Iranian Scientists Produce SF6 Gas for Retina Surgery

“Our field of activity is research, production and design of ophthalmic equipment. One of these products is SF6 or sulfur hexafluoride gas which is used to create tamponade (pressure) on the layers of retina in patients who have undergone retinal surgery. This product has the same quality as the European sample with grade 5 and purity of 99.9%,” said Mehdi Hadianpour, the managing director of the company.

He explained that in vitrectomy surgery, the layers of the retina are put together and after the laser process is done, this gas is used to reduce the tamponade or the secondary compressive effect inside the eye.

“After the eye operation is finished, this gas is injected and remains inside the eye for 20 days, and then it will be removed from the eye,” Hadianpour said.

Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is a colourless, odourless, non-flammable, and non-toxic gas. It is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula SF6. The composition of the gas is of one sulphur atom bonded to six fluorine atoms. SF6 is known for its excellent electrical insulation properties with extensive use in the electrical industry. It is also highly stable, remaining inert under a wide range of conditions.

Beyond its industrial applications, SF6 is also utilised in the medical field. Its stability and non-reactivity make it suitable for various medical procedures. In particular, its use in ophthalmology has been groundbreaking. SF6 is used as a tamponade agent in eye surgeries to help repair retinal detachments and other retinal disorders.

While SF6 is non-toxic, its handling requires caution due to its potential to displace oxygen in confined spaces, posing asphyxiation risks. Medical professionals must ensure proper ventilation and adhere to safety guidelines when using SF6 gas in surgical settings. Additionally, it is crucial to use medical-grade SF6 to avoid impurities that could harm patients.

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