United Kingdom National Ophthalmology Database study of vitreoretinal surgery: report 3, retinal detachment

Updates on Treatment Modalities for Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Repair

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, a severe eye condition, presents anatomic separation of the neurosensory retina from its outermost layer-the retinal pigment epithelium. Early recognition of this relatively common finding and proper referral of patients to the retinal surgery department is essential in order to minimize its consequent possible severe reduction in vision. Several major surgical methods for the repair of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment have been in use over the last several decades, and they all aim to find and close the break in the retina that has caused the detachment. Surgery can be performed as pneumatic retinopexy, pars plana vitrectomy, and/or episcleral surgery (buckling). General surgical trends for reattaching the retina include moving from extraocular to intraocular surgery and from bigger gauge to smaller gauge via minimal invasive vitrectomy surgery (MIVS), with implementing shorter-lasting intraocular tamponades. Surgical options for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treatment nowadays emphasize gaining retinal reattachment, preferably with one surgery and with minimum damage to the eye. The procedure should not bring secondary eye conditions and complications with severe impairment of visual acuity, and it should be performed on as much as a smaller budget, with possibly peribulbar anesthesia, enabling the patient the quickest possible recovery. It should be adjusted to the patient's condition, not to the surgeon's skills or preferences.

CLINICAL FEATURES AND SURGICAL OUTCOMES OF SCLERAL BUCKLE SURGERY FOR PRIMARY RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT: Moorfields Buckle Study

PURPOSE

Long-term study to evaluate the clinical and surgical outcomes of scleral buckle (SB) surgery for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) at a large tertiary eye center.

METHODS

Noncomparative, retrospective case series of 589 eyes of 569 patients with primary RRD who underwent SB surgery between 2004 and 2022 with a median follow-up of 6 months. The main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity, surgical outcomes, complications, and classification of RRD.

RESULTS

At baseline, 447/589 (76.1%) round hole RRD, and 133/589 (22.7%) retinal dialysis RRD. Overall primary SB success rate was 83.7% for all retinal detachment subtypes, with round hole retinal detachment 84.8% and dialysis RRD 81.2%. Overall, the baseline best-corrected visual acuity was 0.42 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) and the final best-corrected visual acuity was 0.26 logMAR ( P < 0.0001). In macula-off RRD, the best-corrected visual acuity significantly improved from 0.79 to 0.48 logMAR ( P < 0.0001). In patients with macula-on RRD, it improved from 0.19 to 0.12 logMAR ( P = 0.014). Binary logistic regression showed registrar surgeon grade (odds ratio [OR] 0.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01-0.55), and partial or complete posterior vitreous detachment (OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.10-0.49) was associated with reduced odds of primary success. Higher surgical failure was associated with low pre-fellowship SB surgeon experience ( P = 0.024).

CONCLUSION

Favorable visual and functional outcomes have been reported in a large series of SB for primary retinal detachment, mainly for patients with round hole RRD and retinal dialysis RRD.

Clinical trial to test the safety of the EVA Nexus surgical platform

BACKGROUND

The EVA Nexus system offers several technical improvements over its predecessor. The newly designed Aveta cannula system for vitrectomy surgery avoids the need for removal of the valve from the infusion cannula. The chamfered leading edge of the cannula also reduces the insertion force needed. The new EquiPhaco needles in combination with SmartIOP provide excellent anterior chamber stability during phaco-emulsification surgery, enabling to work at lower infusion pressures, and the multiburst phaco mode allows easier removal of hard cataracts. The system offers a secondary active infusion line for independent control of pressure to the anterior and posterior chambers, monitoring of flow rate/reflux and warning of infusion bottle emptying. This study evaluated whether these technical improvements result in improved surgical safety.

METHODS

In total, 250 eyes that underwent vitrectomy (53%) or phaco-vitrectomy (47%) using the EVA Nexus system were prospectively included. The occurrence of intraoperative adverse events was compared to that of historically operated eyes using the EVA system.

RESULTS

The average age of the patients was 63 years. A total of 33% of the patients were operated on for retinal detachment, 17% for macular pucker, 11% for treating floaters, 9% for removing silicone oil, 8% for macular hole repair and 22% for other diseases. In 75% of surgeries, 23 G instruments were used, and 27 G instruments were used in 25% of cases. Device issues that occurred included priming cycle issues (n = 4), eye pressure stability problems (n = 6) and vitrectome performance issues (n = 1), all of which in the first 100 patients who were included and were fixed with software updates. The frequency of surgical complications in the anterior segment was lower than that in the historically recorded surgical reports. Intraoperative events in the posterior segment included hemorrhage from retinal vessels, choroidal hematoma, iatrogenic retinal damage/tear, and subchoroidal infusion. Again, these events occurred rarely and less frequently than in the historical surgical reports.

CONCLUSIONS

The EVA Nexus provides a surgical platform that reduces the incidence of intraoperative adverse events and iatrogenic complications in both anterior and posterior segment surgery. This could increase surgical safety during cataract and vitrectomy surgery. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CLINICALTRIALS.GOV: : NCT05229094 Data 22/5/2021.

Pars Plana Vitrectomy With Silicone Oil or Gas Tamponade for Uncomplicated Retinal Detachment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with silicone oil compared to gas tamponade for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted on Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library from January 2000 to September 2023 for comparative studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of PPV with either silicone oil or gas tamponade in the setting of uncomplicated RRD. Our primary outcome was best-corrected visual acuity at the last study observation. Secondary outcomes included the rates of retinal reattachment, retinal thickness, and the incidence of adverse events. We performed a meta-analysis using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Nine observational studies reporting on 491 RRD eyes were included. The mean best-corrected visual acuity at the last study observation was significantly better in the gas tamponade group than in the silicone oil group (weighted mean difference [WMD] = 0.17 logMAR, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.06, 0.27], P = .002). Rates of primary retinal reattachment were similar between the silicone oil and gas tamponade groups (P = .89). The ganglion cell layer was significantly thinner in the silicone oil group compared to the gas tamponade group (WMD =-3.70 µm, 95% CI = [-5.87, -1.53, P = .0008), as was the inner plexiform layer (WMD = -2.45, 95% CI = [-4.50, -0.40], P = .02) and outer nuclear layer (WMD = -11.74 µm, 95% CI = [-18.39, -5.10], P = .0005).

CONCLUSIONS

PPV with gas tamponade was associated with better functional outcomes compared to PPV with silicone oil, although both tamponades yielded comparable primary reattachment rates. The absence of randomized trials and the potential for selection bias underscore the importance of further investigation in diverse patient populations.

The effect of axial length on pseudophakic retinal detachment

PURPOSE

The purpose of the study was to analyse the surgical management and outcome regarding axial length in the population affected by pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD) 2015-2020.

METHOD

The patients included were from an observational cohort study of patients undergoing cataract surgery in the region of Skåne during 2015-2017. Data were retrieved from the Swedish National Cataract Register and cross-referenced with cases of PRD in the same region from 2015 to 2020. The surgical method used and findings at follow-up were recorded. The patients were stratified according to axial length (AL) to <25 mm, 25 ≤ n < 26.5 mm and ≥26.5 mm. The main outcome was primary success with one surgery apart from silicone oil removal. The secondary outcome was postoperative visual acuity.

RESULTS

In the whole study group of 58 624 cases, complete follow-up data were available for 288 eyes. The median follow-up time was 324 days, and primary operation was successful in 82.9% of these cases. The median visual acuity was 0.31 (LogMAR). In the stratification those with AL < 25 mm had a primary success of 75.8%, AL 25 ≤ n < 26.5 mm of 87.9% and ≥26.5 mm of 95.8%.

CONCLUSIONS

The primary anatomical success was 82.9% in the whole group of PRD but with stratification they had an increasing number of primary success with longer AL.

Face-down positioning or posturing after pars plana vitrectomy for macula-involving rhegmatogenous retinal detachments

BACKGROUND

A macula-involving rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is one of the most common ophthalmic surgical emergencies and causes significant visual morbidity. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with gas tamponade is often performed to repair primary macula-involving RRDs with a high rate of anatomical retinal reattachment. It has been advocated by some ophthalmologists that face-down positioning after PPV and gas tamponade helps reduce postoperative retinal displacement. Retinal displacement can cause metamorphopsia and binocular diplopia.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this review is to determine whether face-down positioning reduces the risk of retinal displacement following PPV and gas tamponade for primary macula-involving RRDs.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register) (2022, Issue 11), MEDLINE (January 1946 to 28 November 2022), Embase.com (January 1947 to 28 November 2022), PubMed (1948 to 28 November 2022), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature database (1982 to 28 November 2022), ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. We did not use any date or language restrictions in the electronic search. We last searched the electronic databases on 28 November 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which face-down positioning was compared with no positioning or another form of positioning following PPV and gas tamponade for primary macula-involving RRDs.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodology and assessed the certainty of the body of evidence for the prespecified outcomes using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified three RCTs (369 eyes of 368 participants) that met the eligibility criteria. Two RCTs provided data on postoperative retinal displacement, one reported on postoperative distortion and quality of life outcomes, two on postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in logMAR, and two on postoperative ocular adverse events such as outer retinal folds. Study characteristics and risk of bias All the trials involved predominantly male participants (range: 68% to 72%). Only one trial provided race and ethnicity information, was registered on a trial registry, and reported funding sources. Using the RoB 2 tool, we assessed the risk of bias for proportion of eyes with retinal displacement, mean change in visual acuity, objective distortion scores, quality of life assessments, and ocular adverse events, with most domains judged to be at low risk of bias. Findings Immediate face-down positioning may result in a lower proportion of participants with postoperative retinal displacement compared with support-the-break positioning at six months (risk ratio [RR] 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.54 to 0.99; 1 RCT; 239 eyes of 239 participants; very low certainty evidence). One study found no evidence of a difference in BCVA at three months when comparing postoperative face-up with face-down positioning with or without perfluorocarbon liquid (mean difference [MD] -0.03, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.02; I2 = 0; 56 eyes of 56 participants; very low certainty evidence). Immediate face-down positioning appears to have little to no effect on postoperative distortion scores at week 26 (MD 1.80, 95% CI -1.92 to 5.52; 1 RCT; 219 eyes of 219 participants; very low certainty evidence) and postoperative quality of life assessment scores at week 26 (MD -1.80, 95% CI -5.52 to 1.92; 1 RCT; 217 eyes of 217 participants; very low certainty evidence). Adverse events One study that enrolled 262 participants with macula-involving RRDs suggested that immediate face-down positioning after PPV and gas tamponade may reduce the ocular adverse event of postoperative outer retinal folds at six months (RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.90; 1 RCT; 262 eyes of 262 participants; very low certainty evidence) and binocular diplopia (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.90; 1 RCT; 262 eyes of 262 participants; very low certainty evidence) compared with support-the-break positioning. Immediate face-down positioning may increase the ocular adverse event of elevated intraocular pressure compared with support-the-break positioning (RR 1.74, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.73; 1 RCT; 262 eyes of 262 participants; very low certainty evidence). Another study found no evidence of a difference in postoperative outer retinal folds when comparing face-down versus face-up positioning at one and three months (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.50 to 2.02; RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.28 to 3.61; 1 RCT; 56 eyes of 56 participants; very low certainty evidence). No studies reported non-ocular adverse events.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Very low certainty evidence suggests that immediate face-down positioning after PPV and gas tamponade may result in a reduction in postoperative retinal displacement, outer retinal folds, and binocular diplopia, but may increase the chance of postoperative raised intraocular pressure compared with support-the-break positioning at six months. We identified two ongoing trials that compare face-down positioning with face-up positioning following PPV and gas tamponade in participants with primary macula-involving RRDs, whose results may provide relevant evidence for our stated objectives. Future trials should be rigorously designed, and investigators should analyze outcome data appropriately and report adequate information to provide evidence of high certainty. Quality of life and patient preferences should be examined in addition to clinical and adverse event outcomes.

Surgical Outcomes of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment and Fellow Eye Involvement in Adolescent and Young Adult Patients

PURPOSE

To investigate the associations, fellow eye retinal tear or detachment, and surgical outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs) in young adults.

DESIGN

Retrospective consecutive case series.

SUBJECTS

Patients aged ≤ 30 years who underwent surgical repair for RRD between 2014 and 2021 at a single practice. The mean age was 23.85 years (range, 12-30 years).

METHODS

Data collected included demographics, preoperative clinical features of the RRD, visual acuity (VA), type of surgery performed, anatomic outcomes, OCT findings, fellow eye retinal tear or detachment, and postoperative complications.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Postoperative VA and single-surgery anatomic success rate.

RESULTS

One hundred one patients (109 eyes) were included. Sixty-seven patients (74 eyes) and 17 patients (19 eyes) were followed for ≥ 1 year and 5 years, respectively. The most common associations were myopia (66 eyes, 60.6%), trauma (8 eyes, 7.3%), and prior ocular surgery (7 eyes, 6.4%). Median preoperative Snellen VA was 20/70. The macula was attached in 31 eyes. Scleral buckle (SB) alone was performed in 75 eyes, pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) + SB was performed in 27 eyes, PPV alone was performed in 6 eyes, and cryotherapy with pneumatic retinopexy was performed in 1 patient. Single-surgery anatomical success was 88.7% for SB, 89.7% for PPV + SB, and 75% for PPV. The median final postoperative Snellen VA was 20/50. Twelve patients presented with bilateral RRDs, and sequential surgery was performed in 8 patients, followed by 4 patients who underwent surgery with fellow eye laser barricade. Fourteen patients (13.9%) developed a retinal tear or detachment in the fellow eye, with a mean interval of 8 months from presentation. Of the 17 patients who were followed for ≥ 5 years, 3 patients (17.6%) developed a fellow eye retinal tear or detachment. After initial anatomical success, 6 eyes (5.5%) developed proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

The most common association of RRD in this study was myopia. Scleral buckle alone was the most common surgical intervention. However, outcomes were generally favorable with SB-only and PPV + SB. Surgeons and patients should be aware of the risk of bilateral retinal detachment and the risk of fellow eye retinal tear and detachment. These patients require long-term surveillance in both eyes.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S)

The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

LATE RECURRENCE OF RETINAL DETACHMENT: Incidence, Clinical Features, and Surgical Outcomes

PURPOSE

To describe and evaluate demographics, clinical features, prognostic factors, rate of success of surgery, incidence, and visual outcomes in patients with a late recurrence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment over a 10-year period at a large tertiary referral eye center.

METHODS

A retrospective, observational case series of patients with late recurrence of retinal detachment, defined as redetachment after at least six months of total reattachment in non-proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) surgery with gas tamponade.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients had a late recurrence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment of 16,396 rhegmatogenous retinal detachment operations. The mean of time between the first retinal detachment (RD) surgery and redetachment was 122.7 (SD 115) weeks. On presentation with late recurrence, 72% of eyes were pseudophakic and 64% were macula-off. In 28 eyes, small breaks were found. Thirty-eight percent had established PVR (PVR-C in 80%). Ninety-five percent underwent PPV. Gas was used in 61%. The initial secondary success rate was 64%. Initial best-corrected visual acuity was 1.32 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (6/120) and final was 0.8 logMAR (6/38; P value 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Late recurrence of retinal detachment is rare. It is characterized by small retinal breaks that may be difficult to visualize. Although cases can be treated with favorable anatomical results, visual outcomes are often less good and the success rate is lower.

Cost-Utility of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Repair With Pars Plana Vitrectomy, Scleral Buckle, and Pneumatic Retinopexy: A Microsimulation Model

PURPOSE

To assess the cost-effectiveness of primary noncomplex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair, comparing 3 different strategies, pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), scleral buckle (SB), and pneumatic retinopexy (PnR) from the health care payer perspective over a lifetime.

DESIGN

Model-based cost-utility analysis.

METHODS

A simulated cohort of 100,000 adult patients (≥18 years old) requiring primary noncomplex RRD repair in theoretical surgical centers in the United States. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), lifetime costs (2022 United States dollars), and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) of the 3 interventions were projected over a lifetime horizon, with a cost-effectiveness threshold of ≤$50,000 per gained QALY.

RESULTS

Based on inputted parameters, the primary anatomical success was highest for PPV (95.00%) compared to SB (91.76%) and PnR (63.41%). The QALYs associated with PPV, SB, and PnR were (11.87, SD 1.62), (11.84, SD 1.63), and (11.59, SD 1.72), respectively. The incurred lifetime costs of RRD repair and associated postoperative surgeries for PPV, SB, and PnR were $4445.72 (SD 655.75), $4518.04 (662.92), and $3978.45 (728.50), respectively. Parameter-level simulations suggested that PPV was most likely to be the most cost-effective therapy compared to SB and PnR beyond a threshold of $3000/QALY. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio for PPV compared to PnR was $1693.54. SB was dominant in all scenarios. Threshold analyses indicated that the success rate of PnR would have to be 100% and/or the cost would have to be $2000 or less over lifetime for it to be more cost-effective than PPV.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found PPV to be the most cost-effective primary procedure for RRD repair at a threshold of $50,000/QALY gained over a lifetime horizon from the health care payer perspective.

Enhancing Scleral Buckling Surgery Using an Illuminated Scleral Depressor

PURPOSE

To report a technique for scleral buckling surgery under the operating microscope with wide-field viewing.

METHODS

The identification and reliable marking of retinal breaks is one of the key steps for successful surgery in scleral buckling. For sufficient visualization of retinal breaks, some kind of indentation and illumination is necessary. In this technique, one instrument (Visible Periphery illuminated scleral indentor; Oertli Instrumente AG, Switzerland) combines scleral depression, illumination, and color marking (using a surgical marking pen) of the corresponding sclera above the retinal break.

RESULTS

The illuminated scleral depressor enables the surgeon to safely and precisely mark the retinal break while stabilizing and rotating the eye with the other hand. This technique simplifies scleral buckling surgery by improving the handling and visualization of marking retinal breaks at the corresponding scleral. Neither intraoperative indirect ophthalmoscopy nor sclerotomies for chandelier light systems or any intraocular instrument are necessary.

CONCLUSION

The illuminated scleral depressor facilitates scleral buckling surgery in a convenient way for easy and precise scleral marking of the retinal breaks even in challenging situations and positions of retinal breaks under the operating microscope with wide-field viewing. Indirect ophthalmology or other illumination sources are no longer needed.

Establishing a method to estimate the effect of antimyopia management options on lifetime cost of myopia

BACKGROUND

Informed decisions on myopia management require an understanding of financial impact. We describe methodology for estimating lifetime myopia costs, with comparison across management options, using exemplars in Australia and China.

METHODS

We demonstrate a process for modelling lifetime costs of traditional myopia management (TMM=full, single-vision correction) and active myopia management (AMM) options with clinically meaningful treatment efficacy. Evidence-based, location-specific and ethnicity-specific progression data determined the likelihood of all possible refractive outcomes. Myopia care costs were collected from published sources and key informants. Refractive and ocular health decisions were based on standard clinical protocols that responded to the speed of progression, level of myopia, and associated risks of pathology and vision impairment. We used the progressions, costs, protocols and risks to estimate and compare lifetime cost of myopia under each scenario and tested the effect of 0%, 3% and 5% annual discounting, where discounting adjusts future costs to 2020 value.

RESULTS

Low-dose atropine, antimyopia spectacles, antimyopia multifocal soft contact lenses and orthokeratology met our AMM inclusion criteria. Lifetime cost for TMM with 3% discounting was US$7437 (CI US$4953 to US$10 740) in Australia and US$8006 (CI US$3026 to US$13 707) in China. The lowest lifetime cost options with 3% discounting were antimyopia spectacles (US$7280, CI US$5246 to US$9888) in Australia and low-dose atropine (US$4453, CI US$2136 to US$9115) in China.

CONCLUSIONS

Financial investment in AMM during childhood may be balanced or exceeded across a lifetime by reduced refractive progression, simpler lenses, and reduced risk of pathology and vision loss. Our methodology can be applied to estimate cost in comparable scenarios.

A Useful Method for the Practice of Pneumatic Retinopexy: Slit-Lamp Laser Photocoagulation through the Gas Bubble

This study aimed to demonstrate the laser retinopexy method through the gas bubble under a slit-lamp biomicroscope using a wide-field contact lens to treat rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with pneumatic retinopexy (PR) and report its anatomical and functional results. This single-center, retrospective case series included RRD patients treated with PR using sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆). The demographics, preoperative factors, and anatomical and functional outcomes were collected from the patient files. The single-procedure success rate of PR at postoperative 6th months was 70.8% (17/24 eyes), and the final success rate after secondary surgeries was 100%. The BCVA was better in the successful PR eyes at postoperative 3rd (p = 0.011) and 6th month (p = 0.016) than in failed eyes. No single preoperative factor was associated with PR success. The single-procedure success rate of PR using the laser retinopexy method through the gas bubble with a wide-field contact lens system seems comparable to the PR literature.

Two-Port “Dry Vitrectomy” as a New Surgical Technique for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: Focus on Macula-on Results

We evaluated a new surgical technique for treating primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), consisting of localized vitrectomy near the retinal break associated with drainage of subretinal fluid without infusion. Twelve eyes of twelve patients with primary RRDs with macula-on superior, temporal, and/or nasal quadrants’ RRD with retinal breaks between 8 and 4 o’clock, pseudophakic or phakic eyes, were enrolled. All eyes underwent a two-port 25-gauge vitrectomy with localized removal of the vitreous surrounding the retinal break(s), followed by a 20% SF6 injection and cryopexy. The difference between pre-operative (T0) and post-operative mean BCVA at 6 months follow-up (T6) was not statistically significant (0.16 logMAR vs. 0.21 logMAR; p = 0.055). Primary anatomic success at 6 months was achieved by 86% of patients. No other complications, except for two retinal re-detachments linked to an incorrect head position of the patients, were recorded. Although further studies are necessary to evaluate the treatment’s efficacy, we believe our technique could be considered a valid alternative for managing primary RRD.

Pneumatic retinopexy versus scleral buckling for the management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To compare pneumatic retinopexy (PnR) and scleral buckling (SB) for repair of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Single-centre retrospective analysis of patients undergoing PnR and SB. Inclusion criteria comprehend phakic patients with a single retinal break or a group of breaks in detached retina in the same quadrant above the 8- and 4-o'clock meridians. A total of 184 patients were included, respectively 106 underwent PnR and 78 SB. Follow-up time was 6 months.

RESULTS

Final visual outcome did not differ significantly between the two procedures (P  =  0.12). Single-procedure reattachment rate was significantly higher in SB (94%) than in PnR (68%) (P < 0001). Anatomical success rate was not influenced by macular involving. Reattachment rate in repeated PnR was 95% and in these patients visual outcome did not statistically differ compared to those reattached with first attempt (P  =  0.196). Total reattachment rate including repeated procedures was 87% in PnR group and 94% in SB group, the difference was not significant (P  =  0.06).

CONCLUSION

SB has a higher single reattachment rate than PnR. However, final visual outcomes of both procedures are comparable. In selected cases, PnR can be repeated with a high successful rate.

Face‐down positioning or posturing after vitrectomy for macula‐involving rhegmatogenous retinal detachments

This is a protocol for a Cochrane Review (intervention). The objectives are as follows:

The primary objective of this review is to determine whether face‐down positioning reduces the risk of retinal displacement following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and gas tamponade for macula‐involving rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Microscope-assisted pneumatic retinopexy for the management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

PURPOSE

Outcomes of pneumatic retinopexy (PnR) using surgical microscope, wide-angle viewing system, and chandelier endoilluminator (microscope-assisted pneumatic retinopexy) for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

METHODS

Retrospective study. 43 consecutive eyes with RRD undergoing microscope-assisted PnR surgery (MAPR) were analysed. Inclusion criteria comprehend phakic eyes with single retinal break or a group of breaks in detached retina in the same quadrant above 8- and 4-o'clock meridians. Follow-up was at least 6 months.

RESULTS

Of the 43 eyes, a total of 25 (58%) presented preoperatively a single retinal break, 15 (35%) had two retinal breaks in the same quadrant and 3 (7%) presented three or more retinal breaks in the same quadrant. Other retinal breaks not observed preoperatively were discovered intraoperatively in 12 eyes (28%). In 9 (21%) the missed retinal breaks were in the same quadrant as the main diagnosed break(s), while 3 (7%) had missed retinal breaks in a different one. These 3 eyes as no longer adhering to the PnR indication criteria switched intraoperatively to other surgical procedures and were excluded in the reattachment rate results. The total primary reattachment rate with MAPR was achieved in 37 eyes (92.5%). No significant BCVA changes were observed postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

MAPR is an effective and safe surgical option, it allows to work with both hands free and provides an adequate visualization of the retina during the procedure minimizing the risk of missed retinal breaks potentially leading to surgical failure.

Peripheral Circumferential Retinal Detachment after Pars Plana Vitrectomy: Complications and Management

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate treatment outcomes and complications of peripheral circumferential retinal detachment (PCD) after successful vitrectomy. Methods: Eyes diagnosed with PCD after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) were retrospectively reviewed. The patient demographic data, complications, management, and treatment outcomes were collected and analyzed. Results: The mean follow-up duration was 18.0 ± 11.9 months. BCVA ranged from light perception to 0.1 (median: counting fingers at 40 cm). Major complications included rubeosis iridis (seven eyes), vitreous hemorrhage (five eyes), hyphema (five eyes), corneal decompensation (three eyes), hypotony (two eyes), and neovascular glaucoma (two eyes). All eyes underwent peripheral retinectomy to remove the detached retina and release traction. Complete retinal reattachment was achieved in all eyes. The final BCVA ranged from hand motion to 0.1 (median: counting fingers at 30 cm). Conclusion: PCD may be associated with delayed-onset complications, causing severe loss of vision. Proper management, including peripheral retinectomy, may preserve visual function.

Outcomes and eye care knowledge in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment patients with a history of laser refractive surgery for myopia

Purpose

To investigate the surgical outcomes and eye care knowledge of patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) who had previously undergone laser refractive surgery (LRS) for myopia in a myopia epidemic area.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with primary RRD who underwent surgery and had a history of LRS for myopia at a tertiary medical center. Data were reviewed from medical charts to analyse the surgical outcomes. Questions about eye care knowledge and attitude toward myopia and LRS were obtained.

Results

A total of 774 patients underwent RRD surgery, among whom 341 (44%) had myopia > -3 dioptres, 66% of whom had high myopia. Thirty eyes of 26 patients had a history of LRS for myopia. The mean age of patients with a history of LRS was significantly lower than that of those without a history of LRS (45.7 ± 2.9 years vs. 53.8 ± 1.0, p < 0.001). The mean pre-LRS spherical equivalent was -8.66 ± 0.92 (range: -3.00--12.00) dioptres. In more than half the patients (n = 15, 57.7%), the interval between LRS and RRD was more than 10 years. The primary retinal reattachment rate was only 60%, whereas the final retinal reattachment rate was 93%. The mean final visual acuity (VA) improved from a 20/286 to 20/105 (p = 0.006). Linear mixed model analysis showed factors of male sex and macular detachment were significant with poor visual outcome (p = 0.046 and 0.008) Eye care knowledge obtained from the 19 RRD patients with history of LRS, 47% of patients (9/19) mistakenly thought that LRS could cure myopia and its complications, and 63% of patients were less willing to visit an ophthalmologist because uncorrected VA improvement after LRS. Eighty-four percent thought that proper knowledge and more education about LRS and myopia for the public are important.

Conclusion

In the RRD patients with a history of LRS for myopia, their age was relative younger. Male sex and macular detachment were associated with poor visual outcome. More education with proper knowledge of LRS, myopia and RRD is recommended for the patients to prevent or early detect the occurrence of RRD.

The Postvitrectomy Cataract

To review the recent literature regarding risk factors for cataract formation after vitrectomy, the challenges and management strategies for anterior segment surgeons when facing post-vitrectomy cataract surgery, and the visual outcomes of patients undergoing post-vitrectomy cataract surgery. Cataract surgery after vitrectomy can be safely performed to significantly improve the visual outcome in most post-vitrectomy patients, although final visual acuity is primarily limited by the patient’s underlying vitreoretinal pathology.

Prevention of Blindness in Stickler Syndrome

Stickler syndromes are inherited conditions caused by abnormalities of structural proteins in the eye, inner ear and cartilage. The risk of retinal detachment, particularly due to the development of giant retinal tears, is high. Stickler syndrome is the most common cause of childhood retinal detachment. Although retinal detachment surgery in the general population has a high success rate, outcomes from surgical repair in Stickler syndrome patients are notoriously poor, providing a strong argument for prophylactic intervention. Variable case selection, absence of molecular genetic sub-typing and inconsistent treatment strategies have all contributed to the historic uncertainty regarding the safety and efficacy of prophylactic treatment. This paper reviews the major published clinical studies that have evaluated different methods and strategies for prophylaxis. Based on the current body of literature, there is extremely strong evidence from cohort comparison studies demonstrating the efficacy and safety of prophylactic retinopexy to reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of retinal detachment in Stickler syndrome patients. It is vital that this body of evidence is provided to Stickler syndrome patients, to enable them to make their own fully informed choice about whether to receive prophylaxis for themselves and particularly on behalf of their affected children, to reduce the risk of retinal detachment.

Six-Year Outcomes of 25-Gauge Chandelier Illumination-Assisted Scleral Buckling

Objectives

To report the long-term results of scleral buckling using 25-gauge chandelier illumination.

Methods

The medical records of all patients presenting to Shanghai Tenth People's Hospital with simple rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) from June 2013 to Oct 2015 were retrospectively reviewed in this consecutive case series. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), B-ultrasound, fundus photography, and optical coherence tomography examination. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) was obtained postoperatively.

Results

Ten patients (10 eyes) were included in the final analysis. Of 10 patients, the average age was 49.3 ± 18.9 years old, the average duration of RRD was 30.9 ± 53.3 days, and the mean follow-up period was 6.2 ± 0.9 years. There were nine eyes with myopia and four eyes with macular detachment. The primary anatomical success rate was 90%. Five eyes underwent 360-degree band with element surgery, and five eyes underwent element surgery alone. The average length of encircling band and element was 68.2 ± 1.3 mm and 10.5 ± 2.5 mm, respectively. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications that occurred. The final BCVA was greater than or equal to 20/40 in nine eyes, of which four eyes achieved 20/20. UBM examination of the 25-gauge chandelier insertion site revealed no tissue proliferation.

Conclusions

For simple rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treatment, 25-gauge chandelier illumination-assisted scleral buckling is a kind of effective and safe method.

Vitrectomy Combined with Cataract Surgery for Retinal Detachment Using a Three-Dimensional Viewing System

Purpose: To evaluate the results of a pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) combined with cataract surgery for primary rhematogenous retinal detachment (RD) using a three-dimensional (3D) viewing system and a conventional microscope (CM). Methods: Medical reports of 82 patients were retrospectively reviewed: 26 patients were operated on with 3D and 56 patients were operated on with CM. The main outcome measures were visual acuity, duration of the surgery, and the rate of postoperative complications. Results: No statistically significant differences in pre- and postoperative visual acuity were found between both groups. There was significant improvement in the visual acuity in both groups. The best postoperative visual acuity was achieved with SF6 gas tamponade, followed by C3F8 gas and silicone oil in both groups. The duration of the surgery (60 min vs. 55 min) and the rate of postoperative complications (15% vs. 14%) were similar in both groups. Conclusions: The similar postoperative visual acuity and rate of complications detected using 3D and CM indicate that the 3D viewing system may be advantageous in the treatment of rhematogenous RD with PPV combined with cataract surgery, i.e., a complex procedure involving both anterior and posterior segment manipulations.

Visual Outcome after Vitrectomy with Subretinal tPA Injection to Treat Submacular Hemorrhage Secondary to Age-Related Macular Degeneration or Macroaneurysm

Purpose

To determine the efficacy and safety of 23G transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy, subretinal injection of tissue plasminogen activator using the EVA Surgical System, and pneumatic displacement with air to treat submacular hemorrhages.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 93 eyes surgically treated for submacular hemorrhage caused by neovascular AMD or retinal macroaneurysms. Main Outcome Measures. Postoperative visual acuity and surgical complications.

Results

After surgery, visual acuity improved after 6 weeks but decreased again at the final postoperative visit at 8 months due to progression of the underlying disease. Complications consisted of 2 cases of retinal pigment epithelial tear, 7 vitreous hemorrhages, 4 hyphema, 6 cases of retinal detachment, and 2 subchoroidal hemorrhages during the follow-up period.

Conclusions

This study suggests that a surgical approach with 23G vitrectomy, subretinal tPA injection, and pneumatic displacement using air may be an effective procedure for submacular hemorrhage displacement in patients with AMD and retinal macroaneurysms. However, visual outcome is limited by the underlying macular pathology. Larger multicenter randomized controlled studies are warranted to determine the therapeutic effect of this surgical approach.

Efficiency benchmarks in the surgical management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a monocentric register cohort study of operating room time metrics and influential factors

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effect of clinical, methodological and logistic factors on operating room (OR) efficiency in the surgical management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

DESIGN

Monocentric retrospective register cohort study.

SETTING

Single tertiary centre in the western region of Austria.

PARTICIPANTS

We audited patients diagnosed with primary RRD who were treated between January 2014 and August 2019. In total, 783 eyes of 776 consecutive patients were included in this study. Various risk factors affecting OR time efficiency and anatomical success after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) procedures and scleral buckle (SB) surgery were analysed.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

OR efficiency was the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcome measures were the primary success rate after PPV procedures and SB surgery.

RESULTS

PPV was performed in 641 (81.9%) eyes and SB surgery in 142 (18.1%) eyes. Mean surgical times in PPV and SB under retrobulbar anaesthesia (RA) were 74.0 (±32.6) min and 62.1 (±24.6) min (p<0.001), respectively, while under general anaesthesia (GA), these values were 112.0 (±52.0) min and 76.0 (±22.5) min (p<0.001), respectively. A regression analysis revealed the following main risk factors for prolonged OR time for the surgical management of RRD with PPV (all p<0.001): presence of a giant tear (β=24.01; 32%), proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR)-C (β=16.43; 22%), surgery postponed for 72 hours after diagnosis (β=21.40; 29%), GA (β=23.64; 32%) or surgery performed by a trainee (β=17.35; 23%). PVR (p=0.022) in PPV cases, after-hours settings (p=0.006) and surgeon experience (p=0.030) in SB cases were independent risk factors for reduced success rates.

CONCLUSIONS

OR coordinators should consider various independent clinical (giant tear, PVR-C, advanced detachment), methodological (PPV vs SB) and logistic (GA vs RA, after-hours setting and surgeon experience) factors to improve the success rate and surgical management planning of RRD accurately while optimising OR resources and staff efficiency.

Outcomes of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair among young adult patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the functional and anatomical outcomes of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair in young adults.

METHODS

A retrospective, comparative case series study. Patients between the ages of 18 and 40 years who underwent surgical repair of primary RRD between the years 2006 and 2013 were included. Patients were divided into three groups according to the surgical technique used: scleral buckle (SB), pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) or combined surgery (SB-PPV).

RESULTS

Ninety eyes (90 patients) were included. The mean age (SD) was 31.5 ± 5.1 years (range 22-40). Sixty-seven patients underwent SB, 10 had PPV and 13 had SB-PPV. Anatomical success rates were similar between the three groups (87%, 90% and 85% for SB, PPV and SB-PPV groups, respectively; p-value = 0.9). Mean (SD) preoperative LogMAR visual acuity (VA) was 0.46 ± 0.6, 1.73 ± 1.1, 1.1 ± 1.1 for SB, PPV and SB-PPV groups, respectively (p < 0.0001). The VA improved at last follow-up to 0.23 ± 0.4, 0.7 ± 1.5 and 1.09 ± 1.08 in SB, PPV and SB-PPV groups, respectively (p < 0.0001). Macula-off was diagnosed in 19.4% of SB, 80% of PPV and 53.9% of SB-PPV groups (p < 0.0001). In the SB group one phakic patient (1.5%) needed cataract extraction, while following PPV, all phakic eyes (100%) underwent cataract extraction eventually (p-value < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The study emphasizes the efficacy of SB as a primary procedure for the repair of retinal detachment in young adults in terms of anatomical and functional success. Furthermore, preservation of the lens as a result of using SB rather than PPV when possible is of great importance in this age group.

Incidence, Management, and Surgical Outcomes of Macular Splitting Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Limited knowledge exists regarding macular splitting retinal detachment (RD). The purpose of this study is to investigate clinical features and outcomes of macular splitting RD.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective case series performed at a single practice. Macular splitting RD was identified clinically and on optical coherence tomography (OCT). Primary outcomes were anatomical and functional success, and secondary outcomes were factors associated with postoperative visual acuity.

RESULTS

The overall number of patients with OCT-confirmed macular splitting RD was 16 of 664, which is an incidence rate of 2.4%. Preoperative and final logMAR were 0.33 and 0.13, respectively (P = .002). Presenting visual acuity (VA) (P = 0.015) and duration of symptoms (P = .007) were associated with final VA, whereas time to surgery was not significant (P = .581).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of macular splitting RD is higher than previously reported. Anatomical and functional outcomes were excellent in this study. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2021;52:602-608.].

Pneumatic retinopexy: an update

Pneumatic retinopexy (PR) is a minimally invasive, non-incisional procedure for repairing uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. It consists of an intravitreal gas injection followed by the maintenance of a postoperative head position and the use of laser or cryopexy to seal the retinal breaks. It was initially indicated for a single or a group of retinal breaks no larger than 1 clock hour involving the superior 8 clock hours in phakic eyes with no proliferative vitreoretinopathy. We aim to perform a narrative review on pneumatic retinopexy since the last major review of 2008, based on a Medline search up to June 20 2021 using multiple search words including pneumatic retinopexy, pneumoretinopexy, retinal detachment, and pars plana vitrectomy. Indications for PR have been expanded and include pseudophakic eyes, eyes with mild PVR, and even breaks in the inferior fundus. Depending on the case selection, PR has a single-operation success rate ranging from 45 to 80%. Despite the lower single operation success rate, the functional outcomes of those eyes repaired successfully by primary PR exceed those of scleral buckling (SB) and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Best corrected visual acuity, metamorphopsia scores, mental health scores, and vision-related functioning scores were all better in PR-treated eyes compared to PPV-treated eyes. PR should be strongly considered for eligible patients with a primary uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachments.

Anatomical outcome of retinal detachment surgery comparing different surgical approach

PURPOSE

To describe the outcome of retinal detachment surgery in a population affected by rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in southern Sweden 2011-2013.

METHOD

All primary retinal detachments that underwent surgery at the Skåne University Hospital were registered during the period of 2011-2013. Age, sex, lens status and the different surgical methods including type of tamponade were recorded. For outcome assessment, no reoperation within 6 months was considered as primary success with one surgery except silicone oil removal.

RESULTS

In total, 918 primary retinal detachments were recorded during the 3-year period. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) alone was used in 618 eyes (67.3%), whereas an external approach with scleral buckling (SB) was used in 184 cases (20.0%) and a combination of PPV + SB in 116 eyes (12.6%). Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in combination with phacoemulsification and IOL implantation was performed in 169 eyes (18.4%), which was 43.6% of the phakic eyes having a PPV procedure. A total of 346 eyes (37.7%) were pseudophakic preoperatively. The success rate of one surgery was 86.9% for the entire cohort. In 120 eyes (13.1%), there was a re-detachment during the 6-month follow-up time. Higher age at the primary surgery turned out to be correlated to an increased risk of primary failure (p = 0.018) but gender was not (p = 0.84). Preoperative lens status did not affect the risk of re-detachment (p = 0.36), and there were no differences in outcome between surgeons (p = 0.27). No surgical procedure - alone or in combination - showed superior outcome as primary surgical approach.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no significant differences in anatomical outcome between the various surgical procedures in this large cohort of 918 RRD cases.

Refractive Outcomes of Phacovitrectomy in Retinal Detachment Compared to Phacoemulsification Alone Using Swept-Source OCT Biometry

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To assess the refractive outcomes in patients who underwent combined phacovitrectomy for retinal detachment compared to phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implant utilizing newer swept-source optical-coherence-tomography (SS-OCT) biometry and determine the requirement of an adjustment factor for superior predicted refractive outcomes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Retrospective study of 95 eyes: 52 eyes that underwent phacovitrectomy and 43 eyes with phacoemulsification only that served as the control group. Mean refractive error (ME) and mean absolute error (MAE) were used to compare the groups.

RESULTS

No statistically significant postoperative refractive shift was found between phacoemulsification and phacovitrectomy eyes for (1) ME (0.05 D [± 0.51 diopters (D)] and (0.03 [± 0.73 D], respectively; P = .348), (2) MAE (0.41 D ± 0.29 D and 0.60 ± 0.44 D, respectively), or (3) MAE of the control compared to macula-on/off eyes (P = .160 and P = .078, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The authors do not recommend an adjustment factor for IOL selection when utilizing SS-OCT biometry, as it provided refractive outcomes superior to those found in previous studies utilizing a partial coherence interferometry system. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2021;52:432-437.].

Computational Fluid Dynamics of Intraocular Silicone Oil Tamponade

Purpose

To investigate the behavior of silicone oil (SiO) at the steady equilibrium and during saccades and calculate SiO-retina contact, shear stress (SS), and shear rate (SR).

Methods

A 24 mm phakic eye mesh model underwent 50°/0.137s saccade. The vitreous chamber compartment was divided into superior and inferior 180° sectors: lens, pre-equator, postequator, and macula. SiO-retina contact was evaluated as a function of fill percentages between 80% and 90% for a standing patient, 45° upward gaze, and supine. SS and SR for 1000 mPa-s (SiO1000) and 5000 mPa-s (SiO5000) silicon oil were calculated.

Results

SiO fill between 80% to 90% allowed 55% to 78% retinal contact. The superior retina always kept better contact with SiO, regardless of the fill percentage (P < 0.01). SiO interface thoroughly contacted the macula only in standing position. SS followed a bimodal behavior and was always significantly higher for SiO5000 compared to SiO1000 (P < 0.01) throughout the saccade. The macula suffered the highest mean SS in standing position, while throughout the saccade the average SS was maximum at the SiO-aqueous interface. SR was significantly higher for SiO1000 compared to SiO5000 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

SS on the retinal surface may instantaneously exceed reported retinal adhesiveness values especially at the SiO-aqueous interface and possibly favor redetachment. Despite 90% SiO fill the inferior retina remains extremely difficult to tamponade.

Translational Relevance

Accurate assessment of retina-tamponade interaction may explain recurrent inferior retinal redetachment, silicone oil emulsification, and help to develop better vitreous substitutes.

PHACOVITRECTOMY VERSUS LENS-SPARING VITRECTOMY FOR RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT REPAIR ACCORDING TO THE SURGICAL EXPERIENCE

PURPOSE

To compare the efficacy and safety between lens-sparing vitrectomy and phacovitrectomy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treatment according to surgical experience.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 193 patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who underwent either lens-sparing vitrectomy (n = 111) or phacovitrectomy (n = 82). Patients were operated by two experienced surgeons or eight vitreoretinal fellows and had a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Anatomical success rate, postoperative complications, and functional outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

Primary anatomical success rate was 92.8% (103/111) for lens-sparing vitrectomy and 91.5% (75/82) for phacovitrectomy (P = 0.733). The fellows had lower success rate after phacovitrectomy compared with the experts, but not statistically significant (85% [34/40] vs. 97.6% [41/42], P = 0.054). During phacovitrectomy, one zonulysis case in the experts group and four posterior capsular rupture cases in the fellows group were noted. Cystoid macular edema was found only after phacovitrectomy (12.2% [10/82]), and epiretinal membrane occurred more after phacovitrectomy than after lens-sparing vitrectomy (28% [23/82] vs. 8.1% [9/111], P < 0.001). There was no difference in the occurrence of cystoid macular edema and epiretinal membrane after phacovitrectomy between two surgeon groups (P = 0.514, 0.701, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy has no additional benefit in improving the surgical outcome of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment management. Considering the intraoperative and postoperative complications and the relatively low success rate, phacovitrectomy may not be a desirable option in inexperienced surgeons.

ASSESSING REFRACTIVE OUTCOMES AND ACCURACY OF BIOMETRY IN PHACOVITRECTOMY AND SEQUENTIAL OPERATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH RETINAL DETACHMENT COMPARED WITH ROUTINE CATARACT SURGERY

PURPOSE

To compare refractive outcomes and accuracy of modern optical biometry, swept-source optical coherence tomography, ultrasound biometry, and effect of the macula status in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment managed with either combined phacovitrectomy or sequential vitrectomy and cataract surgery compared with a control, phacoemulsification alone.

METHODS

Retrospective, comparative, consecutive study of 154 eyes; Group 1 underwent phacovitrectomy (n: 70), Group 2 underwent vitrectomy with subsequent cataract surgery (n: 41), and Group 3 underwent cataract surgery alone (n: 43).

RESULTS

No difference in the mean absolute error was found between Group 2 (0.41 ± 0.56) and Group 3 (0.41 ± 0.29); both were superior to Group 1 (0.74 ± 0.57). Between Group 1 and Group 2, no statistically significant difference in the mean absolute error was found between macula-on subgroups (P = 0.057), but this was statistically significant between macula-off subgroups (P = 0.009). Subgroup analysis by biometry showed that the difference in the mean absolute error between macula-off optical biometry Group 1 and Group 2 against our control, Group 3, were not significant (P = 0.078 and P = 0.119, respectively); the mean absolute error was significantly different when considering macula-off ultrasound biometry cases (P < 0.001 and P = 0.038, respectively).

CONCLUSION

All three groups had comparable refractive outcomes when using optical biometry. However, phacovitrectomy macula-off cases had inferior refractive outcomes when the ultrasound biometry had to be used. In macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, when optical biometry is not reliable, it is preferable to perform sequential surgery rather than phacovitrectomy.

New Classification for the Reporting of Complications in Retinal Detachment Surgical Trials

IMPORTANCE

Quantifying severity of complications in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) surgical trials is needed. A consensus classification system will help surgeons to more effectively compare harms of different surgical techniques.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a new consensus-based classification to quantify severity of complications of RRD surgery.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

A comprehensive list of complications was developed followed by a Delphi consensus survey of international vitreoretinal surgeons. The survey was conducted in 17 countries in mainland Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, Asia, South Africa, and Australia. Seventy vitreoretinal surgeons were invited to take part in the Delphi survey; 45 agreed to participate. Participants were selected through boards/members lists of retinal societies. Data were analyzed between April 2019 and August 2019.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Consensus-derived classification of complications of RRD surgery, according to their severity.

RESULTS

Forty-three of 45 vitreoretinal surgeons who agreed to participate in the Delphi survey completed round 1 (96%); all but 1 (98%) completed round 2. Consensus was reached for 96% of the 84 complications assessed. Examples of complications classified as least severe (graded 1) included subconjunctival hemorrhage and chemosis while those classified as most severe included endophthalmitis and sympathetic ophthalmia (graded 9) and phthisis (graded 10).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

We propose a new classification for quantifying severity of surgical complications based on an international consensus of vitreoretinal surgeons to quantify harm and improve the reporting of complications of RRD surgery.

Increasing frequency of hospital admissions for retinal detachment and vitreo-retinal surgery in England 2000-2018

Objectives

To analyse the changes in reported frequency of retinal detachment admissions and vitreo-retinal surgery procedures performed between 2000 and 2018 in England. To obtain information useful to contribute towards the planning of service delivery.

Methods

Analysis of England’s Hospital Episode Statistics from the Health and Social Care Information Centre and population data from the United Kingdom’s Office for National Statistics.

Results

Episodes of ‘retinal detachments with breaks’ increased year on year from 3447 (7.0/100 M) in 2000 to 10,971 (19.7/100 M) in 2018 (p < 0.001), whereas records of ‘tractional retinal detachment’ increased from 290 (0.6/100 M) to 910 (1.6/100 M) in the same period (p < 0.0001). The number of reported pars plana vitrectomies irrespective of indication increased over fourfold from 5761 to 26,900 (p < 0.0001), while the number of scleral buckling records decreased by two thirds from 2897 to 780 (p < 0.0001). During the same period, the population of England increased from 49.2 to 55.6 million, proportionally at a slower rate than that for recorded hospital episodes.

Conclusions

The frequency of admissions to hospital for surgically treated retinal detachment seems to have been increasing significantly since 2000. This effect is more marked in cases of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. This may be explained by increased incidence of disease (due to increased rates of cataract surgery, increasing longevity and increasing rates of myopia) as well as repeat surgery in cases of recurrent retinal detachment. Other factors which may play a role include improvements in patient access, increased public awareness and improved local coding and reporting practice.

[Retinal detachment surgery: trends over 15 years]

INTRODUCTION

The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in the treatment of patients with retinal detachment over the past 15 years.

METHOD

Files of all 5101 patients hospitalized for retinal detachment surgery between January 2005 and March 2020 were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

The number of retinal detachment surgeries over the past 15 years increased continually from 150 to 600 per annum. During the summer months an increased incidence of retinal detachment of approximately 20% could be observed compared to the winter months. Anatomical success rates of emergency surgery carried out at weekends were not lower than those of scheduled routine procedures performed during the week. The relative proportion of buckle surgery decreased significantly from more than 60% down to 5% between 2005 and 2019. While initially an additional encircling buckle was employed in most cases of primary vitrectomy, this technique has almost completely disappeared in recent years without a deterioration of success rates. Liquid silicone tamponade was applied less frequently over the years. The overall anatomical success rates showed a slight trend towards improved results over the past 15 years.

CONCLUSION

The strategies for surgical repair of retinal detachment have changed considerably in recent years: less buckle surgery, more vitrectomy, less add-on encircling buckles and less silicone tamponade. A slight trend towards better anatomical success rates could be observed.

Reporting of Complications in Retinal Detachment Surgical Trials: A Systematic Review Using the CONSORT Extension for Harms

IMPORTANCE

Knowledge on the frequency and severity of complications in surgical trials for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is essential to determine whether surgical procedures are developed and compared adequately, taking into account not only efficacy but also harms.

OBJECTIVE

To review standards of reporting of complications in recent randomized clinical trials of RRD surgery.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

This systematic review included randomized clinical trials on RRD surgery published between January 2008 and January 2021 in Embase, MEDLINE, and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Titles, abstracts, and full-text articles retrieved were reviewed for eligibility by 2 independent authors. Eligible studies were evaluated against checklist items from the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials Extension for Harms criteria by 2 independent authors, and discrepancies were resolved by discussion with a third author.

FINDINGS

Fifty studies were included. The median number of checklist items fulfilled was 8 (range, 0-15), of a possible total of 18. Frequently reported items were discussions balanced with regard to efficacy and adverse events (42 studies [84%]) and inclusions of harm-associated timing of data collection (41 studies [82%]). The least frequently reported items were distinctions between expected and unexpected adverse events (1 study [2%]) and mentions of the use of a validated instrument to report adverse event severity (4 studies [8%]). Frequency of complications was commonly reported (29 studies [58%]) in contrast with complication severity (10 studies [20%]).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This review suggests that severity of complications of RRD surgery has been infrequently quantified and reported in randomized clinical trials and potentially represents an important area of improvement in future RRD surgical trials.

Use of the heads-up NGENUITY 3D Visualization System for vitreoretinal surgery: a retrospective evaluation of outcomes in a French tertiary center

Heads-up three-dimensional (3D) surgical visualization systems allow ophthalmic surgeons to replace surgical microscope eyepieces with high-resolution stereoscopic cameras transmitting an image to a screen. We investigated the effectiveness and safety of the heads-up NGENUITY 3D Visualization System in a retrospective evaluation of 241 consecutive vitreoretinal surgeries performed by the same surgeon using conventional microscopy (CM group) over a 1-year period versus the NGENUITY System (3D group) over a consecutive 1-year period. We included for study vitreoretinal surgeries for treatment of retinal detachment (RD) (98 surgeries), macular hole (MH) (48 surgeries), or epiretinal membrane (ERM) (95 surgeries). A total of 138 and 103 eyes were divided into 3D and CM groups, respectively. We found no differences in 3-month postoperative rates of recurrence of RD (10% versus 18%, p = 0.42), MH closure (82% versus 88%, p = 0.69), or decrease in central macular thickness of ERMs (134 ± 188 µm versus 115 ± 105 µm, p = 0.57) between the 3D and CM groups, respectively. Surgery durations and visual prognosis were also similar between both groups. We consolidate that the NGENUITY System is comparable in terms of visual and anatomical outcomes, giving it perspectives for integration into future robotized intervention.

OUTCOMES OF RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT REPAIR AFTER FAILED PNEUMATIC RETINOPEXY

PURPOSE

To evaluate the visual and anatomical outcomes of reoperations following failure of pneumatic retinopexy (PR) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair and compare the different surgical techniques used in these cases.

METHODS

The study included 114 eyes of 114 patients who underwent PR for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and required subsequent surgery for its repair. These included repeated PR, scleral buckling, vitrectomy with gas or silicone oil, and vitrectomy with scleral buckling. The groups were compared for rates of retinal reattachment, visual improvement, and the occurrence of recurrent rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and any other postoperative complications.

RESULTS

In 91 (79.8%) eyes, the retina was reattached with one additional procedure. The success rate was significantly lower in eyes treated by repeated PR than by other surgical techniques (33 vs. 76-90%; P < 0.001). Visual acuity after PR failure was not significantly different than that at presentation and had improved significantly after surgery for retinal reattachment (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Pneumatic retinopexy failure was not associated with visual acuity loss, and the outcomes in 79.2% of cases that required only one additional surgery are comparable with those achieved with primary surgery. Poor outcomes were associated with eyes that required more than one additional surgery and that suffered complications.

CHARACTERISTICS AND SURGICAL OUTCOMES OF RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT IN OLDER ADULTS: A Multicenter Comparative Cohort Study

PURPOSE

To describe characteristics and outcomes of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in older adults (age ≥ 80).

METHODS

Consecutive patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), scleral buckling (SB), or PPV/SB in the Primary Retinal Detachment Outcomes Study were evaluated. Outcome measures included single surgery anatomic success and visual acuity.

RESULTS

Of 2,144 patients included, 125 (6%) were 80 years or older. Compared with younger patients (age 40-79), older adults were more likely to be pseudophakic (P < 0.001), have macula-off detachments (P < 0.001), and have preoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy (P = 0.02). In older adults, initial surgery was PPV in 73%, PPV/SB in 27%, and primary SB in 0%. Single surgery anatomic success was 78% in older adults compared with 84% in younger patients (P = 0.03). In older adults, single surgery anatomic success was 74% for PPV and 91% for PPV/SB (P = 0.03). The final mean logMAR was lower for older adults (0.79 [20/125] vs. 0.40 [20/40], [P < 0.001]). In older adults, the final mean logMAR for eyes that underwent PPV was 0.88 (20/160) compared with 0.50 (20/63) for PPV/SB (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Octogenarians and nonagenarians presented with relatively complex pseudophakic rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. Single surgery anatomic success and visual outcomes were worse compared with younger patients, and PPV/SB had better outcomes compared with PPV alone.

Efficacy and Safety of Vitrectomy without Using Perfluorocarbon Liquids and Drainage Retinotomy Associated with Postoperative Positioning Based on Residual Subretinal Fluid for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

Medical records of 75 eyes from 75 consecutive patients with uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) who underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) were analyzed. Inclusion criteria were patients with RRD who underwent primary 23- or 25-gauge PPV with air, gas, or SiO tamponade and performed by a single surgeon, no use of perfluorocarbon liquids (PFCL) and drainage retinotomy, and follow-up ≥ six months. Exclusion criteria were patients who underwent previous vitreoretinal surgery, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) more than grade B, giant tears, and encircling band associated with PPV. The main endpoint was the anatomical retinal reattachment rate after a single surgical procedure. Secondary endpoints were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), postoperative retinal displacement, and intraoperative and/or postoperative complications. Primary anatomical success was achieved in 97.3% of cases using this modified surgical procedure. Retinal slippage occurred only in 28.2% of patients and it was not observed in all cases of macula-on RRD. The mean logMAR of the BCVA significantly improved in 92% of patients and no intraoperative complications were observed. The results suggest that complete subretinal liquid drainage is not mandatory for all RRD cases treated with PPV and that using PFCL and performing a drainage retinotomy are not essential in eyes with primary RRD and PVR less than grade B. Postoperative positioning after PPV for uncomplicated RRD based on the presence or absence of residual subretinal fluid at the end of surgery could limit the occurrence of postoperative retinal displacement, while promoting patient compliance.

Lipid Peroxidation in Subretinal Fluid: Some Light on the Prognosis Factors

The aim of this study was to identify a relation between the clinical characteristics and differences in lipid peroxidation in the subretinal fluid (SRF) of rhegmatogenous retinal detached patients by malondialdehyde (MDA) quantification. We collected 65 SRF samples from consecutive patients during scleral buckling surgery in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) eyes. In addition to a complete ophthalmic evaluation, we studied the refractive status, evolution time, and the number of detached retinal quadrants to establish the extension of RRD. We studied the clinical aspects and oxidative stress and compared the characteristics among groups. We found that neither the evolution time of RRD nor the patients’ age correlated with the MDA concentration in the SRF. The MDA and the protein content of the SRF increased in the patients with high myopia and with more extended RRD. Our results suggest that oxidative imbalance was important in more extended retinal detachment (RD) and in myopic eyes and should be taken into account in the managing of these cases.

Pars Plana Vitrectomy Outcomes for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Qualifying for Pneumatic Retinopexy

Purpose

To investigate real-world outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for eyes with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRD) eligible for pneumatic retinopexy (PnR).

Methods

This was a single center retrospective case series looking at consecutive patients with primary RRDs. A database was created on all patients with a primary RRD from 2010 to 2018 based on billing code 67108. Eyes anatomically eligible for PnR were reviewed for preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative characteristics. The main outcome assessed was single surgery anatomical success (SSAS), final anatomical success (FAS), and postoperative LogMAR vision.

Results

A total of 720 eyes (age, 62.9 ± 9.1 years; 61.7% were male) met inclusion criteria for PnR and underwent PPV. SSAS was 94.0% and FAS was 99.9%. Preoperative and final LogMAR vision was 0.853 and 0.293 (P<0.001) in eyes with SSAS vs 0.714 and 0.648 (P=0.686) in eyes with primary failure. PVR was the most common etiology of primary surgical failure (n=21, 49%). Patients who failed primary repair had a mean of 1.12 additional surgeries with a median time of 45 days between surgeries.

Conclusion

A robust single surgery success rate with good visual outcomes was achieved across 8 years and multiple surgeons utilizing PPV to treat primary RRDs in eyes which anatomically qualified for pneumatic retinopexy in a real-world setting.