A pilot study on the use of a perfluorohexyloctane/silicone oil solution as a heavier than water internal tamponade agent

Aims: To report a prospective two centred non- comparative interventional pilot study of a solution of perfluorohexyloctane and silicone oil ( Densiron- 68) as a heavier than water internal tamponade. Methods: 42 consecutive patients were recruited. The indications include proliferative vitreoretinopathy, retinal detachments arising from inferior retinal breaks, and inability to posture. Results: The success rate with one operation using Densiron was 81% and with further surgery 93%. At the end of the study all tamponade agents were removed in 90% of patients. Visual acuity improved from mean logMAR of 1.41 ( SD 0.64) to 0.94 ( SD 0.57), p = 0.001. There was little evidence of dispersion and excessive inflammation. Conclusion: This new tamponade agent is being compared to conventional silicone oil in a prospective international randomised trial.