A retinal buckle, commonly called a scleral buckle, is a silicone band or sponge sewn to the outside of the eye to support areas of retinal detachment. It indents the sclera inward, bringing it closer to the detached retina and sealing retinal breaks.
Purpose and Mechanism
By indenting beneath the retinal tear, the buckle relieves traction from the vitreous and supports reattachment after subretinal fluid is drained and laser or cryotherapy is applied. It remains on the eye permanently in most cases.
- Shapes and sizes vary from segmental sponges to encircling bands
- Often combined with vitrectomy or gas in complex detachments
- Can alter refractive error, typically causing some myopic shift
- Occasional discomfort or diplopia may be related to buckle position
Outcomes
Scleral buckling is particularly effective for certain types of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, especially in younger, phakic patients. Success and visual recovery depend on macular status and duration of detachment.
- Post‑operative monitoring checks for redetachment, infection, or elevated pressure
- Rarely, buckles are removed if they extrude or cause significant problems
- Patients should be aware of symptoms of new flashes or floaters
- Protective eyewear can be advisable during physical activities
