Ultra-widefield autofluorescence imaging in the evaluation of scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment.

PURPOSE: To investigate the use of ultra-widefield fundus autofluorescence imaging in the early postoperative evaluation of scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment.

METHODS: Forty-five eyes from 44 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were included. Ultra-widefield fundus autofluorescence imaging (Optomap P200Tx) was performed from both eyes preoperatively and early (1-2 days) postoperatively. All patients were operated with 2.5-mm encircling band, 6-mm to 9-mm segmental buckle, transscleral cryopexy, and the choice of drainage and air/gas endotamponade.

RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 58 ± 12 years, and the ratio of macula on-off detachments was 19/26. Light cryopexy induced hyperfluorescence of the treated area (in 11% of cases). Moderate cryopexy resulted in central hypofluorescence with a hyperfluorescent halo (in 51% of cases), whereas extensive cryopexy and disruption of the retinal pigment epithelium resulted in a broad hypofluorescent area (in 36% of cases). Tightening of the indenting elements induced peripheral hyperfluorescent radial streaks in 47% of cases and distinct areas of hyperfluorescence in 58% of cases. Demarcation lines and residual subretinal fluid were observed as hyperfluorescent areas. Central autofluorescence changes were observed in 96% of macula-off surgeries, whereas only 27% of these cases showed distinct hyper- and hypo-autofluorescent streaks.

CONCLUSION: Ultra-widefield fundus autofluorescence imaging is a useful adjuvant tool for evaluating early outcome and retinal pigment epithelium function after scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment.