An absorbable gelatin implant (Ophthalmic Gelfilm) was used in 100 scleral buckling operations, 76 trap-door, and 24 scleral pouch procedures. This film produced an adequate buckle in selected cases. Since it was absorbed over a two- to five-month period, it was not associated with erosion. Extrusion or exposure through the conjunctiva was not observed. This paper discusses the indications for the use of gelatin film and the surgical techniques employed with this absorbable material.