Preventing Retinal Detachment: Where are We? Implications from Stickler Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Genetics
• Retinal Diseases

Background:

• Stickler syndrome is a rare inherited disorder associated with a significantly elevated lifetime risk of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), reaching up to 65%.
• The primary pathogenesis for RRD in both syndromic and non-syndromic eyes involves vitreous tractional tears in the peripheral retina.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of 360-degree (encircling) laser retinopexy in preventing RRD in patients with Stickler syndrome.
• To establish a foundation for prophylactic RRD treatment in non-syndromic eyes at high risk.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent publications (2021-2022) reporting on the use of 360-degree laser retinopexy.
• Analysis of the evidence for RRD prevention in Stickler syndrome patients.

Main Results:

• Recent studies demonstrate successful prevention of RRD in Stickler syndrome using 360-degree laser retinopexy.
• This prophylactic approach addresses the common pathogenesis of vitreous tractional tears.

Conclusions:

• 360-degree laser retinopexy provides strong evidence for RRD prophylaxis in Stickler syndrome.
• The findings support the confident application of similar prophylactic strategies for non-syndromic eyes at high risk of RRD.