[Vitrectomy in retinal detachment caused by diabetic retinopathy].

We reviewed the surgical results obtained in 23 eyes that underwent vitrectomy for diabetic traction retinal detachment. Retinal reattachment was obtained in 75% of eyes, however the functional results were modest, owing to retinal changes related to diabetic retinopathy and/or longstanding macular detachment. Ambulatory vision was obtained in 60% of eyes. 8 eyes (40%) had final visual acuity of 1/20 or better. Four preoperative clinical findings were associated with a poor prognosis = absence of scatter retinal photocoagulation, dense vitreous hemorrhage, iris neovascularization and preoperative visual acuity reduced to "light perception". Iatrogenic retinal breaks were also associated with a poor prognosis.