Dr. SANGEET MITTAL

Abstract

To present the applications of a novel technique of draining subretinal or supra-choroidal fluid using 26 Gauge (26G) intravenous catheter. 26G intravenous catheter is inserted 6-10 mm from limbus trans-conjunctivally. Once the cannula is in proper place, the metallic stylet is removed and Teflon cannula is left behind. The cannula is connected to the extrusion pump of vitrectomy machine. This method was used to drain subretinal and suprachoroidal fluid in 27 eyes with different indications. Drainage of fluid was observed in all cases with no complications using the active suction from vitrectomy machine. One patient undergoing chandelier assisted scleral buckling for bullous rhegmatogenous retinal detachment was found to have multiple star folds after drainage of fluid and had to be converted to vitrectomy. 26G intravenous catheter provides a simple and safe option for draining subretinal and supra-choroidal fluid in various situations in a controlled manner.