[Posterior luxation of lens or implant: surgical treatment using a perfluorocarbon solution. Technique and results of 13 cases]

Abstract

We used perfluorocarbon liquids in the management of 6 cases of posterior dislocation of the lens and 7 cases of (sub-) luxation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL). The perfluorocarbon liquid was injected into the vitreous cavity after complete vitrectomy, to bring back the lens or IOL to the posterior chamber where it can be easily removed. The main characteristics of perfluorocarbon liquids used in this indication are their high specific gravity and their good surface tension. Because of these two qualities, when injected in a vitrectomized eye, the perfluorocarbon liquid forms a bubble, filling the vitreous cavity from the posterior pole to the ora serrata with the dislocated lens or IOL floating on its surface. We found this technique to be helpful and quite atraumatic in this difficult surgical situation. Complications included regressive corneal edema in 6 cases and retinal dialysis with localized detachment in 3 cases.