Needle subretinal fluid drainage assisted pneumatic retinopexy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Abstract

Purpose: Pneumatic retinopexy (PR) continues to remain an important technique in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). We describe the results of a novel surgical technique of PR with subretinal fluid (SRF) drainage in this retrospective, nonrandomized case series. Subjects and Methods: Medical records of patients with primary RRD who underwent PR with SRF drainage and had been followed up for 6 months or more were reviewed. The procedure involved transconjunctival cryotherapy followed by drainage of SRF using a 26G needle and intravitreal injection of perfluoropropane. Outcome data measured included final visual acuity, anatomical success with single surgical procedure, surgical complications, and need for subsequent procedures. Results: Out of the 12 patients, there were 7 males and 5 females. The 12 patients aged in range from 24 to 64 years (average - 43 ± 15.55 years). Average duration of follow-up was 10 ± 3.56 months (range: 6–14 months). Eleven eyes achieved anatomical reattachment of the retina with a single procedure (91.6%). Redetachment was noted in one patient who was successfully treated with pars plana vitrectomy and scleral buckle.The final anatomical success rate was 100%. Visual acuity improved in all the eyes treated, and no major complications related to SRF drainage were encountered. Conclusion: PR with needle-assisted SRF drainage is a safe and useful technique for selected cases of primary RRDs with good anatomical and functional outcomes.