Approaches to Retinal Detachment Prophylaxis among Patients with Stickler Syndrome

Stickler syndrome is the most common cause of pediatric rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. Given the dramatic long term visual impact and difficult surgical management of these detachments, there is increasing interest in determining whether prophylactic treatment can be used to prevent retinal detachments in this population. However, severity of ocular findings in Stickler syndrome can vary by subtype. Three commonly used modalities to provide prophylactic treatment against retinal detachments in patients with Stickler syndrome include scleral buckle, laser retinopexy, and cryotherapy. While laser retinopexy is the most common approach to prophylactic treatment, treatment settings can vary by specialist. In addition, the decision to treat and manage Stickler syndrome is nuanced and requires careful consideration of the individual patient. After reviewing the literature on prophylactic treatment approaches, this chapter will also over guidelines in management of this complex patient population.