Our Summary

This research paper looks at the duration and causes of a specific type of fluid build-up in the eye that can happen after a certain kind of surgery. The surgery is called scleral buckle (SB) surgery and is used to treat a certain type of eye condition where the retina detaches.

The study reviewed 61 patients who had this condition and underwent the surgery between 2016 and 2022. It used a particular type of eye scan to confirm the presence of the fluid build-up, which is known as persistent subretinal fluid (PSF).

The study found that, on average, the fluid persisted for about 6 months in all patients. However, for patients who were not treated with a procedure to drain this fluid, the duration was longer - about 8 months. In contrast, those who had the drainage procedure experienced a shorter duration of about 4.5 months.

The study also found that vision significantly improved 3 months after the surgery. Furthermore, those who had the drainage procedure saw better visual improvements throughout the follow-up period compared to those who did not have it.

The study concluded that having a longstanding shallow retina detachment was associated with a longer duration of fluid build-up after surgery. However, draining the fluid during surgery can effectively reduce it, shorten its duration, and speed up visual improvement.

FAQs

  1. What is the duration of persistent subretinal fluid after scleral buckle surgery?
  2. What is the effect of external subretinal fluid drainage on the duration of persistent subretinal fluid after scleral buckle surgery?
  3. Does the visual acuity improve after scleral buckle surgery and if so, how long does it typically take for this improvement to occur?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to follow post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping all follow-up appointments and reporting any changes in vision or symptoms to your doctor immediately. It is also important to avoid any activities that could put strain on the eye and to take any prescribed medications as directed. Additionally, maintaining good overall health and attending regular eye exams can help prevent complications and ensure optimal healing after surgery.

Suitable For

Patients with macula-involving rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) who have persistent subretinal fluid (PSF) after scleral buckle (SB) surgery are typically recommended for this type of surgery. Patients with longstanding shallow RRD may be at a higher risk for longer PSF duration after SB surgery. External subretinal fluid (SRF) drainage during SB surgery can effectively reduce SRF, shorten the duration of PSF, and accelerate visual improvement for these patients.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient presents with symptoms of retinal detachment, such as floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow over their vision.
  • Ophthalmologist conducts a thorough eye examination and confirms the diagnosis of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
  • Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and evaluations to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
  • Surgery is scheduled, and patient receives instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including fasting before surgery.

After scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, during which a silicone band is placed around the eye to support the detached retina.
  • Patient may experience discomfort, redness, and swelling in the eye following surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and eye drops.
  • Patient is monitored closely in the immediate post-operative period for any signs of complications, such as infection or increased intraocular pressure.
  • Patient is instructed on post-operative care, including how to protect the eye and manage any discomfort or vision changes.
  • Patient attends follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and assess visual acuity.
  • Patient may experience persistent subretinal fluid (PSF) after surgery, which can be managed with additional treatments or interventions, such as external subretinal fluid drainage.
  • Over time, the retina reattaches, and the patient’s vision improves, with the possibility of significant visual improvement noted 3 months after surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of scleral buckle surgery in treating my macula-involving retinal detachment?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scleral buckle surgery?
  3. How long does the recovery process typically take after scleral buckle surgery?
  4. What can I expect in terms of post-operative care and follow-up appointments?
  5. How common is persistent subretinal fluid after scleral buckle surgery, and what factors may contribute to its occurrence?
  6. How long does persistent subretinal fluid typically last after scleral buckle surgery?
  7. Are there any additional treatments or interventions that may be necessary if I experience persistent subretinal fluid after surgery?
  8. How will persistent subretinal fluid affect my vision and overall eye health in the long term?
  9. What measures can be taken to help reduce the risk of persistent subretinal fluid following scleral buckle surgery?
  10. What is the likelihood of needing additional surgeries or treatments in the future as a result of persistent subretinal fluid after scleral buckle surgery?

Reference

Authors: Do JR, Park DH, Shin JP, Kang YK. Journal: Sci Rep. 2023 Dec 13;13(1):22176. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-49719-5. PMID: 38093092