The use of perfluorocarbon liquids in vitreoretinal surgery.

Two perfluorocarbon liquids (perfluoro-n-octane and perfluorodecaline) were evaluated as technical aids in vitreoretinal surgery in 42 patients. Perfluorocarbon liquids were found to stabilize the retina and simplify removal of repiretinal membranes, which in many cases permitted the subsequent use of an expanding gas instead of silicone oil at the conclusion of the operation. The infusion of a perfluorocarbon liquids allowed the drainage of subretinal fluid through peripheral retinal breaks obviating the need for a retinotomy in most cases. No difference could be observed between the two types of perfluorocarbon liquids, and there were no adverse effects associated with their use. The retina was centrally attached in 32 eyes (76%) at 3-10 months follow-up.