Rare extraocular scleral buckle infections caused by microbial species: a case series

Abstract

Scleral buckling surgery is often used to repair noncomplex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. However, postoperative scleral explant infections can cause damage to the eye. This report describes two cases of rare ocular microbial infections after scleral buckling surgery. Two male patients with a history of retinal detachment repair and scleral buckling for more than 10 years presented with redness and purulent secretions of the eye. Scleral buckle infections were diagnosed, and the buckles were removed. The first patient experienced a coinfection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, and filamentous fungi. Acinetobacter junii was found in the conjunctival sac secretions of the second patient. The postoperative course included antibiotic therapy. Early diagnosis and timely treatment of scleral explant infections are important. Scleral buckle removal at an appropriate time and cleaning of the infection site during the perioperative period are critical to effective treatment.