Thermal injury caused by chandelier fiber probe.

Abstract

To investigate thermal changes produced by a chandelier fiber probe (CFP). Interventional single case report and laboratory investigation. When CFP was used for 25-gauge vitrectomy, an abnormal odor was emitted, and the CFP was instantly removed. To investigate this incident, the thermal change produced by the CFP was measured in air by means of an infrared sensor. Porcine Tenon capsular tissue was used to reproduce the intraoperative phenomenon. In our patient, the CFP tip melted, but this did not affect visual function. In the experiment, the uncoated CFP reached 49 C (120 F) at maximum illumination. When porcine Tenon capsular tissue was attached to the CFP tip, a temperature of 144 C (291 F) was reached at 50% of maximum illumination, and over 201 C (394 F) at 75%. The tip melted under these conditions. At present, we avoid the use of CFP during air exchange. This potential hazard of the CFP needs to be addressed.