Intraocular gas tamponades.

Intraocular gas tamponades are an important part of vitreoretinal surgery and have become a standard of care. The use of intraocular gas began in 1911. Modem use of intraocular gases as a surgical adjunct is continuously broadening. Today, sulfur hexafluoride and perfluoropropane are increasingly being used as intraocular gas tamponades for a wide range of complicated vitreoretinal diseases. This article reviews the types and function of commonly used gases, their indications and efficacy in certain types of vitreoretinal diseases, and their complications.