Retinopexia neumática para el tratamiento de desprendimientos regmatógenos de retina seleccionados / Pneumatic Retinopexy for Treating Selected Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachments

Objetivo: Determinar los resultados anatómicos y funcionales en pacientes operados de desprendimiento de retina regmatógeno con técnica de retinopexia neumática. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal y prospectivo con pacientes operados con técnica de retinopexia neumática en el Centro Oftalmológico de Villa Clara entre junio del 2019 y abril del 2023. Resultados: La edad media de los pacientes estudiados fue de 62,1años. Los hombres fueron más afectados que las mujeres (60,6 por ciento). El 57,6 por ciento de los ojos tuvo agudeza visual mejor corregida de movimiento de manos al diagnóstico y el 93,9 por ciento mácula desprendida. En el 66,7 por ciento de las operaciones se utilizó el hexafloruro de azufre como tamponador. Se logró el éxito anatómico con una intervención en el 81,8 por ciento (IC 95 por ciento: 80-83,6 por ciento) de los casos. En estos, se alcanzó el éxito funcional en el 85,2 por ciento (IC 95 por ciento: 83,4 -87 por ciento). Los ojos con éxito anatómico alcanzaron como media una agudeza visual mejor corregida de 0,5 décimas (IC 95 por ciento: 0,2-0,7) y se logró una ganancia media de 0,4 décimas (IC 95 por ciento: 0,3-0,5). La complicación más frecuente fue la persistencia de líquido subretinal residual, el cual se presentó con más frecuencia en pacientes mayores de 60 años y desapareció como promedio a los 55,9 días sin necesidad de tratamiento. Conclusiones: La retinopexia neumática es una muy buena opción para tratar desprendimientos de retina seleccionados. En pacientes con ninguna o mínima vitreorretinopatía proliferativa, se logran buenos resultados anatómicos y funcionales(AU)

Objective: To determine the anatomical and functional results in patients operated on for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment using the pneumatic retinopexy technique. Methods: A descriptive, longitudinal and prospective study was conducted with patients operated on using the pneumatic retinopexy technique at Centro Oftalmológico, of Villa Clara Province, Cuba, between June 2019 and April 2023. Results: The mean age of the studied patients was 62.1 years. Men were more affected than women (60.6 percent). 57.6 percent of the eyes had best-corrected visual acuity of hand movement at diagnosis and 93.9 percent had detached macula. Sulfur hexafluoride was used as a buffer solution in 66.7 percent of the operations. Anatomical success was achieved with one operation in 81.8 percent (95 percent CI: 80-83.6 percent) of cases. In these, functional success was achieved in 85.2 percent (95 percent CI: 83.4-87 percent). The anatomically successful eyes achieved a mean best-corrected visual acuity of 0.5 tenths (95 percent CI: 0.2-0.7), apart from a mean gain of 0.4 tenths (95 percent CI: 0.3-0.5). The most frequent complication was the persistence of residual subretinal fluid, which occurred more frequently in patients older than 60 years and disappeared, on average, at 55.9 days without the need for treatment. Conclusions: Pneumatic retinopexy is a very good option to treat selected retinal detachments. In patients with no or minimal proliferative vitreoretinopathy, good anatomical and functional results are achieved(AU)

Segurança do Agente de Contraste SF6 (SonoVueⓇ) no Ecocardiograma sob Estresse Farmacológico / Safety of SF6(SonoVue®) Contrast Agent on Pharmacological Stress Echocardiogram

Resumo Fundamento Em 2007, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determinou revisões sobre segurança dos agentes de contraste ecocardiográfico (ACE) disponíveis no mercado após relatos de mortes. Ao longo desses anos, diversos estudos comprovaram a segurança dos ACE, porém com poucos estudos relacionados ao SonoVue®. Objetivos Avaliar a segurança do SonoVue® durante o ecocardiograma sob estresse farmacológico (EEF) por meio da análise da incidência de reações alérgicas e da comparação entre os grupos quanto ao surgimento de arritmia, efeitos colaterais menores e eventos adversos. Métodos Estudo observacional, prospectivo, no qual 2.346 pacientes foram submetidos ao EEF e divididos em dois grupos: grupo 1 com ACE (n=1.099) e grupo 2 sem ACE (n=1.247). Os pacientes foram avaliados durante o EEF - 24 horas e 30 dias. Foi definido p significativo quando <0,05. Resultados O grupo 1 apresentou efeitos colaterais mais leves, como cefaleia (5/0,5% vs. 19/1,5%, p=0,012) e hipertensão reativa (3/0,3% vs . 19/1,5%, p=0,002), menos arritmias como extrassístoles ventriculares (180/16,4% vs . 247/19,8%, p=0,032) e taquicardia paroxística supraventricular (2/0,2% vs . 15/1,2%, p=0,003), assim como nenhum evento adverso como infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) e óbito. No grupo 2, um paciente apresentou IAM <24h (1/01%) e dois óbitos <30 dias (2/0,1%). Urticária relacionada ao SonoVue® foi observada em 3 (0,3%) pacientes sem reação anafilática. Conclusão SonoVue® demonstrou segurança durante o EEF, não sendo observados morte, IAM ou reação anafilática. Observou-se menor incidência de efeitos colaterais mais leves e arritmias no grupo que utilizou o ACE, assim como baixa incidência de reações alérgicas leves.

Abstract Background In 2007, the United States Food and Drug Administration mandated safety reviews of commercially available echocardiographic contrast agents (ECA), following reports of death. During the past years, different studies have proven the safety of ECA, but there have been few studies on SonoVue®. Objectives To evaluate the safety of SonoVue® during pharmacological stress echocardiography (PSE), by analyzing the incidence of allergic reactions and comparing groups regarding the appearance of arrhythmia, minor side effects and adverse events. Methods In this observational, prospective study, 2346 patients underwent PSE, and they were divided into the following 2 groups: group 1 with ECA (n = 1099) and group 2 without ECA (n = 1247). Patients were evaluated during PSE, at 24 hours, and at 30 days. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. Results Group 1 had fewer minor side effects, such as headache (5/0.5% versus 19/1.5%, p = 0.012) and less reactive hypertension (3/0.3% versus 19/1.5%, p = 0.002); fewer arrhythmias, such as ventricular extrasystoles (180/16.4% versus 247/19.8%, p = 0.032) and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (2/0.2% versus 15/1.2%, p = 0.003); and no adverse events, such as acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or death. In group 2, 1 patient had AMI in < 24 hours (1/01%), and there were 2 deaths in < 30 days (2/0.1%). SonoVue®-related urticaria was seen in 3 (0.3%) patients, without anaphylactic reaction. Conclusion SonoVue® demonstrated safety during PSE. No cases of death, AMI, or anaphylactic reaction were observed. There was a lower incidence of minor side effects and arrhythmias in the group that received ECA, as well as a low incidence of mild allergic reactions.

Safety of SF6(SonoVue®) Contrast Agent on Pharmacological Stress Echocardiogram. / Segurança do Agente de Contraste SF6 (SonoVueⓇ) no Ecocardiograma sob Estresse Farmacológico.

BACKGROUND: In 2007, the United States Food and Drug Administration mandated safety reviews of commercially available echocardiographic contrast agents (ECA), following reports of death. During the past years, different studies have proven the safety of ECA, but there have been few studies on SonoVue®. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the safety of SonoVue® during pharmacological stress echocardiography (PSE), by analyzing the incidence of allergic reactions and comparing groups regarding the appearance of arrhythmia, minor side effects and adverse events. METHODS: In this observational, prospective study, 2346 patients underwent PSE, and they were divided into the following 2 groups: group 1 with ECA (n = 1099) and group 2 without ECA (n = 1247). Patients were evaluated during PSE, at 24 hours, and at 30 days. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05. RESULTS: Group 1 had fewer minor side effects, such as headache (5/0.5% versus 19/1.5%, p = 0.012) and less reactive hypertension (3/0.3% versus 19/1.5%, p = 0.002); fewer arrhythmias, such as ventricular extrasystoles (180/16.4% versus 247/19.8%, p = 0.032) and paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (2/0.2% versus 15/1.2%, p = 0.003); and no adverse events, such as acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or death. In group 2, 1 patient had AMI in < 24 hours (1/01%), and there were 2 deaths in < 30 days (2/0.1%). SonoVue®-related urticaria was seen in 3 (0.3%) patients, without anaphylactic reaction. CONCLUSION: SonoVue® demonstrated safety during PSE. No cases of death, AMI, or anaphylactic reaction were observed. There was a lower incidence of minor side effects and arrhythmias in the group that received ECA, as well as a low incidence of mild allergic reactions.

FUNDAMENTO: Em 2007, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determinou revisões sobre segurança dos agentes de contraste ecocardiográfico (ACE) disponíveis no mercado após relatos de mortes. Ao longo desses anos, diversos estudos comprovaram a segurança dos ACE, porém com poucos estudos relacionados ao SonoVue®. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a segurança do SonoVue® durante o ecocardiograma sob estresse farmacológico (EEF) por meio da análise da incidência de reações alérgicas e da comparação entre os grupos quanto ao surgimento de arritmia, efeitos colaterais menores e eventos adversos. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional, prospectivo, no qual 2.346 pacientes foram submetidos ao EEF e divididos em dois grupos: grupo 1 com ACE (n=1.099) e grupo 2 sem ACE (n=1.247). Os pacientes foram avaliados durante o EEF ­ 24 horas e 30 dias. Foi definido p significativo quando <0,05. RESULTADOS: O grupo 1 apresentou efeitos colaterais mais leves, como cefaleia (5/0,5% vs. 19/1,5%, p=0,012) e hipertensão reativa (3/0,3% vs . 19/1,5%, p=0,002), menos arritmias como extrassístoles ventriculares (180/16,4% vs . 247/19,8%, p=0,032) e taquicardia paroxística supraventricular (2/0,2% vs . 15/1,2%, p=0,003), assim como nenhum evento adverso como infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) e óbito. No grupo 2, um paciente apresentou IAM <24h (1/01%) e dois óbitos <30 dias (2/0,1%). Urticária relacionada ao SonoVue® foi observada em 3 (0,3%) pacientes sem reação anafilática. CONCLUSÃO: SonoVue® demonstrou segurança durante o EEF, não sendo observados morte, IAM ou reação anafilática. Observou-se menor incidência de efeitos colaterais mais leves e arritmias no grupo que utilizou o ACE, assim como baixa incidência de reações alérgicas leves.

Flap invertido de membrana limitante interna en agujero macular grande / Inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique in large macular hole

RESUMEN El agujero macular es un desorden de la interface vitreorretinal definido como un defecto de espesor completo desde la membrana limitante interna hasta los segmentos externos de los fotorreceptores, que normalmente involucra a la fóvea. Con el desarrollo de la tomografía de coherencia óptica se han mejorado el diagnóstico, el tratamiento y el seguimiento de las enfermedades de la interface vitreorretinal, entre ellas el agujero macular. La vitrectomía pars plana es la técnica quirúrgica de elección para el agujero macular. Se presenta una paciente de 75 años, pseudofáquica, con mejor agudeza visual corregida en el ojo derecho de 0,1 Snellen. Se diagnostica agujero macular grande (810 µm) según su mínima apertura, con 8 meses de evolución. Se realizó vitrectomía pars plana, el levantamiento de la hialodes posterior, el flap invertido de membrana limitante interna, el uso de hexafluoruro de azufre en mezcla 20 por ciento y el posicionamiento de la paciente 24-72 horas. Se logró el cierre anatómico del agujero macular y la recuperación visual de 0,6 Snellen a los seis meses del tratamiento quirúrgico(AU)

ABSTRACT Macular hole is a disorder of the vitreous-retina interface defined as a full-thickness defect from the internal limiting membrane to the external segments of photoreceptors which typically involves the fovea. The development of optical coherence tomography has improved the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of vitreous-retina interface diseases, among them macular hole. Pars plana vitrectomy is the surgical technique of choice for macular hole. A case is presented of a female 75-year-old pseudophakic patient with best corrected right eye visual acuity of 0.1 on the Snellen chart. Large macular hole is diagnosed (810 µm) according to its minimum opening, of 8 month's evolution. The following procedures were performed: pars plana vitrectomy, posterior hyalode lifting, inverted internal limiting membrane flap, use of sulfur hexafluoride in a 20% mixture, and positioning of the patient for 24-72 hours. Anatomical closure of the macular hole and a visual recovery of 0.6 Snellen were achieved six months after surgery(AU)

Steam roller maneuver in pneumatic retinopexy. Does it work?

OBJECTIVE: To identify the efficacy and safety of the steam-roller maneuver, in patients treated with pneumatic retinopexy. METHOD: Experimental, prospective, comparative, longitudinal study in patients with retinal detachment, treated with pneumatic retinopexy. Patients were assigned to one of two groups: without steam roller maneuver (group 1) or with it (group 2). The proportions of single-intervention anatomical success, visual improvement, anatomical success with reintervention, and adverse events were compared between groups (chi squared); preoperative and postoperative visual acuity in logMAR was compared within groups (Wilcoxon's t). RESULTS: 40 eyes were evaluated (mean age 55.9 ± 13.3 years); 15 were assigned to group 1, 25 to group 2. The proportions of single-intervention anatomical success, visual improvement, anatomical success with reintervention, and adverse events did not differ between groups (p > 0.05). At the end of follow up, visual acuity improved in both groups; however, it only improved in group 2, in eyes with single intervention anatomical success (mean log MAR before surgery 1.72 ± 1.64; after surgery 0.61 ± 0.61; p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS: The steam roller maneuver is efficient for improving visual acuity in patients with pneumatic retinopexy, who achieve single intervention anatomical success; furthermore, the maneuver does not impair prognosis in eyes that require reintervention.

OBJETIVO: Determinar la eficacia y la seguridad de la maniobra steam roller en pacientes tratados con retinopexia neumática. MÉTODO: estudio experimental, prospectivo, comparativo y longitudinal en pacientes con desprendimiento de retina primario, tratados mediante retinopexia neumática. Los sujetos se asignaron a uno de dos grupos: sin maniobra de steam roller (grupo 1) o con ella (grupo 2). Se compararon entre grupos las proporciones de éxito anatómico con una sola intervención, mejoría visual, éxito anatómico con reintervención y eventos adversos (prueba de ji al cuadrado). Se comparó en cada grupo la agudeza visual preoperatoria con la posoperatoria (prueba t de Wilcoxon). RESULTADOS: 40 ojos (edad 55.9 ± 13.3 años); 15 se asignaron al grupo 1 y 25 al grupo 2. Las proporciones de éxito anatómico con una sola intervención, mejoría visual, éxito anatómico con reintervención y eventos adversos no difirieron entre grupos (p > 0.05). La agudeza visual mejoró en ambos grupos, pero en los ojos que presentaron éxito con una sola intervención solo mejoró en el grupo 2 (promedio logMAR preoperatorio 1.72 ± 1.64; postoperatorio 0.61 ± 0.61; p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONES: La maniobra steam roller es eficaz para mejorar la agudeza visual en pacientes con retinopexia neumática, que alcanzan éxito anatómico con una sola intervención, y no deteriora el pronóstico en quienes requieren reintervención.

The use of sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles for contrast-enhanced ocular ultrasonography of the pecten oculi in birds.

BACKGROUND: The pecten oculi is a vascular and pigmented structure localized within the posterior segment of all avian eyes. Its primary function is not fully understood yet. OBJECTIVE: As ultrasonography (US) is a useful imaging modality for evaluation of the pecten oculi, the objective of this study was to investigate the utility of an intravenous contrast solution of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) microbubbles as a means of enhancing visualization of the pecten oculi in normal birds. ANIMALS STUDIED: Ten adult individuals of the following avian species were evaluated: 1 roadside hawk (Rupornis magnirostris), 1 stygian owl (Asio stygius), 2 striped owls (Asio clamator), 2 burrowing owls (Athene cunicularia), 2 ring-necked parakeet (Psittacula krameri), and 2 domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus). PROCEDURE(S): After baseline ocular sonograms were obtained in sedated animals, 4.5 µg/kg of a contrast solution containing SF6 microbubbles was administered intravenously and US of the right eye was immediately performed. US was continued during injection to provide real-time imaging of the pecten oculi during vascular perfusion of contrast material. RESULTS: Within 2-3 seconds following intravenous contrast administration, microbubbles reached the pecten oculi of all birds investigated and provided significant ultrasonographic contrast enhancement. CONCLUSIONS: SF6 microbubble contrast ultrasonography in birds is a safe and easy procedure that provides increased contrast and enhanced visualization of the pecten oculi. Future use may enable further discovery of its physiologic functions and aid in the development of therapeutic plans for avian intraocular disease.

Development and evaluation of prediction equations for methane emission from Nellore cattle

Dry matter intake (DMI), nutrient intake and enteric CH4 emission were evaluated in 48 Nellore cattle (392 ± 27 days of age). Equations were generated from intake data and evaluated using root mean square prediction error (RMSPE), and validated by cross-validation. Equations that included DMI and hemicellulose intake (HEMI) [ CH4(MJd−1)=4.08(±1.65)+11.6(±2.34)DMI(kgd−1)−33.4(±7.21)HEMI(kgd−1)] ; DMI and total carbohydrate intake (TCHI) [CH4(MJd−1)=5.26(±1.69)−6.3(±1.47)DMI(kgd−1)+8.8(±1.81)TCI(kgd−1)]; metabolizable energy intake (MEI) and cellulose intake (CELI) [CH4(MJd−1)=5.16(±1.72)−0.13(±0.048)MEI(MJd−1)+7.37(±1.53)CELI(kgd−1)] , and non-fiber carbohydrate intake (NFCI) [CH4(MJd−1)=3.14(±1.48)+3.65(±1.05)NFCI(kgd−1)] resulted in the lowest RMSPE (14.3, 14.1, 14.3 and 14.7%, respectively). When literature equations were evaluated using our database, the most accurate predictions were obtained with equations that included DMI and lignin intake (RMSPE = 15.27%) and MEI, acid detergent fiber intake and lignin intake (RMSPE = 15.7%). The mean error of predicting enteric CH4 emission with the equations developed in this study based on DMI and nutrient intake is 17% and the most accurate predictions are obtained with equations including DMI, carbohydrate intake and MEI.

Development and evaluation of prediction equations for methane emission from Nellore cattle

Dry matter intake (DMI), nutrient intake and enteric CH4 emission were evaluated in 48 Nellore cattle (392 ± 27 days of age). Equations were generated from intake data and evaluated using root mean square prediction error (RMSPE), and validated by cross-validation. Equations that included DMI and hemicellulose intake (HEMI) [ CH4(MJd−1)=4.08(±1.65)+11.6(±2.34)DMI(kgd−1)−33.4(±7.21)HEMI(kgd−1)] ; DMI and total carbohydrate intake (TCHI) [CH4(MJd−1)=5.26(±1.69)−6.3(±1.47)DMI(kgd−1)+8.8(±1.81)TCI(kgd−1)]; metabolizable energy intake (MEI) and cellulose intake (CELI) [CH4(MJd−1)=5.16(±1.72)−0.13(±0.048)MEI(MJd−1)+7.37(±1.53)CELI(kgd−1)] , and non-fiber carbohydrate intake (NFCI) [CH4(MJd−1)=3.14(±1.48)+3.65(±1.05)NFCI(kgd−1)] resulted in the lowest RMSPE (14.3, 14.1, 14.3 and 14.7%, respectively). When literature equations were evaluated using our database, the most accurate predictions were obtained with equations that included DMI and lignin intake (RMSPE = 15.27%) and MEI, acid detergent fiber intake and lignin intake (RMSPE = 15.7%). The mean error of predicting enteric CH4 emission with the equations developed in this study based on DMI and nutrient intake is 17% and the most accurate predictions are obtained with equations including DMI, carbohydrate intake and MEI.(AU)  

Resultado a corto plazo de la trabeculectomía asociada al hexafluoruro de azufre / Short-term outcomes of trabeculectomy associated to sulfur hexafluoride

Objetivo: describir los resultados a corto plazo de la trabeculectomía asociada al hexafluoruro de azufre. Métodos: se realizó un estudio analítico de caso-control en 30 ojos (30 pacientes) donde 15 ojos (15 pacientes) recibieron trabeculectomía con mitomicina C y hexafluoruro de azufre (grupo caso) y 15 ojos (15 pacientes) recibieron trabeculectomía con mitomicina C (grupo control). Se evaluaron la agudeza visual mejor corregida y la presión intraocular preoperatorias y posoperatorias, así como las complicaciones quirúrgicas. Se realizó seguimiento hasta los 3 meses posoperatorios. Resultados: en el preoperatorio la agudeza visual mejor corregida media fue 88 VAR (±16; 79-97) para el grupo caso y 86 VAR (± 16; 77-95) para el grupo control (p= 0,628) y la presión intraocular media 28,8 mmHg (± 6,3; 25,2-32,3) y 30 mmHg (± 9,5; 24,8-35,3) respectivamente (p= 0,868). A los 3 meses la agudeza visual mejor corregida media fue similar en ambos grupos: 88 VAR (± 13; 80-95) y 84 VAR (± 17; 74-93) respectivamente; (p= 0,659); mientras la presión intraocular fue 14,6 mmHg (± 2,8; 13,0-16,3) y 15,7 mmHg (± 5,4; 12,7-18,8) respectivamente (p= 0,707). Las complicaciones más frecuentes para el grupo caso fueron catarata (6,7 por ciento) y uveítis (6,7 por ciento), y para el grupo control fueron atalamia (19,9 por ciento), hipema (13,3 por ciento) y quiste de Tenon (13,3 por ciento). La densidad celular descendió a 2 004 cél/mm2 (± 87) en el grupo caso y 1 886 cél/mm2 (± 66) en el grupo control (p= 0,494). Conclusiones: el resultado visual, el poder hipotensor y las complicaciones quirúrgicas, a corto plazo, son similares en la trabeculectomía con mitomcina C con/sin hexafluoruro de azufre asociado. Se requieren estudios a mediano-largo plazo para evaluar el beneficio hipotensor del hexafluoruro de azufre(AU)

Objective: describe the short-term results of trabeculectomy associated to sulfur hexafluoride. Methods: an analytical case-control study was conducted of 30 eyes (30 patients) of which 15 eyes (15 patients) underwent trabeculectomy with mitomycin C and sulfur hexafluoride (case group) and 15 eyes (15 patients) underwent trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (control group). An evaluation was performed of the best corrected visual acuity, preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure and surgical complications. Follow-up extended for up to three months after surgery. Results: mean preoperative best corrected visual acuity was 88 VAR (± 16; 79-97) for the case group and 86 VAR (± 16; 77-95) for the control group (p= 0,628). Mean intraocular pressure was 28.8 mmHg (± 6.3; 25.2-32.3) and 30 mmHg (± 9.5; 24.8-35.3) respectively (p= 0.868). At three months, mean best corrected visual acuity was similar in the two groups: 88 VAR (± 13; 80-95) and 84 VAR (± 17; 74-93) respectively; (p= 0.659); whereas intraocular pressure was 14.6 mmHg (± 2.8; 13.0-16.3) and 15.7 mmHg (± 5.4; 12.7-18.8) respectively (p= 0.707). The most common complications were cataract (6.7 percent) and uveitis (6,7 percent) in the case group, and athalamia (19.9 percent), hyphema (13.3 percent) and Tenon's cyst (13.3 percent) in the control group. Cellular density dropped to 2 004 cell/mm2 (± 87) in the case group and 1 886 cell/mm2 (± 66) in the control group (p= 0.494). Conclusions: short-term visual outcomes, hypotensive effects and surgical complications were similar in trabeculectomy with mitomycin C with or without associated sulfur hexafluoride. Medium-term studies are required to evaluate the hypotensive effect of sulfur hexafluoride(AU)

The Effect of Altitude on Intraocular Pressure in Vitrectomized Eyes with Sulfur Hexafluoride Tamponade by the Friedenwald Method: Rabbit Animal Model.

The aim of this study is to assess the change in intraocular pressure after a road trip, in eyes with different levels of filling with gas tamponade. Five rabbit eyes were subject to pars plana vitrectomy and gas tamponade (filling percentage: 25%, 50%, and 100% of nonexpansile SF6, 100% saline solution, and 100% room air). A sixth eye was injected with 0.35 cc of undiluted SF6 without vitrectomy. Guided by global positioning system, they were driven to the highest point of the highway connecting Mexico City with Puebla city and back, stopping every 300 m to assess intraocular pressure. The rabbit's scleral rigidity and estimation for human eyes were done by using the Friedenwald nomogram. Maximum altitude was 3209 m (Δ949 m). There were significant differences in intraocular pressure on the rabbit eyes filled with SF6 at 100%, 50%, 25%, and 100% room air. Per every 100 m of altitude rise, the intraocular pressure increased by 1.53, 1.0046, 0.971, and 0.97 mmHg, respectively. Using the human Friedenwald rigidity coefficient, the human eye estimate for intraocular pressure change was 2.1, 1.8, 1.4, and 1.1 mmHg per every 100 m of attitude rise. Altitude changes have a significant impact on intraocular pressure. The final effect depends on the percentage of vitreous cavity fill and scleral rigidity.

Comparison of 20% sulfur hexafluoride with air for intraocular tamponade in Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).

PURPOSE:: To compare the effect of 20% sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) with that of air on graft detachment rates for intraocular tamponade in Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). METHODS:: Forty-two eyes of patients who underwent DMEK by a single surgeon (A.S.J.) at Wilmer Eye Institute between January 2012 and 2014 were identified; 21 received air for intraocular tamponade and the next consecutive 21 received SF6. The main outcome measure was the graft detachment rate; univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. RESULTS:: The graft detachment rate was 67% in the air group and 19% in the SF6 group (p<0.05). No complete graft detachments occurred, and all partial detachments underwent intervention with injection of intraocular air. The percentages of eyes with 20/25 or better vision were not different between the groups (67% vs. 71%). Univariate analysis showed significantly higher detachment rates with air tamponade (OR, 8.50; p<0.005) and larger donor graft size (OR, 14.96; p<0.05). Multivariate analysis with gas but not graft size included showed that gas was an independent statistically significant predictor of outcome (OR, 6.65; p<0.05). When graft size was included as a covariate, gas was no longer a statistically significant predictor of detachment but maintained OR of 7.81 (p=0.063) similar to the results of univariate and multivariate analyses without graft size. CONCLUSION:: In comparison with air, graft detachment rates for intraocular tamponade in DMEK were significantly reduced by 20% SF6.

Comparison of 20% sulfur hexafluoride with air for intraocular tamponade in Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) / Comparação de hexafluoreto de enxofre a 20% com ar para tamponamento intraocular na ceratoplastia endotelial de membrana Descemet (DMEK)

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the effect of 20% sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) with that of air on graft detachment rates for intraocular tamponade in Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). Methods: Forty-two eyes of patients who underwent DMEK by a single surgeon (A.S.J.) at Wilmer Eye Institute between January 2012 and 2014 were identified; 21 received air for intraocular tamponade and the next consecutive 21 received SF6. The main outcome measure was the graft detachment rate; univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Results: The graft detachment rate was 67% in the air group and 19% in the SF6 group (p<0.05). No complete graft detachments occurred, and all partial detachments underwent intervention with injection of intraocular air. The percentages of eyes with 20/25 or better vision were not different between the groups (67% vs. 71%). Univariate analysis showed significantly higher detachment rates with air tamponade (OR, 8.50; p<0.005) and larger donor graft size (OR, 14.96; p<0.05). Multivariate analysis with gas but not graft size included showed that gas was an independent statistically significant predictor of outcome (OR, 6.65; p<0.05). When graft size was included as a covariate, gas was no longer a statistically significant predictor of detachment but maintained OR of 7.81 (p=0.063) similar to the results of univariate and multivariate analyses without graft size. Conclusion: In comparison with air, graft detachment rates for intraocular tamponade in DMEK were significantly reduced by 20% SF6.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar as taxas de descolamento do botão endotelial com o uso de gás hexafluoreto de enxofre a 20% (SF6) em relação ao ar para o tamponamento intraocular na ceratoplastia endotelial da membrana de Descemet (DMEK). Métodos: Quarenta e dois olhos foram operados com a técnica de DMEK por um único cirurgião (A.S.J.) no Wilmer Eye Institute entre janeiro de 2012 a 2014. Os primeiros 21 olhos receberam ar para o tamponamento intraocular após o enxerto do botão endotelial e os 21 olhos seguintes receberam SF6. O desfecho primário medido foi a taxa de descolamento do botão endotelial por análise univariada e multivariada. Resultados: A taxa de descolamento do botão endotelial foi de 67% no grupo que recebeu ar vs 19% no grupo que recebeu SF6 (p<0,05). Não houve nenhum descolamento total de botão e todos os parciais foram tratados com injeção de ar intraocular. Não houve diferença estatística significativa entre os grupos em relação a AV de 20/25 ou melhor (67% vs 71%). A análise univariada demonstrou maior taxa de descolamento com o tamponamento por ar intraocular (OR 8,50, p<0,005) e com botões doadores maiores (OR 14,96, p<0,05). Na análise multivariada, incluindo gás, mas não o tamanho do botão doador, o tipo de gás usado permaneceu sendo um fator preditivo independente e estatisticamente significativo para o desfecho primário, com OR de 6,65 (p<0,05). Porém, quando o tamanho do botão doador foi incluso como covariável, o gás perdeu a sua significância como preditor de descolamento, mantendo o OR de 7,81 (p=0,063), semelhante as análises univariada e multivariada excluindo o tamanho do botão doador. Conclusão: O uso de gás hexafluoreto de enxofre a 20% (SF6) para o tamponamento intraocular reduz a taxa de descolamento do botão endotelial quando comparado ao uso de ar no DMEK.

[Modified technique of autologous transplantation of internal limiting membrane for macular hole]. / Técnica modificada de trasplante autólogo de membrana limitante interna en agujero macular.

BACKGROUND: Autologous internal limiting membrane transplantation has allowed some cases of macular holes refractory to conventional surgery techniques to be treated. The purpose of this study is to describe the anatomical and functional outcomes of a modification of this technique in a case series of naïve macular hole patients. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A consecutive case series study was performed on patients with naïve macular holes with a diameter greater than 600 µ. Best corrected visual acuity, clinical features of the macular area, and optical coherence tomography were recorded before the operation and at the end of follow-up in all patients studied. All patients underwent 23 Ga core vitrectomy, posterior hyaloid separation, and brilliant-blue assisted internal limiting membrane peeling. A small piece of the internal limiting membrane was peeled off to make a free flap, and this was trasplanted and placed inside the macular hole under perfluorocarbon liquids. Air-fluid exchange was performed and SF6 gas was injected at a non-expansile concentration. RESULTS: The study included 5 eyes of 5 patients who underwent internal limiting membrane autograft. The mean age was 50.6 (SD 12.3) years. Four of the 5 cases had macular hole closure. The case where there was no closure of the macular hole was secondary to trauma. There was an improvement in visual acuity in all patients where the closing of the macular hole was achieved at the end of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: In this cases series of macular hole patients, the autologous internal limiting membrane transplantation was associated with an anatomical closure of the macular hole and functional improvement in most of the patients studied.

Management of thick submacular hemorrhage with subretinal tissue plasminogen activator and pneumatic displacement for age-related macular degeneration.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the outcome of pars plana vitrectomy, subretinal tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) infusion and intraocular gas tamponade with and without postsurgical antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection for thick submacular hemorrhage due to exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). DESIGN: Retrospective, comparative, interventional case series. METHODS: setting: 2 retina referral centers. The patient population included 101 eyes of 101 patients with neovascular AMD and thick submacular hemorrhage who underwent surgical displacement of the hemorrhage with or without postoperative anti-VEGF injections. Main outcome measures included degree of blood displacement, best and final postoperative visual acuity (VA), and adverse events. Snellen acuity was converted to logMAR for statistical analysis. RESULTS: All patients were followed for a minimum of 3 months (mean, 15.3 months, range, 3-70 months). In 83 (82%) of 101 eyes, the procedure resulted in complete hemorrhage displacement from the fovea. Mean preoperative VA was 20/2255 (2.05 logMAR). The acuity significantly improved to 20/893 (1.65 logMAR) at month 1 (P < 0.001) at month 1; 20/678 (1.53 logMAR) at month 3 (P < 0.001), and 20/1150 (1.76 logMAR) at month 12 (P = 0.002). Best postoperative visual acuity improved by at least 1 line in 83 (82%) of 101 eyes, and 19.6% of eyes gained 3 lines or more at month 3. The visual acuity of the group of eyes that received postoperative anti-VEGF injection (n = 39) showed greater visual acuity improvement 6 months postoperatively compared to the group of eyes that did not receive postoperative anti-VEGF. Postoperative complications included vitreous hemorrhage in 2 eyes, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in 4 eyes, and recurrent thick subretinal hemorrhage in 6 eyes. CONCLUSIONS: Vitrectomy with subretinal t-PA injection and gas tamponade was found to be relatively effective for displacement of thick submacular hemorrhage with a significant improvement in visual acuity. There is a loss of acuity over time; the addition of postoperative anti-VEGF therapy may help maintain the visual acuity gains.

Inducing surface hydrophobization on cornstarch film by SF6 and HMDSO plasma treatment.

The development of thermoplastic materials based on starch has become a promising alternative for reducing plastic waste. To this end, plasma treatments were used to enhance the hydrophobicity of cornstarch films. Cornstarch films plasticized using glycerol and distilled water were prepared by casting. A surface modification method was employed using different precursor gases, HMDSO and SF(6), and a combined treatment using HMDSO followed by SF(6) (HMDSO/SF(6)) and then the reverse, using SF(6) first followed by HMDSO (SF(6)/HMDSO). The results indicated that the induced surface morphology determines the contact angle. It was observed that all films became hydrophobic, and films that were initially treated with SF(6) showed the greatest hydrophobicity if no further coating was applied, or if the treated surface was further coated using HMDSO. Under both of these treatment conditions the contact angle was greater than 110°.

A sulfur hexafluoride sensor using quantum cascade and CO2 laser-based photoacoustic spectroscopy.

The increase in greenhouse gas emissions is a serious environmental problem and has stimulated the scientific community to pay attention to the need for detection and monitoring of gases released into the atmosphere. In this regard, the development of sensitive and selective gas sensors has been the subject of several research programs. An important greenhouse gas is sulphur hexafluoride, an almost non-reactive gas widely employed in industrial processes worldwide. Indeed it is estimated that it has a radiative forcing of 0.52 W/m(2). This work compares two photoacoustic spectrometers, one coupled to a CO(2) laser and another one coupled to a Quantum Cascade (QC) laser, for the detection of SF(6). The laser photoacoustic spectrometers described in this work have been developed for gas detection at small concentrations. Detection limits of 20 ppbv for CO(2) laser and 50 ppbv for quantum cascade laser were obtained.

Imaging of the acute scrotum: is there a place for contrast-enhanced ultrasonography?

PURPOSE: To present and evaluate the findings of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in typical cases of acute painful scrotum. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nineteen patients aged from 19 to 61 years old were included in the study. All patients underwent grey-scale and color Doppler ultrasonography (US) of the scrotum, followed by imaging after i.v. administration of 2.4 mL of a second generation ultrasound contrast agent (microbubbles of sulphur hexafluoride). ? dedicated, contrast-sensitive technique was used (Contrast Tissue Imaging - CnTI). The diagnosis was confirmed surgically in 6 cases while in the remaining 8 cases it was based on the combination of clinical, imaging and laboratory findings. RESULTS: The final diagnosis was testicular torsion (n = 4), epididymitis (n = 2, one of the cases complicated by abscess), testicular abscess (n = 1), scrotal abscess (n = 1), testicular trauma of varying severity (n = 6). Five out of 19 cases were true negatives: neither clinical examination nor laboratory tests revealed any pathology. CEUS showed complete lack of enhancement in all cases of torsion, permitting a rapid and definitive diagnosis. In the cases of infection complicated by abscesses, CEUS delineated the lesions much better than the combination of B-mode/Color Doppler US. The severely traumatized testicles showed minimal, inhomogeneous or patchy enhancement, while cases of minor trauma showed no significant enhancement defects. Hematomas were presented as non-enhancing lesions. CONCLUSION: Generally, there was no advantage over Doppler US as has been previously shown. However, CEUS can be used supplementary to traditional Doppler US in the investigation of blunt testicular trauma especially when there is uncertainty in diagnosis after appropriate clinical and radiographic evaluations occurs. Further studies are required to clearly define the indications of this method.

Imaging of the acute scrotum: is there a place for contrast-enhanced ultrasonography?

Purpose: To present and evaluate the findings of contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) in typical cases of acute painful scrotum. Materials and methods: Nineteen patients aged from 19 to 61 years old were included in the study. All patients underwent grey-scale and color Doppler ultrasonography (US) of the scrotum, followed by imaging after i.v. administration of 2.4 mL of a second generation ultrasound contrast agent (microbubbles of sulphur hexafluoride). A dedicated, contrast-sensitive technique was used (Contrast Tissue Imaging - CnTI). The diagnosis was confirmed surgically in 6 cases while in the remaining 8 cases it was based on the combination of clinical, imaging and laboratory findings. Results: The final diagnosis was testicular torsion (n = 4), epididymitis (n = 2, one of the cases complicated by abscess), testicular abscess (n = 1), scrotal abscess (n = 1), testicular trauma of varying severity (n = 6). Five out of 19 cases were true negatives: neither clinical examination nor laboratory tests revealed any pathology. CEUS showed complete lack of enhancement in all cases of torsion, permitting a rapid and definitive diagnosis. In the cases of infection complicated by abscesses, CEUS delineated the lesions much better than the combination of B-mode/Color Doppler US. The severely traumatized testicles showed minimal, inhomogeneous or patchy enhancement, while cases of minor trauma showed no significant enhancement defects. Hematomas were presented as non-enhancing lesions. Conclusion: Generally, there was no advantage over Doppler US as has been previously shown. However, CEUS can be used supplementary to traditional Doppler US in the investigation of blunt testicular trauma especially when there is uncertainty in diagnosis after appropriate clinical and radiographic evaluations occurs. Further studies are required to clearly define the indications of this method.