Brief Answer:
Procedure explained.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for asking on HealthcareMagic.

Your husband's ophthalmologist seems to be referring to Scleral buckling for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. A scleral buckle is performed in order to repair a retinal detachment by reestablishing the proximity of separated retina from its underlying tissue and not letting fluid accumulate in between. This is done by the inward indentation of the sclera from the exterior, creating a ridge (or buckle) that reduces the fluid underneath the tear and allows for the re-apposition of separated layers, thus reestablishing their physiologic connection. The sclera itself is most commonly indented by placement of a permanent explant with sutures, although temporary buckles have been used in variations. An acute retinal detachments is an ophthalmologic emergency that can rapidly progress to irreversible vision loss in the affected eye. Once secured, the normal physiologic and metabolic forces preventing separation may then maintain retinal attachment.

Hope that clarifies your doubt. Feel free to write back in case of further queries.

Regards

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Brief Answer:
Not predicable

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for writing back. I understand your apprehension but the situation is quite bleak. The answer to your question depends upon whether retinal detachment has occurred, if so, how long before the surgical apposition has been done. If there has been a significant time gap wherein the retina has been deprived of its blood supply, chances are that the lost vision may never return. This surgery takes a chance to revitalize portions of the retina that are still viable.

I hope you understand.

Regards

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