Silicone oil retention sutures in aphakic eyes with iris loss.

Silicone oil (SO) is a long-term intraocular tamponade used for a variety of retinal disorders. In aphakic eyes with an intact iris, the use of an inferior peripheral iridectomy prevents SO prolapse into the anterior chamber, thereby preventing glaucoma and keratopathy. We have developed a technique for preventing SO from entering the anterior chamber in aphakic eyes with iris loss. The technique involves placing 10-0 prolene sutures (SO retention sutures) across the anterior chamber to simulate an iris diaphragm. The sutures act as a barrier between the SO and aqueous, preventing SO-corneal contact. Images of this phenomenon were obtained by high-frequency ultrasound biomicroscopy with patients in the supine position. Silicone oil retention sutures may be an effective means to prevent SO-corneal touch in aphakic eyes with iris loss.