Purpose of review: Update on controversies in the surgical management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.
Recent findings: There are multiple new reports regarding the development and management of retinal detachment. Current use of oral fluoroquinolones may be associated with onset of retinal detachment, although the clinical relevance of this correlation is uncertain at this time and the finding has not been replicated in subsequent studies. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) continues to demonstrate efficacy as a primary treatment for retinal detachment, especially in pseudophakic patients. In many patients with macula-on retinal detachment, scheduling surgery after a short time delay is not necessarily deleterious and may actually be beneficial. Novel surgical tools, including bioerodible scleral buckling materials and artificial vitreous substitutes, are being investigated.
Summary: Retinal detachment remains an important cause of visual loss. Although current surgical techniques demonstrate high rates of anatomic and visual success, further advances will probably benefit patients with retinal detachment.