Phacofragmentation as an Effective Tool for Removal of Silicone Oil Adherent to Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lenses.

Abstract

To assess usefulness of phacofragmentation probe in the removal of silicone oil (SO) adherent to intraocular lenses (IOLs) during a SO removal procedure. A 20-gauge (G) phacofragmentation probe was used to emulsify and remove SO adherent to IOLs during 23-G vitrectomy for SO removal. The superotemporal 23-G cannula was removed, and 20-G sclerotomy was made by using a 20-G MVR blade. In all cases used, SO adherent to the posterior surface of posterior capsule IOLs and anterior chamber IOLs was easily removed using a phacofragmentation probe. No intraoperative complications or IOL damage were noted. We describe a simple, quick and reliable method of SO removal from all types of IOLs by using a phacofragmentation probe during SO removal surgery. This simple method can prevent IOL removal and replacement due to adherent SO bubbles in pseudophakic eyes that were previously filled with SO.