Our Summary

This research paper explains how certain devices and materials used in eye surgery look on CT and MRI scans. It’s important for doctors who read these scans to understand these things so they don’t mistake them for something else.

For example, when a tiny device used to treat glaucoma is implanted in the eye, it shows up as tiny spots of metal on a CT scan. This device is usually placed where the cornea (the clear front part of the eye) meets the sclera (the white part of the eye).

After cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye is gone, and a man-made lens is put in its place. On a CT scan, this new lens shows up as a high-density spot. On an MRI, it shows up as a low-signal spot.

When doctors treat a detached retina, they might fill the eye with a bubble of gas or silicone oil, or they might use a silicone buckle to squeeze the wall of the eye. Gas shows up as a low-density spot on both CT and MRI scans. Silicone oil shows up as a high-density spot on CT scans, but can vary on MRI scans. The silicone buckle shows up as a high- or low-density spot on CT scans, and a low-signal spot on MRI scans.

If a silicone buckle starts to break down, it can look like a swollen mass with low density on a CT scan and high signal on an MRI scan.

FAQs

  1. How does the EX-PRESS glaucoma filtration device appear on CT and MRI scans?
  2. What are the imaging characteristics of scleral buckling on CT and MRI scans?
  3. How do the imaging manifestations after cataract extraction appear on CT and MRI scans?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting for a certain period of time after the procedure to allow for proper healing and recovery of the eye. It is important to follow the doctor’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended scleral buckle surgery are those with retinal detachment. This procedure is often used to treat retinal detachments by indenting the eye wall with silicone buckling elements to help reattach the retina. Other patients who may undergo scleral buckle surgery include those with severe myopia, a history of previous retinal detachment, or certain types of eye trauma.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms of retinal detachment such as sudden onset of flashes, floaters, or vision loss.
  2. Ophthalmologist performs a thorough eye examination and confirms the diagnosis of retinal detachment.
  3. Patient undergoes pre-operative testing such as visual acuity, intraocular pressure measurement, and imaging studies to assess the extent of the detachment.

After scleral buckle surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which involves placing a silicone band around the eye to support the detached retina.
  2. Post-operatively, patient may experience discomfort, redness, or swelling in the eye.
  3. Patient is monitored closely by the ophthalmologist for signs of healing and reattachment of the retina.
  4. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess visual acuity and overall eye health.
  5. Over time, the silicone band may be removed if the retina has successfully reattached and vision has improved.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of scleral buckle surgery?
  2. How will the surgery be performed and what can I expect during the procedure?
  3. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scleral buckle surgery?
  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care after the surgery?
  5. How long will it take for my vision to improve after the surgery?
  6. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  7. Are there any restrictions or limitations I should be aware of after the surgery?
  8. How successful is scleral buckle surgery in treating retinal detachment?
  9. How long do the effects of scleral buckle surgery typically last?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider for my condition?

Reference

Authors: Ito Y, Yamazaki I, Kikuchi Y, O’uchi E, O’uchi T, Kato H, Hotta K. Journal: Jpn J Radiol. 2016 Dec;34(12):779-785. doi: 10.1007/s11604-016-0587-6. Epub 2016 Oct 13. PMID: 27738893