Central retinal artery occlusion during vitrectomy: Immediate retinal revascularization following induction of posterior vitreous detachment

PURPOSE: To describe a patient with acute central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) during vitrectomy surgery and the possible role of vitrectomy in acute CRAO management. OBSERVATIONS: An 84-year-old man presented with broad vitreomacular traction and epiretinal membrane in the right eye. Preoperative assessment clearly showed normal retinal vasculature. On starting vitrectomy, complete CRAO with marked segmentation of all retinal vessels was noted. Vitrectomy was performed in the usual manner and once the posterior hyaloid detached from the disc, immediate complete revascularization of the retinal vessels was noted. The patient had a complete visual recovery. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPORTANCE: Immediate vitrectomy with induction of posterior vitreous detachment may have a role in selected cases of acute CRAO, particularly if performed within a short window.