Anterior ischemic optic neuropathy after uncomplicated scleral buckling surgery.

Background: To report a case of non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) observed after uncomplicated scleral buckle placement.

Methods: A 57-year-old man presented with a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment of the left eye. He underwent uncomplicated scleral buckle placement and C3F8 injection. Perioperative intraocular pressures were normal.

Results: On postoperative day 24, fundus examination revealed swelling of the left optic nerve and features of an optic neuropathy (visual field defect, relative afferent pupillary defect). Fluorescein angiography did not reveal delayed choroidal filling. Review of systems and laboratory investigations were not consistent with giant cell arteritis.

Conclusions: Non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy may develop after uncomplicated scleral buckling surgery.