Factors Affecting the Outcome of Scleral Buckling Surgery for Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

INTRODUCTION: Scleral buckle surgery retains a special place in treatment of retinal detachment despite development of new and advanced vitreoretinal surgical techniques. The outcome of any retinal detachment surgery depends on correct selection of patient, type and nature of detachment, and the expertise. This study aims to evaluate various other parameters that determine the outcome of scleral buckle surgery. METHOD: Records of 55 patients with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treated with scleral buckling over a duration of 18 months that had a minimum of 3-month follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Preoperative and postoperative characteristics were recorded. Parameters that were evaluated to determine the outcome were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), anatomical success, and complications. RESULTS: A total of 51 eyes of 50 patients that met the inclusion criteria were included. Mean age was 41 ± 19.9 years (range: 9 to 83). Primary anatomical success was achieved in 80.4%. Parameters significantly associated with the anatomical outcome of surgery were status of lens, preoperative visual acuity, and extent of retinal detachment. There was a significant improvement of visual acuity postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Scleral buckle surgery is a highly effective surgery in uncomplicated retinal detachment cases, and single surgery success rates are better in cases with good preoperative visual acuity, partial detachment, and clear crystalline lens.