The Thai Journal of Ophthalmology
The Opthalmological Society of Thailand

Official Publication of the Royal College of Ophthalmologist and Ophthalmological Society of Thailand

Aquarium Pump for Fluid-Gas (Air) ExchangeTiam Lawtiantonq MD
Suchart Kulkosa MD
Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University.
Excerpt from the article

INTRODUCTION It is acceptable among vitreo-retina surgeons that in a complicated retinal detachment, a combined vitreo-retina surgery with total fluid-gas (air) exchange will give more chance to the retina to be reattached. A better method of simultaneous internal fluid-gas (air) exchange is infusion canular method by using an automated fluid-gas exchange system connected to the infusion canula and releasing the fluid, including subretinal fluid, through Charles' flute or tapered extrusion needle, it can be done both in phakic and aphakic eyes.  In stead of using the expensive fluid-gas cannula machine, we have developed a much cheaper and simpler system by using a small aquarium air pump.

Thai J Ophthalmol 1987; 1(1): 6