A scleral buckle is a small, flexible band that an eye surgeon places surgically around the eye’s outer wall, known as the sclera. This band gently presses the sclera inward, which helps to push the retina back into its normal position. The primary purpose of this procedure is to treat a retinal detachment, a serious condition where the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye pulls away from its supporting layers. Reattaching the retina is necessary to restore and preserve vision.
Recognizing Scleral Buckle Failure
Scleral buckle failure can manifest as the buckle shifting, the retina re-detaching, or complications arising from the buckle itself. Recognizing specific symptoms is important for prompt medical attention.
New or worsening blurry vision, distorted vision, or the appearance of new floaters (specks or cobwebs) are common indicators. Flashes of light (photopsia) or a dark shadow or curtain obscuring part of the vision can also signal an issue.
Persistent or increasing eye pain, tenderness, or a feeling that something is in the eye around the buckle site suggests a problem. Signs of inflammation or infection include redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye, along with warmth around the surgical area. Double vision (diplopia) or a noticeable bulging of the eye (proptosis) may occur. Visual field defects, or specific areas where vision is missing, also warrant immediate medical attention.
Causes of Scleral Buckle Failure
Several factors can lead to a scleral buckle failing or causing complications.
Buckle-Related Issues
These include extrusion or migration, where the buckle moves out of place or begins to erode through the sclera or conjunctiva. Infection, caused by bacteria or fungi associated with the buckle material, is another potential problem. The buckle material itself can also cause erosion.
Retinal Issues
New tears or holes in the retina can lead to re-detachment. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), a condition where scar tissue develops on the retina, can pull the retina away again. Sometimes, the initial reattachment may not have been fully successful, or fluid might remain under the retina.
Other Complications
Increased pressure inside the eye, known as glaucoma, can also arise. Cataract formation, or opacification of the eye’s natural lens, is a recognized complication.
What to Do If You Suspect Failure
If you experience any symptoms suggesting scleral buckle failure, immediate medical consultation is necessary. Contact an ophthalmologist or retinal specialist without delay, as prompt evaluation can help prevent further vision loss or complications.
During a medical visit, you can expect a comprehensive eye exam and potentially imaging tests like ultrasound or optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess the eye’s condition. Treatment options will vary based on the diagnosis, and may include observation, medication for infection or inflammation, or surgical interventions.
Potential interventions include surgical revision of the buckle, buckle removal, vitrectomy (removal of the vitreous gel), or laser treatment. Timely intervention can significantly influence the outcome, so avoid self-diagnosing or delaying professional medical advice.