AIM: To evaluate the effects, surgical indications, complications and technique of pneumatic retinopexy(PR)combined with postoperative laser photocoagulation for the emergency treatment of retinal detachment.

METHODS: A review of 45 consecutive eyes of 45 patients who underwent PR for uncomplicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with superior retinal breaks at 6 o'clock and PVR stage lower than C from September 2011 to June 2012. Laser photocoagulation was performed at 24-48 hours after surgery. Primary and final anatomic outcomes, visual acuity, and adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS: The follow-up period was 3-15 months, with the mean of 10 months. The single-procedure reattachment rate was 40 eyes(88.9%). Postoperative subretinal bubble in 2 eyes(4.4%), subretinal fluid was absorded delay in 3 eyes(6.7%). New retinal hole in 5 eyes(11.1%), became tractional detachment of retina in 2 eyes(4.4%), cataract aggravated in 1 eye(2.2%).

CONCLUSION: PR with postoperative laser photocoagulation was applied to retinal detachment, which only with superior retinal hole and PVR stage be lower than C. Compared with vitreo-retinal surgery(V-R)and conventional scleral buckling(SB), PR closed retinal hole fleetly after found out rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. The requirements of therapeutic environment and armarium of PR are not so strict.The technique was simple. Treatment cost is cheap. But the single-procedure reattachment rate is low. It must be keep the posture with fidelity and follow up intimately.