SWEEPING TECHNIQUE FOR THE REMOVAL OF EMULSIFIED SILICONE OIL DROPLETS FROM THE ANTERIOR SURFACE OF THE IRIS USING AN OPHTHALMIC ABSORPTION SPONGE.

Abstract

Purpose: Silicone oil (SO) tamponade is frequently used in complex vitreoretinal surgeries, and SO migration into the anterior chamber can lead to complications, such as glaucoma and corneal decompensation. A new technique is described for the efficient removal of emulsified SO droplets, which can adhere strongly to the anterior surface of the iris.

Methods: The tip of an ophthalmic absorption sponge was cut to an approximately 1 mm × 1 mm size. Using forceps, the sponge was inserted through a 25-gauge trocar and then through a corneal paracentesis to gently scrape the surface of the iris to dislodge the adherent SO droplets, which were subsequently aspirated.

Results: This technique efficiently and effectively dislodged and mobilized most emulsified SO droplets, thereby allowing removal through aspiration using a vitrector. Two months after surgery, the retina remained attached, the intraocular pressure decreased from 18 mm Hg to 15 mm Hg, and there were no visible SO droplets in the anterior chamber.

Conclusion: The sweeping technique is a safe and efficient method to dislodge, mobilize, and aspirate emulsified SO droplets that are adherent to the anterior surface of the iris, thereby decreasing the risk of future SO-related complications.