Macular Sling: A Customizable Method for Macular Buckling using Available Elements

Purpose: Macular buckling surgery is used to treat certain cases of myopic traction maculopathy but is rarely performed in the United States. One of the main factors limiting its use is the lack of commercially available buckling elements. Here we describe a novel technique for creating an effective macular buckle using readily obtainable buckling materials. Methods: By using a traditional circumferential 41 band as the anchoring point around the globe, a 240 band can then be attached and oriented posteriorly along the superonasal-infertemporal axis. This posterior 240 band is then used to guide a grooved sponge (509G) under the macula to create a customizable and titratable tamponade effect along the posterior pole. This approach was used to provide external support in the case of a recurrent, complex tractional retinal detachment which had failed multiple prior vitrectomy-based repairs. Results: Placement of the macular sling resolved the patient’s recurrent retinal detachment with return of visual acuity to her pre-operative baseline. There have been no adverse effects related to the surgery aside from a large hyperopic shift due to the buckle effect on the macula. We believe the technical and material complexity of this technique is comparable to that of more common scleral buckling techniques. Conclusions: This macular sling technique can be used to create an effective posterior buckle without requiring specialized materials.