Management of a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in a pregnant patient

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the management of a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in a pregnant patient. Observations: A 30-year-old, 26-week pregnant female presented with curtain vision loss in the left eye. Exam findings were significant in the left eye for an inferior fovea-sparing RRD. Care was coordinated and discussed with anesthesia and OB/GYN. The patient underwent surgery with monitored anesthesia care and a 41 scleral buckle, cryotherapy and C3F8 gas. The retina remained attached at 4 months post-operatively. A healthy girl was delivered via spontaneous vaginal delivery at 39 weeks. Conclusion: Safe and successful treatment of RRD in pregnant patients can be achieved with careful coordination between ophthalmology, anesthesia, and obstetrics. An understanding of pregnancy specific considerations is important in order to optimize patient outcomes.

Keywords

• Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
• Pregnancy
• Scleral buckle
• Anesthesia