Primary vitrectomy in complicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment--a survey of 205 eyes.
BACKGROUND
In a few types of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), scleral buckling (SB) has a lower success, and, here, pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) is a good alternative option. This survey reviews the indications and the surgical outcome of primary PPV with internal tamponade.


METHODS
We reviewed 205 eyes operated by primary PPV for RRD at the Department of Ophthalmology of the Philipps University Marburg between the years 1990 and 1997. The indications of PPV were: holes greater than 90 degrees; holes posterior to the equator; proliferative vitreoretinopathy grade C; pseudophakic status.


RESULTS
A complete reattachment of the retina after absorption of the gas or after silicone oil removal was achieved by 1 operation in 146 eyes (71.2%) and in 195 eyes (95.2%) by a second intervention.


CONCLUSIONS
Although SB is the standard procedure for the treatment of RRD, complicated cases can be treated successfully with primary PPV.
Department of Ophthalmology, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany. jc.schmidt@gmx.de
J C
JC
Schmidt
E B
EB
Rodrigues
S
S
Hoerle
C H
CH
Meyer
P
P
Kroll
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005466:Fluorocarbons / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012163:Retinal Detachment / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D012167:Retinal Perforations / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D012827:Silicone Oils / Q000008:administration & dosage; D013459:Sulfur Hexafluoride / Q000008:administration & dosage; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity; D014821:Vitrectomy / Q000379:methods*
D005466:Fluorocarbons; D012827:Silicone Oils; D013459:Sulfur Hexafluoride