USE OF PERFLUOROPERHYDROPHENANTHRENE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF POSTERIORLYDISLOCATED CRYSTALLINE AND INTRAOCULAR LENSES

We describe a series of 28 patients in whom a posteriorly dislocated c rystalline or intraocular lens was successfully removed with the intra operative use of perfluoroperhydrophenanthrene (Vitreon), a heavy liqu id perfluorocarbon. The Vitreon was used to float the lens into the mi dvitreous cavity, thereby avoiding hazardous micromanipulation with in traocular instruments in the macular area. In addition, the Vitreon se rved to protect the posterior retina by keeping the posteriorly disloc ated lens fragments from failing backward onto the posterior pole as t he lens was being removed from the eye. Postoperative visual acuity im proved in 73% of the patients, remained the same in 15%, and worsened in 12%.