Our Summary

This study compared two surgical methods, scleral buckle (SB) surgery and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), used to treat chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, a condition where the retina detaches from the back of the eye. The research was conducted at the King Khalid Eye Specialist Hospital in Riyadh between 2014 and 2018.

The researchers measured success based on both how well the eye’s physical structure was repaired (anatomical outcome) and how much the patient’s vision improved (visual outcome) one year after surgery. They also looked at how often a second surgery was needed.

The research found that SB surgery had a better success rate in terms of repairing the eye’s physical structure than PPV, with fewer patients needing a follow-up surgery. However, when it came to improving vision, both methods were found to be equally effective.

FAQs

  1. What were the two surgical methods compared in the study for the treatment of chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment?
  2. How did the researchers measure the success of the scleral buckle surgery and pars plana vitrectomy?
  3. Which surgical method, scleral buckle surgery or pars plana vitrectomy, had a higher success rate in terms of repairing the eye’s physical structure and improving vision?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including taking any prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding activities that could put strain on the eye. It is also important to report any unusual symptoms or changes in vision to your doctor immediately. Following these guidelines can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended scleral buckle surgery are those with chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, where the retina has detached from the back of the eye. This condition can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. Scleral buckle surgery is often recommended for patients with this condition as it has been shown to have a better success rate in repairing the eye’s physical structure compared to other surgical methods like pars plana vitrectomy.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient experiences symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, and a sudden decrease in vision.
  • Patient undergoes a comprehensive eye examination, including imaging tests to determine the location and extent of the retinal detachment.
  • The ophthalmologist recommends scleral buckle surgery as the treatment option for chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

After scleral buckle surgery:

  • The patient undergoes the surgery, which involves placing a silicone band around the eye to hold the retina in place.
  • The patient may experience discomfort, redness, and swelling in the eye following the surgery.
  • The patient is advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow post-operative care instructions, including using eye drops and attending follow-up appointments.
  • Over the course of several weeks to months, the retina gradually reattaches, and the patient’s vision may improve.
  • One year after surgery, the patient undergoes a follow-up examination to assess the success of the surgery in terms of anatomical and visual outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is scleral buckle surgery and how does it work to repair a retinal detachment?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with scleral buckle surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after undergoing scleral buckle surgery?
  4. Will I need to wear any special eye protection or take any precautions after the surgery?
  5. How successful is scleral buckle surgery in comparison to other surgical methods for treating retinal detachment?
  6. What are the chances of needing a second surgery after undergoing scleral buckle surgery?
  7. What is the follow-up care plan after the surgery and how often will I need to see my eye doctor for check-ups?
  8. Are there any lifestyle or dietary changes I should make to help with the healing process after scleral buckle surgery?
  9. What are the long-term effects of scleral buckle surgery on my vision and eye health?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before deciding on scleral buckle surgery?

Reference

Authors: Bunajem M, Ahmad K, Al Zaidi N, Al Bloushi B, Al Zahrani Y. Journal: Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol. 2021 Sep 25;28(2):65-70. doi: 10.4103/meajo.MEAJO_441_20. eCollection 2021 Apr-Jun. PMID: 34759662