AIM: To discuss the clinical effect of 23-gauge pas plana vitrectomy(PPV)for delay-onset endophthalmitis following cataract surgery.

METHODS: This retrospective chart review study included patients with delay-onset endophthalmitis that was present 6wk or more after cataract surgery, who underwent 23-gauge PPV from January 2010 to January 2016 at Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University. The diagnosis was made according to clinical symptoms and signs. The postoperative follow-up results were recorded, including anterior segment examinations, fundus examinations, and best-corrected visual acuity.

RESULTS: Totally 15 patients(15 eyes)were included. The average time between cataract surgery and their eye symptoms of endophthalmitis was 5.13±2.41mo. The culture isolates revealed that 9 eyes(60%)were cultured positive, anaerobes in 4 eyes(44%), fungal infections in 3 eyes(33%), aerobes in 2 eyes(22%). The mean follow-up period was 12mo. The final visual outcomes were as follows: 11 eyes(73%)achieved a better vision with PPV; 3 eyes(20%)achieved a better vision with PPV, total capsulectomy(TC)and IOL removal; 1 eye(7%)with PPV, silicone oil tamponade, total capsulectomy(TC)and IOL removal was enucleated because of uncontrolled inflammation.

CONCLUSION: The 23-gauge PPV is safe and effective for the management of delay-onset endophthalmitis following cataract surgery. Recurrence rate might be decreased with total capsulectomy and IOL removal.