Article
Xenon-arc illumination: a revolution in the development of intraocular illumination during vitreoretinal surgery?
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Authors
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U. Wünscher
- Klinikum Barnim GmbH, Eberswalde
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S. Nikolic
- Klinikum Barnim GmbH, Eberswalde
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M.-G. Theophil
- Klinikum Barnim GmbH, Eberswalde
| Published: | September 22, 2004 |
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Outline
Text
Objective
In vitreoretinal surgery, especially with the introduction of 25ga. proceedures, the demand for improved intraocular illumination has increased. Conventional Xenon illumination systems are set to be replaced by a new generation of Xenon Arc illumination systems that offer increased light intensity suitable for vitreoretinal surgery.
Methods
30 patients underwent vitreoretinal surgery in which both conventional Xenon and the new Xenon Arc light systems were compared. 15 patients received surgery under conventional 20ga technology. 7 of these patients were operated on using a hand held, wide field, illumination probe. The remaining 8 patients had surgery using an illuminated infusion cannula as the primary intraocular illumination. 15 patients received surgery with trocar assisted 25ga. technology. 7 of these patients under standard hand held 25ga. illumination probes and the remaining 8 patients with a new 25ga. sutureless chandelier light positioned at 12 O´clock. By alternating between conventional Xenon and Xenon Arc light sources during each surgical proceedure comparisons were made on light intensity and reflection characteristics within the vitreous, BSS and air filled eyes.
Results
The Xenon Arc illumination achieved a higher light intensity and superior contrast whilst showing a substantial reduction in light reflection, especially in air filled eyes. When using illuminated infusion cannulas, it was possible to achieve an almost shadow free illumination field. Under 25ga. surgery the differences in light intensity were most beneficial. Complete illumination of the bulbus was achieved with sufficient light to conduct bimanual surgery.
Conclusions
Through the introduction of Xenon Arc systems (and its related homogeneous illumination field with a chandalier light) more complicated 25ga. surgical proceedures are enabled and safe bulbus indentation made possible. An additional advantage offered by the new Photon Xenon Arc illumination system ist he ability to feed a laser beam into the light path and so achieve an illuminated laser coagulation feature.
