The British journal of ophthalmology
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We analysed the nitrous oxide composition of the intraocular gas bubble following vitrectomy and fluid-air exchange in 12 patients. Samples were taken under standardised conditions at 20 minutes after completion of the fluid-air exchange. Analysis was conducted by a Medishield MS2 mass spectrometer. ⋯ An inverse relationship was noted between the extent of retinal detachment preoperatively and the amount of nitrous oxide entering the eye. A possible explanation for this relationship is proposed. The importance of nitrous oxide movement is stressed.