20-, 23-, AND 25-GAUGE VITREOUS CUTTERS

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Abstract
The flow rate of nine vitreous cutters was tested in two different viscosity environments. Physical features of each probe, such as flexibility and internal lumen diameter, were measured. For each probe, a total of 26 aspiration tests were performed in two different liquids. The stiffness of the shaft of each probe was calculated by measuring the displacement of the tip of the probe under a known constant force. All the probes were dissected and the internal lumen diameter was measured. Significant differences in flow rates were observed among the three separate conditions, among the three different gauge groups (25-, 23-, and 20-gauge vitreous cutter), and also within each gauge group. Internal lumen diameters and probe stiffness characteristics are presented. Vacuum, internal lumen diameter, and duty cycle seem to be the critical features governing actual flow rate. Knowledge of flow rate and stiffness of the various probes may aid surgeons in making an educated choice and may improve patient care.