Suprachoroidal silicone oil as an intraoperative complication during Pars Plana Vitrectomy: A case report.

INTRODUCTION AND

IMPORTANCE

Complications related to silicone oil tamponade are frequent. There are reports of events related to silicone oil (SO) injection during Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV). This case presents the unexpected injection of SO in the suprachoroidal space. The proper management of this complication along with the preventive measures are discussed.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 38-year-old male presented with a one-week history of decreased vision in his right eye (OD). His visual acuity was hand motion (HM). A late-onset retinal detachment recurrence with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) in his OD was diagnosed. Cataract surgery and PPV were scheduled. During PPV, a choroidal detachment (CD) secondary to the suprachoroidal injection of silicone oil (SO) was noted. Suprachoroidal SO was identified timely and was managed with external drainage through a posterior sclerotomy.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION: Suprachoroidal silicone oil injection is a potential complication during PPV. For the management of this complication, the drainage of the silicone oil from the suprachoroidal space through a posterior sclerotomy may be considered as an option. This complication may be avoided by periodically checking the correct position of the infusion cannula during the PPV, by injecting the SO into the vitreous cavity under direct visualization and by using automated injection systems.

CONCLUSION

Suprachoroidal silicone oil injection is an intraoperative complication that might be avoided by cross-checking the correct position of the infusion cannula and by injecting SO under direct visualization.