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Intraocular gas effects on corneal endothelial permeability
K Green1, L Cheeks, D A Stewart
1Department of Ophthalmology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912-3400.
Lens and Eye Toxicity Research
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Intraocular gases like sulfur hexafluoride and octafluoropentane increased corneal endothelial permeability to inulin and dextran in rabbits. These gases disrupt normal function through physical processes, not toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Physiology
- Intraocular Gas Tamponade
Background:
- The corneal endothelium is crucial for maintaining corneal clarity and hydration.
- Intraocular gases are used in retinal detachment surgery, potentially affecting the anterior chamber environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of different intraocular gases on rabbit corneal endothelial permeability.
- To assess the effects of air, sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), and octafluoropentane (C3F8) on inulin and dextran transport.
Main Methods:
- Infusion of specific volumes of air, SF6, and C3F8 into the anterior chamber of rabbit eyes at constant intraocular pressure.
- Measurement of inulin and dextran permeability across the corneal endothelium before and after gas infusion.
Main Results:
- Ringer infusion caused a decrease in permeability.
- Air showed a minor, biologically insignificant increase in dextran permeability.
- Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) increased inulin and dextran permeability by 16% and 13%, respectively.
- Octafluoropentane (C3F8) increased both inulin and dextran permeability by 18%.
Conclusions:
- Intraocular gases, particularly SF6 and C3F8, can increase corneal endothelial permeability.
- The duration of gas presence in the anterior chamber may correlate with the extent of deleterious effects.
- Gases appear to disrupt endothelial function via physical mechanisms rather than direct toxicity.