Vitrectomy for complicated retinal detachments secondary to branch retinal vein occlusions.

Combined rhegmatogenous and traction retinal detachments associated with branch vein occlusions occurred in five eyes of five patients between Jan. 1, 1986 and Dec. 31, 1987. Four patients underwent surgery with pars plana vitrectomy and intravitreal gas, with or without scleral buckling. One patient refused treatment. All operated on eyes had attached retinas at a mean follow-up of seven months. Because posterior traction plays an important role in these unusual detachments, consideration should be given to pars plana vitrectomy and air-fluid exchange rather than scleral buckling alone.