How does the injection of sulfur hexafluoride into the posterior chamber affect intraocular pressure during surgery?

The injection of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) into the posterior chamber can significantly impact intraocular pressure (IOP) during surgical procedures. Sulfur hexafluoride is a gas commonly used in ocular surgery, particularly in vitreous surgeries or retinal detachments.

When SF6 is injected, it occupies space within the eye and creates a gas bubble that can exert pressure on surrounding structures. This increase in volume within the posterior chamber leads to an elevated intraocular pressure. While the exact increase can vary based on various factors, the notion that it could triple the IOP is aligned with observed clinical effects, particularly if the bubble is large relative to the eye's internal space.

Intraocular pressure is a crucial parameter to monitor during ocular surgeries for patient safety and surgical effectiveness. Therefore, recognizing the potential for gas injections to significantly increase IOP is essential for surgical planning and management.