Retention time of different ophthalmic viscosurgical devices during phacoemulsification in rabbit ocular model: A comparative analysis

Background

To compare retention times of various ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVDs) and soft-shell combinations.

Methods

Experimental study. Eighteen rabbit eyes were divided into six groups of three eyes, based on OVDs tested. A: Endocoat, B: HealonPro, C: Viscoat, D: Provisc, E: Endocoat and HealonPro and F: Viscoat and Provisc. OVDs were stained with 10% fluorescein dye before being injected into the anterior chamber. Phacoemulsification, using fixed parameters, was performed. If OVD persisted after 60 s, a standardised irrigation and aspiration technique replaced phacoemulsification. The time until central and complete clearance of the OVD were video-recorded and measured.

Results

Mean central retention times (CRT) were found to be: HealonPro—5.33 ± 2.56 s, Provisc—3.33 ± 1.11 s, Endocoat—75.0 ± 3.26 s, Viscoat—62.33 ± 5.19 s, combining HealonPro with Endocoat—22.67 ± 4.75 s and Provisc with Viscoat—11.0 ± 0.82 s. The mean total retention time (TRT) was: Endocoat—80.0 ± 8.17 s, Viscoat—81.67 ± 2.09 s, HealonPro with Endocoat—81.33 ± 3.35 s, and Provisc with Viscoat—71.0 ± 2.94 s. For HealonPro and Provisc, CRT and TRT remained identical across all trials.

Conclusions

Retention times varied, with cohesive OVDs exhibiting shorter durations than dispersive OVDs. Among dispersive OVDs, TRTs were comparable; however, Endocoat displayed an extended CRT. In soft shell trials, the combination of HealonPro and Endocoat exhibited prolonged CRT and TRT, suggesting enhanced corneal protection.