Change in Axial Length and Astigmatism after Scleral Buckling in Patients of Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment

Purpose:  To determine changes in axial length and corneal astigmatism caused by scleral buckling in patients of uncomplicated retinal detachment undergoing scleral buckling procedure. Study Design:  Quasi-experimental design. Place and Duration of Study:  Peshawar Medical College and Allied hospitals, Pakistan from December, 2020 to May, 2021. Methods:  This study included60 patients of uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, recruited through consecutive sampling technique and managed with primary scleral buckling. After a detailed history and complete examination including A-scan and Keratometric readings, patients underwent scleral buckling procedure. Changes in axial length and corneal curvatureswere measured at 6 months follow up. Quantitative analysis was done using paired T test. Results:  Mean age of the sample was 41.95±13.67 years. The sample consisted of 42 males and 18 females. Encircling Band was used in 46 patients, segmental circumferential tire was used in 58 patients in one or more quadrants depending on the extent of the retinal detachment. Two patients underwent additional surgeries. The pre-operative mean axial length (AL) was 23.44±1.51 mm and post-operative AL at 6 months was 24.25±1.61mm (p < 0.05). The pre-operative and post-operative astigmatism were 1.08±0.43 and 1.75 ± 0.33 diopter respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusion:  Scleral buckling led to a significant increase in axial length and astigmatism over a 6-month period. These changes suggest that scleral buckling can alter the optical properties of the eye, potentially affecting visual acuity and requiring careful consideration of these factors in post-operative management.