Scleral Rupture during Cryoretinopexy for Symptomatic Retinal Tears: A Case Series.

PURPOSE: To report the clinical outcomes of patients who experienced scleral rupture following cryoretinopexy and to highlight potential risk factors, management strategies, and prognosis.

METHODS

This retrospective case series includes patients who developed scleral rupture during cryoretinopexy for symptomatic retinal tear(s) across multiple ophthalmology units in the United Kingdom and internationally, between September 2003 and May 2025. Data collected included patient demographics, medical and ocular history, clinical examination findings, surgical management, and postoperative outcomes.

RESULTS

Four cases of scleral perforation were included in this series. The median age was 61 years, with an equal distribution of males and females. All patients underwent scleral repair and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with silicone oil tamponade. Three patients achieved a final visual acuity of at least 20/25, while one patient had a final visual acuity of 20/200. None of the cases had a history of systemic disorders, while myopia was noted in three patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Immediate scleral rupture repair combined with PPV and silicone oil tamponade is the preferred management approach and is associated with favorable postoperative outcomes. Comprehensive patient counseling and informed consent are crucial when planning cryoretinopexy.