[Removal of silicone oils from the eyes after vitrectomy]

The author describes his experience with elimination of silicone oil in 60 patients. The follow-up period was 4 to 16 months. In 30% of patients where the retina adhered, removal of the oil was associated with improved visual acuity and quality of vision. In 5%, on the other hand, removal of silicone oil was associated with reoperation of a relapse of detachment of the retina as the operation proved ineffective and the finding on the retina did not change. In 3% patients who had only one functional eye there was a subjective deterioration of vision. Before removal of silicone oil in adverse cases it is always necessary to consider carefully the risks of a relapse of detachment and deterioration of visual functions.