Simultaneous injection‐aspiration technique of air/fluid exchange for in‐office treatment of post‐operative vitreous cavity hemorrhage

Abstract

Abstract Background Post-operative vitreous cavity hemorrhage following pars plana vitrectomy is common. In-office drainage of the hemorrhage may be an option for some patients. Technique A new method for office-based air fluid exchange is described. A 30-gauge needle with a 10-mm syringe filled with sterile air is inserted 3.5-mm posterior to the limbus in the superotemporal quadrant. A second 30-gauge needle is inserted 3.5 mm from the limbus at 6 o’clock and connected to an empty 10-mm syringe with intravenous catheter tubing. The plunger of the air-filled syringe is pushed while the plunger of the empty syringe is pulled, so that the rate of fluid aspiration matches the rate of air injection. Discussion The method approximates conditions in pars plana vitrectomy, with balanced infusion and aspiration. Displaced vitreous cavity contents are collected in the aspiration syringe. The procedure is also cost effective. Conclusion The simultaneous syringe method is an easy, safe, and effective way of clearing post-operative vitreous cavity hemorrhage.

Keywords

• Proliferative diabetic retinopathy
• Pars plana vitrectomy
• Air fluid exchange