Persistent serous retinal detachment after radial optic neurotomy

We report the case of a patient presenting with serous retinal detachment following radial optic neurotomy for central retinal vein occlusion. Initially, the retinal detachment was successfully treated by a second vitrectomy and laser coagulation. After reabsorption of the gas tamponade, a recurrence of the retinal detachment was seen with no detectable retinal break. Although other mechanisms should be taken into account, this case indicates that it is possible to create a fistula between the subarachnoid and subretinal space. We conclude from this observation that special attention should be paid to the depth of the radial incision into the optic nerve head.