ObjectiveTo create a new scleral buckling surgery using noncontact wide-angle viewing system and 23-gauge intraocular illumination for the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), and to evaluate its safety and effectiveness. MethodsA scleral buckling surgery using noncontact wide-angle viewing system and 23-gauge intraocular illumination was performed in 6 eyes of 6 patients with RRD, including 2 males and 4 females. The mean age was 51 years old with a range from 23 to 66 years old. Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) were diagnosed of grade B in all 6 eyes. Duration of retinal detachments until surgery was 5.8 days with a range from 2 to 13 days. The mean preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) was 12 mmHg with a range from 9 to 15 mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa). A 23-gauge optic fiber was used to provide an intraocular illumination. Fully examination of the ocular fundus and cryoretinopexy of retinal breaks was performed under a noncontact wide-angle viewing system. Subretinal fluid drainage through the sclerotomy and buckling procedure were performed under the operating microscope. Intravitreal injection of sterile air bubble was performed in 4 eyes. Antibiotic eye drops was applied in all eyes postoperatively, and all the eyes were followed up for at least 6 months. ResultsRetinal reattachment was achieved in all eyes, and the conjunctiva healed well. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) increased in all eyes. The mean postoperative IOP was 15 mmHg with a range from 12 to 19 mmHg. No complications were found intra and postoperatively. ConclusionsThis new scleral buckling surgery using noncontact wide-angle viewing system and 23-gauge intraocular illumination for RRD is safe and effective. Advantages such as higher successful rate, less complication, shorter operating time, and less discomfort of patients were showed comparing with the previous scleral buckling surgery using indirect ophthalmoscope.