Detection and localization of perfluorodecalin in the human eye by fluorine 19 magnetic resonance.

Perfluorocarbons are applied as heavy liquids during vitreoretinal surgery. They are removed again intraoperatively because of possible harmful long-term effects. Following vitreoretinal surgery, residual perfluorodecalin (PFD) was detected in four eyes and localized in two others by fluorine 19 magnetic resonance (19F-MR). In vitro analysis of 19F-MR spectra shows that chemical shift artifacts can be avoided much better with PFD than with perfluorotributylamine and perfluoroctane. Therefore, PFD localization by 19F-MR imaging is superior to that of perfluorotributylamine and perfluoroctane. This examination can be performed on currently employed magnetic resonance imaging systems equipped with a fluorine channel. In the event of significant inadvertent residual quantities of PFD and obscured media, 19F-MR may specifically detect and localize PFD.