Chemical impurities and contaminants in different silicone oils in human eyes before and after prolonged use.

Background: Intraocular silicone oil (SiO) impurities as low molecular weight components (LMWC) and residual catalysts are thought to cause ocular toxicity. A case-control study was initiated to determine if highly purified SiOs of equal viscosity from two different manufacturers had a similar chemical stability after prolonged clinical use as a vitreous substitute in patients.

Methods: Medical grade samples of AcriSilOl 5000 (ASO 5000) and Vitreocrom 5000 (VC 5000) were obtained.