Persistent Air Bubble Sequestered at the Silicone Oil-Silicone Intraocular Lens Interface as a Cause of Reversible Visual Distortion

J Vitreoretin Dis. 2020 Nov 9;5(4):345-347. doi: 10.1177/2474126420960899. eCollection 2021 Jul-Aug.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a novel cause of post-operative reversible visual distortion due to a persistent air bubble sequestered at the intraocular lens (IOL)-silicone oil interface.

Methods: Two cases of persistent, sequestered air at the IOL-silicone oil interface were identified and reviewed. Relevant clinical information, images and surgical videos were analyzed and described.

Results: Resolution of the visual distortion was achieved in both cases after silicone oil removal.

Conclusions: Silicone oil adhesion to the posterior surface of silicone IOLs is a known cause of visual degradation. The IOL-silicone oil interface can sequester air that persists and causes visual distortion until the oil is removed. We report the first cases, to our knowledge, of reversible visual distortion due to sequestered air at the IOL-silicone oil interface.

Keywords: retina; silicone oil; vitreoretinal surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports