Performing vitreous biopsy by perfluorocarbon-perfused vitrectomy

PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of perfluorocarbon-perfused vitrectomy (PCPV) as a novel technique in obtaining a large undiluted vitreous biopsy. DESIGN: Cross-sectional interventional study. METHODS: Patients with undiagnosed posterior uveitis scheduled for vitreous biopsy underwent PCPV. A syringe containing 5 ml of perfluorocarbon liquid (PCL) was connected to the infusion line. Aspiration of the central and superior vitreous was initiated with simultaneous infusion of the PCL. RESULTS: Twenty eyes of 20 patients were included in this study. The mean ± SD amount of PCL used in each eye was 4.50 ± 0.69 ml. The volume of vitreous sample obtained in each eye was 2.25 ± 0.413 ml. No complications occurred. CONCLUSIONS: PCPV is a safe and effective method for obtaining large undiluted vitreous biopsy. © 2005 by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.