Bimanual 25-gauge chandelier technique for direct perfluorocarbon liquid-silicone oil exchange in retinal detachments associated with giant retinal tear

ABSTRACT

Direct perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL)-silicone oil exchange presents its own set of challenges in the micro incision vitreous surgery era. We propose a simple bimanual technique to circumvent this problem. Thirteen eyes of patients with retinal detachment associated with giant retinal tears underwent vitrectomy followed by self-retaining endo illuminator (Chandelier) assisted direct PFCL-silicone exchange. No intra or postoperative complications related to the surgical technique were noted. All patients had attached retinas and satisfactory visual recovery at 6 months. Direct bimanual PFCL silicone oil exchange using a Chandelier seems to be a safe and effective technique.