Scleral Buckle

Who would need a scleral buckle procedure?

Patients who have undergone scleral buckle surgery usually have a retinal detachment that occurs as a result of a tear or hole in the retina. This procedure does not apply to all patients with retinal detachment for those who cannot be treated with other treatments such as laser therapy or Cryopexy alone.

Why is this procedure significant?

A non-operative retinal detachment, a vision-threatening condition, leads to blindness in a permanent manner if left unmanaged. The surgical option of scleral buckle has a very high chance of being successful in restoring the retina attachment and by that preserving vision and preventing other complications.

How is this procedure done for the scleral buckle?

The actual procedure will involve:

• Preparation: The patient shall receive local anesthesia or general anesthesia depending on the size of the detachment and the preferences of the surgeon.
• Incision and Retinal Repair – small incisions will be made on the sclera to allow the surgeon to access the retina. Laser or cryotherapy will be delivered to the affected retinal area, if there are any tears or holes, for sealing.
• Scleral Buckle Placement – A flexible silicone band or sponge wraps around the sclera. The external pressure helps to retouch the retina properly.
• Buckling-Placing the Buckle: The buckle is to be sutured in place to the sclera for permanent fixation.

• Drainage of Sub retinal Fluid – It is sometimes necessary to drain the accumulated fluid beneath the detached retina for reattachment.
• Completion – The incisions are closed, and bandages applied to the eye to protect it during the initial phase of recovery.

How long is the procedure?

The time course of the surgery for scleral buckle varies from one to two hours. This will depend on the complexity of the detachment.

Does it hurt?

Not at all because anesthesia is administered for the procedure, as pain after the procedure may occur, it is easily controlled using prescribed medication.

What equipment or materials are used?

Yes. The primary material for this is the scleral buckle itself – silicone. Other instruments included are those for Cryopexy, lasers for sealing tears and drainage of sub retinal fluid if required.

What are the risks involved in the scleral buckle surgery?

However, there are possible risks with the surgery, and even though it is very effective, such risks include the following:-

• Infection – Quite rare in occurrence and manageable by antibiotics.
• Increased Intraocular Pressure – Can cause glaucoma if unattended.
• Double Vision- Most often temporary, although some may require further treatment.
• Retinal Re-detachment – Sometimes, this requires additional surgery.
• Bleeding or Swelling: Most of the time, these settle down with appropriate care.
• Refractive Changes- The operation may induce myopia (nearsighted vision).

What are the benefits of scleral buckle surgery?

• Effective Retinal Reattachment – High success rate of restoration of a retina’s position.
• Vision Preservation – Prevents further vision loss and may improve existing vision in many cases.
• Permanent Solution – The buckle remains in situ forever, delivering long-term support to the retina.
• Patient Compatibility to Other Treatments – It can be combined with other procedures for retinas to enhance results.

Why is the scleral buckle the best choice for retinal surgeries?

Retinal sconces are often resorted to for particular forms of retinal detachment such as numerous tears, or a massive detachment. Apart from that, it also works very well with younger patients or in such cases where the anatomical positions of certain attachments.

What do I expect from recovery?

The beginning recovery period has a little swelling, redness and discomfort, which disdains in a week or two. Vision may be blurry immediately postoperatively and improves gradually over the healing period.

How long until I get back to normal?

Complete recovery may take a couple of weeks up to several months. Stabilization of vision depends on the severity of the detachment as well as an individual’s healing characteristics.

Are there any guidelines for postoperative care?

Yes, your surgeon will provide overall guidance, including:-

• Use the prescribed eye drops which can prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities, and do not rub the eyes.
• Protective eyewear to shield the eye from injury.
• Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and retinal health.

What are the long-term outcomes of scleral buckle surgery?

The procedure has quite a good success rate and most patients have a lot of improvement in their vision along with retinal stability. Some patients may, however, require additional correction using glasses to manage their refractive changes.

When can I resume my daily activities?

Whether a few weeks after surgery will be sufficient for most patients to get back to their normal routines, including work will depend on the extent of the procedure and recovery progress.

Will I need further treatments following the scleral buckle surgery?

Some procedures, such as laser therapy or vitrectomy, might be performed after scleral buckle surgery to treat remaining or recurring detachments. Regular check-ups help detect any problems early on.

Does insurance cover scleral buckle surgery?

Scleral buckle surgery is medically necessary for treatment related to retinal detachment, and thus, insurance usually covers it.

Why Choose Tender Palm Eye Hospital for Scleral Buckle Surgery in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Eye Hospital provides comprehensive, advanced retinal surgeries that incorporate scleral buckling procedures. We are a team of experienced ophthalmologists who keep pace with modern advancements in technology to offer precise, safe, and effective interventions in eye care. From diagnosis to recovery, we put patient comfort as well as successful outcomes at the top of our priorities. With individualized treatment plans and thorough follow-up care, Tender Palm Eye Hospital is your trusted partner in vision restoration and retinal health.

To Schedule an Expert Consultation for Scleral Buckle Surgery in Lucknow, India