Silicone-oil removal using a 20-gauge infusion cannula

Harvey S. Uy, MD

Authors

Harvey S. Uy, MD Sentro Oftalmologico Jose Rizal University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital Manila, Philippines; Asian Eye Institute Makati, Philippines Author

Keywords:

Silicone oil, Cannula, Phakic eyes, Pseudophakic eyes, Surgery

Abstract

Objective: To describe a new technique using a self-retaining, easily available, 20-gauge infusion cannula to passively drain silicone oil in 10 consecutive phakic or pseudophakic eyes.

Methods: This is a report of 10 cases of phakic or pseudophakic eyes that underwent removal of low-viscosity silicone oil.

Results: The mean duration of surgery was 29.6 ± 4.9 minutes (range, 24 to 35). Postoperative silicone-oil-related floaters were reported by 4 of 10 (40%) patients. No significant complications were observed. The mean follow-up duration was 12.0 ± 5.7 months (range, 6 to 23).

Conclusion: Low-viscosity silicone oil can be easily, efficiently, and safely removed using this inexpensive technique.