Outcomes of Using Perfluorocarbon Liquid as Postoperative Tamponade in Complex Inferior Retinal Detachments

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Surgery

Background:

• Complex inferior retinal detachments present significant surgical challenges.
• Maintaining adequate postoperative tamponade is crucial for successful outcomes.
• Patient compliance with postoperative positioning can be a limiting factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) as a short-term postoperative tamponade in complex inferior retinal detachments.
• To assess the impact of PFCL tamponade on retinal reattachment and visual acuity.
• To identify potential complications associated with PFCL use in this context.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental study involving 40 eyes with rhegmatogenous inferior retinal detachment and proliferative vitreoretinopathy grade C.
• All patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy with 25G instrumentation.
• Perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) was used as a temporary postoperative tamponade for 15-21 days, followed by exchange with silicone oil.

Main Results:

• Complete retinal reattachment was achieved in 97.5% (39 out of 40) of the eyes.
• Postoperative visual acuity improved in 60% of patients and remained stable in 40%; no worsening was observed.
• Short-term complications included uveitis (5%), cataract (10%), optic atrophy (5%), and one case of endophthalmitis with redetachment (2.5%).

Conclusions:

• Perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) serves as a safe and effective short-term tamponade for complex inferior retinal detachments.
• PFCL is a valuable option for patients with difficulties adhering to postoperative face-down positioning.
• The short-term use of PFCL demonstrates favorable outcomes in managing challenging retinal detachments.