ABSORBABLE GELATIN SPONGE AS AN INTRASCLERAL BUCKLE IN RABBITS: A Pilot Study.

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of using an absorbable gelatin sponge as an intrascleral buckle in rabbit eyes; it also monitored degradation of the gelatin sponge over time. METHODS: Ten, New Zealand, White rabbits underwent surgery to implant an absorbable gelatin sponge as an intrascleral buckle. Weekly ophthalmic examinations were conducted before and after the procedure until the implant was fully absorbed. Assessments included external eye and fundus examinations, color fundus imaging, and optical coherence tomography. Safety and efficacy were determined by comparing preoperative and postoperative conditions. RESULTS: The surgery was successfully completed in 12 of 20 eyes, yielding favorable postoperative outcomes. Eight eyes were excluded due to issues with scleral tunneling, including accidental penetration, suprachoroidal implantation of the sponge, and choroidal excavation, resulting in a success rate of 60%. The indentation produced by the gelatin sponge implant progressively decreased, entirely disappearing within 2 weeks. No complications, such as retinal or choroidal hemorrhage or detachment, were observed. CONCLUSION: Intrascleral implantation of absorbable gelatin sponge was safe and effective for scleral buckling in rabbits, demonstrating favorable biodegradation characteristics.