Our Summary

Scleral buckling is a surgical procedure used to repair a detached retina, a serious condition that can lead to blindness. However, it’s a difficult skill to master and is being overlooked by many new surgeons due to the popularity of newer techniques. A common issue is getting the optimal buckle height, as too tight a buckle can lead to complications.

This paper introduces a new, easier technique for scleral buckling that ensures a controlled and reproducible buckle height. It involves making cuts around the eye, identifying and separating the eye muscles, creating tunnels in the eye wall, and inserting a silicone band. The band is then trimmed and tied to produce the ideal buckle height.

The authors believe this new technique could reduce complications and make it easier for trainees to perform this surgery successfully. A video is provided to demonstrate the procedure.

FAQs

  1. What is scleral buckling surgery and what is its purpose?
  2. What are the challenges typically faced in performing scleral buckling surgery?
  3. How does the new technique for scleral buckling surgery improve upon the traditional method?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications. It is important to communicate any concerns or changes in vision to your doctor promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended scleral buckle surgery include those who have a retinal detachment, especially if it is a severe detachment or if they have had multiple detachments in the past. Scleral buckle surgery is often recommended for patients with certain types of retinal tears or breaks, as well as for patients with certain risk factors for retinal detachment such as high myopia or a history of eye trauma. Additionally, scleral buckle surgery may be recommended for patients who are not good candidates for other types of retinal detachment repair surgeries, such as pneumatic retinopexy or vitrectomy.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient may experience symptoms of a detached retina, such as floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain-like shadow over their vision.
  • Patient will undergo a comprehensive eye examination, including a dilated eye exam and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis of a detached retina.
  • Patient may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, in the days leading up to the surgery.
  • Patient will receive instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including fasting before the procedure.

After scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient will need to wear an eye patch or shield for a period of time following the surgery to protect the eye and aid in healing.
  • Patient may experience some discomfort, redness, and swelling in the eye after the surgery, which can be managed with pain medication and eye drops.
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor the healing process and ensure the retina is reattached properly.
  • Patient will need to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a period of time to prevent complications.
  • Patient may experience improvements in their vision over time as the retina heals and stabilizes.

Overall, scleral buckle surgery can be an effective treatment for a detached retina, but it is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure a successful outcome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the success rate of scleral buckle surgery for repairing a detached retina?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scleral buckle surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process after scleral buckle surgery?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions after the surgery?
  5. How experienced are you in performing scleral buckle surgery?
  6. Are there any alternative treatment options to scleral buckle surgery that I should consider?
  7. What is the expected outcome of the surgery in terms of improving my vision?
  8. How long do the effects of scleral buckle surgery typically last?
  9. Will I need any additional follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the new technique for scleral buckling that you mentioned in this paper?

Reference

Authors: Bhat PA, Unnisa A. Journal: Indian J Ophthalmol. 2022 Feb;70(2):710-711. doi: 10.4103/ijo.IJO_156_22. PMID: 35086296