Original Article April 15, 2026 April 15, 2026

Primary pneumatic retinopexy in the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

DOI: 10.37039/1982.8551.20260031

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To evaluate pneumatic retinopexy in the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Methods:

A retrospective observational study of 24 eyes was conducted over a one-year period, using secondary data collection and a qualitative-quantitative approach. Patient characteristics, clinical presentation, and treatment-related variables were analyzed.

Results:

The mean age was 58.29 ± 12.36 years, with 58.33% of patients being male. Pseudophakia was present in 20.83% of cases. The median baseline visual acuity was 1.3 LogMAR (ranging from 0.1 LogMAR to hand-motion). Retinal detachment was subtotal with the macula attached in 70.83% of cases, and 75% were confined to the superior retina. Most retinal breaks were single (79.16%) and located in the superior region (91.66%). All cases were treated within 24 hours. Anatomical success was achieved in 62.5% of cases, with transient ocular hypertension observed in 16.66%. Final visual acuity in successful cases was 0.3 LogMAR (range: 0 to 0.8 LogMAR). Among the seven unsuccessful cases, six were treated with vitrectomy and one with a new pneumatic retinopexy. Final visual acuity in re-treated eyes was 1.6 LogMAR.

Conclusion:

Pneumatic retinopexy is an effective low-cost treatment option for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, with a low rate of complications.