Removal of Silicone Oil from Eyes after Vitrectomy

Overview

The author describes his experience with elimination of silicone oil in 60 patients.The follow-up period was 4 to 16 months. In 30% of patients where the retinaadhered, removal of the oil was associated with improved visual acuity and qualityof vision. In 5%, on the other hand, removal of silicone oil was associated withreoperation of a relapse of detachment of the retina as the operation provedineffective and the finding on the retina did not change. In 3% patients who hadonly one functional eye there was a subjective deterioration of vision. Beforeremoval of silicone oil in adverse cases it is always necessary to consider carefullythe risks of a relapse of detachment and deterioration of visual functions.

Key words:
pars plana vitrectomy, removal of silicone oil