Scleral Buckling
What is Scleral Buckle Treatment
Scleral buckle surgery is a procedure used to treat a detached or torn retina, a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. The sclera is the white of the eye, and a scleral buckle is a small silicone band or indent that is surgically placed around the eye to gently push the sclera inward. This helps the retina reattach to the back of the eye, restoring vision.
Why is Scleral Buckle Needed
The retina is the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye. When the retina becomes detached or torn, it can no longer transmit visual information to the brain effectively. This can happen due to:
– Aging or thinning of the retina
– Eye injuries or trauma
– Severe nearsightedness (high myopia)
– Complications from eye diseases like diabetes
Without prompt treatment, a detached retina can lead to permanent vision loss. Scleral buckling is one of the primary surgical options to reattach the retina and preserve sight.
Benefits of the Scleral Buckle Treatment
– Effectively reattaches the retina in over 90% of cases
– Restores and preserves vision
– Can be performed on an outpatient basis, with a short recovery time
– Generally considered a safe and effective procedure
– Provides long-term stabilization of the retina
Preparation Before the Procedure
Before the scleral buckle surgery, your ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough eye exam and possibly order imaging tests like an ultrasound to assess the extent of the retinal detachment. They will also discuss the procedure in detail, explain any risks, and answer any questions you may have.
You may be asked to stop taking certain medications in the days leading up to the surgery. On the day of the procedure, you will be given anesthetic eye drops and/or an injection to numb the eye. The area around the eye will also be cleaned and sterilized.
Scleral Buckle Treatment Procedure
The scleral buckle surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. Your ophthalmologist will make a small incision in the white of the eye and gently place the scleral buckle, a silicone band or indent, around the eye. This helps push the sclera inward and allows the retina to reattach.
The incision is then closed with dissolvable stitches. In some cases, additional procedures like cryotherapy (freezing) or laser therapy may be used to further secure the retina. The entire process usually takes 1-2 hours.
Precautions and Care After the Procedure
After the scleral buckle surgery, your eye may be covered with a protective shield, and you may need to wear an eye patch for a few days. Your doctor will prescribe medicated eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
It’s important to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and contact sports for several weeks to allow your eye to heal properly. You may also need to use special eye drops or ointments and keep your head positioned in a certain way during the initial recovery period.
Result of Scleral Buckle Treatment
In the majority of cases, the scleral buckle procedure is successful in reattaching the retina and restoring some or all of the patient’s vision. However, the extent of vision improvement can vary depending on factors like the size and location of the retinal detachment, as well as any underlying eye conditions.
Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are crucial to monitor your progress and ensure the retina remains reattached long-term. With proper care and precautions, most patients are able to resume normal daily activities within a few weeks to a month after the procedure.
FAQs About Scleral Buckling
It is performed to reattach the retina and restore vision in cases of retinal detachment.
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so patients typically feel no pain during surgery. Mild discomfort may occur during recovery.
The surgery usually takes 1-2 hours, depending on the complexity of the retinal detachment.
Recovery typically takes 2-4 weeks, with full vision improvement potentially taking several months.
Booking an appointment is easy! You can call us at 0731-2553377 , fill out the appointment form on our website, or visit us in person. We also offer emergency consultations for urgent retinal conditions.
Do not ignore eye trouble!
Prompt treatment of retinal detachment or other serious eye conditions is essential to prevent permanent vision loss. If you experience sudden changes in vision, flashes of light, floating spots, or a “curtain” effect in your field of vision, seek immediate medical attention from a qualified eye specialist.
Scleral buckle treatment is a highly effective procedure for reattaching a detached retina and preserving vision. RETINA SPECIALITY HOSPITAL in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, offers this advanced treatment with state-of-the-art technology, ensuring top-quality care for patients with retinal conditions. Don’t delay seeking expert care for your eyes.