Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in Royal Naval personnel: a retrospective study

A retrospective study was conducted to assess the various factors thought to influence the outcome of retinal detachment in RN personnel. A description of retinal detachment and its management, aimed at non-specialists, is given in the introduction. In the study period eight Servicemen had rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. All underwent conventional detachment surgery, but two required two further operations including vitrectomy. Important features of each patient's detachment are discussed, as is post-operative progress. All patients spent a considerable time away from duty and three were discharged from the Service on medical grounds. Poor outcome could be related to myopia, trauma, delay in presentation to primary care, the number of operations performed and to post-operative complications. Advice is given regarding assessment and management of suspected cases by non-specialists. It is hoped that reporting this study will increase awareness within the RN of retinal detachment as a sight-threatening condition.