[Trends in retinal detachment surgery : What has changed compared to 2001?]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Techniques
• Retinal Diseases

Background:

• A 2001 survey assessed rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treatment preferences (scleral buckling vs. primary vitrectomy).
• Advancements in vitrectomy technology necessitate an updated survey of current surgical practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To update and compare current treatment strategies for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with a 2001 survey.
• To evaluate trends in the use of scleral buckling versus primary vitrectomy.

Main Methods:

• An anonymous online questionnaire was distributed to 78 vitreoretinal surgeons in German-speaking countries.
• Surgeons reported treatment decisions for various retinal detachment scenarios, surgical experience, and anesthesia preferences.
• Results were compared to a similar 2001 survey.

Main Results:

• A significant majority (80.8%) of surgeons have performed over 1000 primary vitrectomies, compared to only 31.1% for scleral buckling.
• Vitrectomy is increasingly preferred for more complex retinal tear configurations.
• There is a marked trend favoring primary vitrectomy over scleral buckling, even in simpler cases, compared to 2001.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms a clear shift in the surgical management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment from scleral buckling to primary vitrectomy.
• This trend is driven by technological advancements and evolving surgical expertise.