Electroretinograms, evoked potentials, & morphologic changes in rabbits with partial replacement of the vitreous body with perfluorocarbons

Electroretinogram (ERG) and visual evoked potentials (VEP) from colliculi superior were investigated in rabbits with chronically implanted electrodes after long lasting (2-month) vitreous replacement using perfluorocarbons (perfluorodecaline and perfluorooctan). After initial diminution, the ERG b wave amplitude increased transiently until day 17 after replacement. After day 20, it diminished again and reached 15% to 20% of its initial value until days 45 to 60. The earliest component of VEP remained stable for a longer period compared with the ERG waves. The morphologic examination that was performed 60 days after the replacement showed some changes in the pigment epithelium layer without any significant changes in other retinal layers. The results obtained revealed that long lasting vitreous replacement with perfluorocarbons (for more than 20 days) is not recommended. aspect, the problem of the possible influence of these substances on the bioelectrical activity of the retina and other structures of the visual system is of great importance. To investigate it further, the electroretinogram (ERG) and visual evoked potentials (VEP) from colliculi superior were recorded before and after application of perfluorodecaline or perfluorooctan in rabbits with chronically implanted electrodes.