Perfluorocarbon liquids (PFCL) are used intraoperatively during vitreoretinal surgery. The primary intraoperative purpose of PFCL in the management of giant retinal tears is:
- A To act as long-term tamponade after surgery
- B To flatten and stabilise the retina intraoperatively so that laser or cryotherapy can be applied ✓
- C To lyse subretinal haemorrhage by chemical action
- D To lower intraocular pressure during surgery
Correct answer: B. To flatten and stabilise the retina intraoperatively so that laser or cryotherapy can be applied
Explanation
PFCLs are heavy liquids (specific gravity ~1.76–1.94) that displace subretinal fluid posteriorly and mechanically flatten the retina against the RPE during surgery. This allows safe application of endolaser photocoagulation around breaks and prevents retinal re-mobilisation. PFCLs are not left long-term (retinal toxicity); they do not lyse haemorrhage or primarily lower IOP.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
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Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.