A Novel Approach to Subretinal Fluid Drainage in Coats'- Related Exudative Retinal Detachment

Laser is effective at treating exudative retinal detachment (ERD) in Coats' disease. However, with severe ERD, the retina may be in contact with the lens. In such cases, laser can result in cataract formation. This case report of two patients treated at an academic medical center for Coats'-related ERD describes a technique of minimally invasive subretinal fluid drainage to create space between the lens and retina to avoid cataract. Transconjunctival unguarded needle drainage allowed for complete treatment of telangiectatic vessels and resulted in favorable anatomical outcomes in the patients. Transconjunctival unguarded needle drainage is a useful technique for treating severe, Coats'-related ERD, when a bullously detached retina is in contact with the lens.