Severe emulsification after combined use of a partially fluorinated alkane and silicone oil.
OBJECTIVE
To present a case with accidental incomplete removal of a partially fluorinated alkane during a direct exchange with silicone oil and a subsequent severe emulsification of the silicone oil.


METHODS
During a macular rotation procedure an incomplete exchange of perfluorohexylhexane (F6H6) with silicone oil occurred. Initial postoperative findings showed phase separation and exact visualization of the fundus. After a few days severe opacification of the mixture occurred, markedly reducing fundus visibility. The substances were removed immediately and analyzed by gas chromatography.


CONCLUSIONS
The direct exchange between silicone oil and partially fluorinated alkane should be avoided. Their combined use as a simultaneous endotamponade can cause opaque separation.
Hoerauf
Hans
H
Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Lübeck, Germany. hhoerauf@ophtha.mu-luebeck.de
Laqua
Horst
H
D000368:Aged; D020256:Choroidal Neovascularization / Q000601:surgery; D004655:Emulsions; D005260:Female; D005466:Fluorocarbons / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007431:Intraoperative Complications; D017075:Laser Coagulation; D008266:Macula Lutea / Q000637:transplantation*; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000601:surgery; D012827:Silicone Oils / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D014821:Vitrectomy
D004655:Emulsions; D005466:Fluorocarbons; D012827:Silicone Oils; C078626:perflexane