Our Summary

The research paper studies individuals who have injured their eyes due to self-harm behavior, leading to a condition called traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). This happens when the retina, the layer at the back of the eye, detaches from the underlying layer.

The study collected data from 78 patients across 23 centers who had RRD in at least one eye. It analyzed their medical histories, surgical procedures, post-surgery care, and behavior intervention strategies.

The main diagnosis among these patients was autism spectrum disorder and trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), and the most common self-harming behavior was hitting their own face.

The study found that the success rate of the surgeries was quite low, especially for patients with specific types of RRD and those with advanced vitreoretinopathy, a condition that can cause retinal detachment. The study also found that a surgical procedure known as scleral buckle, which involves placing a silicone band around the eye to push the retina back into place, may lead to better outcomes.

Despite the challenges in treating these patients, including their limited cooperation and ongoing self-harm, the study concludes that some patients’ visual function can be restored.

The aim of the study was to better understand the characteristics of these patients, the outcomes of their surgeries, and how to manage their care. The findings can help doctors make more informed treatment decisions for patients with RRD caused by self-harm.

FAQs

  1. What is traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD)?
  2. What were the main findings of the study regarding the success rate of surgeries for RRD caused by self-harm?
  3. How can the findings of this study help doctors in treating patients who have RRD due to self-harm?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give to a patient undergoing retinal surgery is to follow all post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding strenuous activities, attending follow-up appointments, and reporting any unusual symptoms or changes in vision promptly. Following these instructions can help ensure the best possible outcome and decrease the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended retinal surgery include those with conditions such as traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) caused by self-harm behavior, as seen in the study mentioned above. Other patients who may benefit from retinal surgery include those with retinal detachments caused by other factors such as aging, eye trauma, or underlying eye diseases. Additionally, patients with conditions like diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or retinal vascular diseases may also be recommended for retinal surgery to prevent vision loss or improve visual function.

Timeline

Before retinal surgery:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, or a sudden decrease in vision.
  • Patient undergoes a comprehensive eye exam to diagnose the retinal detachment.
  • Patient may need to undergo imaging tests such as ultrasound or optical coherence tomography to assess the extent of the detachment.
  • Patient discusses treatment options with their ophthalmologist, including the risks and benefits of surgery.

After retinal surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure to reattach the retina, which may involve techniques such as scleral buckle, vitrectomy, or pneumatic retinopexy.
  • Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a short period of time after surgery for monitoring.
  • Patient will need to follow post-operative care instructions, including using eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
  • Patient may experience some discomfort, blurry vision, or light sensitivity in the days and weeks following surgery.
  • Over time, patient’s vision may gradually improve as the retina heals and reattaches, although full recovery of vision may not always be possible.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with retinal surgery for my specific condition?

  2. What type of surgical procedure will be recommended for my retinal detachment, and why?

  3. What is the success rate of the surgery for patients with similar conditions to mine?

  4. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?

  5. How can I best prepare for the surgery to optimize the outcome?

  6. What can I expect in terms of recovery time and visual outcomes after the surgery?

  7. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions I should take post-surgery to protect my eye health?

  8. How will my ongoing self-harm behavior impact the success of the surgery and my long-term eye health?

  9. Are there any behavior intervention strategies or support services available to help manage my self-harm tendencies in relation to my eye health?

  10. What is the long-term prognosis for my eye health following retinal surgery, considering the challenges associated with my specific condition?

Reference

Authors: Rossin EJ, Tsui I, Wong SC, Hou KK, Prakhunhungsit S, Blair MP, Shapiro MJ, Leishman L, Nagiel A, Lifton JA, Quiram P, Ringeisen AL, Henderson RH, Arruti N, Buzzacco DM, Kusaka S, Ferrone PJ, Belin PJ, Chang E, Hubschman JP, Murray TG, Leung EH, Wu WC, Olsen KR, Harper CA 3rd, Rahmani S, Goldstein J, Lee T, Nudleman E, Cernichiaro-Espinosa LA, Chhablani J, Berrocal AM, Yonekawa Y. Journal: Ophthalmol Retina. 2021 Aug;5(8):805-814. doi: 10.1016/j.oret.2020.11.012. Epub 2020 Nov 22. PMID: 33238225