Intravitreal sodium fluorescein enhances visualization of clear vitreous during vitreous surgery for macular hole: a safety and efficacy study

Abstract Purpose: To assess the safety and efficacy of sodium fluorescein (NaFl) as an aid for clear vitreous vitrectomy. Methods: In 50 consecutive cases of macular hole surgery, NaFl 0.6% prepared from 20% injectable dye was injected into the vitreous cavity after core vitrectomy so as to stain the clear formed vitreous. Results: NaFl stained the peripheral uncut clear vitreous green and improved the visualization for a safe and complete vitrectomy. No complications associated with the dye injection were noted. Conclusion: NaFl 0.6% can safely be used in the vitreous cavity for easy identification of clear uncut vitreous gel for clear vitreous vitrectomy. This enhances expeditious excision of this tissue.