Pneumatic retinopexy for late-onset recurrent retinal detachment.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Pneumatic retinopexy is used as a primary procedure for the repair of retinal detachments caused by visible retinal tears. Its application for late-onset recurrent retinal detachments following previous pneumatic retinopexy or scleral buckling procedure has not been reported to date.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pneumatic retinopexy was performed in 12 patients with recurrent retinal detachments due to new retinal tears who presented 6 months to 10 years after pneumatic retinopexy (8 patients) or scleral buckling surgery (4 patients). Follow-up ranged from 6 to 24 months.

RESULTS

All the retinas reattached within the first few postoperative days and remained attached throughout follow-up. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. Visual acuity either remained unchanged (if good before) or improved.

CONCLUSION

Pneumatic retinopexy may be a feasible option for recurrent late-onset retinal detachment under the proper clinical conditions.