EXPERIMENTAL ENCIRCLING SCLERAL BUCKLE WITH SILICONE AND HYDROGEL: Histopathologic and Comparative Study of 26 Rabbit Eyes

Abstract

Purpose: 

To analyze histologic changes induced by encircling elements, rabbit eyes were implanted with two different biomaterials.

Materials and Methods: 

Thirty-seven rabbit eyes (37 rabbits) were implanted with encircling oval episcleral elements. Two materials were used: silicone sponge and hydro- gel. The animals were killed and their eyes collected for histopathology. Of 37 eyes, 26 that were implanted for 111 to 455 days were selected for the study.

Results: 

In 26 eyes, scleral buckling was visible. Scleral examination showed a regular erosion under the buckle, mainly with silicone. All explants were surrounded by a fibrous capsule, which was smooth and regular with silicone. With hydrogel, fragmentation was observed with a giant cell reaction. Capsule thickness increased, mainly with hydrogel.

Conclusion: 

Fragmentation affected segmental or circumferential hydrogel explants. As in silicone explants, the capsule surface was normal when the hydrogel surface was respected. The fragmentation mechanism remains unclear.