Clinical features and surgical outcomes in retinal detachment following Giant retinal tears

Aim To study the clinical features and outcome following surgery for Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) associated with giant retinal tears (GRT). Methods Retrospective case review of eyes with GRT and RRD undergoing surgery between April 2009 and March 2011 at retina clinic of our hospital. All cases were operated by a single surgeon. Main outcome measures studied were retinal re-attachment rate and final visual acuity. Results 16 eyes of 16 patients were included. There were 15 males (93.8). Mean age was 33.7 years. Predisposing factors were myopia in 12 eyes, prior surgery in 7 eyes, injury in 1 eye and none in 1 eye. Anatomical attachment and visual improvement was achieved in 14 eyes (87.5). Long term tamponade was required in 2 eyes. Conclusions RRD with GRT often affects young myopic males. Surgical outcomes can be good although long term tamponade may be required.