VITRAX (sodium hyaluronate) in anterior segment surgery: a review and clinical study summary

Anterior segment ophthalmic surgery has been greatly facilitated by the use of viscoelastic surgical aids containing sodium hyaluronate. VITRAX is a highly purified fraction of sodium hyaluronate dissolved in a physiological balanced salt solution. A multiclinic evaluation was conducted in 440 patients undergoing anterior segment surgery who received VITRAX or other viscoelastic surgical aids (HEALON, VISCOAT, or AMVISC). VITRAX was effective in facilitating complex intraocular surgical procedures and was comparable to HEALON in protecting corneal endothelium during surgery. Overall rates for complications and adverse reactions with VITRAX and the comparative agents were similar, although postoperative elevations in intraocular pressure were observed more frequently with HEALON. Vitrax is an effective and well-tolerated surgical aid for anterior chamber procedures.