Vitreoretinal Surgery with Temperature Management: A Preliminary Study in Rabbits.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Research
• Retinal Biology

Background:

• Vitreoretinal surgery involves complex procedures within the eye.
• Maintaining optimal intraocular conditions during surgery is critical for patient outcomes.
• The impact of irrigating fluid temperature on retinal structure during prolonged procedures requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the structural integrity of the rabbit retina following vitreoretinal surgery.
• To assess the effects of prolonged intraocular irrigation with solutions of varying temperatures.
• To determine the relationship between intraoperative temperature fluctuations and retinal damage.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-six rabbits underwent vitreoretinal surgery with intraocular irrigation at 5°C, 22°C, or 36°C.
• Irrigation/aspiration times varied (30 minutes for one eye, 60 minutes for the contralateral eye).
• Retinal histology was examined 1, 7, and 30 days post-surgery.

Main Results:

• Intraoperative irrigation with 5°C and 22°C solutions led to significant drops in vitreous cavity temperature.
• Retinal structural changes were observed after 60 minutes of irrigation with cold solutions (5°C and 22°C).
• No retinal changes were noted after 30 minutes of irrigation or with the 36°C solution.

Conclusions:

• Temperature management during vitreoretinal surgery is essential for preserving retinal morphology.
• Avoidance of intraoperative deep hypothermia and rapid rewarming protects the retina.
• Prolonged vitreoretinal surgery requires careful control of irrigating fluid temperature to enhance safety.