Our Summary

This research looked at the clinical features and surgical techniques that were most successful in treating a specific type of eye condition in children called rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). The study analyzed 242 cases of children under 18 years old with new-onset RRD, and narrowed it down to 168 cases that had surgery and were followed up for at least three months.

The findings show that 62% of the children had complete reattachment of the retina, and 54% had successful visual outcomes. They found that the chances of success were higher if the macula (central part of the retina) was not involved, if the RRD was not widespread, and if the patient was between 13-18 years old.

Two types of surgical procedures, scleral buckling (SB) and a combination of SB and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), had higher success rates compared to PPV alone.

They also found that patients who had previous eye surgeries were more likely to have unsuccessful outcomes, and younger patients were more likely to have worse outcomes. The most common causes of RRD were trauma and myopia (nearsightedness), with nearsighted patients having better outcomes.

FAQs

  1. What are the most successful surgical techniques for treating rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in children according to the research?
  2. What factors increase the chances of successful outcomes in RRD surgery?
  3. How do previous eye surgeries and the patient’s age affect the outcomes of RRD surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing retinal detachment surgery to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including avoiding strenuous activities and taking prescribed medications as directed. They may also advise the patient to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and visual outcomes. Additionally, the doctor may discuss the importance of protecting the eyes from further trauma or injury to prevent future retinal detachments.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are typically recommended for retinal detachment surgery are those with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, especially if the macula is not involved, the detachment is not widespread, and if the patient is between 13-18 years old. Patients with trauma or myopia as the cause of RRD may also be good candidates for surgery, with nearsighted patients having better outcomes. Patients who have not had previous eye surgeries may have higher success rates with surgery.

Timeline

Before retinal detachment surgery, a patient may experience symptoms such as floaters, flashes of light, a curtain-like shadow over their vision, or a sudden decrease in vision. They will typically undergo a comprehensive eye examination, including imaging tests such as ultrasound or optical coherence tomography, to diagnose the retinal detachment.

After the diagnosis, the patient will undergo retinal detachment surgery, which may involve scleral buckling, pars plana vitrectomy, or a combination of both procedures. The surgery aims to reattach the detached retina and prevent further vision loss.

Following surgery, the patient will require close monitoring and follow-up appointments to assess the success of the surgery and ensure that the retina remains attached. Visual rehabilitation may also be necessary to help the patient regain optimal vision.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after retinal detachment surgery involves diagnosis, surgical intervention, post-operative care, and rehabilitation to achieve the best possible visual outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with retinal detachment surgery?

  2. What type of surgical procedure do you recommend for my specific case of retinal detachment?

  3. What are the success rates for the different surgical techniques available for retinal detachment?

  4. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process following retinal detachment surgery?

  5. Are there any factors or conditions that may affect the success of the surgery in my case?

  6. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the surgery?

  7. How will my vision be affected after the surgery, and what are the chances of regaining normal vision?

  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take post-surgery to prevent future retinal detachments?

  9. What can I expect in terms of long-term outcomes and potential complications following retinal detachment surgery?

  10. Are there any alternative treatments or options available for my retinal detachment condition?

Reference

Authors: Carranza-Casas M, Quiroz-González E, Hernández-Reyes A, Matsui-Serrano R, Ariza-Camacho E, Graue-Wiechers F. Journal: Int Ophthalmol. 2021 Aug;41(8):2777-2788. doi: 10.1007/s10792-021-01834-w. Epub 2021 Apr 11. PMID: 33840049