[Application of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) in retinal surgery (author's transl)]

After a short historical survey the indication and technique of the intravitreal injection of SF6-gas within the limits of the actual retinal surgery are discussed and demonstrated by means of 10 cases. The main indications are (1) tamponade of oral and preoral giant tears, (2) tamponade of central retinal foramina, (3) tamponade of equatorial giant holes of 1-2 quadrants as well as tear groups, and (4) SF6-gas as substitute of the vitreous body.