Visual function deficits after surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Abstract: Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) repair techniques have improved rapidly over the past few decades, leading to high anatomical success rates. However, the structural and functional alterations in retinal microstructure may lead to the absence of concurrent functional recovery. The functional outcomes of RD are inadequately represented by routinely measured visual acuity (VA). Defects in color vision contrast discrimination, metamorphopsia, and aniseikonia are prevalent even after a successful RD repair, especially in macula-off RDs. Retinal sensitivity measurement with microperimetry reveals depressed areas and scotomas. This review aims to understand these visual function tests and assess the changes in functional status beyond VA after successful surgical repair of RDs.