Short-Term Perfluoro-N-Octane Tamponade for Combined Penetrating Keratoplasty and Pars Plana Vitrectomy.

PURPOSE: To report the efficacy of short-term perfluoro-n-octane (PFO) tamponade in combined penetrating keratoplasty and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for eyes with corneal pathology and proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

METHODS

Six consecutive patients with corneal pathology and proliferative vitreoretinopathy underwent PPV using a temporary keratoprosthesis and short-term PFO tamponade. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed with PFO retained in the vitreous cavity either during the initial surgery or at a secondary procedure, depending on graft availability.

RESULTS

Complete retinal reattachment was achieved in all six eyes (100%) at the final visit, including three eyes that required persistent silicone oil (SO) tamponade. Visual acuity improved in four eyes (67%) and decreased in two eyes (33%). Hypotony (<5 mmHg) was observed in four eyes preoperatively and five eyes postoperatively. Corneal graft failure occurred in one eye during a mean follow-up period of 34.5 (range: 10-83) months. Retaining PFO in the vitreous cavity, compared with SO or fluid, seemed effective in stabilizing the globe and facilitating cornea graft sutures.

CONCLUSION

Short-term PFO tamponade for combined penetrating keratoplasty and PPV may be a useful surgical approach for cases involving corneal pathology and proliferative vitreoretinopathy.