Pneumatic retinopexy as supplemental therapy for persistent retinal detachment after scleral buckling operation

Purpose: Persistent retinal detachment following scleral buckling may be caused by persistent open retinal tears with a large amount of subretinal fluid, despite proper positioning of the buckle. In this study we evaluated the effectiveness of supplemental pneumatic retinopexy in flattening of the detached retina. Methods: During 1990-1994 twelve cases of persistent retinal detachment following scleral buckling operation with appropriate position of the buckle, underwent supplemental gas injection. Results: Reattachment of the retina with complete absorption of the subretinal fluid was observed within 24-48 hours from the gas injection in all eyes. Three eyes redetached and required additional operations. At the end of the follow-up (mean 16 months) the retina was attached in all eyes, and the visual acuity was 20/120 or better in 11 eyes, and 20/30 or better in 7 eyes. No complications were observed. Conclusion: Pneumatic retinopexy for persistent retinal detachment, following scleral buckling, is effective in obtaining fast flattening of the retina and achieving good visual results.