Degenerative retinoschisis with giant outer layer breaks and retinal detachment.

Five unusual cases of retinal detachment were caused by giant (more than 90 degrees) posterior breaks in the outer layer of degenerative retinoschisis. All retinas were successfully reattached by a variety of surgical techniques. The two cases managed with scleral buckling required subsequent buckle removal because of macular distortion. Treatment with cryotherapy or laser, together with intraocular air and postoperative positioning, gave better anatomic results.