Outcomes of vitrectomy for chorioretinitis sclopetaria following blast-related ocular trauma

Abstract

Background To analyse the anatomical and functional results of pars plana vitrectomy in patients with Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria caused by severe combat-related ocular trauma.

Methods This retrospective, observational study involved 24 cases of pars plana vitrectomy in patients with Chorioretinitis Scleropetaria following combat-related ocular trauma. Best-corrected visual acuity and retinal reattachment were studied. The data were analysed via quantitative and categorical correlation analyses, as well as logistic regression models.

Results Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity improved in 18 patients (75%) but remained unchanged in 5 patients (20.8%). In 1 patient (4.2%), best-corrected visual acuity deteriorated due to the development of traumatic optic neuropathy. Retinal detachment was noted in 13 patients, whereas a macular hole was present in 5 patients. In 2 patients, both retinal detachment and macular holes were diagnosed simultaneously. After pars plana vitrectomy, retinal reattachment was achieved in 23 patients (95.8%). In one case, reattachment was unsuccessful. The localization of Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria was significantly associated with the final best-corrected visual acuity, with the best surgical outcome observed in patients with Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria located in the inferior sector of the fundus (p < 0.05). The outcome of pars plana vitrectomy for Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria with concomitant retinal detachment is significantly better when the procedure is performed earlier following blast injury.

Conclusions Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria following blast ocular trauma is characterized by a significant, persistent, best-corrected visual acuity decreasing, a high frequency of vitreous haemorrhages, macular holes, and retinal detachment. Pars plana vitrectomy in Chorioretinitis Sclopetaria has shown considerable effectiveness in improving visual function, retinal reattachment, and macular hole closure in patients with blast-related ocular trauma.