Intraoperative perfluorocarbon liquids in the management of proliferative vitreoretinopathy

Three low-viscosity perfluorocarbon liquids were used intraoperatively for hydrokinetic manipulation of the retina during vitreous surgery for retinal detachment with advanced proliferative vitreoretinopathy. All 23 patients had massive proliferative vitreoretinopathy (Grade D, Retina Society classification), and 16 (69.6%) had Grade D-3 with a closed-funnel configuration. In 21 eyes the retina could be flattened intraoperatively by perfluorocarbon liquids without requiring posterior retinotomy for internal drainage of subretinal fluid. The temporary mechanical fixation of the retina provided by this tool facilitated the removal of epiretinal membranes and release of traction. Fifteen eyes (65.2%) maintained long-term retinal reattachment with follow-up of six months or more. These liquids are useful adjuncts in the management of retinal detachment with severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy.