A pneumatic retinopexy is planned for a superior rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Which intraocular tamponade gas provides the longest effective duration of action?
- A Filtered air
- B Perfluoropropane (C3F8) ✓
- C Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6)
- D Perfluoro-n-octane liquid
Correct answer: B. Perfluoropropane (C3F8)
Explanation
Perfluoropropane expands about four times its injected volume and persists for approximately six to eight weeks, the longest among standard tamponade gases. SF6 doubles in volume and lasts roughly ten to fourteen days, while filtered air lasts five to seven days. Perfluoro-n-octane is a heavy liquid used intraoperatively for unfolding the retina and is always removed at the end of surgery, never used as postoperative tamponade.
Reference: Parsons' Diseases of the Eye, 23rd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.