New instrumentation for fluid-air exchange.

ABSTRACT

To facilitate fluid-air exchange, we have recently adapted and modified an instrument that has been designed to maintain the anterior chamber of an eye with pressurized air at levels which are pre-set by the surgeon. We have now altered this instrument to provide us with a means of performing a fluid air exchange that obviates the need for changing or refilling the air syringe. The intraocular pressure can be maintained at a predetermined level throughout the procedure, with unlimited filtered air controlled by the surgeon via an uncomplicated automated foot pedal control system.