Intraoperative breakage of 20-gauge Tano forceps.

Abstract

To report three cases with breakage of a 20-gauge kryptonite forceps during vitreoretinal surgery. Interventional case report. Pars plana vitrectomy that included a membrane peeling was performed in three patients through standard ports with 20-gauge vitrectomy systems. The peeling procedure was attempted with the end-gripping kryptonite forceps. Intraoperatively, the branch/tip broke and dropped onto the posterior pole. Removal of the broken part was uncomplicated, and the subsequent clinical course was unremarkable. In one case, the handle and branch/tip part were exchanged inadvertently. In the other two cases, neither an exchange nor a maladaptation of the parts was noted. An exchange of the hand piece and gripping end may increase the risk of breakage and retinal damage. The delicate gripping tips, however, may break because of inadequate maintenance and/or aging of the material. Intraoperative visual and functional examination is recommended before intraocular use.