Effects of low molecular weight dextran in intraocular irrigating solutions on ERG B-wave

We examined effects of low molecular weight dextran in intraocular irrigating solutions on in vitro ERGs of the rabbit. A significant difference in ERG b-wave amplitude was observed between dextran-free and 3-4% dextran-added solutions. The b-wave amplitudes were well maintained and even enhanced to 120% of the presubstitution level after 90 minutes incubation with 4% dextran-added solution (15 mM/L bicarbonate, 290 M0sm/kg). It is suggested that low molecular weight dextran might be a useful or, at least, non-toxic agent in intraocular irrigating solutions for maintaining the retinal function with respect to ERG b-wave.