25-gauge vitrectomy with gas tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: experienced vs. inexperienced surgeons
Abstract Background: To compare the results and complication rates of a 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (25 g PPV) with gas tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) between experienced and inexperienced surgeons.Methods: This is a retrospective comparative consecutive case series study of patients with uncomplicated RRD treated with 25 g PPV with gas tamponade. Patients were divided into 2 groups: In Group 1 (ESG) the procedure was performed by an experienced vitreoretinal surgeon and in Group 2 (ISG) the procedure was performed by 2 inexperienced surgeons. Anatomical and functional results and complication rates were compared between the two groups.Results: 216 eyes were included in the study. In the ESG (106 eyes), the single operation success rate was 94.3%, and the final success rate was 100%. The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 0.38 decimal to 0.73 decimal. In the ISG (110 eyes), the single operation success rate was 93.6%, and the final success rate was 100.0%. The mean BCVA improved from 0.33 decimal to 0.74 decimal. The differences between groups were not statistically significant. There was no difference in complication rates between groups.Conclusions: A 25 g PPV with gas tamponade for uncomplicated RRD renders excellent functional and anatomical results even when performed by an inexperienced surgeon. The complication rate was comparable between experienced and inexperienced surgeons.