Characteristics of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and their relationship to visual outcome

The effect of patient symptom awareness on the visual outcome in retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To explore whether a patient's prior knowledge of the symptoms associated with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) relates to the visual outcome after treatment.

METHODS

We performed a prospective survey study on 126 patients receiving treatment for primary RRD between March and July 2021.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven per cent (n = 47) of patients responded that they were aware of the RRD symptoms prior to the detachment. A history of RRD in the fellow eye or knowledge of family members treated for RRD was frequently reported as a reason for the patient's awareness of RRD symptoms. Patients aware of RRD symptoms presented significantly more often with an attached macula (χ2, p = 0.002) and a better visual outcome following surgery (Mann-Whitney U, p = 0.028) compared to patients who were not aware of RRD-related symptoms. Among 76 patients with a myopic refractive error, only 15% (n = 11) indicated that they had been warned about the increased RRD risk related to myopia, suggesting that three-quarters of patients were not actively informed by their eye care professionals.

CONCLUSION

RRD symptom awareness is significantly related to a higher rate of macula-on RRDs and better visual outcomes after treatment. There is limited awareness of increased RRD risk in myopic RRD patients. These findings suggest that counselling individuals at high risk of RRD about related symptoms is inadequate and better counselling may improve visual outcomes following RRD treatment.

Morphologic Features of Regulated vs. Dysregulated Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography

OBJECTIVE

To describe varying morphological features of patients with RRD based on the extent of regulation of the subretinal space by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) pump using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT).

DESIGN

Prospective clinical cohort study. Methods SETTING: St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada, from August 2020-August 2023.

PARTICIPANTS

120 consecutive eyes with primary RRD.

COHORTS

Subclinical, non-progressive, localized RRD defined as regulated vs. acute, progressive, and extensive defined as dysregulated assessed with swept-source SS-OCT.

MAIN OUTCOME

Morphological features of regulated vs dysregulated RRDs with SS-OCT.

RESULTS

19.2 % (23/120) of RRDs were classified as regulated and 80.8% (97/120) were dysregulated. The mean age of patients with regulated RRDs was 37.1 years (±13.7 SD) versus 62.6 years (±11.6SD) for patients with dysregulated RRDs (P<0.001). The presence of outer retinal corrugations (ORCs) on OCT was observed in 4.3%(1/23) of regulated vs 81.4% (79/97) of dysregulated RRDs (P<0.001). CME was found in 41.6%(5/12) of regulated RRDs compared to 87.3%(83/95) of dysregulated RRDs(P<0.001). ORC presence was an independent predictor of having a dysregulated RRD (P= 0.02,β = 6.6,95 %CI [1.3 -33.2]) when controlling for age, sex, baseline VA, lens status, and RD extent. Among patients with regulated RRDs, 25.0% (3/12) were in Stage 2, 0% (0/16) in Stage 3A, 8.3% (1/12) in Stage 3B, 0% (0/16) in Stage 4, and 66.7% (8/12) in Stage 5. In patients with dysregulated RRDs, 14.7% (14/95) were in Stage 2, 15.7% (15/95) were in Stage 3A, 37.9% (36/95) in Stage 3B, 22.1% (21/95) in Stage 4, and 9.5% (9/95) in Stage 5 (P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

There are significant morphologic differences between regulated and dysregulated RRDs using SS-OCT. ORCs are present in almost all dysregulated cases but in a minority of regulated cases and they are an independent predictor of RPE-photoreceptor regulation status. Demographic and clinical features differentiate regulated and dysregulated RRD and understanding these differences has significant implications for optimal management and postoperative outcomes.

Vitreoretinal Surgery in Uveitis: From Old to New Concepts - A Review

PURPOSE

The aim of this article is to do a comprehensive literature review about the current role of pars plana vitrectomy in uveitis and in its different structural complications such as cystoid macular edema, epiretinal membrane, macular hole, and retinal detachment.

METHODS

This comprehensive literature review was performed based on a search on PubMed, BioMed Central, Science Open, and CORE databases, of relevant articles abording pars plana vitrectomy in uveitis.

DISCUSSION

Uveitis is a complex disease with multiple etiologies and pathogenic mechanisms. Therapeutic pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) may aid in uveitic structural complications such as cystoid macular edema, epiretinal membranes, macular hole, and retinal detachments even though some cases may present unpredictable visual outcomes. Diagnostic PPV with appropriate ancillary testing is also a valuable tool for the assessment and diagnosis of uveitis in a large proportion of patients.

CONCLUSION

Over the years, pars plana vitrectomy has undergone significant transformations since its invention nearly 5 decades ago, however, the quality of evidence in the literature regarding its use for uveitis has not improved in the same way. Even though some structural uveitis complications (as previously mentioned) may respond well to surgery, there is still a certain unpredictability regarding its visual outcomes. On the other hand, diagnostic vitrectomy with appropriate ancillary testing is also a valuable tool for the assessment and diagnosis of uveitis in a large proportion of patients.

Impact of Baseline Morphologic Stage of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment on Postoperative Visual Acuity

PURPOSE

To evaluate the association of baseline morphologic stage of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) using OCT with postoperative anatomic and visual acuity (VA) outcomes.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SUBJECTS

Consecutive primary fovea-involving RRDs referred from January 2012 to September 2022.

METHODS

Patients with primary RRD and no prior macular pathology with gradable baseline OCT were assessed. Best-corrected VA (BCVA) was assessed at presentation and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. OCT scans were graded for parafoveal morphologic stage of RRD and foveal photoreceptor integrity.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Association of morphologic stage of RRD with 12-month BCVA.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-one patients were included. Sixty-eight percent (238/351) were male, the mean (standard deviation) age was 61.2 (± 12.8) years, and 59% (206/351) were phakic. Thirteen percent (47/351) presented in stages 1 and 2, 15% (54/351) in stage 3a, 36% (126/351) in stage 3b, 24% (83/351) in stage 4, and 12% (41/351) in stage 5. Increasing stage was associated with worse foveal photoreceptor integrity, reduced baseline BCVA and longer duration of central vision loss (P < 0.001). Mean (standard deviation) 12-month BCVA by stage was 0.77 (± 0.64) for stages 1 and 2, 1.00 (± 0.53) for stage 3a, 1.36 (± 0.55) for stage 3b, 1.33 (± 0.66) for stage 4 and 1.55 (± 0.47) for stage 5. Increasing stage was associated with reduced postoperative BCVA (P < 0.001) at all time points after adjusting for covariates. A subgroup analysis of acute detachments with retinal pigment epithelium-photoreceptor dysregulation demonstrated no difference in postoperative BCVA between stages 1, 2, and 3a. However, 12-month BCVA was significantly better in stages 1, 2, and 3a vs. stage 3b (P = 0.002) and stage 3a vs. 3b (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

This study validates the clinical relevance of a recently proposed OCT-based staging system for outer retinal morphologic changes over time in RRD. Postoperative BCVA was significantly reduced in patients with worse presenting stage at all time points. In acute RRDs, 12-month BCVA was significantly better in stages 1, 2, and 3a vs. stage 3b, which suggests early stages may have better retinal recovery compared with stage 3b or worse. Stage 3b may represent a critical point where substantial structural changes occur, leading to worse outcomes in acute RRDs. Patients presenting with fovea-involving RRDs in stages 1, 2, or 3a may benefit from more urgent intervention.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S)

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

POSTOPERATIVE PHOTORECEPTOR INTEGRITY AND ANATOMICAL OUTCOMES BASED ON PRESENTING MORPHOLOGIC STAGE OF RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT

PURPOSE

To evaluate outer retinal recovery on postoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) based on presenting morphologic stage of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

METHODS

Retrospective cohort of consecutive primary fovea-involving RRDs, referred from January 2012 to September 2022. Baseline OCTs were assessed for morphologic stage of RRD. Postoperative OCT scans were graded at 3, 6, and 12 months for external limiting membrane, ellipsoid zone and interdigitation zone discontinuity, epiretinal membrane formation and severity, and residual subfoveal fluid.

RESULTS

Three hundred and fifty-one patients were included. Increasing baseline morphologic stage of RRD was significantly associated with external limiting membrane, ellipsoid zone, and interdigitation zone discontinuity at all time points postoperatively ( P < 0.001) and was shown to be an independent predictor of foveal photoreceptor integrity after adjusting for height of detachment, time to surgery, and duration of fovea involvement ( P < 0.001). Earlier stages were associated with residual subfoveal fluid ( P < 0.001). There was no association between the stages of RRD and epiretinal membrane severity. However, late stages presented with earlier development of epiretinal membrane ( P = 0.012).

CONCLUSION

Increasing morphologic stage of RRD is associated with delayed recovery of outer retinal bands in the first year and faster development of epiretinal membrane after RRD repair. The results of this study suggest that the stages may serve as a prognostic biomarker for postoperative photoreceptor recovery.

Management, risk factors and treatment outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with giant retinal tears: scoping review

BACKGROUND

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a serious condition that occurs when the retina detaches from its underlying retinal pigment epithelium. RRDs associated with giant retinal tears (GRTs) are caused by retinal tears at least 90° or one-quarter of the circumferential extent. This scoping review systematically identifies and summarizes clinical studies evaluating surgical techniques for the management of GRT-related RRDs, discusses functional and visual outcomes and the risk factors affecting treatment outcomes.

METHODS

This study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Springer Link databases were searched for relevant papers (from January 2001 to March 2023). Studies that were published in the English language and reported the risk factors, management, and treatment outcomes of GRT-related RRDs were included in the review. The outcome measures included anatomic success rates, changes in BCVA (logMAR) from baseline to the final follow-up, and adverse events.

RESULTS

A total of 11,982 articles were identified. After the title and abstract review, 71 studies were deemed eligible for full-text review. Thirty-six studies that met the eligibility criteria were included in the final review. Four surgical techniques were identified: pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), combined PPV and scleral buckling, scleral buckling alone, and pneumatic retinopexy. Various types of tamponades, including gas, silicone oil, and air, have been used. PPV was the most commonly used surgical technique in 33.1-100% of patients. Among the 20 studies that used PPV alone, 17 were associated with preoperative PVR. In addition, scleral buckling alone or in combination with PPV was reported as a treatment option in 10 studies, with 2-100% of patients experiencing scleral buckling alone and 13.6-100% experiencing combined PPV and complementary scleral buckling. Primary anatomic success (PAS) was achieved with retinal reattachment via a single operation with no residual tamponade, whereas final anatomic success (FAS) was achieved via more than one operation with no residual tamponade. Reported single surgery anatomic success (SSAS) rates range from 65.51 to 100%. The preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ranged from 0.067 to 2.47 logMAR, whereas the postoperative BCVA ranged from 0.08 to 2.3 logMAR. An improvement in visual acuity was observed in 29 studies. Cataracts (3.9-28.3%) were the most common postoperative complication, followed by high IOP (0.01-51.2%) and PVR (0.8-31.57%).

CONCLUSION

PPV is the most common surgical technique, and currently microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) systems are commonly employed. Silicone oil is the most frequently used tamponade in RRD repair. Risk factors for GRT-related RRD include age, sex, lens status, high myopia status, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), presenting visual acuity, the extent of the GRT and retinal detachment, and macular involvement. Future research areas include guidelines to reduce variability in the reporting of surgical methodology, choice of tamponades, and reporting of functional and visual outcomes to inform the best therapeutic interventions in GRT-related RRD.

Outcomes following repair of early-onset versus delayed-onset rhegmatogenous retinal detachments after acute posterior vitreous detachment

AIM

To report anatomical and functional outcomes after surgical repair of acute-onset vs delayed-onset rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RDs) following acute posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

METHODS

A retrospective, comparative interventional cohort study where patients presenting to a single-centre retina practice between October 2015 and March 2020 with delayed RDs (diagnosed ≥42 days after initial presentation of acute PVD) were compared with a 2:1 age-matched and gender-matched acute RD cohort (PVD and RD at initial presentation). The primary outcome was the final attachment rate and single surgery anatomic success (SSAS) at 3 months after RD repair.

RESULTS

A total of 210 eyes were analysed-70 in the delayed RD group and 140 in the acute RD group. SSAS was 58/70 (82.9%) for the delayed RD group and 112/140 (80%) for the acute RD group (p=0.71). At the time of RD diagnosis, mean (SD) logarithm of minimum angle of resolution visual acuity (VA) was 0.51 (0.70) (Snellen, 20/65) in the delayed RD group vs 1.04 (0.92) (Snellen, 20/219) in the acute RD group (p<0.001). Mean VA was better at 1 and 3 months post-repair in the delayed RD group (p=0.005 and 0.041, respectively) but similar by 6 months, 12 months and at the final visit post-repair (p=0.48, 0.27, and 0.23, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Delayed-onset RDs occurring ≥6 weeks after initial presentation to a retina specialist with an acute PVD generally had better VA at the time of RD diagnosis and faster post-surgical visual recovery compared with acute-onset RDs diagnosed at the initial presentation. No significant difference in anatomic outcomes was seen between the two groups.

IMPACT OF FOVEAL STATUS AND TIMING OF SURGERY ON VISUAL OUTCOME IN RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT

PURPOSE

To investigate the impact of surgical timing on visual acuity outcomes in retinal detachments based on the preoperative foveal status.

METHODS

A retrospective multicenter cohort study was conducted. Cases were stratified into fovea-on, fovea-split, and fovea-off groups. Days to surgery was defined as the time between the preoperative examination and surgery. The main outcome measure was the final postoperative visual acuity.

RESULTS

1,675 cases were studied. More than 80% of fovea-on/fovea-split and fovea-off cases had surgery within 1 and 3 days, respectively. The mean final postoperative visual acuity did not differ significantly between the fovea-on and fovea-split groups (Snellen equivalent [SE] 20/33 ± 20/49 and 20/32 ± 20/39, P = 1.000) and did not change significantly based on days to surgery in either group. The mean final postoperative visual acuity was lowest in the fovea-off group (Snellen equivalent = 20/56 ± 20/76, P < 0.001) and was significantly lower in cases where surgery was performed after two or more days when compared with cases performed within 1 day (Snellen equivalent 20/74 ± 20/89 vs. 20/46 ± 20/63, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Fovea-on and fovea-split retinal detachments demonstrated comparable visual outcomes. Fovea-off RDs demonstrated worse visual outcomes, which declined further when surgery was delayed by two or more days.

The genetics and disease mechanisms of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a sight threatening condition that warrants immediate surgical intervention. To date, 29 genes have been associated with monogenic disorders involving RRD. In addition, RRD can occur as a multifactorial disease through a combined effect of multiple genetic variants and non-genetic risk factors. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the spectrum of hereditary disorders involving RRD. We discuss genotype-phenotype correlations of these monogenic disorders, and describe genetic variants associated with RRD through multifactorial inheritance. Furthermore, we evaluate our current understanding of the molecular disease mechanisms of RRD-associated genetic variants on collagen proteins, proteoglycan versican, and the TGF-β pathway. Finally, we review the role of genetics in patient management and prevention of RRD. We provide recommendations for genetic testing and prophylaxis of at-risk patients, and hypothesize on novel therapeutic approaches beyond surgical intervention.

Functional and anatomical outcomes of fovea on, fovea off and fovea-splitting rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To compare the anatomical and functional outcomes of fovea-on, fovea-off, and fovea-split rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

METHODS

Retrospective case series of consecutive patients diagnosed with RRD and treated with only pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Preoperative and postoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) and functional outcomes were obtained prior to and 6 months after surgery. RRD extending to the edge of the fovea on OCT was termed fovea-split RRD.

RESULTS

A total of 152 eyes were included, out of which 89 eyes presented with a fovea-off, 36 with a fovea-on, and 27 with a fovea-split RRD. The mean visual acuity (VA) preoperatively was 1.32 ± 0.58 logMAR (20/400 equivalent on Snellen chart), 0.19 ± 0.20 (20/30), and 0.71 ± 0.56 (20/100) for the fovea-off, fovea-on, and fovea-split groups, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean VA at 6 months of follow-up significantly improved for the fovea-split and fovea-off groups to 0.54 ± 0.79 (20/70) (p < 0.001) and 0.45 ± 0.29 (20/50) (p = 0.01), respectively, and remained stable for the fovea-on group 0.24 ± 0.20 (20/30) (p = 0.25). Differences in alterations of the outer retinal layers (p < 0.001) and in the in-segment/outer-segment ratio (p < 0.001) were found between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Eyes with fovea-split RRD had both a preoperative and a final postoperative VA between those of fovea-on and fovea-off eyes and different anatomical changes on OCT. This new entity warrants different patient expectations for postoperative outcomes.

Safety profile and surgical outcomes of early vitrectomy in eyes with unexplained fundus-obscuring vitreous haemorrhage

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the safety profile and the surgical outcomes in a large cohort of subjects undergoing early vitrectomy for unexplained fundus-obscuring vitreous haemorrhage (FOVH).

METHODS

Retrospective, single-centre case series of 186 consecutive eyes presenting between January 2018 and February 2020. Primary outcomes included change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), rate of intra-operative retinal tears or retinal detachment (RD), baseline proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), association of demographics with clinical outcomes, and rate of significant adverse events characterised by reoperation.

RESULTS

Main final diagnosis was haemorrhagic posterior vitreous detachment (76%) and the overall risk of a retinal tear with or without RD found at the time of surgery was 69%. Vitrectomy was completed within 24 h in 94% of eyes. Rate of RD was 18%; all cases were macula-sparing with no PVR. Mean change in BCVA from baseline to final follow-up was -1.53 ± 0.69 LogMAR, p < 0.001. Time from presentation to surgery was significantly associated with final BCVA (p = 0.036, beta co-efficient 0.097). There was a significant association between presence of RD and age <60 y (OR 0.94, 95%CI [0.90-0.98], p = 0.003). 4.8% required repeated vitrectomy for post-operative RD (4), epiretinal membrane formation (3), removal of oil (1), and recurrent FOVH (1). None of these reoperations were induced by complications during the first surgery.

CONCLUSION

There is a high rate of retinal breaks in cases with unexplained FOVH, and the risk of a concomitant RD is higher in younger subjects. Early vitrectomy within 24 h appears a safe first-line treatment and yields good clinical outcomes.

INFLUENCE OF PREOPERATIVE POSTURING ON SUBFOVEAL FLUID HEIGHT IN MACULA-OFF RETINAL DETACHMENTS

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effect of preoperative posturing on subfoveal fluid height (SFFH) in macula-off retinal detachment.

METHODS

A prospective study including patients with macula-off retinal detachment with SFFH measurable on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and duration of loss of central vision (LCV) ≤ 7 days. Linear OCT volume scans were performed at baseline, after 1 minute, 1 hour, 4 hours, and on the next morning. For the first hour, all patients remained in an upright position. Patients were then either instructed to posture until the surgery according to the location of the primary retinal break (posturing group) or were not given any instructions (control group).

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were included in the posturing group and 11 patients in the control group. There was no significant change in SFFH between baseline, 1 minute, 1 hour, and 4 hours. The mean SFFH in the control group increased by 243 µ m from 624 (±268) µ m at baseline to 867 (±303) µ m the next morning ( P < 0.01) but decreased in the posturing group by 150 µ m from 728 (±416) to 578 (±445) µ m ( P = 0.03). There was a significant association of the SFFH the next morning with posturing ( P < 0.01) and SFFH at baseline ( P < 0.01), but not with location of primary break ( P = 0.20). The change in SFFH from baseline to the next morning was significantly associated with posturing and primary break location ( P < 0.01), but not with SFFH at baseline ( P = 0.21).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative posturing is an effective measure to prevent progression of macular detachment in macula-off retinal detachment.

Stratifying the risk of re-detachment: variables associated with outcome of vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in a large UK cohort study

INTRODUCTION

To identify variables associated with primary anatomical outcome following vitrectomy and internal tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data, using a database of RD treated with vitrectomy and internal tamponade. Collected data complied with the RCOphth Retinal Detachment Dataset. The main outcome measure was anatomical failure within six months of surgery.

RESULTS

There were 6377 vitrectomies. 869 eyes were excluded, either because no outcome was recorded, or inadequate follow up, leaving 5508 operations for analysis. 63.9% of patients were male, and the median age was 62. Primary anatomical failure occurred in 13.9%. On multivariate analysis, the following were associated with increased risk of failure: age <45, or >79, inferior retinal breaks, total detachment, one quadrant or greater inferior detachment, low density silicone oil, and presence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy. C2F6 tamponade, cryotherapy, and 25 G vitrectomy, were associated with reduced risk of failure. The area under the receiver operator curve was 71.7%. According to this model, 54.3% of RD are at low risk (<10%), 35.6% are at moderate risk (10-25%), and 10.1% are at high risk (>25%) of failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Previous attempts to identify high risk RD have been limited by small numbers, the inclusion of both scleral buckling and vitrectomy, or by excluding some types of RD. This study examined outcomes in unselected RD, treated by vitrectomy. Identification of the variables associated with anatomical outcome after RD surgery enables accurate risk stratification, which is valuable for patient counselling and selection, and for future clinical trials.

Kamuvudine-9 Protects Retinal Structure and Function in a Novel Model of Experimental Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

Purpose

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a vision-threatening event that benefits from surgical intervention. While awaiting surgical reattachment, irreversible hypoxic and inflammatory damage to the retina often occurs. An interim therapy protecting photoreceptors could improve functional outcomes. We sought to determine whether Kamuvudine-9 (K-9), a derivative of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) that inhibits inflammasome activation, and the NRTIs lamivudine (3TC) and azidothymidine (AZT) could protect the retina following RRD.

Methods

RRD was induced in mice via subretinal injection (SRI) of 1% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). To simulate outcomes following the clinical management of RRD, we determined the optimal conditions by which SRI of CMC induced spontaneous retinal reattachment (SRR) occurs over 10 days (RRD/SRR). K-9, 3TC, or AZT was administered via intraperitoneal injection. Inflammasome activation pathways were monitored by abundance of cleaved caspase-1, IL-18, and cleaved caspase-8, and photoreceptor death was assessed by TUNEL staining. Retinal function was assessed by full-field scotopic electroretinography.

Results

RRD induced retinal inflammasome activation and photoreceptor death in mice. Systemic administration of K-9, 3TC, or AZT inhibited retinal inflammasome activation and photoreceptor death. In the RRD/SRR model, K-9 protected retinal electrical function during the time of RRD and induced an improvement following retinal reattachment.

Conclusions

K-9 and NRTIs exhibit anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective activities in experimental RRD. Given its capacity to protect photoreceptor function during the period of RRD and enhance retinal function following reattachment, K-9 shows promise as a retinal neuroprotectant and warrants study in RRD. Further, this novel RRD/SRR model may facilitate experimental evaluation of functional outcomes relevant to RRD.

Postoperative Results in the Treatment of Retinal Detachment with Scleral Buckling Surgery

BACKGROUND

The course after scleral buckling surgery is investigated in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Ethics Committee of Eastern Switzerland approved the retrospective single-center study (EKOS19/152, Project ID: 2019-02034). The primary endpoint is the anatomical reattachment of the retina 3 months after surgery. Secondary endpoints are visual acuity and the occurrence of intra- and postoperative complications. The patient files of all patients treated for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with scleral buckling surgery between January 2005 and December 2014 at the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen were included.

RESULTS

In 165 of 184 patients (89.7%), reattachment of the retina 3 months postoperatively was achieved by single scleral buckling surgery. Treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment improved patients' visual acuity by an average of 4.8 ETDRS letters. Intraoperatively, subretinal hemorrhage occurred in one patient. Postoperatively, interfering buckling material was removed in 24 patients (13.1%). A pars plana vitrectomy was performed in six patients (3.2%) due to epiretinal membrane, in two patients (1.1%) due to a macular hole, and in three patients (1.6%) due to disturbing vitreous opacities.

CONCLUSIONS

Scleral buckling surgery is an effective and relatively low complication method for the treatment of selected patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Effect of Changes in Surgical Strategies for the Treatment of Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment on Functional and Anatomical Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis of 812 Cases from the Years 2004 to 2012

Background: At the Department of Ophthalmology and Optometry at the MUV surgical method (scleral buckling, vitrectomy, combined vitrectomy/scleral buckling) and timing (daytime, nighttime) for the treatment of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) changed continuously in the years 2004 to 2012. This study aims to evaluate changes in surgical strategies over time including their impact on functional and anatomical outcomes. Methods: Retrospective evaluation of patients operated on primary RRD between the years 2004 and 2012. Baseline demographic data, month 3 best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), surgical method, single success surgery, surgical timing, and intraoperative complications were analyzed. Results: Overall, 812 eyes of 812 patients with a mean (±SD) age of 58.1 ± 13.3 years were included. A total of 413 (51%) patients presented with macula-on and 359 (44%) with macula-off RRD. Month 3 BCVA increased over time, both in macula-on or macula-off groups (p < 0.001). The rate of complete retinal reattachment 3 months postoperatively increased significantly from 65% in 2004 to 83% in 2012 in both groups. Scleral buckling surgeries decreased continuously from 95% to 16% with an appropriate increase in vitrectomies as well as a decrease in surgeries during nighttime (68% in 2004, 6% in 2012) with equal or better visual and functional outcomes. Conclusion: Our data showed that improving functional and single-success surgery outcomes in patients operated on for primary RRD. In the years 2004 to 2012, surgical techniques shifted from scleral buckling to primary vitrectomy and were increasingly scheduled during the daytime.

Morphologic Stages of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Assessed Using Swept-Source OCT

PURPOSE

To describe the sequential morphologic changes after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) utilizing a novel, objective, and clinically relevant staging system based on swept-source OCT (SS-OCT) and determine its association with the duration of fovea-off and postoperative visual acuity (VA).

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SUBJECTS

Consecutive patients with primary fovea-involving RRD referred to St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Canada, from January 2020 to April 2022.

METHODS

All patients underwent SS-OCT and ultrawide-field SS-OCT at baseline. Primary RRDs with breaks above the 8- and 4-o'clock meridians were included. Patients with vision loss for ≥ 3 months, proliferative vitreoretinopathy grade C or worse, a demarcation line, previous vitrectomy, or other retinal pathology were excluded. The staging was based on an assessment of outer retinal morphology on successive SS-OCT scans from the peripheral break to the most posterior aspect of the RRD, following its direction of progression.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Sequential outer retinal morphologic changes observed using SS-OCT and associated VA at 3 months after surgery.

RESULTS

Forty-nine eyes were included. The mean age (standard deviation [SD]) was 61.2 (15.2) years. The mean presenting logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (SD) acuity was 1.09 (0.75). All stages observed on a high-definition horizontal 51-line scan were reported. Outer retinal changes occurred in 5 stages: (1) separation of the neurosensory retina from the retinal pigment epithelium (42/49, 85.7%); (2) thickening of inner and outer segments of photoreceptors (45/49, 91.8%); (3) outer retinal corrugation formation: (3a) low-frequency (44/49, 93.6%) and (3b) high-frequency outer retinal corrugations (42/49, 85.7%); (4) loss of the definition of outer retinal corrugations, with concurrent thickening of inner and outer segments (26/49, 53.1%); and (5) patchy (moth-eaten) or complete loss of inner and outer segments (17/49, 34.7%). The mean duration of fovea-off by stage in the parafovea (SD) was 2 (1.4), 2.3 (1.2), 11.4 (8.1), and 12 (13.3) days for stages 3a, 3b, 4, and 5, respectively. There was a statistically significant association between increasing stage of RRD and longer duration of foveal involvement (P = 0.001) and, most importantly, between increasing stage and worse VA at 3 months after surgery (P = 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

This novel staging system describes the sequential morphologic changes in RRD using SS-OCT. Increasing stage of RRD was associated with worse VA at 3 months after surgery.

FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S)

The author(s) have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Impact of the Time to Surgery on Visual Outcomes for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Repair: A Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

To determine the relationship between time from symptom onset or presentation to repair and visual outcomes for macula-on and macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library for randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) based on time to RRD repair. Study identifiers, baseline characteristics, intervention characteristics, and visual outcomes were extracted. We conducted a random effects meta-analysis. Sensitivity analyses included leave-1-out and influence analyses. Primary outcomes included mean difference (MD) in final BCVA, MD between preoperative and final BCVA (∆BCVA), and relative risk of final BCVA <0.4 logMAR for macula-off RRD repair in 0-3 vs 4-7 days and macula-on RRD repair in 0-24 vs >24 hours. Secondary outcomes assessed other time points.

RESULTS

Twenty observational studies reported on 1929 patients. Macula-off RRD repair in 0-3 days from symptom onset was superior to 4-7 days for final BCVA (MD -0.06 [95% CI -0.09, -0.03], P < .001) but was not different for ∆BCVA (P > .05). Macula-on repair in 0-24 hours from presentation was superior to >24 hours for final BCVA (MD -0.02 [95% CI -0.03, -0.01], P < .05) but was not different for ∆BCVA (P > .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Macula-off RRD repair in 0-3 days from symptom onset may have better final BCVA compared to repair in 4-7 days. Macula-on RRD repair in 0-24 hours of presentation may have better final BCVA compared to repair in >24 hours. These results were supported by moderate- and low-quality evidence, respectively, and may have been influenced by differences in baseline BCVA.

Preoperative and Postoperative Factors Affecting Functional Success in Anatomically Successful Retinal Detachment Surgery

PURPOSE

To investigate preoperative and postoperative factors affecting functional success in anatomically successful retinal detachment surgery.

METHODS

Seventy-five eyes of 75 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who underwent anatomically successful surgery from 2014 to 2019 with more than 1 year follow-up were included in the study. Demographic characteristics, ocular examination findings, preoperative and postoperative spectral domain optic coherence tomography images were retrospectively evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean age was 53.9 ± 17 years (range, 11-85 years). The mean follow-up period was 36.7 ± 16 months (range, 14-72 months). The mean best-corrected visual acuity of the patients before surgery was 1.35 ± 1.24 and at postoperative 12 months was 0.66 ± 0.5 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution. Patients who were operated in 7 days of visual symptoms onset were found to have better visual acuity at the first and subsequent postoperative exams. Preoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy, vitreous hemorrhage, and extent of retinal detachment were found to have a negative effect on functional success at 12 months. Regeneration of the outer retinal layers had a positive effect on visual acuity at 12 months but did not significantly increase visual acuity after 12 months. Multivariate analysis showed that preoperative external limiting membrane integrity was significantly associated with better functional outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Early intervention, presence of preoperative external limiting membrane integrity, and restoration of postoperative outer retinal layers positively affected functional success. The presence of preoperative vitreous hemorrhage, preoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy, and the extent of retinal detachment had a negative effect on prognosis at 12 months.

Effects of the Implementation of an Emergency Surgical Pattern in Patients with Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: A Retrospective Observational Study

Background

To analyze the effects of the implementation of emergency surgical patterns in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and provide evidence for promoting emergency surgical patterns for RRD.

Methods

We reviewed the electronic medical records of 346 patients (348 eyes) who underwent surgical repair of RRD at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in Southern China. A total of 140 patients (140 eyes) in the routine inpatient surgery group were collected at the fundus disease department between January 2019 and December 2019, and 206 patients (208 eyes) in the emergency surgery group were collected at the ophthalmic emergency department between January 2021 and December 2021. Demographics, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) expressed as the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), the status of the macula before surgery, time to presentation, treatment interval, and postoperative BCVA measured at least three months follow-up were compared.

Results

The preoperative BCVA (logMAR) of the emergency surgery group and the inpatient surgery group were 1.0 (0.4–1.7) and 1.4 (0.7–1.7), respectively, with significant differences between groups (P < 0.001). However, patients had a shorter time to presentation (7 days vs. 21 days, P < 0.001), shorter treatment interval (2 days vs. 12 days, P < 0.01), and significantly better postoperative BCVA (logMAR 0.5 vs. logMAR 1.0, P < 0.001) in the emergency surgery group than in the inpatient surgery group. There was no significant difference in primary anatomical success between the two groups (P=0.802). The median follow-up for the emergency surgery group and the inpatient surgery group were 6.08 months and 6.2 months, respectively, with no significant differences (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients who underwent emergency surgical patterns of RRD had better visual outcomes after surgery than patients with routine inpatient surgery, which might be attributed to a shorter duration, shorter treatment interval, and the preoperative status of the macula in the emergency surgery pattern. Emergency surgical patterns for RRD should be considered to achieve better surgical outcomes in suitable patients.

Opportunity Cost of Retinal Detachment Surgery vs Office-Based Patient Care

Purpose: This work compares physician reimbursements for retinal detachment (RD) surgery with office-based patient care. Methods: A theoretical model was constructed from the physician’s perspective for performing a 90-minute uncomplicated RD surgery with its associated perioperative work in the global period (Current Procedural Terminology code 67108) compared with managing 40 patients per 8-hour clinic day in the equivalent time period. The reimbursement rates were based on the 2019 values set by the US Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Sensitivity analyses were performed varying the perioperative times, clinical productivity, and postoperative visits. Results: The CMS physician reimbursement rate for 67108 surgery was 17.13 work relative value units (wRVUs); meanwhile, the physician in the reference case could have generated 40.89 wRVUs in the office. CMS reimbursement therefore represented a 58% opportunity cost relative to lost office productivity for the physician. A significant disparity was still present even when modeling 30 patients per day. In sensitivity analyses, clinical productivity exceeded surgical compensation in 99% of modeled scenarios. In threshold analyses, the surgeon in the reference case would have to complete the surgery and all immediate perioperative care within 18 minutes to equal the total CMS valuation. Conclusions: CMS reimbursement for RD surgery resulted in a significant opportunity cost for the physician relative to office-based patient care, which was more pronounced for more efficient clinicians in the office. The sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of the model. Reductions in surgery reimbursements relative to office-based patient care might disincentivize busy clinicians.

Early Structural and Vascular Changes after Within-24 Hours Vitrectomy for Recent Onset Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Treatment: A Pilot Study Comparing Bisected Macula and Not Bisected Macula

Background: In this study we aimed at investigating macular perfusion/anatomical changes in eyes with early onset rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) after prompt surgery within 24 hours, comparing a bisected macula and not bisected macula RRD. Methods: In this prospective observational study, 14 eyes of 14 patients who underwent within-24 hours vitreoretinal surgery for early onset RRD were enrolled. Patients were further divided into two subgroups: the not bisected macula group (NBM group) and the bisected macula group (BM group). At baseline and 3-month follow up, macular architecture and vessel analysis were assessed using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) imaging. In detail, quantitative and qualitative analyses of the macular area were performed to quantify topographical retinal perfusion changes after surgery, calculating the foveal avascular zone (FAZ), vessel density (VD) and vessel length density (VLD) at the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP). Results: Most cases (43%) were superotemporal RRD. Primary retinal reattachment was obtained in all cases, without recurrences within 3-month follow up. After surgery, a significant FAZ enlargement was observed at both the SCP and DCP level (p < 0.001; p < 0.05), with a significant effect of time noted between the two time points in the NBM and BM subanalysis (F = 3.68; p < 0.017). An excellent functional outcome was maintained for the whole follow-up. On the other hand, after surgery, perfusion parameters did not change significantly apart from the vessel density of the inferior macular sector at the DCP level (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the macular perfusion of eyes with RRD is still preserved if the surgery is performed really promptly, thus highlighting the great importance of a correct timing for surgery. OCTA analysis allows for a better understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underneath early vascular microarchitecture modifications of the posterior pole in retinal detachment, differentiating the two types of RRD not completely involving the fovea (BM and NBM).

Predictors of Vision Loss after Surgery for Macula-Sparing Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

PURPOSE

To determine factors associated with loss of good vision (defined as Snellen visual acuity [VA] < 20/40) after surgery among eyes presenting with macula-on primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with initial VA ≥20/40.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Multicenter, retrospective, cohort study of eyes undergoing scleral buckle (SB), pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), or combined pars plana vitrectomy/scleral buckle (PPV/SB) for non-complex macula-on RRD with initial VA ≥20/40.

RESULTS

Among 646 eyes with macula-on RRDs with initial VA ≥20/40, 106 (16.4%) had VA <20/40 (i.e. lost good vision) at final follow-up. Eyes losing good vision had slightly worse pre-operative logMAR VA (mean 0.15 ± 0.10 [20/28]) compared to eyes that preserved good vision (mean 0.11 ± 0.10 [20/26]) (p = 0.004). RRDs extending greater than 6 clock-hours were more likely to lose good vision than smaller detachments (multivariate OR 4.57 [95% CI 1.44-14.51]; p = 0.0099). Compared to eyes repaired with SB alone, eyes undergoing PPV (multivariate OR 7.22 [95% CI 2.10-24.90]; p = 0.0017) or PPV/SB (multivariate OR 10.74 [95% CI 3.20-36.11]; p = 0.0001) were each more likely to lose good vision. Eyes requiring further RRD-related (multivariate OR 8.64 [95% CI 1.47-50.66]; p < 0.017) and non-RRD related vitreoretinal surgery (multivariate OR 14.35 [95% CI 5.39-38.21]; p <0.0001) were more likely to lose good vision.

CONCLUSION

Among macula-on RRDs, loss of good vision was associated with worse vision on presentation, vitrectomy-based procedures, greater extent of detachment, and lack of single surgery success. Understanding predictors of visual outcome in macula-on RRD repair may guide pre-operative counseling regarding visual prognosis.

Enlightening new underpinnings in hydration retinal folds

PURPOSE

To describe and value a peculiar alteration typically found in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment raising news foundations of its role in the photoreceptors and visual prognosis.

DESIGN

Case description and rationale formulation.

SUBJECTS

An isolated case.

INTERVENTION

We report a case of a 52-year-old male patient complaining of sudden visual acuity (VA) loss in the left eye. Fundoscopic findings revealed rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, macula off, and an isolated horseshoe tear in the infero-temporal periphery. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) evinced prominent hydration retinal folds.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Restructuring of the retinal layers, visual acuity and complaints.

RESULTS

The patient underwent scleral buckling surgery with complete re-attachment of the retina and significant improvement of the hydration retinal folds. In addition, there was resolution of visual symptoms, with a final VA of 20/30.

CONCLUSIONS

We speculate that the increase in arc length of the outer retina generates a centripetal force towards the fovea. Its association with the higher density of photoreceptors in this region, generates resistance in the water inflow, preventing swelling and cellular damage of the central photoreceptors.

LONG-TERM VISUAL OUTCOMES AND THE TIMING OF SURGICAL REPAIR OF FOVEA-SPLITTING RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENTS

PURPOSE

To evaluate the visual outcomes and the affect of timing of surgical repair of fovea-splitting rhegmatogenous retinal detachments.

METHOD

A retrospective, consecutive cohort from multiple surgeons at a single center. Fovea status (fovea-on, fovea-splitting, or fovea-off) was classified by preoperative optical coherence tomography. The primary outcome measure was the visual acuity at the last follow-up that was further correlated with the timing of surgical repair.

RESULTS

One hundred and ninety-five eyes were included with 62 fovea-on, 65 fovea-splitting, and 68 fovea-off detachments. The mean preoperative logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution visual acuity for fovea-on, fovea-splitting, and fovea-off groups was 0.16 ± 0.21, 0.70 ± 0.56, and 1.67 ± 0.87, respectively (P = <0.001). Mean postoperative logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution visual acuity for fovea-on, fovea-splitting, and fovea-off groups were 0.07 ± 0.13, 0.10 ± 0.15, and 0.20 ± 0.22, respectively (P = <0.001). A statistically significant difference in mean postoperative logMAR visual acuity was found between fovea-off and fovea-on groups (P = 0.003) and between fovea-off and fovea-splitting groups (P = 0.013), however not between fovea-on and fovea-splitting groups (P = 0.827). Visual acuity improved when repair was performed earlier after presentation for fovea-on (R = 0.378, P = 0.002) and fovea-off groups (R = 0.277, P = 0.022), but not for the fovea-splitting group (R = 0.089, P = 0.481).

CONCLUSION

We described the favorable visual outcomes of surgery for fovea-splitting rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and correlated these with the timing of surgical repair, which may help guide the management of this urgent, vision-threatening condition.

Retinal Changes before and after Silicone Oil Removal in Eyes with Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Using Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the retinal and choroidal thickness and vessel density (VD) changes between silicone oil (SO) tamponade and after SO removal using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA). Thirty patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy for retinal detachment (RD) with SO tamponade were included. SS-OCT and OCTA were conducted before RD surgery, during SO tamponade, and after SO removal. A 3-dimensional volumetric wide scan protocol was used for the analysis. The segmented retina, choroidal thickness map, and peripapillary thickness were then measured. For the OCTA analysis, 4.5 × 4.5 mm scans were used. Superficial and deep capillary plexus VDs in unaffected fellow eyes and eyes after SO removal were compared. During the SO tamponade period, the thickness of the parafoveal total retina, ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer, and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (ppRNFL) were significantly thinner than those of unaffected fellow eyes (p < 0.05). The parafoveal layer thickness thinning recovered up to three to six months after SO removal. Moreover, six months after SO removal, the parafoveal thickness was not significantly different compared to that of unaffected fellow eyes (p > 0.05). However, the ppRNFL thickness was significantly decreased during SO tamponade and remained unrecovered six months after SO removal. There was no significant difference in the VD on the OCTA. Thus, SO tamponade and removal for RD resulted in a change in the retinal and peripapillary thickness. This may be due to the mechanical pressure effect of SO.

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.].

Differential Effects of Experimental Retinal Detachment on S- and M/L-Cones in Rats

Retinal detachment is a vision-threatening condition, which occurs when the neurosensory retina is separated from its blood supply. The main purpose of this study was to examine the effect of experimental retinal detachment in rats on cone photoreceptors. Retinal detachment was induced in the eyes of rats via subretinal injection of sodium hyaluronate. Experimental detachment caused a rapid, sustained loss of short (S)- and medium/long (M/L)-wavelength cone opsins. Importantly, S-opsin⁺ cones were affected earlier than M/L-opsin⁺ cones and were affected to a greater extent than M/L-opsin⁺ cones throughout the duration of detachment. In comparison, to cone opsins, reductions in other cone markers-peanut agglutinin PNA and cone arrestin-were substantially less marked. These data suggest that loss of cone opsins does not reflect cone degeneration and may rather indicate prolonged downregulation of specific proteins in affected cones. This conclusion is supported by the lack of TUNEL⁺- cone arrestin⁺ double-labelled cells at the time point of greatest rod photoreceptor cell death, together with the partial recovery of cone arrestin⁺ cell numbers over time. Analysis of retinas that had naturally re-attached reinforced the deduction that few cones die following detachment, but also highlighted that prolonged detachment leads to deconstruction of cone segments that may not be readily reversible. Survival and functional recovery of cones following surgery for retinal detachment is vital for successful recovery of vision. The data suggest that experimental detachment in rats may offer a useful approach to model the response of S-cones to retinal detachment in humans.

Recognising and managing retinal detachments

Retinal detachments are a potentially sight-threatening ophthalmic emergency that may result in significant, irreversible vision loss. The risk of developing retinal detachment increases with advancing age, myopia and trauma. Pre-existing retinal degenerations can precipitate a pre-detachment symptomatic period of photopsia or floaters, allowing clinicians to intervene early and prevent detachments. Novel imaging techniques, such as spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, and well-established topographic modalities, such as B scan, can help to elucidate the type of detachment and any underlying causes, and help with surgical management. The overarching goal of treatment is to identify and seal all retinal holes, relieve vitreoretinal traction and prevent further recurrence. Prompt prophylactic retinopexy of retinal holes and tears is crucial in preventing retinal detachment, the main treatments of which are pars plana vitrectomy, tamponading agents and silicone scleral buckle.

Impact of submacular fluid volume on visual outcome in macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment using automated optical coherence tomography volumetric quantification

Background

We investigated effects of submacular fluid volume (SMFV) on visual outcomes following surgery for macula‐off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) using automated fluid volumetric quantification with optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Methods

We analysed 127 eyes that were surgically treated for macula‐off RRDs. We obtained preoperative images following the spectral domain (SD)‐OCT dense volume protocol, applied automated retinal segmentation and used an automated algorithm to quantify each eye's SMFV. We used multivariate models to identify various risk factors for impaired visual outcome.

Results

Linear regression showed that preoperative SMFV (ß = 0.013; P = .005) was significantly associated with a reduced visual outcome 12 months after the treatment of macula‐off RRDs. SMFV was negatively correlated with 12‐month postoperative (r = .311; P = .001) visual acuity (VA). The group with low preoperative SMFV (≤9.0 mm³) showed an increasing VA up to 12 months postoperatively (P < .001), while the VA did not increase in the group with high SMFV (>9.0 mm³) beyond 3 months of follow‐up. Patients with a high SMFV were 8.0 times more likely to have worse visual outcomes after 12 months of follow‐up (P = .018).

Conclusions

SMFV was negatively correlated with visual outcomes after the surgical treatment of macula‐off RRDs. Patients with SMFV <9.0 mm³ 12 months after surgery had an 8.0 times greater chance for better visual recovery than patients with high preoperative SMFV. Our findings highlight the efficacy of automated SMFV quantification in predicting surgical outcomes in patients with RRDs, which could be useful in future clinical practice and the development of research models.

Association of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Incidence With Myopia Prevalence in the Netherlands

Importance

The incidence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is partly determined by its risk factors, such as age, sex, cataract surgery, and myopia. Changes in the prevalence of these risk factors could change RRD incidence in the population.

Objective

To determine whether the incidence of RRD in the Netherlands has changed over recent years and whether this change is associated with an altered prevalence of RRD risk factors.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study included data from all 14 vitreoretinal clinics in the Netherlands, as well as a large Dutch population-based cohort study. All patients who underwent surgical repair for a primary RRD in the Netherlands from January 1 to December 31, 2009, and January 1 to December 31, 2016, were analyzed, in addition to all participants in the population-based Rotterdam Study who were examined during these years. Analysis began February 2018 and ended November 2019.

Exposures

RRD risk factors, including age, male sex, cataract extraction, and myopia.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Age-specific RRD incidence rate in the Dutch population, as well as change in RRD incidence and risk factor prevalence between 2009 and 2016.

Results

In 2016, 4447 persons (median [range] age, 61 [3-96] years) underwent surgery for a primary RRD within the Netherlands, resulting in an RRD incidence rate of 26.2 per 100 000 person-years (95% CI, 25.4-27.0). The overall RRD incidence rate had increased by 44% compared with similar data from 2009. The increase was observed in both phakic (1994 in 2009 to 2778 in 2016 [increase, 39%]) and pseudophakic eyes (1004 in 2009 to 1666 in 2016 [increase, 66%]), suggesting that cataract extraction could not solely account for the overall rise. Over the same period, the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe myopia among persons aged 55 to 75 years had increased by 15.6% (881 of 4561 [19.3%] vs 826 of 3698 [22.3%]), 20.3% (440 of 4561 [9.6%] vs 429 of 3698 [11.6%]), and 26.9% (104 of 4561 [2.3%] vs 107 of 3698 [2.9%]), respectively, within the population-based Rotterdam Study.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, an increase was observed in primary RRD incidence in the Netherlands over a 7-year period, which could not be explained by a different age distribution or cataract surgical rate. A simultaneous myopic shift in the Dutch population may be associated, warranting further population-based studies on RRD incidence and myopia prevalence.

Comparison of the visual outcome between macula-on and macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment based on the duration of macular detachment

Objective

To compare the visual outcomes between macula-on and macula-off primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) based on the duration of macular detachment (DMD).

Methods and Analysis

Retrospective study including 96 eyes with RRD (34 macula-on and 62 macula-off) repaired between June 2012 and March 2020. The final visual acuity (VA) was compared after the patients were divided by the status of the macula and their DMD.

Results

The mean final VA of patients with macula-on RRD (group A) was logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) 0.04±0.07, which was not statistically different from that of individuals with macula-off RRD with DMD ≤3 days (group B; logMAR 0.05±0.06) (p=0.79). There were statistically significant differences in the final VA between group A and patients with macula-off RRD with DMD of 4–7 days (group C; logMAR 0.15±0.15) (p=0.017) as well as between group A and those with macula-off RRD with DMD ≥8 days (group D; logMAR 0.36±0.29) (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in the final VA between group B and C (p=0.33).

Conclusion

The mean final VA of patients with macula-on RRD was comparable to that of the macula-off patients with DMD ≤3 days. Our findings suggest that if macula-on RRD could not be immediately repaired, a repair within 72 hours may result in similar outcomes, even if the macula detaches within that time frame. However, once the macula detaches, we do not observe statistically significant differences in outcome for repairs done within 7 days.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a review of current practice in diagnosis and management

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a common condition with an increasing incidence, related to the ageing demographics of many populations and the rising global prevalence of myopia, both well known risk factors. Previously untreatable, RRD now achieves primary surgical success rates of over 80%-90% with complex cases also amenable to treatment. The optimal management for RRD attracts much debate with the main options of pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling and vitrectomy all having their proponents based on surgeon experience and preference, case mix and equipment availability. The aim of this review is to provide an overview for the non-retina specialist that will aid and inform their understanding and discussions with patients. We review the incidence and pathogenesis of RRD, present a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment with special consideration to managing the fellow eye and summarise surgical success and visual recovery following different surgical options.

Association of ocular diseases with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder: a retrospective case-control, population-based study

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric disorders and ocular neurovascular diseases may share a similar pathophysiological route of vascular structures or neurological changes. The aim of this study is to investigate the association between ocular neurovascular diseases and the risk of major psychiatric disorders.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case-control, population-based study including patients aged ≥20 and were diagnosed between 1997 and 2013. Ocular neurovascular diseases diagnosed between 1997 and 2006 and newly diagnosed psychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder (BD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and schizophrenia between 2007 and 2013 were registered. Patients were propensity-score matched with control groups without psychiatric disorders in each cohort based on selected covariates.

RESULTS

A total of one million sampled patients in the database were categorized based on their diagnoses; 2243 (37.4% men) were categorized into the BD group, 10,110 (35.2% men) into the MDD group, and 1623 (43.1% men) into the schizophrenia group. In the BD group, all glaucoma (OR 1.49, [1.18-1.89]), open-angle glaucoma (OR 2.08, [1.34-3.24]), and closed-angle glaucoma (OR 2.12, [1.36-3.33]) showed statistical significance of risk. In the MDD group, age-related macular degeneration (OR 1.33, [1.13-1.57]), all glaucoma (OR 1.24, [1.11-1.37]), open-angle glaucoma (OR 1.47, [1.21-1.80]), and dry eye syndrome (OR 1.22, [1.13-1.31]) were associated with a significantly higher risk. In the schizophrenia group, only all glaucoma (OR 1.47, [1.02-2.11]), glaucoma suspect (OR 1.88, [1.01-3.49]), and open-angle glaucoma (OR 2.19, [1.13-4.26]) showed statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

In this population-based study, ocular neurovascular diseases, especially glaucoma, were associated with increased risks of BD, MDD, and schizophrenia.

Factors affecting visual recovery after successful repair of macula-off retinal detachments: findings from a large prospective UK cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To identify risk factors affecting visual outcomes in successfully re-attached macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) surgery.

DESIGN

A prospective study, using online databases, of visual outcomes for 2074 macula-off retinal detachments that were successfully re-attached by vitrectomy and internal tamponade. The database included detailed retinal diagrams of each detachment.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The probability of achieving a post-operative visual acuity (VA) of ≤0.30 LogMAR (Snellen 6/12 or better).

RESULTS

Male patients accounted for 64.9% of the sample and the median age was 63 years old. The median pre-operative VA was counting fingers (LogMAR 1.98); this improved to 0.41 LogMAR post-operatively. A post-operative VA of ≤0.30 LogMAR was achieved for 1012 (48.8%) eyes and the factors affecting this were the patient age and gender, pre-operative VA, duration of central vision loss, PVR grade, lens status, total RD and the presence of any ocular co-pathology where the model area under the receiver operator curve was 71.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

From the identified risk factors that decrease the probability of achieving a post-operative visual acuity of ≤0.30 LogMAR, the most important modifiable risk factor was the duration of central vision loss. Recent macula-off retinal detachments should be repaired within 72 h of the loss of central vision.

Clinical characteristics and surgical outcome of pediatric and early adulthood retinal detachment

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the underlying pathologies, demographic and retinal detachment characteristics in pediatric and early adulthood retinal detachment.

METHODS

Patients with rhegmatogenous, serous, or tractional retinal detachment aged 0-26 years were retrospectively reviewed. The preschool group (n = 4) comprised children aged 0-6 years, the pediatric group (n = 19) comprised children aged 7-16 years, and the early adulthood group (n = 13) aged 17-26 years. Demographic information and retinal detachment characteristics, type of surgery, and intraocular tamponade were analyzed. Postoperatively, the functional outcome, anatomic success, and ocular adverse events were evaluated. Due to the low patient number in the preschool group, statistical analysis was performed for pediatric group and early adulthood group only.

RESULTS

All causes of retinal detachment were present in the pediatric group, but only rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in the early adulthood group. In both groups, the main type of surgical intervention was pars plana vitrectomy (pediatric group: 52%, early adulthood group: 38%; p = 0.36). The type of intraocular tamponade varied statistically significantly between the groups (p = 0.014). Silicone oil was the main intraocular tamponade in the pediatric group (48%), whereas no tamponade (54%) followed by gas tamponade (46%) in the early adulthood group. Final attachment rate was similar in both groups (pediatric group: 89%, early adulthood group: 100%; p = 0.35). Re-detachment occurred significantly sooner in the pediatric group (1.3 ± 0.3 months) than in the early adulthood group (4.3 ± 1.4 months; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

In pediatric and early adulthood retinal detachment, pars plana vitrectomy appeared as a successful surgical intervention. Re-attachment rate and re-treatment were similar in both groups with a better functional outcome observed in cases of retinal detachment in early adulthood and poorer results in young children.

Outcomes and Complications Associated with Noninfectious Uveitis in Patients Presenting with Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

PURPOSE

To evaluate the visual outcomes and complications associated with noninfectious uveitis in patients presenting with a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 554 eyes of 523 patients presenting for RRD repair at the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, between July 2011 and September 2016.

METHODS

Analysis of risk factors, anatomic outcomes, and visual outcomes related to a history of noninfectious uveitis.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

End point rate of reattachment, end point visual acuity (VA), postoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), and rate of reoperation.

RESULTS

A history of uveitis was identified in 5.4% of eyes. Eyes with a history of uveitis were found to have a higher risk for development of any degree of PVR (hazard ratio [HR], 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-4.4, P = 0.030) and a higher risk of PVR necessitating an additional procedure (HR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.2-6.0, P = 0.014). Anatomic and visual outcomes did not differ between the 2 groups. Preoperative VA, the distribution of race/ethnicity, age, gender, lens status, macula status, and lattice degeneration status did not vary significantly between the groups. In the analysis of a PVR subgroup, uveitis was not associated with a higher risk of PVR necessitating an additional procedure and did not show a statistically significant difference in end point VA.

CONCLUSIONS

A history of uveitis is associated with an increased risk of any degree of PVR and an increased risk of PVR necessitating an additional procedure. However, subgroup analysis suggests that patients with a history of uveitis who develop PVR do not necessarily have a worse visual outcome or a higher risk of additional surgery. There may be a role for perioperative steroids in patients with a history of uveitis who present with a retinal detachment, but further study is warranted to determine if this decreases the risk of PVR or improves visual outcomes.

Scleral and conjunctival features in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment undergoing scleral buckling: an anterior segment optical coherence tomography and in vivo confocal microscopy study

PURPOSE

To investigate the scleral and conjunctival features in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) undergoing scleral buckling (SB), using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM).

METHODS

Twenty RRD eyes were consecutively enrolled. AS-OCT was performed at RRD diagnosis (RRD-D) and day 1, week 1, month 1 and month 6 after SB to evaluate the sclera, in the affected and unaffected quadrants (AQ, UQ). IVCM was performed at RRD-D, and at month 1 and month 6, to evaluate the conjunctiva in AQ and UQ. The main outcomes were as follows: mean intra-scleral hypo-reflective spaces area (MIHSA) at AS-OCT; mean density and area of microcysts (MMD, MMA) at IVCM; and intra-ocular pressure (IOP). The relations between MIHSA, MMA, MMD and IOP were evaluated.

RESULTS

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment- diagnosis (RRD-D) overall-mean intra-scleral hypo-reflective spaces (MISHA), -MMD and -MMA were significantly higher in affected eye (AE) compared with UE (p < 0.05) and in AQ compared with UQ (p < 0.05). After SB, overall-, AQ- and UQ-MISHA further increased (p < 0.05), whereas overall-MMD and -MMA did not change. At all follow-up, AQ and UQ parameters did not show significant differences between them. RRD-D IOP was 14.3 ± 2.8 and 15.5 ± 2.7 mmHg in the AE and UE, respectively (p < 0.05). After SB, week-1, month-1 and -6 IOP was significantly lower than RRD-D (p < 0.05). Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment- diagnosis (RRD-D), 1- and 6-month overall and AQ-MISHA and AQ-MMD negatively correlated with IOP (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and SB induced scleral and conjunctival changes that suggested an activation of fluid outflow through the entire unconventional aqueous humour pathway; these modifications may in part account for the relative hypotony after RRD and SB.

Correlation between redefined optical coherence tomography parameters and best-corrected visual acuity in non-resolving central serous chorioretinopathy treated with half-dose photodynamic therapy

Purpose

To assess parameters on optical coherence tomography (OCT), and their correlation with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in patients with non-resolving central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Methods

For 25 non-resolving CSC patients treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT), the thickness of retinal layers was assessed on the foveal spectral-domain (SD) OCT scan. Evaluated OCT parameters included the central retinal thickness (CRT), defined as the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to ellipsoid zone (EZ) distance, and the second band thickness (SBT), defined as the EZ to hyperreflective subretinal accumulation distance. Integrity of the external limiting membrane (ELM) and the EZ bands was also determined. These parameters, along with BCVA and CRT measured automatically by SD-OCT device software were obtained before PDT, after PDT, and at final visit. After Bonferroni correction, a p-value <0.007 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Twenty-five patients could be included at last visit before PDT and first visit after PDT. At final visit, 24 patients could be included, since 1 patients was lost to follow-up. Mean CRT was 112 μm at last visit before PDT, 118 μm at first visit after PDT (p = 0.030), and 127 μm at final visit (p<0.001compared to baseline). Mean SBT was 74 μm, 26 μm (p<0.001 compared to baseline), and 21 μm (p<0.001 compared to baseline), respectively. Mean BCVA in Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters was 79 at baseline, 85 at first visit after PDT (p = 0.005 compared to baseline), and 87 at final visit (p = 0.001 compared to baseline). BCVA had an estimated correlation of β = 0.103 (p = 0.114) with CRT, β = -0.051 (p = 0.014) with SBT, β = 0.615 (p = 0.600) with the integrity of the ELM, and β = 4.917 with the integrity of the EZ (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

In non-resolving CSC patients treated with half-dose PDT, the CRT increased at final visit in comparison to the last visit before PDT. The continuity of the EZ on SD-OCT was positively correlated with BCVA. We propose that the distance between ILM and EZ should be used as a reliable CRT measurement in non-resolving CSC patients treated with half-dose PDT.

Retinal Nerve Fiber Layer Changes Following Primary Retinal Detachment Repair with Silicone Oil Tamponade and Subsequent Oil Removal

Purpose:

To evaluate the correlation between the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), particularly the temporal RNFL (TRNFL), and visual outcomes following surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Methods:

This retrospective study was performed at a tertiary center; 32 patients underwent single and successful vitrectomy for total RRD using silicone oil as tamponade. Data were collected after oil removal. RNFL thickness and central foveal thickness (CFT) were measured using spectral domain optical coherence tomography. RNFL thickness and CFT of normal eyes were acquired as a control to calculate percentage changes in the affected eyes. The correlation between postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and TRNFL changes was the primary outcome measure.

Results:

Postoperative BCVA correlated negatively with retinal detachment (RD) duration (Pearson coefficient 0.56, P = 0.001) and percentage loss in TRNFL thickness (Pearson Coefficient 0.41, P = 0.02). The macula lost the maximum RNFL thickness (26%). The mean percentage loss of TRNFL was significantly higher in patients with postoperative BCVA <6/60 (42.63% vs. 24.06%, P = 0.009). Patients with postoperative BCVA <6/60 had a significantly longer mean RD duration (29 days) than those with postoperative BCVA >6/60 (17.5 days) (P = 0.026).

Conclusion:

When eyes with RRD are successfully repaired using silicone oil tamponade, the thickness of the RNFL decreases, particularly in the macula, and less macular neuronal loss is associated with better visual outcomes.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in uveitis

Background

Retinal detachment is more common among uveitis patients than in the general population. Here, we aimed to assess the prevalence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in a uveitis population.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 851 uveitis patients, recording characteristics such as uveitis duration, anatomical location, and cause; RRD occurrence; proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) at presentation; surgical approach; reattachment rate; and initial and final visual acuity (VA).

Results

RRD occurred in 26 patients (3.1%; 29 affected eyes) and was significantly associated with posterior uveitis (p < 0.001), infectious uveitis (p < 0.001), and male gender (p = 0.012). Among cases of infectious uveitis, cytomegalovirus and varicella zoster virus were most commonly associated with RRD development. RRD in non-infectious uveitis was not found to be associated with any specific uveitis entity. The rate of single-operation reattachment was 48%, and the rate of final reattachment was 83%. Mean final VA was 20/125, with 41% of eyes ultimately having a VA of less than 20/200.

Conclusion

Uveitis is a risk factor for RRD development, which carries a poor prognosis.

Rate and risk factors for the conversion of fovea-on to fovea-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment while awaiting surgery

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Progression of a fovea-on to a fovea-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) while awaiting surgery is rare.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patient records to identify patients in whom a fovea-on retinal detachment at presentation was found to be fovea off at surgery.

RESULTS

We identified 10 cases over 14 years which converted from fovea-on to fovea-off RRD while awaiting surgery. This represented 1.1% of RRDs that were fovea on at presentation (n=930). Nine out of 10 patients had superotemporal RRDs extending to at least the vascular arcade at presentation and all had superotemporal breaks within detached retina, which was significantly higher than the rate for other retinal detachments (100% vs 63%, p=0.02). There were 2.4 breaks per eye, similar to other retinal detachments. Six of the 10 patients converted to a fovea-off retinal detachment within a few hours and the rest by the following day. Visual outcomes were good, with eight patients maintaining their presenting visual acuity and two losing one Snellen line.

CONCLUSIONS

Offering same-day surgery to high-risk fovea-on RRDs may not significantly influence visual outcomes and would only prevent about half of the conversions to fovea off. Superotemporal retinal detachments extending to near the arcades are most at risk and might warrant posturing to limit spread of the detachment in the preoperative period.

Predictive factors for postoperative visual function of primary chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after scleral buckling

AIM

To evaluate predictive factors for postoperative visual function of primary chronic rhegmatgenous retinal detachment (RRD) after sclera buckling (SB).

METHODS

Totally 48 patients (51 eyes) with primary chronic RRD were included in this prospective interventional clinical cases study, which underwent SB alone from June 2008 to December 2014. Age, sex, symptoms duration, detached extension, retinal hole position, size, type, fovea on/off, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), baseline best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), operative duration, follow up duration, final BCVA were measured. Pearson correlation analysis, Spearman correlation analysis and multivariate linear stepwise regression were used to confirm predictive factors for better final visual acuity. Student's t-test, Wilcoxon two-sample test, Chi-square test and logistic stepwise regression were used to confirm predictive factors for better vision improvement.

RESULTS

Baseline BCVA was 0.8313±0.6911 logMAR and final BCVA was 0.4761±0.4956 logMAR. Primary surgical success rate was 92.16% (47/51). Correlation analyses revealed shorter symptoms duration (r=0.3850, P=0.0053), less detached area (r=0.5489, P<0.0001), fovea (r=0.4605, P=0.0007), no PVR (r=0.3138, P=0.0250), better baseline BCVA (r=0.7291, P<0.0001), shorter operative duration (r=0.3233, P=0.0207) and longer follow up (r=-0.3358, P=0.0160) were related with better final BCVA, while independent predictive factors were better baseline BCVA [partial R-square (PR(2))=0.5316, P<0.0001], shorter symptoms duration (PR(2)=0.0609, P=0.0101), longer follow up duration (PR(2)=0.0278, P=0.0477) and shorter operative duration (PR(2)=0.0338, P=0.0350). Patients with vision improvement took up 49.02% (25/51). Univariate and multivariate analyses both revealed predictive factors for better vision improvement were better baseline vision [odds ratio (OR) =50.369, P=0.0041] and longer follow up duration (OR=1.144, P=0.0067).

CONCLUSION

Independent predictive factors for better visual outcome of primary chronic RRD after SB are better baseline BCVA, shorter symptoms duration, shorter operative duration and longer follow up duration, while independent predictive factors for better vision improvement after operation are better baseline vision and longer follow up duration.

Macula-Sparing Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: Is Emergent Surgery Necessary?

The status of the macula is a significant factor in determining final visual outcomes in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and should be considered in the timing of surgical repair. Several studies have shown that macula-involving RRDs attain similar visual and anatomic outcomes when surgery is performed within seven days as compared to emergent surgery (within 24 hours). In contrast, surgery prior to macular detachment in macula-sparing RRDs generally yields the best visual outcomes. In the case of macula-sparing RRDs, it is not clear how long the macula may remain attached, therefore, standard practice dictates emergent surgery. Timing of presentation, examination findings, case complexity, co-existing medical conditions, surgeon expertise, and timing and quality of access to operating facilities and staff, however, should all be considered in determining whether a macula-sparing RRD requires immediate intervention or if equivalent visual and possibly better overall outcomes can be achieved with scheduled surgery within an appropriate time frame.

Long-term heavy silicone oil intraocular tamponade

Heavy silicone oil tamponade is intended to be temporary, but may occasionally be indefinite in patients who refuse, or are deemed unsuitable for, further surgery. The aim of this study is to compare the outcomes of patients with temporary versus indefinite heavy silicone oil intraocular tamponade. This retrospective, comparative case series identified 75 patients who underwent heavy silicone oil instillation (Oxane HD) over a 6 year period (2006-2012) in one institution. Thirty-nine patients had temporary heavy oil tamponade and 36 patients had indefinite tamponade. The majority (68 %) of patients had a history of previous vitreoretinal surgery prior to oil instillation and 66.7 % had pre-existing proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). The mean final logMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was significantly better in the temporary tamponade group (1.34 ± 0.66) than the indefinite tamponade group 1.82 ± 0.64 (p = 0.003). Ambulatory BCVA (≥ 4/200) was retained in 76.3 % of temporary tamponade patients versus 54.3 % of indefinite tamponade patients (p = 0.093). Successful retinal reattachment was significantly more likely in temporary tamponade patients (92.3 %) than indefinite tamponade patients (75 %; p = 0.04). Complications in the patients with indefinite heavy silicone oil tamponade included redetachment (38.9 %), corneal pathology (13.8 %), secondary glaucoma (11.1 %) and anterior segment emulsification (8.3 %).While temporary tamponade patients had better outcomes than those with indefinite tamponade, the majority of indefinite tamponade patients still retained ambulatory vision in the affected eye. Indefinite heavy silicone oil tamponade remains a viable option for those who cannot undergo removal of oil surgery.