Removal of Subfoveal Perfluorocarbon Liquid: Report of 3 Cases Publisher



Mirshahi A¹ ; Ghasemi F¹ ; Zarei M¹ ; Karkhaneh R¹ ; Ahmadraji A¹ ; Polkinghorne PJ²
Source: Journal of Current Ophthalmology Published:2017

Abstract

Purpose To report removal of retained subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) after vitrectomy for retinal detachment. Methods Three patients underwent 3-port 23-gauge vitrectomy in an attempt to remove retained subfoveal PFCL bubble secondary to retinal detachment surgery. In two patients, removal was achieved via a 23-G needle whereas the third patient with multiple small subfoveal droplets, multiple punctures were required and in that case a small 40-G needle was used. We assessed best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundus imaging, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) of all patients before and after surgery. Results The subfoveal PFCL was successfully removed in all 3 eyes and although a functional improvement was documented, outer retinal atrophy and photoreceptor loss was observed in all our cases. Conclusions SD-OCT allows early recognition of retained subfoveal PFCL. Surgical removal may lead to retinal morphologic restoration and functional improvement. While we achieved complete removal of PFCL with both 23-G and 40-G instrumentation, we believe the versatility and ease justifies the universal usage of 40-G retinotomy needles. © 2017 Iranian Society of Ophthalmology