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Review
. 2021 May;99(3):240-250.
doi: 10.1111/aos.14604. Epub 2020 Sep 15.

Silicone oil in vitreoretinal surgery: indications, complications, new developments and alternative long-term tamponade agents

Ying Chen  1   2 , Victoria R Kearns  3 , Liangyu Zhou  2 , Teresa Sandinha  3   4 , Wai Ching Lam  2 , David H Steel  3   5   6 , Yau Kei Chan  2
Affiliations
Free article
Review

Silicone oil in vitreoretinal surgery: indications, complications, new developments and alternative long-term tamponade agents

Ying Chen et al. Acta Ophthalmol. 2021 May.
Free article

Abstract

Silicone oil (SO) has been used as a long-term tamponade agent in the treatment of complicated vitreoretinal diseases for about half a century, during which time many advances in surgical techniques and technologies have been made. This review summarizes the chemical and physical properties of SO, its indications and complications, including particularly emulsification. The mechanisms and risk factors for emulsification are discussed, as well as novel strategies for its effective removal. Finally, the review focuses on new improved formulations of SO, including research into slow-release pharmacological agents within SO and provides an overview of alternatives to SO for the purpose of long-term tamponade that are being developed.

Keywords: emulsification; retinal detachment; silicone oil; tamponade; vitreoretinal surgery.

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References

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