[Unusual uses of liquid perfluorocarbons]

Since the use of low viscosity perfluorocarbon liquids by Chang in 1987, many applications in vitreoretinal surgery have become possible owing to their physical properties (density, viscosity and refraction index). Perfluorocarbon liquids are used exclusively when a vitrectomy is necessary. The main indications are drainage of subretinal fluid by peripheral dehiscence, to facilitate dissection of vitreo retinal proliferation, in retinal detachment by giant tear and in posterior lens dislocation. The authors report three cases illustrating two new indications for perfluorocarbon liquids. Confirming the presence or absence of a peripheral dehiscence in a total retinal detachment if vitrectomy is necessary, subretinal fluid is displaced and escapes via a possible dehiscence. Treatment of vitreretinal incarcerations in a sclerotomic orifice during a vitrectomy is simplified. Easier treatment of this complication is made possible by the injection of perfluorocarbon liquids into the "non-incarcerated" orifice. Despite the more frequent use of perfluorocarbon liquids in vitreoretinal surgery, the possible specific complications which may occur with these products mean that they should be used with caution.