External Limiting Membrane Defect Research Articles

Modified ILM flap techniques versus classical inverted ILM flap technique for large macular holes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BackgroundMacular holes (MHs) constitute a vitreoretinal interface disorder that occurs when structural abnormalities in the fovea lead to impaired central vision. The standard treatment for MHs is mainly surgical. Using an inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap has enhanced the success rates of MH surgeries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the classical inverted ILM flap technique to modified ILM flap techniques for managing large MHs.MethodsWe searched Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the classic inverted ILM flap technique to modified ILM flap techniques as initial surgical treatment of eyes with large MHs of more than 400 microns. We sought to evaluate the following outcomes: (1) MH closure. (2) Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). (3) Foveal closure type (4) Rate of ellipsoid zone (EZ) defects and external limiting membrane (ELM) defects. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was used to represent continuous outcomes, while the risk ratio (RR) was used to represent dichotomous outcomes.ResultsFour RCTs that enrolled 220 participants were deemed eligible. The analysis revealed no statistically significant differences in MH closure between both groups (95% CI: 0.20, 7.96; P = 0.81). No statistically significant differences in mean BCVA were found at 1 and 3 months between both groups (SMD: 0.04; 95% CI: −0.16, 0.23; P = 0.70 and SMD: −0.167; 95%CI: −1.240, 0.906; P = 0.760, respectively). In addition, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the pattern of foveal closure, namely U-shape, V-shape, and flap open at 3, 6, and 12 months (RR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.67, 1.12; P = 0.28, RR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.58, 1.61; P = 0.89, and RR: 1.95, 95% CI: 0.26, 14.50; P = 0.51, respectively). Finally, the analysis showed no statistically significant difference in both groups’ EZ and ELM defect rates at 3, 6, and 12 months (RR: 1; 95% CI: 0.85; 1.18: P = 1 and RR: 1.14; 95% CI: 0.90, 1.45; P = 0.27).ConclusionMacular holes (MHs) constitute a vitreoretinal interface disorder that occurs when structural abnormalities in the fovea lead to impaired central vision. The standard treatment for MHs is mainly surgical. Using an inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap has enhanced the success rates of MH surgeries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the classical inverted ILM flap technique to modified ILM flap techniques for managing large MHs.

Novel surgical technique for macular holes with basal diameter >1000 μ

Abstract: Closure rate of full-thickness macular holes (FTMHs) with basal diameter >1000 μ is known to be poor. Patients presenting with FTMH having a minimum basal diameter of >1000 μ without any coexistent retinal morbidity were offered vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane peeling, retinal massage, and aspiration of subretinal fluid from the MH. Visual acuity (VA) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD OCT) assessments were performed at baseline, week 1 after surgery and at postoperative months 1, 3, 6, and 12. VA, type of hole closure, presence of ellipsoid zone, and external limiting membrane defect were monitored. The primary endpoint was type 1 anatomical hole closure. Secondary outcome measure was a change in VA from baseline to 6-month follow-up and persistent hole closure at the final follow-up of 12 months. The mean age was 67.1 ± 9.1 years. Seven eyes were pseudophakic, and two underwent combined phacoemulsification with MH surgery. The mean minimum basal diameter of FTMH was 1162.4 ± 161 μ. The mean duration of visual loss was 11.3 ± 1.93 months. Type 1 closure of FTMH was seen in all patients on SD OCT, on the 7th postoperative day. The mean presenting VA was 1.06 ± 0.1 Logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR). Best-corrected visual acuity improved to 0.91 ± 0.09 logMAR at 1-month follow-up (P = 0.005) (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.061–0.251), 0.63 ± 0.1 logMAR (P < 0.001) (95% CI 0.339–0.527) at 3 months, and 0.55 ± 0.05 logMAR (P < 0.001) (95% CI 0.414–0.609) at 6 months. All holes were found closed at the final follow-up of 12 months. This novel technique can help achieve better outcomes and raise the primary anatomical success rate of FTMH with basal diameter >1000 μ.

Characteristics of Vitamin A Deficiency Retinopathy at a Tertiary Referral Center in the United States

To explore the risk factors and fundus imaging features of vitamin A deficiency retinopathy (VADR) in an academic tertiary referral center in Atlanta, GA, United States, and to propose guidance regarding diagnostic workup and management of affected patients. Single-center retrospective case series. Nine patients seen between 2015 and 2021 at the Emory Eye Center diagnosed with VADR. Retrospective chart review. Baseline serum retinol level, Snellen visual acuity, multimodal fundus imaging findings, and electroretinography findings. Nine patients, 4 (44.4%) female, with a median (range) age of 68 (50-75) years were identified. The most common underlying etiologies for vitamin A deficiency included history of gastrointestinal surgery (55.6%), liver disease (44.4%), and nutritional depletion due to low-quality diet (44.4%). Only 1 (11.1%) patient had a history of bariatric surgery. Four (44.4%) patients were on some form of vitamin A supplementation before the diagnosis of VADR. Median (range) serum retinol level was 0.06 (< 0.06-0.19) mg/L. All patients had macular subretinal hyperreflective deposits resembling subretinal drusenoid deposits, although in some cases, these were scant and sparsely distributed. Six eyes of 3 patients with longstanding deficiency had defects in the external limiting membrane (ELM). Three of these eyes additionally had macular areas of complete retinal pigment epithelium and outer retinal atrophy (cRORA). Full-field electroretinography demonstrated severe rod dysfunction and mild to moderate cone system dysfunction. Many findings of VADR were reversible with vitamin A repletion. However, all eyes with ELM defects or cRORA had persistence or continued growth of these lesions. Vitamin A deficiency retinopathy is uncommon in the developed world. However, given that early intervention can lead to dramatic visual improvement and avoid potentially permanent retinal damage, retina specialists should be familiar with its clinical presentation. The presence of nyctalopia and subretinal hyperreflective deposits in a patient with a history of gastrointestinal surgery, liver disease, and/or poor diet can be suggestive of this diagnosis, even in the presence of ongoing vitamin A supplementation. Vitamin A supplementation can vary in route and dosage and can be tailored to the individual with serial testing of serum retinol. The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Complete visual recovery after an inadvertent foveal burn

We want to describe a case of inadvertent foveal burn during retinal laser in a patient with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). We report a 50-year-old male with PDR whose pattern scanning laser (Pascal®) procedure was complicated by an accidental foveal burn. On initial evaluation, the best-corrected visual acuity of the affected eye was 20/40. Fundoscopy revealed multiple laser burns in the macula, one of which crossed the fovea. The optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed an inadvertent burn at the foveal region and multiple parafoveal laser spots with the disrupted corresponding external limiting membrane (ELM), ellipsoid (EZ), and interdigitation zones. The patient underwent serial follow-up examinations. Six months after laser therapy, vision significantly recovered and improved to 20/20 in the affected eye. The results of follow-up OCT imaging showed that the ELM defect had fully recovered and the EZ defect had become smaller, as an unexpected and rare outcome. As a rare and interesting condition, laser burns around the foveal region seem to have the chance of retinal recovery over time. However, in most of the similar conditions, these accidental foveal laser burns lead to permanent severe visual impairment. Therefore, well-trained physicians must do retinal laser procedures.

Clinical Observation of Anatomical and Visual Outcomes of Macular Hole after Inverted Internal Limiting Membrane Flap in Patients with Idiopathic Macular.

To investigate anatomical and visual outcomes of macular hole (MH) after inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique for idiopathic macular hole (IMH). A total of 13 IMH cases diagnosed in Shanxi Eye Hospital between January 2015 and June 2016 were included in the study. All patients underwent vitrectomy combined with indocyanine green-assisted inverted ILM flap technique. The MH closure rate, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), changes of ellipsoid zone (EZ), and external limiting membrane (ELM) were examined before operation and one, three, and six months after operation. Furthermore, 488 nm fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were used to observe the dynamic changes in function of macular area after surgery. One month after the surgery, the MH closure rate was 100% and the visual acuity (VA) was stable, with no recurrence. Additionally, the average logMAR BCVA before operation was 1.208 ± 0.158, and this value became 0.877 ± 0.105 one month after the operation, showing a significant decrease. Three months after surgery, the average logMAR BCVA was 0.792 ± 0.103, which was significantly lower than the level one month after the surgery but much higher than that six months after surgery (0.708 ± 0.131). Besides, the diameter of the EZ defect of the postoperative one month, three months, and six months was (1377.46 ± 198.65) μm, (964.62 ± 336.26) μm, and (817.08 ± 442.99) μm, respectively. In postoperative one month, three months, and six months, the diameter of the ELM defect diameter was (969.62 ± 189.92) μm, (649.92 ± 413.15) μm, and (557.62 ± 412.50) μm, respectively. The diameter of both EZ and ELM defects was significantly reduced with the passage of time after surgery. Inverted ILM flap technique can reconstruct macular anatomical structure and improve VA. This technique is effective for the treatment of IMH with large MH minimum diameter and base diameter.

Photoreceptor Outer Segment Loss at the Macular Hole Border: Clinical Characteristics and Surgical Prognosis

Introduction: During macular hole (MH) formation, the vitreofoveal traction may lead to foveal neural tissue avulsion and consequent photoreceptor loss. However, the clinical significance of the photoreceptor outer segment disruption at the MH border remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the clinical features and surgical outcomes of MHs with photoreceptor outer segment disruption at the MH border. Methods: This study retrospectively reviewed 86 eyes from 85 patients who underwent vitrectomy combined with internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic MHs. Baseline and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and foveal microstructure on optical coherence tomography images were compared between eyes with smooth and bumpy morphology, the latter of which was defined as those with an uneven and irregular surface with evident lumps and indentations at the MH border. Results: The bumpy morphology was identified in 59 of 86 eyes (68.9%). At baseline, eyes with a bumpy MH morphology had a significantly larger minimum linear diameter (p = 0.043), a longer external limiting membrane defect (p = 0.013), and a worse baseline BCVA (p = 0.017) than those with a smooth morphology. Postoperatively, in a multivariate regression model adjusting preoperative confounding effects, eyes with bumpy borders were associated with a longer ellipsoid zone defect (p = 0.006) and a thinner central fovea (p = 0.002) at 1 month, and a thinner central fovea (p = 0.005) and a worse BCVA (p = 0.015) at 10 months. Conclusion: A severe photoreceptor outer segment loss is common at the MH border, which represents a chronic pathogenic process and may be an independent predictor for an incomplete photoreceptor recovery and worse long-term visual outcomes after surgery.

Commentary: Indistinct retinal outer layers in the walls of idiopathic full thickness macular hole - A potential predictive biomarker for surgical outcomes.

Commentary: Indistinct retinal outer layers in the walls of idiopathic full thickness macular hole - A potential predictive biomarker for surgical outcomes.

Femtosecond laser-cut autologous anterior lens capsule transplantation to treat refractory macular holes.

To report the long-term outcomes of round autologous anterior lens capsules (ALCs) cut by a femtosecond laser (FSL) and transplanted onto refractory macular holes (MHs) in a prospective interventional study. Three eyes of three patients were included for persistent MH after reattached rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) (n = 2) or RRD recurrence by persistent MH (n = 1), in a university hospital. A 6 mm diameter ALC disc was carefully extracted during FSL-assisted lens extraction, stained with 0.06% trypan blue, decellularised, transplanted using a catheter and unfolded over the MH. Gas or silicone-oil tamponade was used. At 1 year, the main criterion was anatomic success, defined as complete MH closure. Secondary criteria were changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) defects, complications. Baseline data were: minimum and maximum diameters, respectively 887, 1079 and 1180 μm; 1260, 1213 and 1350 μm; central posterior staphyloma in two highly myopic eyes; number of prior surgeries 2 ± 1. At 1 year, the three MHs were closed with stable transplanted ALCs. Distant BCVA improved respectively from 3.0, 0.8, 3.0 to 1.0, 0.2, 0.7 logMAR, i.e. all eyes achieved ≥0.3 logMAR improvement. All patients had decreased EZ and ELM defects, without reaching normal profile. No adverse event occurred. FSL-cut ALC helps standardise this challenging surgery: it prevents from tears and facilitates manipulation, so that the ALC disc is perfectly transparent and biocompatible, with a large MH overlap. One-year follow-up highlighted that this technique helps safely close refractory MHs with satisfactory visual recovery.

Application of Platelet-Rich Fibrin Transplantation for Large Macular Hole

Purpose Large idiopathic macular hole (MH) has a lower closure rate and poor visual prognosis. To increase the closure rate and the visual outcome in patients with large MH, we evaluate a technique of platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) membrane transplantation for the treatment of large MH.Methods This was a prospective interventional study. Seventeen eyes of 17 patients (8 males and 9 females) with large MH (654.94 ± 188.08 μm) underwent pars plana vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling followed by PRF transplantation between January 2019 and December 2020. The patients were followed up for at least 6 months. Preoperatively and postoperatively, all patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, ultra-widefield retinal imaging, optical coherent tomography, and optical coherent tomography angiography.Results All the patients achieved complete and consistent hole closure after the surgery (100%). At 6 months follow-up, the external limiting membrane defects were observed in 3 eyes (17.64%), and the ellipsoid zone defects were observed in 10 eyes (58.82%). The preoperative BCVA was 1.21 ± 0.33 in logMAR. Postoperatively, the BCVA was significantly improved to 0.64 ± 0.22 in logMAR at 6 months (p < 0.001). The foveal avascular zone reduced significantly from 0.41 ± 0.08 mm2 to 0.26 ± 0.07 mm2 (p < 0.001). No complications were observed during or after the operation.Conclusions All patients in this study have achieved good anatomic and functional results, which indicate that the application of PRF transplantation is an effective and safe technique for large MH.

Autologous Retinal Transplant for Macular Hole

We aim to review scientific literature concerning published studies on autologous retinal transplantation to treat macular hole patients. The following databases were searched: Medline and Medline Non-Indexed Items, Embase (1990–2020), Ovid Medline® (1990 to November 2020), Embase (1990 to November 2020), Ovid Medline® and Epub Ahead of Print, in-Process and Web of Science (all years). Search keywords included “autologous”, “retinal transplant”, “autologous neurosensory retinal free flap” “transplantation”, “macular hole”, and “macular hole surgery”. Eighteen case series and single case reports were reviewed. Preoperative and final best-corrected visual acuity, microperimetry and multifocal electroretinogram findings, macular hole closure rate, preoperative and postoperative ellipsoid zone, and external limiting membrane defects were obtained and analyzed. Indications of autologous retinal transplantation for macular hole surgery included refractory macular holes, conventional techniques, and large macular holes. The number of cases included in the different case series ranged from 2 to 130 cases, and prior macular hole surgeries of the patients ranged from 0 to 3. Overall, the published case series of autologous retinal transplants have reported a macular hole closure rate of 66.7 to 100%, as well as a significant improvement in best-corrected visual acuity. The most frequently reported complications included considerable intraoperative bleeding and postoperative dislocation of the graft. The presence of functionality in the graft area has also been documented by microperimetry and multifocal electroretinogram. In conclusion, the autologous retinal transplantation technique for macular hole patients has emerged as another surgical option, with a high macular hole closure rate and visual improvement.

Embedding and sparing of lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation in the treatment of lamellar macular holes.

Compare the outcomes of two surgical techniques, lamellar hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (LHEP) embedding and LHEP sparing, in treating idiopathic lamellar macular holes (LMHs). Retrospective consecutive case series with 34 LMHs with LHEP that underwent operation. LHEP-sparing technique was used before July 2015 and LHEP-embedding after July 2015. Morphological features in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images were identified, including the presence of LHEP, ellipsoid zone (EZ) defects, and types of LMH closure, along with best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) before and after surgery. No baseline differences were observed between the embedding (17 patients) and sparing (17 patients) groups in LMH size, retinal defect depth, or preoperative BCVA. The two groups' mean postoperative BCVAs were similar (embedding vs sparing: 0.388 ± 0.337 vs 0.465 ± 0.418 [Snellen: 20/49 and 20/58], P = 0.812). Postoperatively, a U-type closure was observed in 77 and 65% of patients in the embedding and sparing groups, respectively. Both groups exhibited V-type and T-type closures in half of the remaining patients (P = 0.753). Older age, postoperative external limiting membrane defect, postoperative EZ disruption, and non-U-type closure were associated with worse final BCVA. Both the LHEP-embedding and LHEP-sparing techniques significantly improved vision in patients with LMHs and produced similar visual and anatomical outcomes. Most patients achieved a normal U-type closure with either technique. Preservation of LHEP during surgery is vital and could facilitates successful surgery.

Epiretinal large disc of blue-stained lyophilized amniotic membrane to treat complex macular holes: a 1-year follow-up.

To report the long-term outcomes of large diameter epiretinal lyophilized amniotic membranes (lAMs) in recurrent or persistent macular holes (MHs) with or without rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), in a prospective interventional case series. Ten eyes of 10 patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy for MH-associated RRD (n = 5) or persistent MH without RRD (n = 5), in a university Hospital. A 3 or 4 mm diameter disc of lAM, stained with 0.06% trypan blue, was inserted with a catheter through a sclerotomy and positioned over the MH. Gas or silicone-oil tamponade was used. At 1 year, the main outcome was anatomic success defined as complete MH closure. Secondary outcomes were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) recovery, changes in ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) defects, complications. Mean follow-up was 13.8 ± 2.9 months (range, 12-18). Mean baseline data were minimum and maximum diameters, respectively, 945 ± 330 and 1507 ± 717 μm; axial length 26.58 ± 3.38 mm; and number of prior surgeries 1.4 ± 0.96. At 1 year, anatomic success was achieved in eight eyes (80%), and two had reduced diameter of MH. All RRDs were reattached without recurrence. Mean logMAR BCVA improved from 1.92 ± 0.58 to 1.17 ± 0.57 (p < 0.001), with nine eyes (90%) achieving ≥0.3 logMAR improvement. Mean EZ and ELM defects decreased (p = 0.004, p = 0.003, respectively). Postoperative complications were RRD (n = 1) reattached by subsequent surgery, lAM slightly retracted under silicone (n = 1), foveal atrophy after early lAM displacement (n = 1). A 1-year follow-up highlighted that epiretinal large discs of blue-stained lAM can help safely close refractory MHs, and provide satisfactory visual recovery.

Inverted ILM Flap Technique in Idiopathic Full-Thickness Macular Hole Surgery: Functional Outcomes and Their Correlation with Morphologic Findings.

Objectives The inverted internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap technique has been shown to increase the success rate in large full-thickness macular holes (FTMHs) and in FTMHs associated with high myopia. The aim of our study was to confirm the efficacy and safety of inverted ILM flap technique in idiopathic FTMHs independent of their dimensions and to assess functional outcomes and their correlation to morphologic findings. Methods Sixteen consecutive patients affected by idiopathic FTMH were enrolled in this prospective study. The preoperative mean (±SD) diameter of the FTMH was 422 (±106) µm. All patients underwent vitrectomy and ILM peeling with inverted ILM flap. At 1-, 3-, and 6-month postoperative visits, visual acuity measurement, indirect ophthalmoscopy, and microperimetry were performed, and the foveal contour and the integrity of the ellipsoid zone (EZ) and external limiting membrane (ELM) were investigated using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Results At six months postoperatively, 15 out of 16 (93.75%) patients obtained FTMH closure. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 1.1 LogMAR to 0.3 LogMAR, and the mean retinal sensitivity (MS) improved from 7.2 to 23.4 dB. ELM defects were evident in 1 out of 16 (6.25%) eyes, and EZ defects were detected in 2 out of 16 (12,50%) eyes. A statistically significant relationship was observed between BCVA, MS, and EZ reconstitution at each follow-up visit. Conclusions Results confirm that the inverted ILM flap technique is a safe and effective option for FTMH treatment and show a strong correlation between higher BCVAs and MSs and EZ reconstitution after surgery.

Autologous neurosensory retinal transplantation for large refractory idiopathic macular hole.

To investigate the structural and functional reconstruction of the macula after autologous neurosensory retinal-free flap transplantation (ANRFFT) in eyes with large refractory idiopathic macular holes (IMHs). Patients with refractory IMHs after multiple surgeries who underwent ANRFFT were retrospectively reviewed. The main outcomes were anatomic closure of MH, change in external limiting membrane (ELM) defect on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). A total of 7 patients (4 female and 3 male; mean age 60.6 ± 8.6years) were included in the study. Mean preoperative largest basal diameter was 1146.7 ± 413.7µm (range, 653-1768µm), and mean narrowest inner-opening diameter was 788.9 ± 148.8µm (range, 644-1100µm). Mean BCVA (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR]) significantly improved from 1.53 ± 0.16 (range, 1.3-1.7) to 0.89 ± 0.23 (range, 0.6-1.3) at the final follow-up (P < 0.001). OCT revealed complete closure of MH in all eyes. Mean preoperative ELM defect significantly decreased from 1450.3 ± 306.5µm (range, 1044-1908mm) to 533.1 ± 399.2µm (range, 0-1156µm, P = 0.001). Postoperative complications included retinal detachment (n = 1), cystoid macular edema like changes in the graft (n = 1) and reactive pigment epithelial hyperplasia (n = 1). Although some postoperative complications did occur, ANRFFT seems to be an effective treatment for large refractory IMHs, and can promote recovery of the outer retinal structure resulting in functional improvement.

Stereopsis and retinal microstructures following macular hole surgery

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the changes in stereopsis in patients who underwent vitrectomy for macular hole (MH) and assess the relationship between stereopsis and retinal microstructures. Fifty-two patients who underwent successful vitrectomy for unilateral MH and 20 control participants were recruited. We examined stereopsis using the Titmus Stereo Test (TST) and TNO stereotest (TNO), optical coherence tomography, and best-corrected visual acuity measurements, preoperatively, and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. As a result, preoperative and postoperative 3, 6, and 12-month values of stereopsis assessed by TST (log) were 2.7, 2.2, 2.2, and 2.2, respectively. TNO (log) were 2.8, 2.5, 2.4, and 2.4, respectively. Stereopsis in MH after surgery was significantly worse than that in normal participants (p < 0.001). Preoperative TST significantly correlated with MH size and defect length of external limiting membrane (ELM). Postoperative TST demonstrated significant correlation with the preoperative ELM defect length, and postoperative TNO was associated with the preoperative interdigitation zone defect length. Vitrectomy for MH significantly improved stereopsis, although not to normal levels. The ELM defect lengths, which approximately correspond to TST circles, are prognostic factors for postoperative stereopsis by TST. The interdigitation zone defect length, similar in size to the TNO index, is a prognostic factor for postoperative stereopsis by TNO.

The importance of different preoperative factors in the prognosis of functional results of uncomplicated surgery for idiopathic epimacular membranes

Purpose : to estimate the cumulative effect of different preoperative predictors on the functional results of the removal of idiopathic epimacular membranes (EMMs) 12 months after the surgery. Material and methods . 62 patients (63 eyes) with idiopathic EMMs aged 49 to 85 were operated according to the standard procedure and followed up for 12 months. The monitoring included, in addition to standard methods, Amsler grid test and optical coherence tomography of the macula. Results . Throughout the postoperative period, significant improvement in visual acuity, reduction of metamorphopsias, and restoration of both inner and outer fovea layers as well as macular thickness were observed. Twelve months after surgery, visual acuity strongly correlated with baseline visual acuity (R = 0.571, p &lt; 0.05), the span of the defects of the external limiting membrane (ELM) (R = -0.359, p &lt; 0.05), and interdigitation zone (IZ) defects (R = -0.394, p &lt; 0.05). At the end of the follow-up period, metamorphopsia value correlated the most strongly with the duration of the disease (R = 0.380, p &lt; 0.05), baseline visual acuity (R = -0.398, p &lt; 0.05), initial metamorphopsias intensity (R = 0.271, p &lt; 0.05), central retinal thickness (R=0.318, p&lt;0.05) and the ectopic inner macular layers (R = 0.358, p &lt; 0.05). A trend was observed toward the correlation between the final visual acuity and presurgical metamorphopsias severity (R = 0.248, p = 0.113), thickness of EMM (R = -0.246; p = 0.111), central retinal thickness (R = -0.203, p = 0.198) and the presence of a cystoid macular edema (CME) (p = 0.181). A correlation was also observed between metamorphopsias severity noted 1 year after surgery and the length of ELM (R = 0.222, p = 0.159) and IZ (R = 0.211, p = 0.201) defects before surgery. Regression with a 0,597-determination coefficient showed that the baseline visual acuity and central retinal thickness had the biggest impact on the visual acuity measured 1 year after surgery (p &lt; 0.001 and p = 0.002, respectively). Conclusions . The surgery for idiopathic EMMs leads to a significant improvement in the quality of visual functions and anatomical characteristics of the macula. Restoration of outer macular layers may indicate the ability of photoreceptors to repair. The most significant preoperative predictors which determine the quality of visual functions after EMMs removal are thickness of the membrane, central retinal thickness, deformation degree of the inner foveal layers, state of photoreceptors, CME, visual acuity and metamorphopsias severity. At the same time, the baseline visual acuity and central retinal thickness had the biggest impact on the visual acuity achieved by surgery. Early surgery is reasonable, while the evaluation of both anatomical and functional results is advisable not earlier than 12 months after surgery.

Prevalence and risk factors for outer retinal layer damage after macula-off retinal detachment

PurposeTo report the prevalence of outer retinal layer (ORL) damage after macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) surgery and to determine its associated preoperative risk factors.Methods253 eyes successfully operated for macula-off...

Characterization of Epiretinal Proliferation in Full-Thickness Macular Holes and Effects on Surgical Outcomes

Epiretinal proliferation is a distinct clinical entity from epiretinal membrane that classically is associated with lamellar macular holes, but its prevalence and association with full-thickness macular holes (FTMH) have not been well described. We characterized macular hole-associated epiretinal proliferation (MHEP) and its effects on long-term surgical outcomes. Multicenter, interventional, retrospective case-control study. Consecutive eyes that underwent surgery for FTMH with a minimum of 12 months follow-up. All eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy, removal of any epiretinal membranes, and gas tamponade, with or without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. Spectral-domain OCT imaging was obtained before and after surgery. Improvement in visual acuity and single-surgery hole closure rates in eyes with, versus without, MHEP at 12 months. Seven hundred twenty-five charts were analyzed, and 113 patients met inclusion criteria. Of 113 eyes with FTMH, 30 (26.5%) showed MHEP. Patients with FTMH and MHEP were older (P < 0.002) and more often men (P= 0.001), and showed more advanced macular hole stages than those without MHEP (P= 0.010). A full posterior vitreous detachment was more common in eyes with MHEP (P < 0.004). Twelve months after surgery, FTMH with MHEP patients showed significantly less improvement in visual acuity (P= 0.019) with higher rates of ellipsoid and external limiting membrane defects (P < 0.05) and with a higher rate of failure to close with 1 surgery compared to FTMH without MHEP (26.7% vs. 4.8%; P= 0.002]). Peeling the ILM was associated with improved rates of hole closure in FTMH with MHEP (P < 0.001). Multivariate testing confirmed that the presence of MHEP was an independent risk factor for less visual improvement (P= 0.031) and for single-surgery nonclosure (P= 0.009) and that ILM peeling improved single-surgery closure rates (P= 0.026). We found that FTMH with MHEP showed poorer anatomic and visual outcomes after vitrectomy compared with FTMH without MHEP. Internal limiting membrane peeling was associated with improved closure rates and should be considered when MHEP is detected before surgery.

Optical coherence tomography findings as a predictor of clinical course in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion treated with ranibizumab.

PurposeTo examine the relationship between optical coherence tomography (OCT) images and clinical course in eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) treated with intravitreal ranibizumab injection (IVR).DesignProspective cohort study.ParticipantsThirty eyes of 30 patients with BRVO treated with IVR.MethodsAll patients received 1 initial IVR followed by repeated injections in the pro re nata (PRN) regimen. Correlations between logarithm of minimum angle of resolution best-corrected visual acuity (logMAR BCVA) or number of IVRs after 12 months and OCT parameters including the external limiting membrane (ELM), ellipsoid zone (EZ), interdigitation zone (IZ), and photoreceptor outer segment (PROS) length at first resolution of macular edema (ME) were assessed. Resolution of ME was defined as central foveal thickness <300 μm and the absence of subretinal fluid. OCT parameters influencing BCVA and number of IVRs were evaluated using multivariate analysis. Correlations between nonperfusion areas (NPAs) and thinning areas and changes in retinal thickness of BRVO-affected areas were assessed.ResultsOf the 30 patients, 27 completed this study and were included in the statistical analyses. The mean logMAR BCVA at 3, 6, and 12 months was 0.16 ± 0.19, 0.09 ± 0.20, and 0.07 ± 0.20, respectively, which improved significantly from baseline at each visit (p < 0.0001, respectively), while the mean number of IVRs at 12 months was 3.9 ± 2.2. The mean number of IVRs for the first resolution of ME was 1.6 ± 0.8. Eyes with ELM and EZ defects at the points of first resolution of ME were correlated with a significantly lower BCVA at 12 months compared with eyes with preserved ELMs and EZs (p = 0.035, p = 0.002, respectively). However, eyes with IZ defects at the points of first resolution of ME were not correlated with a significantly lower BCVA at 12 months compared with eyes with preserved IZs (p = 0.160). Defects in the EZ at the points of first resolution of ME significantly affected the number of IVRs at 12 months (p = 0.042), although the ELM and IZ did not. PROS length at the points of first resolution of ME was significantly correlated with BCVA and number of IVRs at 12 months (p = 0.006, p = 0.0008, respectively). In multivariate analysis, PROS length at the points of first resolution of ME had the most significant effect on BCVA and number of IVRs (p = 0.013, p = 0.012, respectively). NPA size on fluorescein angiography and thinning area on OCT within the macular area showed a significant correlation (p = 0.003, r = 0.971). The retinal thickness of ischemic BRVO-affected areas was significantly less than that of control areas at 10, 11, and 12 months (p = 0.001, p = 0.005, p = 0.003, respectively).ConclusionWe showed that the 1+PRN regimen may be a useful therapy for ME due to BRVO. In addition, PROS length at points of first resolution of ME appears to be a good indicator of BCVA and number of IVRs in BRVO patients.

Vitreoretinal Interface Characteristics in Eyes with Idiopathic Macular Holes: Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis.

Objectives:To determine the qualitative and quantitative vitreoretinal interface characteristics with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in eyes with macular hole (MH) and investigate their relation with best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and MH duration.Materials and Methods:Sixty-one eyes of 46 consecutive patients diagnosed with idiopathic MH were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 66.7±7.5 (51-79) years. Complete ophthalmologic examination and SD-OCT examination were performed in all eyes and MH stages were determined according to SD-OCT findings. Qualitative characteristics of the vitreoretinal interface were investigated, including vitreomacular traction, vitreopapillary traction, maculopapillary traction, vitreoschisis, intraretinal cyst, presence of epiretinal membrane, and the integrity of the photoreceptor inner segment-outer segment junction (IS/OS) and external limiting membrane (ELM). In addition, MH diameter, MH base diameter (MHBD), ELM defect diameter, IS/OS defect diameter, and MH height were quantitatively measured and the MH index was calculated.Results:Out of 61 eyes, 9.8% were classified as stage 1a, 19.7% as stage 1b, 18% as stage 2, 23% as stage 3, and 29.5% as stage 4. Mean BCVA was 0.28±0.24 (1 mps-1.0) Snellen and MH duration was 10.08±18.6 (1-108) months. The most common interface characteristics associated with MH were determined as intraretinal cyst (91.8%), IS/OS defect (78.7%) and ELM defect (63.9%). Duration and stage of MH were inversely proportional to BCVA but directly proportional to the presence and diameter of IS/OS and ELM defects. BCVA was significantly lower in eyes with IS/OS and ELM defects (p<0.0001; p<0.0001 Mann-Whitney U test).Conclusion:We determined that the most important factors affecting BCVA in cases with idiopathic MH were MH stage, MH duration, MHBD, and the presence and diameter of IS/OS and ELM defects, which suggests that these parameters should be considered while making decisions about prognosis and treatment.