This patient presented with a symptomatic macula-on giant-tear retinal detachment (RD) in his left eye. The giant tear extends from about 12 to 4 o’clock with an additional tear noted superonasally.
One day after vitrectomy with Perfluoron (PFO, perfluoro octane) injection, the retina is completely attached, with fresh white encircling laser scarring. Some PFO bubbles can be seen superonasally.
The PFO liquid was removed two weeks later, and his retina has remained attached.
Learning Points:
By definition, giant retinal tears extend at least 3 clock hours. Surgical repair is greatly facilitated by using PFO liquids, which are heavier than water and help unroll the posterior retina and prevent posterior slippage of the detachment. The PFO can either be removed at the initial repair or left in place for a week or two before being removed with a secondary procedure.
