Exposed and Infected Scleral Buckle

Approximately 2% of retinal detachment repairs using scleral buckles are associated with subsequent exposure of the scleral buckle. The conjunctiva breaks down over the silicone rubber explant. In most cases an infection is associated with the exposure. In this case, the exposed scleral buckle is shown by the black arrow. The blue arrow indicates purulent exudate. The surrounding conjunctiva is red and the conjunctival vessels are dilated. These cases are treated by removal of the scleral buckle. Approximately 17% of the time, the retina redetaches after removal of the scleral buckle, and another retinal procedure must be done to reattach the retina.