Fibrin Glue-Assisted Repair in Recurrent Retinal Detachment Following Post-Viral Retinitis: A Retrospective Analysis of 12 Cases in HIV-Positive Patients.

Purpose: To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of fibrin glue application in the surgical management of recurrent rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in patients with healed post-viral retinitis and HIV infection.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 40 cases of RRD secondary to viral retinitis in HIV-positive patients. Among these, 12 eyes exhibited recurrent detachment under silicone oil and were managed with silicone oil exchange, using fibrin glue to close persistent retinal breaks. Pre- and postoperative visual acuity, anatomical reattachment, and complications were assessed. The time to fibrin glue resorption and any evidence of epiretinal membrane formation were also recorded.

Results: All 12 cases achieved successful retinal reattachment post fibrin glue application. Silicone oil removal was performed between 3 to 4 months postoperatively. Best corrected visual acuity improved in all eyes (mean preoperative LogMAR VA 1.2 ± 0.13 improved to 0.53 ± 0.13, p < .001). There were no pre-operative or post-operative complications. Nineteen of the total 40 cases required concurrent cataract surgery.

Conclusion: Fibrin glue is a safe and effective adjunct for managing persistent retinal breaks in recurrent RRD under silicone oil in HIV-positive individuals with resolved viral retinitis. It promotes retinal reattachment and improves visual outcomes with minimal complications.