Removal of MIRAgel scleral buckle implants using Yankauer suction catheter with adjusted diameter

PURPOSE: A variety of removal methods have been reported for cases wherein MIRAgel-associated complications have occurred. Recently, Santorum et al. reported an aspiration method using a metal microcannula. Herein, we report a novel alternative approach using Yankauer suction catheter based on Santorum et al.‘s method. OBSERVATIONS: This retrospective case involved a 40-year-old Caucasian man with MIRAgel implant-associated swelling-related complications (strabismus and disfiguring mass effect), who underwent suction-assisted implant removal in January 2020 at Kyushu University Hospital. Surgery was conducted under general anesthesia with an incision made in the superior quadrant, and the degraded MIRAgel implant was aspirated using a Yankauer suction catheter instrument with its diameter adjusted to the space. At the one-month follow-up, there were no early postsurgical complications, and the retina remained completely attached. CONCLUSIONS: Yankauer suction catheter is a useful instrument for removal of MIRAgel scleral buckle implants. It is made up of polyvinyl chloride, which is safer and cheaper, and can be cut to adjust the instrument's diameter according to the surgical field.