Management of Suture Penetration in Combined Vitrectomy and Scleral Buckle Surgery

To evaluate the surgical outcome of deep or full-thickness suture penetration during combined pars plana vitrectomy and scleral buckle (PPV/SB) surgery.

Clinical data of patients who underwent PPV/SB for retinal detachment in our practice between June 2017 and April 2019 were reviewed. Cases with full-thickness scleral penetration were identified. Data including initial presentation, intraoperative complications, and management were collected. Long-term surgical outcome, complications, and recurrent detachment were determined.

Twenty-three cases with evidence of suture penetration were identified. In none of the cases the penetrated suture was visible in the subretinal space. The suture was replaced in cases with persistent leakage through the penetration site or when the surgical plan involved silicone oil insertion. Subretinal hemorrhage was noted during vitrectomy in 7 (30%) patients. The subretinal hemorrhage migrated to the macula in 2 (9%) cases and was drained through a posterior retinotomy. Retinal incarceration was noted in 4 (17%) cases and was released using a focal retinotomy in 2 (9%)cases to reattach the retina. Late complications included epiretinal membrane in 6 (26%) and recurrent detachment occurred in 2 (9%) patients. Final anatomical success was achieved in all patients.

We propose new principles in the management of suture penetration during combined PPV/SB surgery. In the absence of a visible penetrated suture, suture replacement is required when there is profuse leakage through the penetration site or if silicone oil is used as tamponade. We recommend removal of submacular hemorrhage through a posterior retinotomy. The incarcerated retina can be flattened using release retinotomies.