Subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid droplet can be removed without puncturing the retina

Abstract

Subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid (PFL) is a vision-threatening complication that requires removal as safely as possible. We experienced a surgical case of proliferative vitreoretinopathy, in which a subfoveal PFL droplet was removed through the fovea, without puncturing the retina. In this case, although the retina was completely attached after primary vitrectomy and cataract removal, a subfoveal PFL droplet was found. At the second surgery, after peeling the internal limiting membrane, the droplet was passively aspirated by placing a 25-gauge blunt needle on the surface of the retina. This useful technique avoids puncturing the retina and does not require the patient to maintain a specific position postoperatively.

Keywords

• internal limiting membrane
• perfluorocarbon
• proliferative vitreoretinopathy
• vitrectomy