Perfluorodecalin condensation on posterior surface of lens capsule and corneal endothelium during vitrectomy

Background. High-density vitreous substitutes, including perfluorodecalin, are widely used in current vitreoretinal surgery. We report 4 cases of perfluorodecalin condensation on the posterior capsule of the lens or corneal endothelium during vitrectomy. To the best of our knowledge, no such phenomenon has ever been reported. Methods. This study consisted of 4 patients with retinal detachment and large retinal tears. All patients were men. All of the patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy, perfluorodecalin injection, endolaser retinopexy and air-fluid exchange. Two patients received additional surgery for scleral buckling. Results. Perfluorodecalin condensation was observed on the posterior surface of the lens capsule in one phakic patient and on the endothelium in three aphakic patients during vitrectomy. The condensation obscured the image of the fundus and made air-fluid exchange difficult. The condensation could be dissipated by first removing the perfluorodecalin as completely as possible, and then by lowering the intraocular pressure below the vapor pressure of perfluorodecalin. Conclusions. Perfluorodecalin condensation may occur when perfluorodecalin is not properly used. To avoid forming condensation, high-density vitreous substitutes should never be injected into eyes that are completely air-filled, prolonged air-fluid exchanges should be avoided, and the intraocular pressure should always be kept at a higher level during air-fluid exchange.