Late Complications after Successful Scleral Buckling Surgery Using Hydrogel Buckles

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To report late complications of hydrogel buckles (MIRAgel explant, MIRA, Waltham, U.S.A.) from use in scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment. METHODS: The clinical records of 10 patients who underwent MIRAgel removal between January 1993 and March 2005 were reviewed. Preoperative computerized tomography (CT) scans were examined in three patients with suspected orbital mass. The unused and removed MIRAgel were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). RESULTS: The average interval to MIRAgel removal was 9.4 years. Patients presented with complaints of restricted gaze (6 cases), exposed buckle (6 cases), palpebral mass (5 cases), and periorbital swelling (3 cases). Initially, 4 patients were misdiagnosed with orbital tumor or cellulitis. MIRAgel were removed by transconjunctival or skin incision, (totally in 7 eyes and partially in 3 eyes). CT scans showed circumferential soft tissue mass surrounding the globe with a peripherally-enhancing rim. SEM showed that unused samples had a smooth surface and uniformly sized micropores. The surfaces of the removed MIRAgel were uneven, with micropores that were distorted in shape and irregular in size. CONCLUSIONS: Because late complications with MIRAgel have various clinical aspects, complete history taking and ophthalmic examination are essential in making an accurate diagnosis and choosing proper treatment. Patients with MIRAgel should be followed up periodically, and its timely removal should be considered.