Our Summary

This study presents the case of a 26-year-old man who experienced a problem known as orbital compartment syndrome after a surgery to repair a detached retina. Four days after his operation, the man went to the emergency room because of pain and increased pressure in his eye. Initial treatment to lower the pressure in his eye didn’t work. The issue was identified as delayed orbital compartment syndrome, a rare complication that can occur after the type of surgery the patient had, and it was successfully treated with a specific surgical procedure and strong steroids and antibiotics. This case highlights the importance of recognizing and managing this rare complication to prevent permanent blindness.

FAQs

  1. What is orbital compartment syndrome and how is it related to scleral buckle surgery?
  2. What are the treatment options for delayed orbital compartment syndrome after retina detachment surgery?
  3. What measures can be taken to prevent permanent blindness due to complications from scleral buckle surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to be aware of the potential complications, such as orbital compartment syndrome, and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe pain or increased pressure in the eye after the surgery. It is important for patients to follow up closely with their doctor post-surgery to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns or complications promptly.

Suitable For

Scleral buckle surgery is typically recommended for patients with retinal detachment, especially those with severe or complex cases. It is often used when the retina has detached due to a tear or hole in the retina, as the buckle helps to support and reattach the retina to the back of the eye. Patients who are at a higher risk for retinal detachment, such as those with a history of eye trauma, myopia (nearsightedness), or a family history of retinal detachment, may also be recommended scleral buckle surgery as a preventative measure. Additionally, patients who are not good candidates for other types of retinal detachment surgery, such as pneumatic retinopexy or vitrectomy, may be recommended scleral buckle surgery as an alternative treatment option.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with a detached retina.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations and consultations with their ophthalmologist.
  3. Surgery is scheduled and patient is informed about the procedure and potential risks.

After scleral buckle surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes scleral buckle surgery to reattach the retina.
  2. Patient may experience mild discomfort and blurry vision immediately following the surgery.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital with specific post-operative instructions, including medications and follow-up appointments.
  4. Patient will have regular follow-up appointments with their ophthalmologist to monitor their recovery and ensure the retina remains attached.
  5. Patient may experience improvements in vision over time as the retina heals and stabilizes.
  6. In rare cases, complications such as orbital compartment syndrome may occur, requiring additional treatment and management to prevent permanent damage or blindness.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is scleral buckle surgery and why do I need it?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  4. What are the success rates of scleral buckle surgery for repairing a detached retina?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options available for my condition?
  6. What signs or symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a complication after surgery?
  7. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  8. What can I do to optimize my chances of a successful outcome from this surgery?
  9. Are there any specific restrictions or precautions I need to follow after the surgery?
  10. What should I do if I experience any unusual symptoms or complications after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Mei F, Tajran JN, Mohamed MR, Patel KG, Wang AL. Journal: Retin Cases Brief Rep. 2025 Mar 1;19(2):240-243. doi: 10.1097/ICB.0000000000001533. PMID: 38109667