The use of viscoelastic substances in the drainage of postoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhage.
Suprachoroidal hemorrhage is a serious surgical complication occurring in up to 10% of aphakic patients undergoing filtration surgery. Surgical treatment includes drainage of the hemorrhage through sclerotomies and reformation of the anterior chamber with balanced salt solution or air. Two patients are presented whose suprachoroidal hemorrhages were managed with the instillation of 10% sodium hyaluronate. The intraocular administration of a space-occupying fluid produces an even distribution of hydraulic force to facilitate drainage of the hemorrhage and avoids the optical problems associated with the use of intraocular air. While most cases of suprachoroidal hemorrhage can be effectively managed using balanced salt solution or air, we believe that viscoelastic agents may be of special benefit in selected situations.
Baldwin
L B
LB
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington 40536-0084.
Smith
T J
TJ
Hollins
J L
JL
Pearson
P A
PA
D000368:Aged; D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects; D002832:Choroid Hemorrhage / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D016039:Corneal Transplantation; D004322:Drainage; D005130:Eye Hemorrhage / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006820:Hyaluronic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014783:Viscosity
D006820:Hyaluronic Acid