Evolution of retinal detachment surgery down the ages

“Treatment of retinal detachment associated with retinal holes should not be urged except in only eyes as a last clutch at a straw of hope”. These lines by Lister from 1927 and the famous survey by Vail a decade prior (1912), which found a success rate of retinal detachment (RD) as 1 in 1000 speaks for themselves, suggest a grave prognosis for RD. Although the current success rate in managing uncomplicated RDs is greater than 90%, the journey has been the most intriguing with the emergence of many heroes. One such hero who stands apart is Jules Gonin, whose patience and perseverance have led to the current understanding and treatment of RD as we know it. The evolution of RD surgery has always been divided into ‘Pre-Gonin’ and the ‘Post-Gonin’ phases. With no intent to change the same, we hereby briefly describe the evolution of RD surgery as it unfolded.