AIM: To observe the efficacy and safety of 25-gauge vitrectomy combined with air tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

METHODS: The clinical data of 30 eyes with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment(RRD)from 30 patients who received vitrectomy with intraocular air tamponade in Zunyi First People's Hospital from August 2017 to December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The best corrected visual acuity(BCVA)(LogMAR), intraocular pressure were evamined before surgery, 1wk and 1mo after surgery, while the retinal reattachment rate, intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded.

RESULTS: The mean BCVA was significant different among before surgery, 1wk and 1mo after surgery(F=3.74, P=0.047), and the BCVA at 1wk and 1mo after surgery was evidently improved in comparison with before surgery(0.64±0.36 vs 0.87±0.71; 0.37±0.22 vs 0.87±0.71). The mean IOP was(13.61±3.57),(15.74±4.84)and(14.05±2.88)mmHg before surgery, 1wk and 1mo after surgery, showing no significant difference in IOP before and after operation(F=4.13, P=0.051). The retinal reattachment rate of retinal hiatus was 97%(29/30)1wk after operation. Postoperative OCT monitored 1 eye of persistent subomental effusion, which was absorbed 3mo after operation.

CONCLUSION: Vitrectomy combined with air tamponade is effective in the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. It can improve visual quality, reduce complications related to silicone oil and reduce the economic burden of patients.