Vitrectomy and fluid/silicone-oil exchange for giant retinal tears: 5 years follow-up

A series of 64 eyes, in 64 patients with giant retinal tears, treated by vitrectomy and fluid/silicone-oil exchange, has been reviewed after 5 years. Anatomical success was achieved in 73% of cases and visual function in successful cases ranged from 6/6 to NPL; 66% achieved acuities of 6/60 or better and 32% had vision of 6/18 or better. These results compare favourably with those in a previous series reported after 6 months and 18 months. Epiretinal membrane proliferation and shortening accounted for the majority of retinal redetachments while macular abnormalities, especially pucker, were responsible for a poor visual outcome. Glaucoma is the most serious long-term complication of the surgical method and occurs most frequently in aphakic eyes. Retention of the crystalline lens, whenever possible, the creation of a 6 o'clock iridectomy in aphakic eyes, early removal of silicone oil and a conservative approach to the use of scleral buckles are recommended.