A retrospective series of 22 patients describes modifying standard silicone into a T-shaped macular buckle, allowing posterior-pole indentation without forcing material deep into the temporal sclera. At 12 months all retinas were reattached and no macular atrophy was reported, with visual improvement in the macular-detachment subgroup. There was no comparator, and adjunct procedures varied.
Key findings
- The 22 patients had a mean age of 67.2 years and baseline BCVA ranging from 20/400 to hand motions. Among 15 macular-detachment patients receiving buckling alone, mean logMAR BCVA improved to 0.82 ± 0.40 at six months and 0.67 ± 0.42 at 12 months. Median foveal reattachment was 3.5 months. Mean axial length fell from 29.9 ± 2.4 to 28.4 ± 2.78 mm, and all retinas were reattached without macular atrophy at 12 months.
Why this matters globally
Myopic traction maculopathy is difficult to treat and increasingly relevant as global myopia rises. A technique using standard surgical material could broaden options where bespoke implants are scarce, but comparative evidence on vision, safety and reproducibility is required.
Thai researcher contribution
Researchers from Navamindradhiraj University, Vajira Hospital and Rangsit University developed the intraoperative material modification and reported 12-month outcomes from Thai clinical practice.
Limitations to consider
This retrospective study included only 22 patients, with no randomisation or comparator. Pathology and adjunct procedures varied, preventing isolation of the T-buckle effect. Twelve months may miss late complications, and results from a specialised surgical team may not generalise.