SUMMARY
After performing an experimental study with a new liquid perfluorochemical (Aflunox 606), the authors used this new material in 15 patients, during the intraoperatory period, in order to manipulate the retina, unfold retinal flaps in giant retinal tears, oppening of closed funnel retinal detachments and as a hemostatic agent in cases of diffuse bleeding. Once the surgical goals were achieved, the heavy oil was removed from the eye and it was substituted by silicone oil or an expanding gas mixture. The high specific gravity (1.9 g/ml) and the transparency of the material (refractive index = 1.33) allowed to perform intra-operatory maneuvers for complicated cases in vitreo-retinal surgery much easier than using air or silicone oil in this surgical period. Also, the viscosity of 68 centistokes at 20 C makes it easy to inject and there was very little buble formation when in contact with the infusion fluid. The best pre-operative visual acuity in affected eyes was light projection. All cases presented with an attached retina at the end of the operating procedure. Three eyes redetached during the follow-up period (minimum follow-up = 6 months). All other 12 patients experimented visual improvement. It was not noted any new complication neither the complications commonly found in this type of surgery were more severe.