FLUORESCEIN LABELING OF TISSUE-PLASMINOGEN ACTIVATOR FOR SUBRETINAL THROMBOLYSIS

PURPOSE: To assess a technique that facilitated the use of tissue plasminogen activator in the dissolution and evacuation of subretinal blood. METHODS: Fluorescein dye was added to the tissue plasminogen activator solution before subretinal injection. RESULTS: Labeling tissue plasminogen activator solution with fluorescein made the solution easily visible, enhancing the ability of the surgeon to assess clot lavage, detect reflux into the vitreous cavity, and judge the extent of clot dissolution. CONCLUSIONS: Adding fluorescein dye to tissue plasminogen activator solution is simple and gives the surgeon added control of clot lysis.