Giant retinal tears. Surgical techniques and results using perfluorocarbon liquids
S. Chang, H. Lincoff, N. J. Zimmerman and W. Fuchs
Department of Ophthalmology, New York Hospital-Cornell University Medical Center, New York 10021.
Three low-viscosity perfluorocarbon liquids provided an intraoperative tool
during vitrectomy to manage giant retinal tears. These clear fluids have a
high specific gravity (1.8 to 1.9) and are immiscible with water. In six
eyes, the giant tear was less than 180 degrees; in 11 eyes, it was 180
degrees or greater. In all eyes, the tear was unfolded and the retina was
flattened while the patient was supine. The perfluorocarbon liquid was
aspirated and replaced by air-perfluorocarbon gas mixtures (16 eyes) or
silicone oil (one eye) at the end of the operation. The retina was
reattached in 16 eyes (94%), with a minimum follow-up period of 6 months.
In five eyes (29%), the retina was reattached without scleral buckling.
Residual droplets of perfluorocarbon liquid were observed in four patients.
These new materials complement present surgical techniques for managing
giant retinal tears.
