Our Summary

This research paper is about a study that aimed to understand the factors affecting vision in patients who developed a condition called persistent submacular fluid (PSF) after undergoing a type of eye surgery called scleral buckling. This surgery is performed on patients with a condition called rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), where the retina detaches from the wall of the eye.

In the study, the researchers collected data from patients who underwent successful scleral buckling surgery for RRD at Beijing Tongren Hospital from June 2020 to December 2022. They included patients whose RRD involved the macular area of the eye, which is the part of the eye responsible for seeing detail.

They found that factors such as the patient’s visual acuity (the clarity or sharpness of vision) before the surgery, the duration of the illness, and the grading of a condition called proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) can influence the visual outcomes in patients who developed PSF after the surgery. PVR is a complication that can occur in some cases of retinal detachment.

On the other hand, they found that factors such as whether the patient had drainage during the surgery, the time it took for the PSF to be absorbed, and the different types of PSF do not affect the visual prognosis.

The study concluded that even though PSF can persist for a long time after scleral buckling surgery, it does not significantly impact the long-term visual outcomes.

FAQs

  1. What is persistent submacular fluid (PSF) and how does it affect patients after scleral buckling surgery?
  2. What factors were found to influence visual outcomes in patients who developed PSF after scleral buckling surgery?
  3. Does the presence of PSF after scleral buckling surgery significantly impact the long-term visual outcomes?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip that a doctor might tell a patient about scleral buckle surgery is to follow all post-operative instructions carefully, including using any prescribed eye drops or medications as directed, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding any activities that could strain the eye or increase the risk of complications. It is also important to report any changes in vision or any new symptoms to the doctor promptly. By following these guidelines, the patient can help ensure the best possible outcome from the surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended scleral buckle surgery are those with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, especially if the detachment involves the macular area of the eye. Other factors that may influence the decision to undergo scleral buckle surgery include the patient’s visual acuity before the surgery, the duration of the illness, and the presence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy. It is important for patients to discuss their individual case with their ophthalmologist to determine if scleral buckle surgery is the appropriate treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before scleral buckle surgery:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and undergoes evaluation by an ophthalmologist.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative tests and imaging to determine the extent of the detachment.
  3. Surgery is scheduled and patient is informed about the procedure and potential risks.
  4. Scleral buckle surgery is performed to reattach the retina to the eye wall.
  5. Patient may experience discomfort and blurry vision in the immediate post-operative period.

After scleral buckle surgery:

  1. Patient is monitored closely in the post-operative period for any complications or signs of infection.
  2. Patient may experience pain, redness, and swelling in the eye following the surgery.
  3. Vision may be blurry or distorted initially, but gradually improves over time.
  4. Patient may need to use eye drops or take medications to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
  5. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing process and assess visual acuity.
  6. Patient may undergo additional procedures or treatments if complications arise, such as persistent submacular fluid (PSF).
  7. Long-term visual outcomes are assessed to determine the success of the surgery and any impact on vision.

What to Ask Your Doctor

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

  1. What is scleral buckle surgery and why is it recommended for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with scleral buckle surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period after scleral buckle surgery?
  4. Will I need to wear any special eye protection or take any specific precautions after the surgery?
  5. What is the success rate of scleral buckle surgery for my specific condition?
  6. What is the likelihood of developing persistent submacular fluid (PSF) after the surgery?
  7. How will PSF affect my vision and what are the treatment options available if it occurs?
  8. What factors can influence the visual outcomes in patients who develop PSF after scleral buckle surgery?
  9. How often will I need follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or medications I should consider to improve my eye health after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Chen YY, Tian B, He L, Li L, Li J, Shi XY, Zhou D. Journal: Zhonghua Yan Ke Za Zhi. 2023 Nov 11;59(11):899-905. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.cn112142-20230809-00030. PMID: 37936358