Comparison of vitreous replacement with Healon and with HPMC in rabbits' eyes.

Ten rabbits underwent vitreous aspiration and replacement by either Healon or Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose 2%. Four weeks' observation did not reveal noticeable differences between Healon and HPMC with regard to anterior chamber reaction, intra-ocular pressure or cataract. The vitreous reaction in eyes with HPMC was much more severe than in Healon eyes, with typical white precipitates and vitreous bands. Post-mortem examination confirmed the clinical findings.