This book presents the basic facts of viscoelastic substances. It introduces new, self-obtained data regarding viscoelastic rheological properties and describes the selective usages of viscoelastics in ophthalmic surgery. A clear and understandable presentation of viscoelastic physicochemical properties is emphasized to provide the practicing ophthalmic surgeon a reference guide for the selection of a suitable viscoelastic. The authors detail the broad range of viscoelastic applications, the latest trends in visco-surgery, and describe the complications arising from different surgical techniques with certain viscoelastics. Information on the production of viscoelastic substances is also included. Tables and figures are used to document research results and facilitate understanding, while a subject index and an extensive bibliography provide easy references. This book systematically presents basic knowledge and offers insight into the lastest applications in surgery as well as the most recent, relevant findings in the field of viscoelastic research.

1 Overview.- Historical Development.- Current Breakdown of Viscoelastic Substances.- Analysis of Current Application Modes.- 2 Basics.- Physicochemical Properties of Ophthalmic Viscosurgical Devices.- Optical Properties of Viscoelastic Substances.- Chemical Properties of Viscoelastic Substances, Biocompatibility and Safety Requirements.- 3 Viscoelastic Substances.- Hyaluronate.- Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.- Chondroitin Sulfate.- Polyacrylamide.- Collagen.- Cellugel®.- 4 Product Specifications.- Manufacturers' Information About Their Viscoelastics.- Our Own Comparative Trials.- 5 General Applications of Viscoelastics.- Maintenance of the Anterior Chamber.- Tissue Manipulations.- Coatability.- Corneal Endothelial Protection.- Hemostasis.- Management of Complications.- 6 Complications Through the Use of Viscoelastics.- Therapy for Raised IOP Following Phacoemulsification.- 7 Special Uses of Viscoelastics.- Cataract Surgery.- Implantation of Foldable IOLs.- Perforating and Lamellar Keratoplasty.- Glaucoma Surgery.- Trauma Surgery.- Posterior Segment Surgery.- Surgery of Eye Muscles.- Lacrimal Dysfunction (Coating Medium).- 8 Removal of ViscoelasticSubstances.- The "Rock and Roll" Technique.- Retention of the Viscoelastic Substance.- 9 Healon®5: A New Viscoadaptive Formulation.- 10 Aseptic Production vs. Terminal Sterilization.- 11 Viscoelastics: Medical Device or Drug.- 12 Summary.- Product Overview.- . Hyaluronic Acid Products.- . HPMC-Products.- Measured Values for Certain Products Gained by Individual Investigations.- . Viscoelastics Containing Hyaluronic Acid.- . Viscoelastics from Hydroxypropylmethylcellulose.- References.