The influence of UV-visible light, microwave radiation, argon laser, and heating and aging processes on silicone oil utilized as intravitreal implants: Experimental exposure with clinical correlation.

PURPOSE: The emulsification of silicone oil (SO) remains poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the physical properties of unused pharmaceutical SO samples under various conditions. Moreover, clinical correlations with the patients' SO samples were assessed.

METHODS

Unused pharmaceutical ophthalmic SO samples and four explanted SO samples from previously vitrectomized patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were analyzed. To assess the stability of SO, the samples were exposed to UV light, visible light, a green argon laser, microwave radiation, heat, and were aged. Following exposure, the samples were investigated using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, optical transmittance and absorbance, and micro-viscometry measurements. Two patients underwent argon laser retinopexy while SO tamponaded the vitreous cavity postoperatively.

RESULTS

The physical properties of SO exposed to heat, UV light, microwave radiation, and aging did not change. However, SO irradiated by the green argon laser demonstrated a significant breakdown of atomic bonding and a transmittance loss. These results are consistent with the analyses of SO samples provided by patients. In those who underwent laser retinopexy, the SO exhibited clinical emulsification necessitating earlier removal, which was confirmed by physical tests.

CONCLUSIONS

It may be postulated that patients exposed to the argon laser experienced more emulsification than the other two groups, leading to the earlier removal of the SO implants from the eyes. This investigation did not consider the biological effects of inflammatory biomarkers; however, it may provide valuable insights for optimizing the use of SO in ophthalmic surgery and other potential applications.