Complications Related to Perfluorocarbon Liquids in Vitreoretinal Surgery

Abstract

The use of perfluorocarbon liquid in vitreoretinal surgery is increasing with the expansion of the indications. Unlike true tamponades, heavy fluids are an intraoperative tool and are not suitable to be retained after vitrectomy. Perfluorocarbon Liquids (PFCLs) are extremely useful as 'third hand' in many indications, but should not be overused because of their potential complications. Complications related to perfluorocarbon liquids are retinal toxicity, retention in the eye, retinal artery occlusion during injection into the eye, sticky silicone oil formation, and evaporation during the operation. A PFCL bubble inadvertently left in subretinal space is potentially toxic. Unless it is under the macula, it is not justified to perform surgery just to remove the bubble.