Membrane Peeling

Membrane peeling is a technique that is commonly performed with vitrectomy surgery. Thin membranes or scar tissue are often present on the surface of the retina, causing distortion and pulling on the retinal tissue. These membranes are particularly common in diabetic retinopathy, macular pucker, macular hole, and complex retinal detachment. The pulling on the retina (traction) is often responsible for the puckering, hole formation, or retinal detachment.

In membrane peeling surgery, the surgeon uses microscopic instruments to approach these delicate, thin membranes and peel them off of the surface of the retina. The instruments include micro-forceps, pics, and scissors that fit through the tiny ports made in the eyeball.