Our Summary

This research paper talks about a rare disorder called Stickler syndrome that affects the body’s connective tissues and often leads to a range of eye problems such as short-sightedness, deterioration of the back part of the eye, eye pressure disease, and even detachment of the retina. There’s a lot of information available on how to treat a detached retina in patients with Stickler syndrome, but not enough research on the potential risks after surgery, particularly the risk of a sudden increase in eye pressure.

The paper shares the experience of a 10-year-old boy with Stickler syndrome who underwent a specific type of eye surgery to repair his detached retina, but after the surgery, he faced a condition where the pressure inside his eye increased.

FAQs

  1. What is Stickler syndrome and how does it affect the eye?
  2. What is scleral buckling surgery and why is it used in the treatment of Stickler syndrome?
  3. What are the potential risks of acute postoperative intraocular pressure elevation after scleral buckling surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing scleral buckle surgery to be aware of the potential risk of ocular hypertension following the procedure. They may advise the patient to monitor their eye pressure closely after surgery and to contact their doctor immediately if they experience any symptoms of increased pressure, such as eye pain or vision changes. It is important for the patient to follow their doctor’s postoperative care instructions carefully to minimize the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients with retinal detachment, particularly those with Stickler syndrome, may be recommended scleral buckle surgery. This procedure is commonly performed to treat retinal detachment by relieving traction on the retina and reattaching it to the underlying layers of the eye. Patients with Stickler syndrome may have a higher risk of developing retinal detachment due to the associated vitreoretinal degeneration. Additionally, patients with other risk factors for retinal detachment, such as high myopia or a history of trauma to the eye, may also be recommended scleral buckle surgery. It is important for patients to consult with their ophthalmologist to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual case.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient may experience symptoms of retinal detachment such as flashes of light, floaters, or a curtain-like shadow over their vision
  • Patient undergoes a comprehensive eye examination to confirm the diagnosis of retinal detachment
  • Surgical consultation is scheduled to discuss treatment options, including scleral buckle surgery

After scleral buckle surgery:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which involves placing a silicone band around the eye to support the detached retina
  • Patient may experience discomfort, redness, and swelling in the eye in the immediate postoperative period
  • Patient is closely monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or elevated intraocular pressure
  • Patient may need to follow up with the surgeon for postoperative care, including regular eye exams and monitoring of intraocular pressure
  • Patient’s vision gradually improves as the retina reattaches and stabilizes, with the potential for long-term visual recovery

In the case of the 10-year-old boy with Stickler syndrome, the patient experienced ocular hypertension as a complication of the surgery, highlighting the importance of careful monitoring and management of intraocular pressure in postoperative care.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of scleral buckle surgery in treating retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scleral buckle surgery for retinal detachment repair in Stickler syndrome?
  3. How common is postoperative intraocular pressure elevation after scleral buckle surgery in patients with Stickler syndrome?
  4. What symptoms should I watch for that may indicate a problem with intraocular pressure after surgery?
  5. How will intraocular pressure be monitored after the surgery, and how will it be managed if it becomes elevated?
  6. Are there any specific precautions or medications I should take to reduce the risk of postoperative intraocular pressure elevation?
  7. What is the expected recovery process after scleral buckle surgery in Stickler syndrome, and how long will it take for my vision to improve?
  8. Are there any long-term effects or considerations I should be aware of after undergoing scleral buckle surgery for retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome?

Reference

Authors: Anter AM, Ghalibafan S, Cai LZ, Wu CM, Bitrian E, Yannuzzi NA. Journal: J AAPOS. 2024 Dec;28(6):104043. doi: 10.1016/j.jaapos.2024.104043. Epub 2024 Nov 14. PMID: 39547541