[The use of perfluorocarbon liquid in the surgical removal of lenses luxated to the vitreous cavity].

BACKGROUND

Removal of lenses dislocated to the vitreous cavity can be hazardous. The use of perfluorocarbon liquids during pars plana vitrectomy may reduce the risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications. We report our experience in using this surgical technique.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The authors describe a series of 14 patients in whom a posteriorly dislocated crystalline (11 eyes) or intraocular (3 eyes) lens was successfully removed with the use of perfluorodecalin through the limbal incision. Simultaneously, posterior chamber, scleral fixation IOLs were implanted in 10 cases and anterior chamber IOL in one case. In one patient AC IOL was implanted secondarily.

RESULTS

With a minimum follow-up of one month (average, 8 months), the visual acuity improved in 4 eyes, remained the same in 10, and worsened in one eye. Very good visual acuity (5/5-5/10) was achieved in 86% of patients. Complications were not frequent and not severe despite one case of retinal detachment.

CONCLUSIONS

Application of pars plana vitrectomy and the use of liquid perfluorocarbon allow for the safe management of eyes with luxated lenses.