A systematic review on delayed absorption of subretinal fluid after scleral buckling for rhegmatogenous retinal...

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment is a vision-threatening disease and is treated by either scleral buckling or pars planar vitrectomy. Rapid absorption of the subretinal fluid (SRF) helps in the early recovery of the vision. The absorption of SRF after the scleral buckling procedure is rapid, provided that the retinal break or breaks are closed at or after surgery. However, in some patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, complete absorption of the SRF occur several weeks or months after the surgery. In this review, we discuss the factors influencing the rate of SRF absorption and the role of delayed absorption on visual recovery. We also discuss the therapeutic options for delayed SRF absorption and the available additional therapeutic options. Knowledge of the factors that influence the rate of SRF absorption, would enable the surgeon to predict the outcomes more accurately.