Background and objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of peripheral vitrectomy under air in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD).
Patients and methods: Consecutive patients who underwent 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy for RRD were included. After removal of core vitreous and drainage of subretinal fluid, peripheral vitreous was removed under air infusion without scleral indentation. Silicone oil or C3F8 gas was used as tamponade.
Results: Forty-five eyes of 45 patients were evaluated retrospectively. Mean LogMAR, which was 1.65 LogMAR ± 1.44 LogMAR preoperatively, decreased to 0.26 LogMAR ± 0.28 LogMAR (P < .001; paired t-test). Initial and final reattachment rates were 91% and 98%, respectively. Scleral indentation was not necessary in any case. Iatrogenic retinal breaks occurred in three initial cases. Macular hole developed in one case after reoperation.
Conclusions: Peripheral vitrectomy under air is safe and effective in cases with RRD. Air eliminates the need for scleral indentation, stabilizes the retina, and allows sufficient clarity for vitrectomy. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:51-54.].
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