Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026
An Alternative and Validated Injection Method for Accessing the Subretinal Space via a Transcleral Posterior Approach
Published on: December 7, 2016
[Subtenon anesthesia by single injection at the inner canthus for surgery of the posterior segment]
L El Matri1, R Limaiem, F Mghaieth
1Departement d'Ophtalmologie, Service B, Institut Hédi Rais d'Ophtalmologie de Tunis. rlimaiem@yahoo.fr
Purpose:
To evaluate a new technique of local anesthesia namely caruncular anesthesia (subtenon anesthesia by single injection at the inner canthus of the eye) in vitreoretinal surgery.
Patients And Methods:
We carried out a prospective study from June 2002 to May 2004. We performed 140 consecutive vitreoretinal procedures that lasted less than two hours: 56% were endovitreal, 36% were episcleral and 8% were combined.
Results:
The delay for anesthesia onset was 6 min (average time). We obtained a complete akinesia score in 83% of cases. Our reinjection rate was 11%. Sedative supplementation was given peroperatively in 11% of the cases. Surgeon satisfaction was complete in 78% of the cases, and patients satisfaction was complete in 84% of the cases. No complications were observed during the study.
Conclusion:
Caruncular injection as local anesthesia is an interesting technique for vitreoretinal surgery. Subtenon anesthesia is an interesting efficacious and secure technique that can be used during long and painful interventions with satisfactory results.
