is attached to the side of the plate extension with an opening at the inferior surface. A negative suction device is attached to the housing of the lens. METHOD OF USE: A drop of viscoelastic is placed between the lens and the cornea. Suction created by a syringe device holds the contact lens on the cornea. CONCLUSION This specially designed lens is lightweight and eliminates the need for a skilled assistant to stabilize the contact lens. It provides a stable well-centered view of the peripheral fundus during vitreous surgery.