A Historical Review of Encircling Laser Retinopexy as a Prophylaxis for Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment; and a Commentary on Recent Progress in Stickler Syndrome

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) is typically caused by retinal tears anterior to the equator, usually occurring in normal appearing retina. We here review the chronological history of encircling (360-degree) laser retinopexy to the peripheral retina as a stand-alone prophylaxis for retinal tears in asymptomatic eyes determined to be at high risk. We describe recent strong proof that such encircling prophylaxis prevents RD in Stickler syndrome, the highest risk predisposing condition known. Finally, we note that peripheral vitreous traction tears are the common pathogenesis of RD in both syndromic and non-syndromic eyes, so that such prevention may ultimately prove effectual in eyes determined to be at high risk in both.