Our Summary

This research paper is about a study conducted over a 10-year period at a large eye center, focusing on patients who experienced a late recurrence of a specific type of retinal detachment called rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. This late recurrence is defined as the retina detaching again after at least six months of being successfully reattached.

Out of 16,396 operations for this type of retinal detachment, 39 patients experienced a late recurrence. On average, the retina detached again around 122.7 weeks after the initial surgery. Most eyes that experienced this late recurrence had artificial lenses (72%) and in 64% of cases, the center of the retina was also detached. In 28 cases, small breaks in the retina were found. Around 38% had a more advanced stage of the disease (PVR-C in 80%).

The majority of these late recurrence cases were treated with a surgery called pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), with gas being used in 61% of the procedures. The initial success rate of the surgery was 64%. However, while the physical structure of the eye can be corrected, the visual outcomes weren’t as good and the overall success rate was lower.

So, in simpler terms, getting the retina to reattach again after a late recurrence is possible, but it’s more difficult and the patient’s vision may not be as good as before. Also, this late recurrence of retinal detachment is quite rare.

FAQs

  1. What is the rate of success for surgery in cases of late recurrence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment?
  2. What are the visual outcomes in patients with a late recurrence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment?
  3. What are the common characteristics of late recurrence of retinal detachment?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about retinal detachment surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure optimal healing and recovery. This may include avoiding activities that could put strain on the eye, taking prescribed medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and reporting any new symptoms or changes in vision to the doctor promptly. By following these instructions, patients can help improve the success rate of the surgery and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended retinal detachment surgery include those with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, especially those with late recurrence of retinal detachment after previous surgery. Patients with macula-off detachments, pseudophakic eyes, and established proliferative vitreoretinopathy may also be candidates for surgery. It is important to note that late recurrence of retinal detachment is rare, but when it does occur, prompt surgical intervention is necessary to prevent permanent vision loss.

Timeline

Before retinal detachment surgery:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, or a sudden onset of blurred vision
  • Patient may undergo a comprehensive eye examination, including a dilated eye exam and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis of retinal detachment
  • Patient may be advised to undergo retinal detachment surgery, which may involve pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with gas tamponade

After retinal detachment surgery:

  • Patient may experience a recovery period, during which they may need to follow post-operative instructions such as avoiding strenuous activities and taking prescribed medications
  • Patient may have follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to monitor the progress of the surgery and ensure proper healing
  • Patient may experience improved vision over time, although visual outcomes may vary depending on the severity of the detachment and any complications that may arise
  • Patient may need to undergo additional surgeries or treatments in case of a late recurrence of retinal detachment

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of retinal detachment surgery for patients with late recurrence?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after retinal detachment surgery?
  4. Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments after the surgery?
  5. What is the expected visual outcome after the surgery?
  6. How often will I need to follow up with my ophthalmologist after the surgery?
  7. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take to prevent future retinal detachments?
  8. Are there any specific medications or eye drops I will need to use post-surgery?
  9. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication or recurrence of retinal detachment?
  10. Can you provide me with information about support groups or resources for patients undergoing retinal detachment surgery?

Reference

Authors: Anguita R, Makuloluwa A, Sim SY, Flores-Sanchez B, Roth J, Charteris DG. Journal: Retina. 2024 Jan 1;44(1):83-87. doi: 10.1097/IAE.0000000000003924. PMID: 37671784