Challenges in Diagnosing Extruded Hydrogel Scleral Buckle Mimicking an Orbital Abscess: A Case Report
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: In this case report, we present an unusual complication linked to a hydrogel explant in a 72-year-old male presenting to the emergency department with persistent left eye pain, redness, and discharge for one month. The patient had a history of retinal detachment in 1989, which was managed with scleral buckle surgery and gas injection. Initial examination revealed an extruding scleral buckle in the superior temporal region, along with signs of an infection. CT scans revealed a 1.9 × 1.2 × 3.8 cm abscess accompanied by preseptal cellulitis. This case report highlights the importance of how hydrogel scleral buckle explants may mimic the presentation and symptoms of an abscess as a long-term complication. Nevertheless, there have been several reports of long-term issues associated with the expansion of the hydrophilic hydrogel material. This case report further illustrates how complications linked to hydrogel explants can resemble abscess symptoms, underscoring the significance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Source: Cureus
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.56371
Authors: John K Jung, Anne C Chan, Rodney Guiseppi, Brian Wong
Institution: The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Language: English
Topic: Retinal and Macular Surgery
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4392911683