Abstract
Purpose To examine the influence of perfluorooctane (PFO) in the formation of sticky silicone oil (SO). Methods We performed in vitro experiments using PFO, SO, aqua, and canola oil (CO). The surface tension of CO relative to aqua is very close to that of SO or PFO. First, each material (0.5 ml) was carefully injected into the bottom of a transparent container that was filled with either aqua or CO. Next, a second material (0.5 ml) with a specific gravity that was lower than that of the first material was carefully injected onto the first material. Results When the first material was injected into the container, the shape of the aqua was found to be close to a sphere, while the shapes of SO or PFO were prolate spheroids. Subsequently, when the second material was injected onto the first material, SO and CO completely adhered to the PFO, with the created immiscible droplets exhibiting a smooth surface. However, aqua did not create any immiscible droplets due to absence of adhesion to PFO or SO. Conclusions Sticky SO is composed of PFO and SO, which easily form an immiscible droplet due to the low interfacial tension.
Highlights
Silicone oil (SO) tamponade is performed during vitrectomy for severe vitreoretinal diseases
Since Dresp et al mentioned the influence of surface tension on the formation of sticky SO [1], we performed in vitro experiments to elucidate the relationship between interfacial tension and sticky SO, after we experienced a case of sticky SO
Results and Discussion e shapes of each first material are shown in Figure 2. e shape of aqua was found to be close to a sphere (Figure 2(a)), while the shapes of SO and PFO were prolate spheroids (Figures 2(b)–2(d))
Summary
Silicone oil (SO) tamponade is performed during vitrectomy for severe vitreoretinal diseases (e.g., rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with a giant retinal tear or proliferative vitreoretinopathy). Since Dresp et al mentioned the influence of surface tension on the formation of sticky SO [1], we performed in vitro experiments to elucidate the relationship between interfacial tension and sticky SO, after we experienced a case of sticky SO. We speculated that adhesion of the SO to the retinal surface via PFO was the cause of the sticky SO in our case.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
