Retinal irradiation from an operating microscope during vitrectomy: observation by endoscopy.

Phototoxic retinopathy due to light from the operating microscope has been reported during cataract surgery, as well as during vitreous surgery. A neutral density filter for the coaxial light or coverage of the cornea with various materials has been advocated to prevent retinal complications. However, it is difficult to actually monitor the fundus during surgery with usual methods. The author used an endoscope to demonstrate how intensively the light from the operating microscope is focused on the retinal surface during vitreous surgery.