Primary vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the role and the anatomic and visual results of primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in treating cases with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment. METHODS: All patients were divided into 2 groups. Each group included 23 consecutive eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and choroidal detachment with proliferative vitreoretinopathy less than grade C. In the study group, controlled removal of vitreous traction was achieved by primary vitrectomy and augmented by scleral buckling if needed. The breaks were treated by focused endolaser coagulation. Postoperative tamponade was done by SF6 or C3F8 gas. In the control group, all patients underwent regular scleral buckling procedure. The cases were followed up for 6 to 12 months. RESULTS: In the study group, retinal reattachment could be achieved in 21 cases (91.30%) after the first operation and in all cases after the second procedure. No occurrence of choroidal detachment occurred after the first procedure. Retinal reattachment rate and visual results tended to be better compared with conventional surgical techniques in the control group. CONCLUSION: Primary vitrectomy represents a safe, effective method in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment.