Scleral Buckle

A scleral buckle is a surgical procedure used in ophthalmology to repair a retinal detachment. During this procedure, a silicone band or sponge is sewn onto the sclera (the white outer layer of the eyeball) to indent and support the retina. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina detaches from its normal position at the back of the eye, which can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly.

The scleral buckle works by counteracting the forces pulling the retina away from the wall of the eye, allowing the retina to reattach and restoring its normal function. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with other techniques such as cryopexy or laser photocoagulation to seal any retinal tears and prevent further detachment. Recovery time can vary, but patients typically need regular follow-up to monitor healing and ensure optimal visual outcomes.