Our Summary

This study looks at the removal of scleral buckles, which are devices used to treat a specific type of eye problem where the retina detaches from the back of the eye. Occasionally, these buckles need to be taken out, but there hasn’t been much research on what happens after they’re removed. The main question is whether the retina might detach again after the buckle is taken out.

To answer this question, the researchers looked at the medical records of 86 people who had their scleral buckles removed over a 21-year period. The most common reasons for removing the buckle were exposure of the device, infection, and double vision or eye misalignment. Most of these patients had symptoms like pain, discomfort, double vision, and discharge from the eye before the buckle was removed.

The good news is that after the buckle was removed, over 86% of these patients no longer had these symptoms. However, a small number (about 7%) did have their retina detach again, which required more surgery. Also, about 9% needed further eye surgery for other reasons.

The conclusion is that removing a scleral buckle generally leads to symptom relief and a low risk of the retina detaching again. However, patients need to be closely watched after the removal to make sure the retina doesn’t detach again.

FAQs

  1. What is a scleral buckle and why might it need to be removed?
  2. What are the risks associated with the removal of a scleral buckle?
  3. What percentage of patients had their retina detach again after the scleral buckle was removed?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This may include taking prescribed medications, avoiding strenuous activities, attending follow-up appointments, and reporting any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor promptly. Additionally, maintaining regular eye exams after the surgery can help monitor the health of your retina and overall eye health.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended scleral buckle surgery are those who have a retinal detachment, specifically a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment where there is a tear or hole in the retina. Other indications for scleral buckle surgery may include patients with severe myopia, trauma to the eye, or a family history of retinal detachment. It is important for patients to undergo a thorough eye examination and evaluation by an ophthalmologist to determine if scleral buckle surgery is the appropriate treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Overall timeline:

  • Before surgery: Patients may experience symptoms such as pain, discomfort, double vision, and discharge from the eye.
  • Scleral buckle surgery: The device is placed to help reattach the retina to the back of the eye.
  • After surgery: Patients may experience some discomfort and blurry vision as they recover.
  • Follow-up appointments: Patients will have regular check-ups to monitor the healing process and ensure the retina remains attached.
  • Removal of the scleral buckle: If necessary, the buckle is removed due to complications or discomfort.
  • After removal: Most patients experience relief from symptoms, but some may require additional surgery if the retina detaches again or for other reasons.
  • Ongoing monitoring: Patients will continue to be monitored to ensure the health and stability of the eye.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about scleral buckle surgery include:

  1. What is a scleral buckle and why do I need this surgery?
  2. What are the risks and complications associated with scleral buckle surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  5. How likely is it that the scleral buckle will need to be removed in the future?
  6. What are the reasons for removing a scleral buckle and what symptoms may indicate that it needs to be removed?
  7. What are the potential risks and complications of removing a scleral buckle?
  8. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  9. What are the signs and symptoms that may indicate a retinal detachment after the buckle has been removed?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery to prevent future complications?

Reference

Authors: Patel P, Heo JY, Shepherd EA, Chaturvedi V. Journal: Ophthalmol Retina. 2024 Jan;8(1):3-9. doi: 10.1016/j.oret.2023.07.029. Epub 2023 Jul 31. PMID: 37531997