gms | German Medical Science

Background: Todate several traditional paper-based journals are available in the field of vitreoretinal surgery. Many surgeons present their surgical technique and new technology using modern audiovisual systems and video clips. However, no peer-reviewed journal was available for scientific publication of video clips of vitreoretinal procedures.

Methods: A peer reviewed, independent, free-access online journal was designed with special attention to the needs of vitreoretinal surgeons. An international editorial board supports the journal in scientific matters and further development.

Results: The Video Journal of Vitreoretinal Surgery (VJVRS) was developed and released in August 2009. Videos may be accessed online via the journal's homepage at: www.vjvrs.org; Furthermore, a DVD containing the video clips can be ordered. The journal recognizes videos in any of these 3 categories: a) Original video: contributions presenting a surgical technique, b) Interesting case: presentation of a surgical case, c) New technology: addressing new developments of devices and instrumentation. Submission of contributions is possible via the homepage up to a file size of 250 MB, or offline by mail to the journal's office. Every video publication is given a DOI number; it can be cited and recognized in the author's publication list.

Conclusions: The Video Journal of Vitreoretinal Surgery follows a new frontier of visualized scientific publication by providing peer-reviewed videos in the field of vitreoretinal surgery. It takes advantage of video technology to capture and transfer all facets of the diseases of the posterior segment of the eye, thereby complementing traditional paper-based publications.