pars plana
Pronunciation: parz PLAN-ah
The flat, non-ciliated portion of the ciliary body located between the pars plicata and the peripheral retina.
Full Definition
The pars plana is an anatomical region of the ciliary body that serves as the primary entry site for posterior segment surgical procedures. This area, located approximately 3.5-4.0 mm posterior to the limbus, is chosen for vitreoretinal surgery because it provides access to the vitreous cavity while avoiding damage to the crystalline lens anteriorly and the retina posteriorly. The pars plana approach is fundamental to modern vitreoretinal surgery and allows surgeons to perform complex intraocular procedures with minimal trauma to surrounding structures.
Usage
Usage note: Always use as 'pars plana' as a unit; avoid separating the terms in surgical documentation.
In Context
- "The surgeon made three pars plana incisions for the 23-gauge vitrectomy system." — Operative report
- "Pars plana vitrectomy was indicated for the management of proliferative vitreoretinopathy." — Surgical planning note