Minimal Scleral Buckling without Sub-retinal Drainage for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: an Analysis of 30 Cases

  Objective  To explore the efficiency and complications of minimal scleral buckling surgery without sub-retinal drainage for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

  Methods  The clinical data of 28 patients (30 eyes) who received minimal scleral buckling surgery without sub-retinal drainage for their rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were retrospectively analyzed. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), retinal attachment condition, and complications were observed before and after surgery.

  Results  Among these 30 eyes, 13 eyes were buckled by silicone sponge with only one scleral stitch, 14 eyes with two scleral stitches, and 3 eyes with three or more stitches. The preoperative BVCA was < 0.1 in 14 eyes, 0.1-0.3 in 8 eyes, and > 0.3 in 8 eyes. After (9.4±2.5) months of follow-up, the postoperative BVCA was < 0.1 in 5 eyes, 0.1-0.3 in 9 eyes, and > 0.3 in 16 eyes (P < 0.05). The retina was reattached by 24h for 20 eyes and by 72h for 8 eyes; three eyes were reoperated. The success rate was 90% for the first surgery and 100% after a second operation. Only one eye suffered from exposure of silicone sponge.

  Conclusion  Minimal scleral buckling without subretinal drainage is an effective method to treat rhegamatogenous retinal detachment.