A Novel Surgical Technique for Silicone Oil Removal Using a Corneal Transplant Trephine and a 25-Gauge Viscous Fluid Cannula.

Abstract

The authors describe a novel technique using a corneal transplant trephine and a 25-gauge viscous fluid cannula to simplify and standardize silicone oil extraction. Under local/general anesthesia, a standard, 3-port, 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy system is established. The corneal trephine's blade mechanism is replaced by a 25-gauge viscous fluid cannula cannula (Alcon Laboratories), enabling dual-syringe active silicone oil extraction. Two syringes are connected to the trocars, allowing simultaneous oil aspiration under controlled fluid dynamics through the constellation system. Complete silicone oil removal was achieved in all cases, with an average procedural time of 15 minutes. The dual-syringe system provided precise control, minimizing retinal traction. No intraoperative complications (e.g., hypotony, retinal damage) were observed. Silicone oil removal with the corneal transplant trephine and a 25-gauge viscous fluid cannula offers significant advantages in terms of safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, making it an ideal solution for retinal surgeons worldwide.