Update on pneumatic retinopexy

Abstract

Purpose of review: Pneumatic retinopexy is an effective, cost-efficient procedure for retinal detachment repair. We review the history, indications, procedure, outcomes, economics, and trends regarding this in-office procedure.

Recent findings: Pneumatic retinopexy is classically performed in patients with small, superior retinal breaks, but these indications are expanding, with good results. Retinal reattachment rates with pneumatic retinopexy vary from 60% to 91% depending upon patient selection. Pneumatic retinopexy is less costly to perform than scleral buckling and pars plana vitrectomy and avoids many of the complications associated with these procedures. Despite these good results, recent data suggest that the use of pneumatic retinopexy is on the decline.

Summary: Recent review of the literature and our own personal experience using pneumatic retinopexy in selected cases of retinal detachment indicate that it is an effective and inexpensive procedure that avoids many of the complications that are associated with other retinal reattachment procedures.