Outcomes of 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy combined with phacoemulsification and capsulotomy without intraocular lens implantation in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment (RRDCD) is a special type of complex retinal detachment, and usually has a poor prognosis. This study aimed to assess the anatomical outcomes of 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (23G PPV) combined with phacoemulsification (phaco) and capsulotomy without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in patients with RRDCD. Seventy-six consecutive patients with RRDCD, who underwent retinal repair surgery from January 2010 to December 2014, were retrospectively analyzed. Forty patients underwent 23G PPV + phaco + IOL implantation, and 36 underwent 23G PPV + phaco + capsulotomy without IOL implantation (i.e., aphakia). All cases were filled with silicone oil. The follow-up time was 6 months after silicone oil was removed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was the statistical method used. The overall retinal anatomical reattachment rate was 58% (44/76): 40% (16/40) of patients receiving 23G PPV + phaco + IOL implantation; and 78% (28/36) of patients receiving 23G PPV + phaco + capsulotomy + aphakia (P = .007). Surgical repair using 23G PPV + phaco + capsulotomy without IOL implantation can improve anatomical reattachment rates in patients with RRDCD.