Removal of retained subfoveal perfluoro-n-octane liquid

Abstract

Purpose: To report a novel technique to remove retained submacular perfluorocarbon liquid.

Design: Retrospective cases series.

Methods: Two patients with retained subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid were treated with this technique. With a three-port pars plana approach, a 39-gauge flexible cannula was used to perform a retinotomy adjacent to the subfoveal perfluorocarbon bubble. The tip of the cannula was inserted into the bubble, which was removed with active suction.

Results: Both patients underwent successful removal of the perfluorocarbon liquid without complications. In one patient, visual acuity improved from 20/70 to 20/30, with resolution of his preoperative central scotoma. The second patient required removal of subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid at the time of silicone oil removal. The preoperative vision of finger counting improved to 20/60.

Conclusions: Subretinal perfluorocarbon can be removed using a flexible 39-gauge cannula without inducing retinal detachment or making a large retinotomy. This technique may benefit patients with retained subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid.