Silicone Oil Tamponade for Therapy of Primary Retinal Detachment in Patients Who Live at High Altitudes

BACKGROUND

Uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is mainly treated with vitrectomy and gas tamponade or, alternatively, scleral buckling surgery. However, gas tamponade inflates at high altitudes, causing significant complications. Silicone oil (SO) tamponade volume is unaffected by atmospheric pressure and may be used in patients who live or must undertake travel at high altitudes.

PURPOSE

To determine the anatomical and functional outcomes after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with SO tamponade in primary uncomplicated RRD.

METHODS

Twenty-eight consecutive cases of patients operated between January 2017 and December 2022 in Jules-Gonin University Eye Hospital in Lausanne were included in this retrospective study. All patients had a follow-up of at least 3 months after SO removal.

RESULTS

Primary reattachment was achieved in all 28 eyes. Mean follow-up was 17.2 months (range: 3 - 51 months) after SO removal. Mean age at the time of intervention was 60 years (range: 21 - 80 years). Vision was stabilized or improved in 27 eyes (96%). One patient demonstrated a slight visual acuity decrease due to cataract formation at the last follow-up. In all patients, SO was removed 2 to 5 months after primary repair. In 14 of the 21 phakic patients, concomitant cataract surgery was performed. No surgical complications were encountered. Postoperatively, 5 (18%) patients had ocular hypertension, presumably steroid related, that was successfully controlled with topical treatment.

CONCLUSION

PPV with SO injection seems to be a safe and efficient surgical approach in the treatment of primary uncomplicated RRD in patients living at high altitudes and was associated with good anatomical and functional outcome in our series. However, the need for a follow-up surgery to remove SO should be weighed in these cases.

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.

Novel classification system for management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with minimally invasive detachment surgery: a network meta-analysis of randomized trials focused on patient-centred outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To describe a novel classification system for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) based on level 1 evidence assessing the functional outcomes of repair techniques with the goal of using a minimally invasive detachment surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials comparing pneumatic retinopexy (PnR), scleral buckle (SB), or pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for RRD was conducted. Primary outcomes were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), metamorphopsia, and operative complications. A meta-analysis was performed with a random effects maximum likelihood model, with outcomes of standardized mean difference (SMD) or risk ratio (RR) and 95% confidence interval. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were assessed to inform a classification system.

RESULTS

Fourteen trials were included. RRDs were classified from categories 1-3 based on configuration (simple to complex). There was no significant difference in final BCVA between PnR and PPV (categories 1 and 2; SMD = -0.10, 95% CI -0.24 to 0.04), nor was a final BVCA difference found between SB and PPV (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI -0.05 to 0.08), combined SB + PPV and PPV (SMD = 0.02, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.12), or combined SB + PPV and SB (SMD = 0.01, 95% CI -0.11 to 0.12). SB had an elevated risk of choroidal detachment (RR = 5.17, 95% CI 1.68-15.97), hypotony (RR = 12.26, 95% CI 1.63-92.04), and strabismus or diplopia (RR = 5.86, 95% CI 1.04-32.91) compared with PPV but a lower risk of iatrogenic breaks (RR = 0.08, 95% CI 0.02-0.43). Vertical metamorphopsia scores were superior for PnR over PPV at 12 months (Pneumatic Retinopexy versus Vitrectomy for the Management of Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Outcomes Randomized Trial, p = 0.026).

CONCLUSION

This novel classification system may be useful for future trials assessing morphologic categories of RRD in a systematic manner. Minimally invasive detachment surgery may allow for trials to focus on maximizing functional outcomes while minimizing morbidity.

Efficacy of Perioperative Intravenous Dexamethasone on Postoperative Analgesia in Scleral Buckle Surgery: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Postoperative pain is frequently reported following scleral buckle (SB) surgery. This study assessed the efficacy of perioperative dexamethasone on postoperative pain and opioid use following SB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-five patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments undergoing SB or SB and pars plana vitrectomy were randomly assigned to either standard care of postoperative oral acetaminophen and oxycodone/acetaminophen as needed or standard care plus 8 mg single-dose peri-operative intravenous dexamethasone. A questionnaire was administered on postoperative days 0, 1, and 7 to determine visual analog scale 0 to 10 pain score and number of opioid tablets consumed.

RESULTS

Mean visual analog scale score and opioid use were significantly lower in the dexamethasone group on postoperative day 0 compared with control (2.76 ± 1.96 vs 5.64 ± 3.40, P = .002; 0.41 ± 0.92 vs 1.34 ± 1.43, P = .016). The dexamethasone group also demonstrated significantly lower total opioid use (0.97 ± 1.88 vs 3.69 ± 5.32, P = .047). No significant differences in pain score or opioid use were observed on days 1 or 7 (P = .078; P = .311; P = .326; P = .334).

CONCLUSION

Single-dose intravenous dexamethasone following SB can significantly reduce postoperative pain and opioid use. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023;54(x):X-X.].

Scleral Buckling Using Chandelier and Releasable Suture: A Useful Surgical Variant

PURPOSE

To describe a surgical variant for scleral buckling technique using a chandelier and scleral releasable suture.

METHODS

We collected retrospectively 20 eyes of 20 patients who underwent to scleral buckling for retinal detachment. In all cases, the surgeons performed the surgical variant of scleral buckling using a 27-gauge (G) chandelier as endoillumination and releasable 7.0 vicryl scleral suture.

RESULTS

None of the operated eyes developed lens opacity or lens marks at the entrance site of the chandelier used during the surgery, and no cataract development was observed as well, during the follow-up. Retinal reattachment was achieved in 19 out of 20 eyes at the first surgery in the follow-up time of 6 months.

CONCLUSION

The association of chandelier and releasable suture was a useful surgical variant when performing scleral buckling technique for retinal detachment. Complications like lens opacity or lens marks at the entrance site of the chandelier due to the use of chandelier itself can be greatly reduced, as well as complications due to vitreous prolapse from the sclerotomy by using releasable scleral suture.

COMPARISON BETWEEN SCLERAL BUCKLING AND VITRECTOMY IN THE ONSET OF CYSTOID MACULAR EDEMA AND EPIRETINAL MEMBRANE AFTER RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT REPAIR

PURPOSE

To investigate the incidence and risk factors for the main complications in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treated with scleral buckling (SB) or pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).

METHODS

A retrospective, comparative, observational study was conducted. The medical records of 107 patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment who were managed with SB (n = 57) or PPV (n = 50) were reviewed. Scleral buckling was performed using scleral encircling solid silicone band and circumferential solid silicone exoplant to support the break. Pars plana vitrectomy was combined with phacoemulsification in phakic eyes and with scleral encircling in inferior detachments. Follow-ups, including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography examination, were scheduled at 1, 3, and 12 months after surgery. Propensity score matching was used to adjust for potential preoperative selection bias.

RESULTS

The overall incidence of postoperative cystoid macular edema (CME) and epiretinal membrane was 14.95% and 30.84%, respectively. Compared with SB, CME was more frequent in the PPV (P = 0.021) and in the PPV pseudophakic eyes (P = 0.027). Postoperative CME was an early, predominantly transient complication and regressed in 67% of SB and in 77% of PPV eyes within 12 months after surgery. No differences were observed regarding epiretinal membrane development. Except for the surgical technique, no preoperative factors associated with CME were identified. A correlation between epiretinal membrane and patients' age was found (P = 0.028).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of CME after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair was higher in patients who underwent PPV, either alone or combined with phacoemulsification, than in those treated with SB. Epiretinal membrane development was correlated to older age, regardless of the surgical procedure.

Effect of surgical modality on visual outcomes for young patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments: a retrospective cohort study

Objective

To examine outcomes of different surgical modalities for correcting primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachments in patients younger than 50 years of age.

Methods and analysis

A single-centre, retrospective, cohort study of 754 patients who underwent retinal surgery at the University of Virginia Hospital between 1 July 2012 and 1 July 2020 was conducted. Exclusion criteria were patients less than 18 or over 50 years of age, repeat detachments, second eyes of patients with bilateral detachments and follow-up less than 3 months. A multivariate regression model was used to compare overall outcomes in patients.

Results

86 patients met inclusion criteria and of those, 38 (44%) underwent vitrectomy, 22 (26%) underwent scleral buckling, 13 (15%) underwent pneumatic retinopexy and 13 (15%) underwent combined scleral buckle and vitrectomy repair. Comparison of eye-level parameters among the procedure groups shows difference with respect to macular involvement (p<0.05) but not regarding clock hour involvement or giant tear status (p>0.05). Preoperative visual acuity was superior in the scleral buckle group compared with vitrectomy (p<0.001). Mean postoperative visual acuity improved with all procedures and all repair procedures had comparable rates of complication. The mean overall anatomical success rate was 73% (n=63) and comparable among all modalities.

Conclusions

Vitrectomy, scleral buckle, pneumatic retinopexy or combined procedures are viable repair options for rhegmatogenous retinal detachments in patients younger than 50 years of age. Selection of the repair modality should be guided on baseline clinical features of the patient and detachment.

Persistent Subretinal Fluid Following Successful Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Surgery

PURPOSE

To provide an updated, critical summary of the literature on the topic of persistent subretinal fluid (PSF) following successful rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgery.

METHODS

Narrative literature review.

RESULTS

PSF remains an insufficiently studied topic. Incidence rates vary significantly between reports, but pars plana vitrectomy seems associated with lower rates than buckle surgery. Multiple etiologies and risk factors have been proposed, none being conclusive. PSF gradually resolves in most cases which may be a lengthy process, often with no effect on potential final visual acuity. There is concern that some cases with PSF may sustain photoreceptor damage, retinal displacement, or retinal fold formation. There is no current evidence to support any treatment modality over observation in uncomplicated cases of PSF.

CONCLUSION

Future large, well-controlled, prospective trials could help elucidate incidence rate, etiological factors, and sequelae of PSF, as well as the value of different interventions in its prevention and management.

Assessment of the Retinal Toxicity and Sealing Strength of Tissue Adhesives

PURPOSE

The purpose of this in vitro prospective nonrandomized study is to compare the toxicity and strength of cyanoacrylate and hydrogel adhesives on human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and porcine retina, respectively.

METHODS

The toxicity of cyanoacrylate (histoacryl, dermabond, superglue), ReSure PEG, and Tisseel fibrin glue on human RPE cells was determined by growing RPE cells in vitro, applying the different adhesives to the cells, and monitoring for disruption of growth over 3 days. The relative strength of these adhesives was tested by gluing a 3 mm piece of foam to a porcine retina and determining the amount of force needed to break the attachment.

RESULTS

0.085 N of force was required to break the porcine retinal tissue (p = .913). Histoacryl adhesive exhibited high strength (0.247 N) and high RPE toxicity (0.55 mm inhibition zone after 24 hrs). The strength of Tisseel fibrin glue was 0.078 N while that of ReSure was only 0.053 N. Both Tisseel and ReSure were nontoxic to the RPE cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Tisseel VH fibrin sealant may provide the best option for sealing retinal breaks because of its high strength and low retinal toxicity.

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.

Pars Plana Vitrectomy versus Scleral Buckle: A Comprehensive Meta-Analysis of 15,947 Eyes

Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and scleral buckling (SB) are two of the most common surgical treatments for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). This meta-analysis compares the efficacy and safety of PPV and SB for RRD. A systematic literature review was performed using Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane CENTRAL from 2000 to June 2021. Comparative studies, randomized controlled trials and observational studies investigating PPV and SB for RRD repair were included. The primary endpoint was final best- corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Secondary endpoints were reattachment rates, total operation time, and incidence of adverse events. Subgroup analyses including phakic status, presence of PVR-C or greater at baseline, and macular attachment status were conducted. Across 41 studies (8 RCTs, 33 observational studies), 5,401 SB and 10,546 PPV eyes were included. SB achieved a statistically significant, but likely not clinically significant, better final BCVA than PPV (0.38 ± 0.53 vs. 0.33 ± 0.53 logMAR (20/48 vs. 20/43 Snellen); weighted mean difference [WMD]: 0.07; 95% confidence interval: [0.02-0.11]; P=0.005). SB had a better final BCVA compared to PPV in observational studies (P=0.007) but not in RCTs (P=0.21). SB had a lower incidence of post-operative cataract formation (P<0.00001) and iatrogenic breaks (P<0.00001), but a higher incidence of choroidal hemorrhage (P=0.007), choroidal detachment (P=0.004), and residual subretinal fluid (RSRF) (P<0.00001). Primary (86.5% vs. 84.8%; P=0.13) and final (96.7% vs. 97.7%; P=0.12) reattachment rates were similar between PPV and SB. PPV had a significantly higher primary reattachment rate in RCTs (P=0.02) but not in observational studies (P=0.30). SB was associated with a better final BCVA than PPV; however, this result was primarily driven by observational studies and phakic patients who developed cataracts. Primary and final reattachment rates were similar between the comparators. SB was associated with a significantly lower incidence of iatrogenic breaks and cataracts, while PPV was associated with a reduced risk of choroidal detachment, subretinal hemorrhage, and RSRF.

Pars plana vitrectomy, scleral buckle, and pneumatic retinopexy for the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a meta-analysis

We reviewed the literature on the efficacy and safety of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), scleral buckle (SB), and pneumatic retinopexy (PR) for the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs). A systematic search was performed on three databases from inception to September 2020. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing RRD management options were included. Meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model. Eighteen RCTs and 2,751 eyes were included. For PPV versus SB, early postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) favored SB (weighted mean <1 month postoperatively: ~counting fingers for PPV versus ~20/260 for SB, P = 0.02), but differences were nonsignificant at other time points. There was no difference for primary reattachment (P = 0.08). PPV had a lower incidence of choroidal detachment (P = 0.004), hypotony (P = 0.01), and strabismus/diplopia (P = 0.04) but a higher incidence of iatrogenic breaks (P = 0.003) and cataract development/progression (P = 0.05) relative to SB. Combination management was nonsignificantly different relative to PPV alone for CDVA, complications and reattachment rate. In closing, PPV is associated with a slower visual recovery, but similar final visual acuity and primary reattachment rate relative to SB. Combination procedures did not improve primary reattachment rates or vision relative to standalone PPV. Heterogeneity was seen across the included trials, and further randomized trials are needed to reduce the uncertainty of these estimates.

Surgical repair of primary non-complex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in the modern era of small-gauge vitrectomy

OBJECTIVE

To report anatomic and visual outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), as well as scleral buckling (SB) and PPV/SB as surgical treatments for the management of primary, non-complex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Data from 751 eyes that underwent PPV, SB or combined PPV/SB as a surgical treatment for primary non-complex RRD with at least 3 months of follow-up were analysed to determine rates of single surgery anatomic success (SSAS) and final anatomic success (FAS). Patients or the public were not involved in the design, conduct or reporting of this research.

RESULTS

PPV accounted for 89.0% (n=668), PPV/SB for 6.8% (n=51) and SB for 4.2% (n=32) cases. Overall SSAS (91.2% PPV, 84.3% PPV/SB, 93.8% SB; p=0.267) and FAS (96.7% PPV, 94.1% PPV/SB and 100.0% SB; p=0.221) were reported for the three surgical groups. SSAS and FAS were similar for lens status, macular detachment status and the presence or absence of inferior retinal breaks for each of the PPV, PPV/SB and SB groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large, single institution, retrospective case series, we report surgical outcomes for patients with primary non-complex RRD managed with PPV, SB or PPV/SB in the modern era of small-gauge vitrectomy. We demonstrate that primary PPV without adjunct SB provides excellent anatomic and visual outcomes irrespective of lens status, macular involvement or pathology location.

Scleral buckling versus pars plana vitrectomy in simple phakic macula-on retinal detachment: a propensity score-matched, registry-based study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To assess the anatomical and visual results of uncomplicated phakic macula-on retinal detachment (RD) in patients treated with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) or scleral buckling (SB).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients aged <65 years and diagnosed with uncomplicated phakic macula-on primary RD, who were registered in the Japan-Retinal Detachment Registry, was compiled between February 2016 and March 2017. We performed propensity score matching using preoperative findings and surgeon-related factors as covariates to account for relevant confounders. The primary outcome was anatomical failures at 6 months postoperatively, classified as follows: level 1, an inoperable state; level 2, anatomical recovery with silicone oil tamponade; and level 3, need for additional surgery to repair the detachments. The secondary outcome was change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).

RESULTS

Of the 822 included patients, 552 underwent PPV and 270 underwent SB. After propensity score matching, 137 matched cases between the PPV and SB groups were analysed. The total proportion of surgical failures in the PPV group was higher than that in the SB group (risk difference, 0.10 (0.02 to 0.18), p=0.011, McNemar's test). Conversely, the change in BCVA was not significantly different between the two groups (logMAR units, -0.015 (-0.084 to 0.053), p=0.66, paired samples t-test).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the indications for PPV are becoming broader, PPV may not be the optimal approach for repairing all types of RD. Therefore, careful consideration is needed when selecting the right surgical technique for treating uncomplicated phakic macula-on RD cases.

Standardized scleral buckling approach in the management of noncomplex primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To analyze the anatomical and functional outcomes of a standardized scleral buckling approach in patients with noncomplex primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

METHODS

Retrospective institutional case series of 135 eyes of 131 patients diagnosed with noncomplex primary RRD. All patients underwent scleral buckling surgery with the placement of an encircling 5 mm oval sponge at 15 ± 2 mm posteriorly from the limbus, cryopexy, subretinal fluid drainage, and air tamponade.

RESULTS

Final anatomical success at 12 months was achieved in all 135 eyes (100%). Primary anatomical surgical success was obtained in 127 out of 135 eyes (94%), while re-detachment occurred in eight out of 135 cases (6%). Primary anatomical success was significantly lower in pseudophakic eyes (p < 0.001). At the end of the follow-up period, no vision loss was observed in any patient and both sphere and cylinder refraction shift was mild. There was a low rate of postoperative complications. Nine out of 135 eyes (6.6%) developed full thickness macular hole, whether in 24 out of 135 eyes (17.8%) epiretinal membrane development was noticed.

CONCLUSION

A standardized scleral buckling approach for primary noncomplex RRD may be effective. The technique is reproducible, easier, and quicker to perform if compared to classic scleral buckling procedures, suggesting that it may represent a valuable surgical option. Special care is needed in the management of pseudophakic RRD due to higher risk of RRD recurrence.

IMPACT OF INNER LIMITING MEMBRANE PEELING ON VISUAL RECOVERY AFTER VITRECTOMY FOR PRIMARY RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT INVOLVING THE FOVEA

PURPOSE

To assess the impact of inner limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for macula-involving retinal detachment on best-corrected visual acuity (VA).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 89 eyes with primary macula-involving retinal detachment, which was undergoing vitrectomy, endolaser, retinotomy, endodrainage, and SF6 tamponade. Membrane-blue-assisted membrane peeling had been performed in 61 of the eyes (Group 1) but not in the other 28 (Group 2), which served as controls.

RESULTS

Age, lens status, and incidence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy 26.2% versus 39.3%; P = 0.23 in the 2 groups were comparable. The preoperative visual acuity (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters) was 25.7 ± 27.9 in Group 1 and 28.8 ± 29.9 in Group 2 (P = 0.47). After surgery, these rose from 62.3 ± 30.5 (Group 1) and 34.2 ± 35.8 (Group 2) after 1 week (P = 0.090), through 83.1 ± 8.0 and 57.2 ± 32.4 at 1 month (P = 0.0005), to 92.1 ± 4.5 and 74.4 ± 23.1 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters after 6 months (P = 0.0005). More than 6-month incidences of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (13.1% vs. 28.6%; P = 0.13) were similar, whereas the redetachment rate (9.8% vs. 32.1%; P = 0.014), the incidence of secondary epiretinal membranes (1.6% vs. 35.7%; P = 0.0005), and the revitrectomy rate were lower in group 1 (9.8% vs. 53.6%; P = 0.0005).

CONCLUSION

Inner limiting membrane peeling during vitrectomy for macula-involving retinal detachment may substantially contribute to the visual recovery, reducing the incidence of secondary epiretinal membrane formation.

Surgical outcomes of Pars Plana Vitrectomy for recurrent retinal detachment in eyes previously treated with Pars Plana Vitrectomy or Scleral Buckling

PURPOSE

To report anatomical and functional outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for recurrent retinal detachment (RD) after failed scleral buckling (SB) or primary PPV.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 59 eyes with recurrent RD treated previously with SB or PPV was performed. All eyes underwent 23 gauge PPV. The primary outcome was single surgery success rate (SSSR) for retinal reattachment at the final visit. Secondary outcomes were visual acuity change and number of reoperations.

RESULTS

SSSR was 77.4 % in the SB group and 67.9 % in the PPV group (P=0.41). The mean change in visual acuity was not significantly different between the two groups (P=0.35). The mean number of reoperations was 1.2±0.5 and 1.4±0.6 in the SB and PPV groups, respectively (P=0.38).

CONCLUSION

PPV was found to be an effective technique for the management of recurrent RD after SB and PPV surgeries. However, the small sample size and the retrospective design prevent any claims of advantages or disadvantages of one surgical technique over the other.

Pars plana vitrectomy versus scleral buckling for repairing simple rhegmatogenous retinal detachments

BACKGROUND

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) is a separation of neurosensory retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium. It is caused by retinal tears, which let fluid pass from the vitreous cavity to the subretinal space. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), scleral buckling surgery and pneumatic retinopexy are three accepted management strategies whose efficacy remains controversial. Pneumatic retinopexy is considered in a separate Cochrane Review.

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective of this review was to assess the efficacy of PPV versus scleral buckling for the treatment of simple RRD (primary RRD of any extension with up to two clock hours large break(s) regardless of their anterior/posterior localisation) in people with (phakia) or without (aphakia) a natural lens in the eye, or with an artificial lens (pseudophakia). A secondary objective was to assess any data on economic and quality-of-life measures.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, which contains the Cochrane Eyes and Vision Trials Register; MEDLINE; Embase; LILACS; the ISRCTN registry; ClinicalTrials.gov and the WHO ICTRP. The date of the search was 5 December 2018.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PPV versus scleral buckling surgery with at least three months of follow-up.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodology. Two review authors independently extracted the data and study characteristics from the studies identified as eligible after initial screening. We considered the following outcomes: primary retinal reattachment, postoperative visual acuity, final anatomical success, recurrence of retinal detachment, number of interventions needed to achieve final anatomical success, quality of life and adverse effects. We assessed the certainty of evidence using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

This review included 10 RCTs (1307 eyes of 1307 participants) from Europe, India, Iran, Japan and Mexico, which compared PPV and scleral buckling for RRD repair. Two of these 10 studies compared PPV combined with scleral buckling with scleral buckling alone (54 participants). All studies were high or unclear risk of bias on at least one domain. Five studies were funded by non-commercial sources, while the other five studies did not report source of funding.There was little or no difference in the proportion of participants who achieved retinal reattachment at least 3 months after the operation in the PPV group compared to those in the scleral buckling group (risk ratio (RR) 1.07, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.98 to 1.16; 9 RCTs, 1261 participants, low-certainty evidence). Approximately 67 in every 100 people treated with scleral buckling had retinal reattachment by 3 to 12 months. Treatment with PPV may result in 4 more people with retinal reattachment in every 100 people treated (95% confidence interval (CI) 2 fewer to 11 more).There was no evidence of any important difference in postoperative visual acuity between participants in the PPV group compared to those in the scleral buckling group (mean difference (MD) 0.00 logMAR, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.10, 6 RCTs, 1138 participants, low-certainty evidence).There was little or no difference in final anatomical success between participants in the PPV group and scleral buckling group (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.04, 9 RCTs, 1235 participants, low-certainty evidence). There were 94 out of 100 people treated with control (scleral buckling) that achieved final anatomical success compared to 96 out of 100 in the PPV group.Retinal redetachment was reported in fewer participants in the PPV group compared to the scleral buckling group (RR 0.75 (95% CI 0.59 to 0.96, 9 RCTs, 1320 participants, low-certainty evidence). Approximately 28 in every 100 people treated with scleral buckling had retinal detachment by 3 to 36 months. Treatment with PPV may result in seven fewer people with retinal detachment in every 100 people treated (95% CI 1 to 11 fewer).Participants treated with PPV on average needed fewer interventions to achieve final anatomical success but the difference was small and data were skewed (MD -0.20, 95% CI -0.34 to -0.06, 2 RCTs, 682 participants, very low-certainty evidence).Very low-certainty evidence on quality of life suggested that more people in the PPV group were "satisfied with vision" compared with the scleral buckling group (RR 6.22, 95% CI 0.88 to 44.09, 1 RCT, 32 participants).All included studies reported adverse effects, however, it was not always clear whether they were reported as number of participants or number of adverse effects. Cataract development or progression was more prevalent in the PPV group (RR 1.71, 95% CI 1.45 to 2.01), choroidal detachment was more prevalent in the scleral buckling group (RR 0.19, 95% CI 0.06 to 0.65) and new/iatrogenic breaks were observed only in the PPV group (RR 8.21, 95% CI 1.91 to 35.21). Estimates of the relative frequency of other adverse effects, including postoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy, postoperative increase in intraocular pressure, development of cystoid macular oedema, macular pucker and strabismus were imprecise. Evidence for adverse effects was low-certainty evidence.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Low- or very low-certainty evidence indicates that there may be little or no difference between PPV and scleral buckling in terms of primary success rate, visual acuity gain and final anatomical success in treating primary RRD. Low-certainty evidence suggests that there may be less retinal redetachment in the PPV group. Some adverse events appeared to be more common in the PPV group, such as cataract progression and new iatrogenic breaks, whereas others were more commonly seen in the scleral buckling group such as choroidal detachment.

Impact of Age on Scleral Buckling Surgery for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate new prognostic factors in associated with primary anatomical failure after scleral buckling (SB) for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Methods

The medical records of patients with uncomplicated RRD treated with SB were retrospectively reviewed. Eyes with known prognostic factors for RRD, such as fovea-on, proliferative vitreoretinopathy, pseudophakia, aphakia, multiple breaks, or media opacity, were excluded. Analysis was performed to find correlations between anatomical success and various parameters, including age.

Results

This study analyzed 127 eyes. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that older age (≥35) was the sole independent prognostic factor (odds ratio, 3.5; p = 0.022). Older age was correlated with worse preoperative visual acuity (p < 0.001), shorter symptom duration (p < 0.001), presence of a large tear (p < 0.001), subretinal fluid drainage (p < 0.001), postoperative macular complications (p = 0.048), and greater visual improvement (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Older age (≥35) was an independent prognostic factor for primary anatomical failure in SB for uncomplicated RRD. The distinguished features of RRD between older and younger patients suggest that vitreous liquefaction and posterior vitreous detachment are important features associated with variation in surgical outcomes.

Primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment - surgical methods and anatomical outcome

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to evaluate the anatomical success of surgical management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and to compare the anatomical outcomes from different surgical techniques.

METHODS

During 2012, 517 consecutive eyes (514 patients) were operated by 11 surgeons at the Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital. Patient records were retrospectively analysed with no exclusions. Main outcome measures were primary and final anatomical success. Primary anatomical success was defined as retinal reattachment 6 months after primary surgery with reoperations excluded. Final anatomical success was defined as retinal reattachment 6 months after primary surgery with reoperations included.

RESULTS

Incidence of RRD was 18.6 eyes per 100 000 person-years. The macula was detached in 50.5% of the eyes at baseline. Of 517 operated eyes, 317 (61.3%) underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), 23 (4.5%) pars plana vitrectomy together with a scleral buckle (PPV-SB), 175 (33.9%) scleral buckle (SB) surgery and two (0.4%) pneumatic retinopexy (PR). Primary anatomical success was 89.0% in the PPV group, 87.0% in the PPV-SB group and 85.7% in the SB group. Final anatomical success was 98.1% in the PPV group, 100% in the PPV-SB group and 99.4% in the SB group. Factors which were correlated to the redetachment were detachment of more than 6 clock hours (p = 0.003) and visual acuity (VA) on Snellen chart <0.5 (p = 0.02) at baseline.

CONCLUSION

This study showed no significant differences in the surgical success rates in the treatment of RRD between pars plana vitrectomy, scleral buckle or the combined procedure of vitrectomy and buckle. Factors which were found to be correlated to the redetachment of the retina were large detachment and low VA.

VITREORETINAL SURGERY WITH SILICONE OIL TAMPONADE IN PRIMARY UNCOMPLICATED RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT: Clinical Outcomes and Complications

BACKGROUND

To determine the anatomical and functional outcomes and possible complications after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with silicone oil (SO) tamponade in primary uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachments.

METHODS

This is a prospective observational study. Overall, 62 consecutive patients who underwent surgical repair by PPV and SO injection for primary uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment between January 01, 2006 and April 30, 2012 were followed. In general, PPV was chosen over scleral buckling when a significant cataract or a vitreous hemorrhage prevented adequate fundus visualization. Silicone oil was chosen over gas tamponade in patients living at 1,000 meters above the sea level, where SF6 or C3F8 tamponade could not be performed because of the risk of acute increase of intraocular pressure (IOP). One thousand centistokes SO was used in all eyes. At all visits, patients had a detailed ocular history and thorough bilateral evaluation, including best-corrected visual acuity, anterior segment examination, and IOP measurements by aplanation and fundus examination. Outcomes were assessed at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and every 6 months thereafter. Increased IOP was defined as an IOP of more than 21 mmHg.

RESULTS

Anatomical success rate, final best-corrected visual acuity, IOP elevation, cataract formation, and other complications were the main outcome measures. This study included 62 eyes of 62 patients (41 men and 21 women) that underwent retinal detachment repair by PPV and SO injection. The age at the time of intervention was 57.6 ± 10.5 years (mean ± standard deviation; range, 34-79 years). All patients were whites. Mean follow-up was 24.5 ± 17.3 months (range, 6-70 months). Anatomical success rate defined as retinal reattachment 6 months after SO removal was 93.5%. Final BCVA was improved in 55 eyes (88.7%), with a mean of 4 Snellen lines, unchanged in 5 (8.1%), and worse in 2 eyes (3.2%), with a mean of 3 Snellen lines. Mean duration of SO tamponade was 5.12 ± 2.37 months (range, 2-12 months). From the 30 eyes that were still phakic after vitrectomy, 24 eyes (80.0%) underwent cataract surgery within a period of 7.37 ± 3.00 months (range, 2-13 months). Thirty-five eyes (56.5%) had an increase in IOP during the follow-up period. Thirty-one patients had transient ocular hypertension requiring topical treatment during the immediate postoperative period (one month). Only 1 eye (2.9%) required filtrating drainage surgery for IOP control. No eyes developed optic neuropathy secondary to IOP elevation.

CONCLUSION

Pars plana vitrectomy with SO injection seems to be a safe and efficient surgical approach in the treatment of primary uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in patients living in high altitude (>1,000 m). Also, PPV and SO injection are associated with good anatomical and functional outcomes in our series. Reattachment rates are high, and rates of proliferative vitreoretinopathy are low. Cataract formation and elevated IOP represent frequent but successfully controlled complications.

Scleral buckling in phakic uncomplicated primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: long-term outcomes

Purpose

Scleral buckling (SB) is a surgical technique that has been used successfully to treat retinal detachments for the last 6 decades. The aim of this study was to report the long-term anatomical and functional outcomes of SB surgery in phakic patients with uncomplicated primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (PRRD). This article also outlines the benefits of SB compared to pars plana vitrectomy, such as reducing the risk of developing cataract, high intraocular pressure, and glaucoma, in addition to reducing surgical cost.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical notes of 90 phakic eyes with PRRD treated with SB surgery that had a minimum of 5 years follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative characteristics were recorded. Main outcome measures were reattachment rate, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement, and complications.

Results

A total of 90 eyes (88 patients) with phakic PRRD repaired through SB surgery were included. Mean age was 49.2 ± 14.6 years (range 20-80). Primary and final anatomic success was 96.7% and 100%, respectively. Mean preoperative BCVA was 0.3 ± 0.31 logMAR (6/12) and mean postoperative BCVA 0.1 ± 0.2 logMAR (p<0.001) (6/7.5). There were no cataract or primary open-angle glaucoma cases after 1 year of follow-up. Mean follow-up was 8.5 ± 2.6 years (range 5-13).

Conclusions

We report a high single operation success rate over time in phakic PRRD, repaired through SB surgery. Functional and anatomical success was maintained throughout the follow-up without complications. Therefore, the authors recommend the use of this technique in selected cases in order to reduce morbidity and the incidence of reoperations.

SMALL-GAUGE VALVED VERSUS NONVALVED CANNULA PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY FOR RETINAL DETACHMENT REPAIR

PURPOSE

To compare functional and anatomical outcomes and complication rates between valved versus traditional nonvalved small-gauge cannula vitrectomy for retinal detachment repair.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of 163 eyes undergoing small-gauge valved versus nonvalved vitrectomy with intraoperative perfluoro-n-octane for retinal detachment repair at a single academic institution.

RESULTS

There were 104 eyes in the valved cannula group and 59 eyes in the nonvalved cannula group. The valved group had lower baseline Grade C proliferative vitreoretinopathy (35 vs. 53%, P = 0.031) and combined rhegmatogenous retinal detachment/tractional retinal detachment (3 vs. 12%, P = 0.037), but both groups had otherwise comparable preoperative characteristics. Final postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 1.01 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (Snellen 20/205) and 1.27 (Snellen 20/372) (P = 0.131) in valved and nonvalved cannula eyes, respectively. Single surgery success was equivalent between the valved and nonvalved groups (88 vs. 86%; P = 1.00). Final anatomical success was higher in the valved versus nonvalved group (98 vs. 90%; P = 0.027). Complication rates were not statistically different, including Postoperative Day 1 intraocular pressure, Postoperative Day 1 anterior chamber fibrin, retained subretinal/intraocular perfluoro-n-octane, and epiretinal membrane peeling.

CONCLUSION

Valved cannulas, with their improved fluidics, are an important addition to pars plana vitrectomy with similar functional and anatomical success without increased complication rates compared with traditional nonvalved cannulas.

Success Rates of Vitrectomy in Treatment of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

Aim. To investigate the anatomical success rates of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) after primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Methods. This retrospective study was conducted between December 2008 and October 2014 at Nagasaki University Hospital. The preoperative data recorded included the lens status, location of the retinal tear, whether a tear was visualized, presence of multiple tears, macula status, presence of peripheral lattice retinal degeneration, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). The primary outcome measures were anatomical (primary and final) and functional success (visual acuity better than 6/60). Results. This study evaluated 422 eyes of 411 patients with a mean age of 57.7 ± 11.2 years. The single-operation reattachment rate (primary anatomical success) was 89.8%. The final anatomical success rate was 100% after 2–6 operations (mean = 3.14 ± 1.03). Functional success rate after the primary reattachment operation was 96.7%, while it was 97.2% at the end of the follow-up. Multiple logistic regression analysis of the possible risk factors for the primary anatomical failure showed a significant relation with the 25 G instruments (P = 0.002) and the presence of multiple tears (P = 0.01). Conclusion. The primary anatomical success of PPV for primary uncomplicated RRD was 89.8% and the final anatomical success rate was 100%.

Outcome of primary vitrectomy in phakic patients aged younger than 50 years with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments

PURPOSE

To evaluate the visual outcome, primary anatomic success, and cataract progression of phakic eyes of patients aged younger than 50 years treated for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV).

METHODS

This was a retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study. The data from 53 RRD patients undergoing PPV were analyzed. The time course changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and cataract formation were examined.

RESULTS

The 53 patients had a mean age of 37.8 years. Forty-eight eyes (90.6 %) achieved anatomic success after the primary surgery. The BCVA improved significantly after surgery (mean ± SD -0.091 ± 0.146) when compared with the baseline (mean ± SD 0.214 ± 0.597; P = 0.0001). No patient aged younger than 40 years (mean 32.5 years; range 17-39) developed significant lens opacity or received cataract surgery within the first 3 years. Of the patients aged older than 40 years (mean 43.8 years; range 40-49), 22 % developed significant lens opacity and received cataract surgery within the first 3 years. A significant difference was found in cataract progression between the two groups within the first 3 years (P = 0.0217), but not over the entire follow-up period (P = 0.1679).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that lens-sparing PPV for RRD in patients aged younger than 50 years had a reasonable success rate, although cataract progression was evident during the follow-up period in patients aged older than 40 years.

Comparison of scleral buckling and vitrectomy using wide angle viewing system for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in patients older than 35 years

Background

To compare scleral buckling (SB) and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) using a wide angle viewing system (WAVS) for uncomplicated phakic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

Methods

The medical records of patients with uncomplicated phakic RRD were retrospectively reviewed. Eyes with pseudophakic or attached fovea were excluded. Patients treated with SB were classified as group B, and PPV using WAVS as group V. Primary success rate, visual acuity (VA), macular complications, and sustained subretinal fluid (SRF) were compared between groups.

Results

Seventy-two eyes were included in group B and 57 eyes in group V. Group B had better preoperative VA (1.38 ± 0.87 vs 1.84 ± 0.97 in LogMAR, P = 0.010), but worse final VA (0.51 ± 0.48 vs 0.30 ± 0.23, P = 0.012) than group V. The primary success rate of 94.7 % in group V was higher than 77.8 % in group B (P = 0.010). Final success rate was 100 % in both groups. There was no significant difference in macular complications between groups (P = 0.087). Sustained SRF was found in 22 eyes in group B (38.6 %), while only two eyes in group V exhibited sustained SRF (2.8 %, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Pars plana vitrectomy using WAVS was more efficacious than SB for treating uncomplicated phakic RRD.

Surgical complications of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To investigate the surgical complications of scleral buckling (SB) and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) performed on primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and to discover which surgical procedures bring fewer complications.

METHODS

An electronic literature search using the PubMed database, ISI Web of Knowledge and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify randomized controlled trials and observational studies comparing SB with PPV on primary RRD. Outcome measures included intra-operative complications and early and late post-operative complications.

RESULTS

During the operation, significantly less subretinal hemorrhage occurred in the PPV group than in the SB group (OR = 4.71; 95%CI, 1.33-16.64; p = 0.02) and the hypotony incidence was significantly higher in the SB group (OR = 18.24; 95%CI, 2.37-140.44; p = 0.005); however, the occurrence of iatrogenic breaks was significantly lower in the SB group (OR = 0.05; 95%CI, 0.01-0.21; p<0.0001). In the early stage of post-operation, significantly higher incidence of choroidal detachment was identified in the SB group than in the PPV group (OR = 10.19; 95%CI, 2.36-44.09; p = 0.002); patients undergoing SB had significantly higher odds of residual subretinal fluid (OR = 14.71; 95%CI, 1.84-117.32; p = 0.01); the occurrence of high intraocular pressure was significantly lower in the SB group (OR = 0.46; 95%CI, 0.23-0.89; p = 0.02); and no significant difference was shown in the incidence of epithelia defect (p = 0.37) between the two groups. In the late stage of post-operation, the incidence of diplopia/extraocular muscle dysfunction was significantly higher in the SB group (OR = 4.04; 95%CI, 1.30-12.52; p = 0.02); and significantly less cataract was observed in the SB group (OR = 0.20; 95%CI, 0.14-0.30; p<0.00001); no significant difference was found in the incidences of cystoid macular edema (p = 0.65), macular pucker (p = 0.52), post-operative proliferative vitreoretinopathy (p = 0.73) and epiretinal membrane (p = 0.47) in other late post-operative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggests that PPV could be considered as potential surgical management on primary RRD.

Sutureless 25-Gauge Vitrectomy for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Caused by Superior Breaks Using Air Tamponade

PURPOSE

This study was aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 25-gauge sutureless vitrectomy in repairing primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with air tamponade.

DESIGN

This is a prospective, clinic-based, case series.

METHODS

Twenty consecutive eyes of 20 patients with primary RRD caused by superior breaks of less than a month underwent transconjunctival sutureless 25-gauge vitrectomy with intraocular air tamponade. Patients who had a follow-up of less than 6 months were excluded. Outcome measures included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), reattachment rate by a single procedure, final reattachment rate by additional procedures, and complications.

RESULTS

The mean follow-up was 10 months (range, 6-15 months). The proportion of eyes with BCVA of between 20/200 and 20/70 increased significantly from 15% at baseline to 65% on day 14 (P = 0.024). At final follow-up, 15%, 60%, and 25% had BCVA worse than 20/200, between 20/200 and 20/70, and better than 20/70, respectively. The mean BCVA was significantly better than baseline (logMAR, 1.4) by day 14 (logMAR, 0.87). The reattachment rate by a single procedure was 70%, and the final success rate was 100% after 1 additional procedure. The primary success rate increased to 77.8% after excluding 2 eyes with proliferative vitreoretinopathy grade C1. High myopia and large retinal break were 2 other conditions associated with failed primary reattachment. No postoperative complication was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Selected eyes with primary RRD may gain the benefit of early visual recovery when treated with 25-gauge vitrectomy and air tamponade.

Changing trends in surgery for retinal detachment in Korea

Purpose

To analyze trends in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) surgery among the members of the Korean Retina Society from 2001 to 2013.

Methods

In 2013, surveys were conducted by email and post to investigate the current practice patterns regarding RRD treatment. Questions included how surgeons would manage six cases of hypothetical RRD. Results were compared to those reported in 2001.

Results

A total of 133 members (60.7%) in 2013 and 46 members(79.3%) in 2001 responded to the survey. Preference for pneumatic retinopexy has decreased in uncomplicated primary RRD (p = 0.004). More respondents in 2013 selected vitrectomy as the primary procedure when mild vitreous hemorrhage (p = 0.001), myopia (p = 0.044) and history of successful scleral buckling on the fellow eye (p = 0.044) were added to the primary scenario. Vitrectomy was over twice as popular in cases of pseudophakic, macula-off RRD with posterior capsular opacity (p = 0.001).

Conclusions

For RRD with myopia, pseudophakia and media opacity, surgical interventions over the last decade have drastically shifted from scleral buckling and pneumatic retinopexy to vitrectomy.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgery in elderly people over 70 years old: visual acuity, quality of life, and cost-utility values

Background and Purpose

To evaluate the influence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) surgery on elderly patients in terms of visual acuity, vision-related quality of life and its cost-effectiveness.

Methods

Elderly patients over 70 years old, who were diagnosed and underwent RRD surgery at Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China, from January 1, 2009, through January 1, 2013. The participants received scleral buckling surgery and vitreous surgery with or without scleral buckling under retrobulbar anesthesia. We followed the patients for 1 year and collected best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), vision-related quality of life, and direct medical costs data. Utility values elicited by time-trade-off were analyzed to determine the quality of life. Quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained in life expectancy were calculated and discounted at 3% annually. Costs per QALY gained were reported using the bootstrap method. Further analyses were made for two age groups, age 70–79 and age over 80 years. Sensitivity analyses were performed to test stability of the results.

Results

98 patients were included in the study. The BCVA significantly improved by 0.53±0.44 (Logarithm of the Minimum Angle of Resolution (logMAR)) at the 1-year postoperative time point (p<0.001). Utility values increased from 0.77 to 0.84 (p<0.001), and an average of 0.4 QALYs were gained in the life expectancy. Costs per QALY gained from the RRD surgery were 33,186 Chinese Yuan (CNY) (5,276 US dollars (USD))/QALY; 24,535 CNY (3,901 USD)/QALY for the age group of 70–79 years and 71,240 CNY (11,326 USD)/QALY for the age group over 80 years.

Conclusions

RRD surgery improved the visual acuity and quality of life in the elderly patients over 70 years old. According to the World Health Organization’s recommendation, at a threshold of willingness to pay of 115,062 CNY (18,293 USD)/QALY, RRD surgery is cost effective in the elderly patients.

Trends and factors related to outcomes for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgery in a large asian tertiary eye center

PURPOSE

To describe trends and outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in a large Asian tertiary eye center.

METHODS

Retrospective review of 1,530 eyes with primary retinal detachment between 2005 and 2011 managed at the Singapore National Eye Center by one of the following: scleral buckling (SB), pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), and combined SB and PPV (SB + PPV). Anatomical and functional outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS

There was a trend toward PPV and PPV + SB as the primary reattachment procedure from 2005 to 2011. The primary anatomical success rate for PPV (78.6%) was worse than that for SB (88.8%) or SB + PPV (89.0%, P = 0.000). Final anatomical success rates were similar for all 3 procedures: SB 97.7%, PPV 95.2%, and SB + PPV 96.4%. Better functional success was achieved in the SB group (86.1%) than both the PPV (72.5%) and SB + PPV groups (77.5%, P = 0.000), partly attributable to the less complex nature of retinal detachments in the SB group. Older age and proliferative vitreoretinopathy were related to the poor functional outcomes in both phakic and pseudophakic eyes.

CONCLUSION

There was an increasing trend toward PPV and PPV + SB as the primary retinal reattachment surgery from 2005 through to 2011. High rates of anatomical and functional outcomes were achieved with SB, PPV, and SB + PPV, proliferative vitreoretinopathy and older age were negatively correlated with the functional success in both phakic and pseudophakic eyes.

23-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy Versus Scleral Buckling Versus Combined Pars Plana Vitrectomy-Scleral Buckling for Medium-Complexity Retinal Detachment Repair

PURPOSE

To compare the anatomic and visual outcomes of 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), scleral buckling (SB), and combined 23-gauge PPV/SB in the treatment of primary medium-complexity rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

DESIGN

A retrospective, consecutive case series.

METHODS

A consecutive chart review of patients with medium-complexity RRD treated with PPV, SB, and combined PPV/SB was conducted. The primary outcome measure was retinal reattachment at 6 months' follow-up. The secondary outcome measure was Snellen best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/40 or better at 6 months' follow-up.

RESULTS

Five hundred sixty-five cases met inclusion criteria. The overall primary anatomic success rate was 83.6% (95% confidence interval, 80.3%-86.5%). Logistic regression analysis did not demonstrate a significant difference between the 3 techniques in terms of likelihood of anatomic success or likelihood of achieving a Snellen BCVA of 20/40 or better. Patients with multiple breaks in 2 or more quadrants or inferior breaks were more likely to undergo SB/PPV, whereas patients with phakic lens status with breaks confined to 1 quadrant were more likely to undergo SB. Patients with macula-off detachments and those with postoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy were less likely to achieve a Snellen BCVA of 20/40 or better.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there was not a statistically significant difference in the anatomic and visual outcomes between the repair techniques analyzed, SB/PPV was performed on the more complicated spectrum of medium-complexity RRDs with the overall highest anatomic success rate and therefore may be the most effective repair technique for this patient population.

Effect of prophylactic 360° laser treatment for prevention of retinal detachment after phacovitrectomy: (Prophylactic 360° laser treatment for prevention of retinal detachment)

Background

To investigate the effect of intraoperative 360° laser retinopexy anterior to the equator for the prevention of retinal detachment after phacovitrectomy.

Methods

The patients were part of two consecutive case series cohorts in macular hole (MH) and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), one which did not receive intraoperative prophylactic 360° laser, and one which received intraoperative prophylactic 360° laser. For the 360° laser treatment group, three rows of medium-white burns were positioned anterior to the equator. The baseline characteristics and the risk of retinal detachment over time were analyzed and compared between the groups.

Results

Prophylactic intraoperative 360° laser treatment was performed on 77 MH cases (67.3 years) and compared to a control group of 35 MH cases (65.8 years). Additionally, prophylactic intraoperative 360° laser treatment was performed on 108 RRD cases (64.0 years) and compared to 270 RRD cases (64.4 years). The 360° laser group showed a significant reduction (0%, 0/77 eyes) in the rate of the incidence of retinal detachment after vitrectomy at 12 months after surgery in MH cases, compared with the control group (5.7%, 2/35 eyes) (p = 0.034). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that the rate of retinal detachment in the control group was significantly higher than that in the 360° laser group (p = 0.035). There was no significant difference between the groups in RRD cases (p = 0.092).

Conclusions

Intraoperative 360° laser retinopexy following phacovitrectomy resulted in a significant reduction in the rate of postoperative retinal detachment in MH cases.

Surgical management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

PURPOSE

To examine possible differences in clinical outcomes between pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and scleral buckling (SB) for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).

DESIGN

Meta-analysis.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult patients with uncomplicated RRD from previously reported randomized controlled trials of PPV and SB.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search using the Cochrane Collaboration methodology to identify randomized controlled trials comparing PPV with SB for uncomplicated RRD.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Analysis was divided into phakic and pseudophakic/aphakic patients. Primary outcome parameters included proportion of primary reattachment and difference of means of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 6 months or more between the PPV and SB groups. Secondary outcome parameters included the proportion of secondary reattachment and complications between the PPV and SB groups.

RESULTS

Seven studies were identified and analyzed for comparing PPV (636 eyes) with SB (670 eyes) for uncomplicated RRD. In the phakic group, there were no significant differences in the proportion of primary reattachments (odds ratio [OR], 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.69-1.46) or secondary reattachments (OR, 0.99; 95% CI, 0.34-2.87) between the PPV and SB groups. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant difference in the logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) BCVA at 6 months between the PPV-treated and SB-treated phakic eyes (mean deviation, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.06-0.21; P<0.0004). In the pseudophakic/aphakic group, there were no significant differences in the proportion of primary reattachments (OR, 1.46; 95% CI, 0.79-2.71) or logMAR BCVA at 6 months between the PPV and SB groups (mean deviation, -0.03; 95% CI, -0.10 to 0.04). A statistically significant difference was noted in the proportion of secondary reattachments (OR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.08-4.03; P = 0.03) between the PPV and SB groups in pseudophakic/aphakic eyes. Meta-analysis showed a statistically significant rate of cataract progression in the PPV group (OR, 4.11; 95% CI, 2.70-6.25; P<0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

There were no significant differences in the proportions of primary reattachment in the PPV and SB groups in phakic eyes. The SB-treated phakic eyes had better postoperative BCVA at 6 months or more. This is most likely related to higher rates of cataract progression in PPV-treated phakic eyes. There were no significant differences in proportions of primary reattachment and postoperative BCVA at 6 months or more in pseudophakic/aphakic eyes.

A propensity score matching application: indications and results of adding scleral buckle to vitrectomy: The Retina 1 Project: Report 3

PURPOSE

To identify the indications and differences in outcomes for adding a scleral buckle (SB) to pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in a prospective series of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) by using propensity score matching (PSM) to analyze causal effects in observational studies.

METHODS

Data were collected from the Retina 1 Project, a prospective, interventional, nonrandomized study of consecutive RDs. Case selection was based upon treatment with PPV or PPV+SB. Surgeons followed personal criteria for the inclusion of SB in the PPV. Propensity score matching corrected for selection biases. Outcomes were assessed by anatomic and visual criteria and the development of proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

RESULTS

Of 523 patients analyzed, 251 had PPV and 272 had PPV+SB. Surgeons used PPV+SB more frequently in younger patients with RD, in those with posterior or unidentified breaks, in phakic eyes, in eyes with the posterior vitreous attached, and for more extended RDs. Overall single surgery anatomic success rate was 86.4%. Based on PSM, there were no difference in reattachment rates of the PPV group, 86.9%, and the PPV+SB group, 85.93%. The incidence of PVR was similar in both groups, with 8.5% in the PPV group and 10.5% in the PPV+SB group.

CONCLUSIONS

Data from the Retina 1 Project established the indications for adding SB to PPV in treating primary RD in this series. No anatomic or visual differences between PPV and PPV+SB were found.

Pars plana vitrectomy without adjuvant procedures for repair of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy without adjuvant scleral buckling, prophylactic 360° endolaser photocoagulation, or perfluorocarbon liquid use for the treatment of primary uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

METHODS

Retrospective interventional case series of consecutive patients undergoing vitrectomy for noncomplex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment over a 10-year period. Main outcome measures included primary anatomical success rate, defined as retinal reattachment at final follow-up after a single operation, proportion of eyes achieving a final best-corrected visual acuity ≤ logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution 0.3 (≥ Snellen 20/40), and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

With a mean follow-up of 31 months, primary anatomical success was achieved in 95.7% (89 of 93) of eyes. Final anatomical success, defined as retinal attachment at final follow-up without regard to additional procedures, was achieved in 98.9% (92 of 93). Final best-corrected visual acuity of ≤ logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution 0.3 (≥ Snellen 20/40) was achieved in 77.4% of eyes in the cohort. Postoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy developed in 3.2% of eyes. No new retinal breaks developed postoperatively in the absence of clinically evident proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

CONCLUSION

Thorough pars plana vitrectomy alone, without adjuvant scleral buckling, 360° endolaser photocoagulation, or routine perfluorocarbon liquid use, yields high anatomical and functional success rates and low complication rates in the treatment of primary uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. In the absence of observable proliferative vitreoretinopathy, postoperative vitreous base contraction does not appear to be a clinically relevant phenomenon.

Trends in primary retinal detachment surgery: results of a Bicenter study

PURPOSE

To assess trends and outcomes in retinal detachment (RD) surgery based on a retrospective, interventional, bicenter study.

METHODS

Baseline demographic data, surgical procedures, and outcomes from 230 patients with a diagnosis of primary rhegmatogenous RD, who underwent surgery between January 2007 and December 2008 at the Rudolf Foundation Clinic, Vienna (Center 1) and the Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, (Center 2) were analyzed using a regression model.

RESULTS

Besides the baseline parameters, lens status (P = 0.01), refraction (P = 0.01), retinal tears (P < 0.02), proliferative vitreoretinopathy (P = 0.02), and previous treatment (P < 0.02), the primary RD procedure (P < 0.0001) was significantly different between the 2 centers. In Center 1, scleral buckling was the most common primary RD procedure (66.19%) compared with vitrectomy (82.42%) in Center 2. Primary retinal reattachment (88.49% Center 1 vs. 84.62% Center 2, P = 0.43) and best-corrected visual acuity at the final follow-up (best-corrected visual acuity ≥ 0.3 logarithm of minimum angle of resolution 48.92% Center 1 vs. 47.25% Center 2, P = 0.78) were not significantly different between the 2 centers.

CONCLUSION

Although there is a trend toward primary vitrectomy, scleral buckling was preferred in the center in Vienna and primary vitrectomy in the center in New York. Despite the different primary RD procedures, anatomical and visual outcomes were comparable.

Comparative study of 23-gauge vitrectomy versus 20-gauge vitrectomy for the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

PURPOSE

To compare the safety and efficacy of 20- and 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for the management of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) grade B or less.

METHODS

This comparative nested case-control study included 35 consecutive 23-gauge transconjunctival PPV cases matched (1:1) with 35 cases of 20-gauge PPV (from a prospective cohort of 1,150 patients) for the baseline visual acuity (VA), axial length, lens and macular status, the location and number of breaks, and PVR grade. All patients had complete PPV, cryotherapy, fluid-gas exchange, and a minimum follow-up of 6 months. The exclusion criteria were eyes with previous vitreoretinal surgery, combined vitrectomy and cataract surgery, RD secondary to trauma or macular hole, diabetic retinopathy, aphakic eyes, giant tears, or posteriorly located breaks precluding treatment using transconjunctival cryotherapy.

RESULTS

Baseline examination disclosed pseudophakia in 77.1%, high myopia in 11.4%, 2.7 ± 2.2 retinal breaks/eye, attached macula in 37.1%, and PVR grade B in 24.3% of the cases. The mean operative time and intraoperative complication rate (11.4%) were similar in both groups. In the 23-G group, we noted three cases of iatrogenic retinal tears and one case of choroidal detachment secondary to a dislodgment of the infusion line. Suturing the sclerotomy sites or the conjunctiva was required in 5.7 and 51% of the eyes, respectively. The single reattachment rate was similar in both groups, 74.3% in the 20-G group, and 80% in the 23-G group. The final anatomical success rate was 97% in the two groups. Mean preoperative VA of 1.2 ± 0.9 logMAR improved similarly in both groups to 0.4 ± 0.4 at the 6-month visit. A final vision of 20/40 or better was achieved similarly in 62.9% of the eyes in the 20-G group and 60% in the 23-G group.

CONCLUSIONS

Twenty-three-gauge PPV provides anatomical and visual results similar to the 20-G technique for the management of uncomplicated rhegmatogenous RD.