MASSIVE SUBRETINAL GAS AFTER VITRECTOMY SURGERY: MECHANISM AND MANAGEMENT.

Purpose: To describe the complication of subretinal gas after pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, as well as its management.

Methods: The presence of subretinal gas was noted on postoperative Day 1 after pars plana vitrectomy for a chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Resolution of subretinal gas was facilitated by an infusion line and external sclerotomy to expand the vitreous cavity. Residual subretinal gas was removed through a posterior retinotomy after fluid-air exchange.

Results: This technique resulted in the successful evacuation of subretinal gas, allowing for chorioretinal adhesion and reattachment of the retina.

Conclusion: Subretinal gas can rarely occur after pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. This complication can be successfully managed by way of external drainage, followed by evacuation of residual gas through fluid-air exchange and posterior retinotomy.