Best-corrected Visual Acuity Values Research Articles

Importance of ellipsoid zone line in the treatment of diabetic macular edema.

Introduction: Diabetic macular edema (DME) is a worst manifestation of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Current advanced techniques may reverse DME, usually evaluated by the improvement in visual acuity (VA). In clinical practice VA is not improved even after marked decrease in the macular thickness. Structures abnormalities for example to ellipsoid zone (EZ) may account for post treatment visual outcome.
 Objectives: To evaluate the relationship between Ellipsoid Zone line (EZ Line) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) after treating diabetic macular edema in type II diabetic patients.
 Methodology: For this prospective and observational study patients of type II diabetes mellitus with clinically significant macular edema (CSME) without proliferative diabetic retinopathy were recruited. The BCVA was recorded by Snellen Acuity Chart and discriminant values of macular thickness and EZ line defect were evaluated using Ocular Coherence Tomography at the time of presentation and during follow-up period. SPSS 22 version was used for results analysis
 Results: At 6th months follow-up, overall improvement in interruption of EZ line was good but statistically significant (P≤ 0.001) was found in sub class II a. The mean reduction in central sub foveal thickness (CSFT) was found significant (P≤ 0.001) in all class of EZ line but the mean value of BCVA in class I EZ line (70±SD18, P≤ 0.001) was better than class II (45±SD18, P-value = 0.021); and we did not find any correlation between the BCVA and level of interruption of EZ line after progressive decrease in CSFT (r = 0.210, P-value = 0.021).
 Conclusion: It has been concluded the by the quantitative measurement of retinal layer with OCT we can say that EZ line continuity is closely linked to visual outcome in eyes with macular edema.
 Keywords: Ellipsoid Zone Line, CME, Integrity of IS OS junction, CSFT

Advantages of Double Running Sutures in Astigmatism After Penetrating Keratoplasty.

BackgroundThe purpose of this prospective study is to evaluate the effects of different suturing techniques in perforating keratoplasty surgery, in order to identify the most effective in reducing post-operative astigmatism.MethodsWe analysed data from patients who underwent penetrating keratoplasty for different indications. All interventions were performed by the same surgeon. Patients were subjected to a follow-up of at least 12 months after surgery, during which astigmatism (assessed by keratometry, topography and refraction) best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and complications were evaluated. A total of 100 eyes from 100 patients were included and were randomly assigned to five different groups, each one featuring a different suturing technique: interrupted (INT), single running (SRS), double running with two 10–0 sutures (DRS), double running antitorque with two 10–0 sutures (DRSa), double running with both 10–0 and 11–0 sutures (DRS with 11–0).ResultsThere is a statistically significant difference in astigmatism after surgery between the double running sutures groups and the others with different techniques. However, there is no statistically significant difference between the INT and the SRS group; moreover, there is no statistically significant difference between the different groups with double running sutures (DRS, DRSa, DRS with 11–0). There is no statistically significant difference in BCVA values among the five groups. The wound leak rate was 10% in the INT group, 5.3% in the SRS group and 0% in all groups with double running sutures.ConclusionIn penetrating keratoplasty surgery, the double running suture technique reduces postoperative astigmatism, provides faster visual rehabilitation and features lower complication rates when compared to techniques featuring single running and interrupted sutures. No significant difference in terms of postoperative astigmatism or complication rates was observed among patients receiving double running suture techniques.

Foveal Thickness Fluctuation in Anti-VEGF Treatment for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Long-term Study

Branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) causes macular edema (ME), which can be controlled with anti-VEGF treatments. However, these treatments are not curative, necessitating additional anti-VEGF treatments at recurrence. Long-term results, optimal anti-VEGF treatment regimens, and the comprehensive effects of ME recurrence are largely unknown. Thus, we aimed to examine the effects of foveal thickness (FT) fluctuation (FTF) on the visual and morphologic outcomes of anti-VEGF treatments for BRVO-ME administered via a pro re nata regimen. A retrospective, observational case series. This study analyzed 309 treatment-naïve patients (309 eyes) with BRVO-ME between 2012 and 2021 at a multicenter retinal practice. The FT was assessed using OCT at each study visit. We evaluated the logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the defect length of the foveal ellipsoid zone (EZ) band using OCT. At baseline, the mean logMAR BCVA was 0.30 ± 0.30 and the mean FT was 503 ± 162 μm. The number of anti-VEGF injections for BRVO-ME was 5.8 ± 4.6 during the mean follow-up period (50.6 ± 22.2 months). At the final examination, the mean logMAR BCVA and FT values were significantly improved compared with those at the baseline. Multiple regression analyses showed that age, baseline logMAR BCVA, and FTF were significantly associated with the final logMAR BCVA (β= 0.20, 0.35, and 0.30, respectively). Foveal thickness fluctuation (divided into groups 0-3 in ascending order of FTF) was significantly associated with logMAR BCVA and the defect length of the foveal EZ band at the final examination. The defect lengths of the foveal EZ band were longitudinally shortened in groups 0 and 1 and were slightly prolonged in groups 2 and 3. The logMAR BCVA showed improvements in groups 0 and 1 and worsened slightly in groups 2 and 3. Foveal thickness fluctuation was significantly associated with visual acuity and foveal photoreceptor status. Thus, the morphologic and functional prognoses of eyes with BRVO may improve with the identification of the characteristics of eyes with greater FTF and consequently controlling the FTF more strictly.

LUCENTIS IN THE TREATMENT OF DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA, TWO-YEAR RESULTS.

To evaluate, on the basis of two-year observations, the effectiveness of intravitreal treatment with Ranibizumab in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) unresponsive to the previous laser treatment. Cohort and Methods: A retrospective study evaluates 29 eyes of 29 patients with diffuse DME unresponsive to their previous laser treatment. The group of the patients consisted of 16 males (55.1%) and 13 females (44.8%); their mean age was 71.3. The mean duration of diabetes mellitus was 13 years (3-20). 19 patients (65.5%) were treated with insulin, 10 patients (34.4%) were treated with peroral antidiabetics (PAD); the mean HbA1c value was 52 mmol/l. The treatment was started with 3 initial doses of intravitreal injections of Ranibizumab 0.5 mg. There was a one- -month interval between the applications. Subsequent evaluations and administrations of the following injections were made in the pro re nata (PRN) mode; the check-ups were carried out every month during the first year and on average every 3 months in the second year. The monitored parameters: the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measured on ETRDS (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study) optotypes, the central retinal thickness (CRT). These parameters were monitored prior to the treatment and then in the 3rd, 6th, 9th, 12th, 18th and 24th months. A statistically significant improvement in the mean value of BCVA was detected. From the initial 65.4 ±10.61 letters it improved by 11.2 letters (p.

Clinical evaluation of flat peripheral curve design with aspherical-curve and multi-curve hard contact lenses for keratoconus.

Aspherical- and multi-curve rigid gas-permeable hard contact lenses (HCLs) have a flattened curve in the peripheral zone and are mostly used for patients with keratoconus who cannot wear glasses, soft contact lenses, or spherical HCLs. In this retrospective study, a total of 95 eyes of 77 patients who used aspherical- or multi-curve HCLs (mean age: 40.0 ± 11.0 years) were evaluated. This study examined the types of aspherical- and multi-curve HCLs, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) values before and after wearing HCLs, the association with the Amsler-Krumeich classification, duration of wear, corneal/conjunctival disorder, and the frequency of changing HCLs. There were 78 eyes that used aspherical-curve HCLs and 17 that used multi-curve HCLs. BCVA significantly improved from 0.42 logMAR to 0.06 logMAR after wearing either form of HCL. The Amsler-Krumeich classification showed that aspherical-curve HCLs were commonly used for patients with stage 2 keratoconus, and multi-curve HCLs were commonly used for stage 4 patients. The BCVA values were worse when the disease stage was more severe (stages 3 and 4) regardless of HCL type. The mean base curve of the lenses was steeper in multi-curve HCLs than in aspherical-curve HCLs. The more severe the disease stage, the steeper the base curve in both aspherical- and multi-curve HCLs. The duration of wear significantly improved from 2.1 h to 10.2 h, and corneal/conjunctival disorder similarly improved. The mean frequency of changing HCL types was 1.1 times. This study suggests that a flat peripheral curve design with aspherical- and multi-curve HCLs is useful for patients with keratoconus.

Study of the Biological Developmental Characteristics of the Eye in Children After Laser Surgery for the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Study of the Biological Developmental Characteristics of the Eye in Children After Laser Surgery for the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity.

Visual field changes in glaucoma patients after blepharoptosis surgery.

To examine changes in parameters of the visual field test before and after blepharoptosis surgery in patients with glaucoma. Twenty-three eyes of 14 glaucoma patients who underwent blepharoptosis surgery at Toyama University Hospital between July 2015 and September 2020 were included in this study. Pre- and post-operative values for the mean deviation (MD), pattern standard deviation (PSD) and total deviation (TD) of the upper or lower hemi-visual field in the Humphrey visual field test, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and margin reflex distance (MRD)-1 were compared. MRD-1 showed a significant improvement after blepharoptosis surgery (preoperative MRD-1: 1.0 ± 0.82 mm, postoperative MRD-1: 3.26 ± 0.66 mm, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in BCVA, IOP, MD and PSD values before and after surgery. On the other hand, there was a significant improvement in the superior TD (preoperative: -11.29 ± 6.57 dB, postoperative: -9.88 ± 7.31 dB, p = 0.044) although no significant difference was detected in the inferior TD postoperatively. The preoperative parameters of 2 groups (improvement and non-improvement groups of postoperative superior TD) were compared. Preoperative MD and superior TD were significantly lower in the improvement group (p = 0.03, p = 0.004, respectively), although there was no significant difference in preoperative PSD and inferior TD between the two groups. In glaucoma patients, blepharoptosis may interfere with accurate visual field assessment, especially of superior TD.

New criteria of effectiveness of anti-VEGF therapy in exudative age-related macular degeneration

To evaluate the effectiveness of anti-angiogenic therapy using fluctuation and variability in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This study included 200 patients with types 1, 2, 3 neovascularization and polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). All patients underwent standard ophthalmological examination, as well optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCT-A). Patients were divided into 4 quartiles based on fluctuation and variability. All patients underwent intravitreal administration of the anti-VEGF drug aflibercept (Eylea) manufactured by Bayer, Germany, using the Treat-and-Extend regimen. As a result of the study, a significant increase in visual acuity was revealed on the second year of treatment in patients in the 2nd and 3rd quartiles, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) decreased in the 1st and 4th quartiles. In the group with paracentral fluctuation, a significant increase in BCVA by the end of the second year of treatment was observed in the 1st (p=0.05) and 3rd quartiles. As a result of a 2-year follow-up, it was found that BCVA values were lower in patients with the greatest variability (2nd, 3rd, and 4th quartiles). A significant increase in BCVA was observed in the 1st quartile (p=0.047). The largest number of patients with subretinal fibrosis that had fluctuations in the central zone and peripheral fluctuations was observed in the 4th quartile, the smallest - in the 2nd quartile. Similar pattern was observed in the variability group. In the setting of anti-VEGF therapy, a significant increase in BCVA was observed in patients with the lowest variability - in the 1st quartile (p=0.047), but in patients with fluctuations the highest BCVA values were observed in the 2nd and 3rd quartiles, while in the 4th quartile BCVA decreased (p=0.0562). The results of this study indicate that when treating patients with neovascular AMD, clinicians should aim for a treatment strategy that minimizes fluctuation and variability.

İntravitreal Deksametazon İmplant Etkinliğinin Naif ve Tedaviye Dirençli Diyabetik Makular Ödem Hastalarında Değerlendirilmesi: Bir Retrospektif Çalışma

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of single-dose intravitreal dexamethasone implant in treatment-resistant and -naive diabetic macular edema patients. Material and Methods: Twenty-five eyes of 18 diabetic patients receiving intravitreal dexamethasone between January 2017 and March 2020 were included in the study. Changes in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, and retinal and choroidal thickness were determined before, and 1, 4, and 6 months after treatment. Results: Eleven of the 25 eyes had not previously received any anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injection, while the other 14 eyes had received a mean 9.28±6.83 anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections. Initial BCVA was 0.81±0.46 logMAR, compared to 0.65±0.44 logMAR at 1 month, 0.66±0.45 logMAR at 4, and 0.78±0.44 logMAR at 6. While a significant difference was observed between initial and 1st month BCVA (p=0.005) a statistically significant difference was not observed between initial and 6th month BCVA values (p>0.05). Mean retinal thickness was 490.56±186.56 μm at baseline, 301.24±139.63 μm at 1 month, 304.84±129.97 μm at 4 month and 378.44±212.33 μm at 6 month. Retinal thickness decreased significantly at 1, 4, and 6 months compared to baseline (p<0.05). Initial mean subfoveal choroidal thickness was 300.32±32.78 μm, decreasing to 263.68±30.87 μm at 1 month, 258.44±31.5 μm at 4 month, and 268.20±40.10 μm at 6 month. The changes observed in choroidal thickness at 1, four and 6 months compared to baseline were statistically significant (p<0.05). A statistically significant difference in retinal thickness between patients with treatment resistant edema and patients with naive edema was only observed in the 1st month (p=0.001). Conclusion: Significant decreases in retinal and choroidal thickness were observed both in patients with diabetic macular edema refractory to anti-VEGF therapy and in treatment-naive diabetic macular edema patients administered dexamethasone, while visual acuity increased, particularly in the 1st and 4th months.

Comparison of Ranibizumab Treatment Response of Superior and Inferior Temporal Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion: A Year Follow-Up.

Objectives:The aim of the study was to compare ranibizumab treatment response of macular edema secondary to superior and inferior temporal branch retinal vein occlusion.Methods:Sixty-four eyes of 64 patients treated with 0.5 mg/0.05 mL ranibizumab due to macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion were enrolled in this retrospective study. Thirty-eight eyes with superior temporal branch retinal vein occlusion were classified as Group 1 and 26 eyes with inferior temporal branch retinal vein occlusion as Group 2. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT), and the number of intravitreal injections were evaluated and compared between the groups.Results:The mean baseline, 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th month BCVA values in Group 1 were 0.77±0.47, 0.37±0.20, 0.37±0.22, 0.38±0.24, and 0.35±0.18 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) and in Group 2 were 0.75±0.45, 0.37±0.18, 0.35±0.19, 0.32±0.17, and 0.28±0.20 logMAR, respectively. The mean baseline, 3rd, 6th, 9th, and 12th month CMT values in Group 1 were 522.92±136.01, 318.03±66.65, 287.53±48.27, 271.95±32.47, and 280.47±91.66 µm and in Group 2 were 524.08±145.51, 289.85±53.08, 268.96±31.57, 260.77±30.22, and 244.04±44.78 µm, respectively. BCVA and CMT improved significantly within both groups after the treatment (p<0.05) and there was no statistically significant difference between the groups (p>0.05). However, a significantly higher number of injections was needed for Group 1.Conclusion:Ranibizumab improved the visual and anatomical outcomes similarly in both superior and inferior temporal branch retinal vein occlusion with macular edema. However, more frequent injections were needed to achieve the same efficacy in superior temporal branch retinal vein occlusion.

Comparison of astigmatism between glued and sutured scleral-fixated intraocular lens

Background Posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation in the bag is the preferred mode of correcting aphakia. But, in certain circumstances, this is not possible, thereby requiring modalities of secondary fixation of intraocular lens (IOL).Purpose The aim of this study was to compare the postoperative astigmatism till six months after surgery between the sutured scleral-fixated IOL and the glued scleral-fixated IOL.Patients and methods This is a single-center, prospective, observational, open-label study comparing the postoperative outcome (till 6 months), including astigmatism and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), of sutured scleral-fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL) (Group 1) and glued SFIOL (Group 2). There were 25 patients in each group. Patients were followed up on day 1, first week, first, second, third, and sixth month postoperatively. During each postoperative visit, slit-lamp biomicroscopy was performed to evaluate the status of the cornea, anterior chamber, IOL, and position of haptics. Uncorrected visual acuity, BCVA, refraction, and keratometry values (corneal astigmatism) were noted. Cylindrical refraction denoted total astigmatism. The IOL astigmatism was derived by subtracting the corneal astigmatism from the total astigmatism.Results The difference in corneal astigmatism between the two groups was statistically significant at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively (P=0.004, 0.002, and 0.012, respectively). The final values at 6 months were 3.00±1.68 diopters (D) in the sutured SFIOL group and 2.08±0.56 D in the glued SFIOL group. The glued SFIOL group required less cylindrical correction till 6 months of follow-up. The BCVA, 6 months postoperatively, was 0.36±0.19 in Group 1 compared with 0.32±0.17 in Group 2, with no statistically significant difference (P=0.404).Conclusion Both techniques proved to be good options for the implantation of SFIOL, but glued SFIOL was better as it led to less astigmatism and hence the need for less spectacle correction.

Changes in Ganglion Cell Layer Thickness after Treatment with the 0.2 µg/day Fluocinolone Acetonide Implant in Vitrectomized and Nonvitrectomized Eyes with Diabetic Macular Edema

Introduction: The objective of this study is to compare changes in ganglion cell layer (GCL) between vitrectomized and nonvitrectomized eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) over a 2-year period following treatment with 0.2 µg/day fluocinolone acetonide (FAc) implant. Methods: Eighteen vitrectomized (group 1) and 8 nonvitrectomized (group 2) eyes were included in this cohort study. Changes in central macula GCL thickness were measured using the Spectralis spectral domain-optical coherence tomography at baseline and 6, 12, and 24 months of follow-up. Other parameters analyzed included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), and intraocular pressure (IOP). Results: Treatment with the FAc implant led to small reductions in mean global GCL thickness versus baseline and contrasts with the control group that was stable or slightly increased versus baseline. FAc therapy also led to improvements in mean BCVA and CFT that were observed at Month 6 and maintained to Month 24. For vitrectomized and nonvitrectomized eyes, no differences were observed between mean global GCL, BCVA, and CFT values during follow-up. Linear correlations revealed that in all groups mean BCVA at Month 24 positively correlated with mean GCL thickness at baseline and at Month 24. IOP remained stable throughout the 24 months. Conclusion: There was no evident retinal neurodegeneration in the 2-year period following treatment with FAc in both groups. GCL thickness may be a useful biomarker for assessing safety and effectiveness in patients with DME.

Первые результаты применения ингибитора васкулогенеза бролуцизумаба (Визкью®) при хориоидальной неоваскуляризации у пациентов с возрастной макулярной дегенерацией

Aim: to assess the clinical efficacy of brolucizumab for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Patients and Methods: clinical assessment of the efficacy of brolucizumab was performed in 25 patients (25 eyes) with neovascular AMD. The dynamic monitoring included optical coherence tomography to assess the localization and area of the neovascular complex, as well as the density and thickness of the new blood vessels (OCT-angiography). Three injections of brolucizumab (in a dose of 6 mg/0.05 mL) were performed once a month. The follow-up period was 4 months. Results: the mean age of patients was 68±5 years. After the first injection of brolucizumab, there was a statistically significant de - crease in the mean values of central retinal thickness (CRT) and macular volume (MV) vs the baseline values. By month 4, a statistically significant increase in the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) vs. that at the baseline was achieved: from 0.3 (0.2; 0.45) to 0.6 (0.4; 0.6) (p&lt;0,001). In all patients after three injections the minimal values of CRT were reported: they decreased from 298 (284; 302) to 268 (263; 270) μm. Also, MV reduced from 10.4 (9.5; 10.7) to 8.8 (8.7; 9.3) mm 3 (p&lt;0,001). After one month in 22 of 25 patients and after three intravitreal injections of brolucizumab in 3 patients an adhesion of the neuro- and pigment epithelium was recorded with the complete resorption of the subretinal fluid, and the subretinal fluid was not found. Subjectively, all patients noted an improvement in the quality and contrast sensitivity of central vision after treatment. Conclusions: after each injection of brolucizumab, there was a statistically significant progressive reduction in macular parameters, CRT and MV, coupled with an increase in mean BCVA values. Keywords: vascular endothelial growth factor, anti-VEGF, brolucizumab, age-related macular degeneration, neovascular age-related macular degeneration, wet age-related macular degeneration, treatment efficacy. For citation: Zhayvoronok N.S., Kolenko O.V., Danilova L.P., Sorokin E.L. The initial results of using brolucizumab (Beovu®), an angiogenesis inhibitor, for choroidal neovascularization in patients with age-related macular degeneration. Russian Journal of Clinical Ophthalmology. 2022;22(4):228–233 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2311-7729-2022-22-4-228-233.

Visual outcomes and choroidal thickness associated with human leukocyte antigen DRB1*04 in unclassifiable uveitis in Japanese patients

PurposeHuman leukocyte antigen (HLA) and immunity are related. Uveitis is also closely related to immunity. For example, the common presence of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*04 in the immune response is well known. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between visual prognosis and various HLA alleles before and after therapy in patients with unclassifiable uveitis, excluding those with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease.MethodsThis retrospective case series included 42 eyes from 22 consecutive patients with unclassifiable uveitis, excluding those with VKH disease. Visual acuity (VA), sex, refractive error, central retinal thickness (CRT), central choroidal thickness (CCT), and duration from onset to treatment were measured at initial and 6-month visits. Mean values of parameters were compared at each visit. Genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction amplification with sequence-specific primers.ResultsDRB1*04 showed a dominant change. No significant difference was observed in the other alleles. In DRB1*04, The mean differences in initial CCT, 6-month CCT, and 6-month VA showed statistically significant difference was found in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between DRB1*04+ and DRB1*04− at the first visit. BCVA values at baseline and at the final visit were 0.13 ± 0.29 and 0.20 ± 0.36 in the DRB1*04+ and 0.00045 ± 0.20 and − 0.058 ± 0.11 in the DRB1*04− groups(p = 0.00465). Central Choroidal Thickness (CCT) values pretreatment and at the final visit after treatment were (pretreatment:361.00 ± 361.0 μm,after treatment: 286.00 ± 106.53 μm, p = 0.0174) in the DRB1*04+ group, and (pretreatment:281.3 ± 139.68 μm,after treatment:223.85 ± 99.034 μm, p = 0.0426) in the DRB1*04− group, respectively, indicating changes between baseline and the final visit. CCT was significantly greater in the DRB1*04+ group at both the initial visit and at 6 months. Multivariate analysis showed a significant difference between the presence or absence of DRB1*04 and sex.ConclusionHLA-DRB1*04 allele may affect visual prognosis and CCT in unclassifiable uveitis.

Long-term Outcome of Surgical Treatment with Various Reinforcement Material Grafts on Scleromalacia

Purpose: To investigate the long-term efficacy and stability of the use of various reinforcement material grafts on scleromalacia.Methods: This retrospective study was conducted on scleromalacia patients who underwent surgical treatment with reinforcement material grafts from January 2012 to March 2019. The choice of amniotic membrane, Tenon’s capsule, acellular sclera, or collagen matrix implanted in the area of scleromalacia was made based on disease severity. Amniotic membrane transplantation with a pedicular rotatory inferior conjunctival flap was performed to prevent having a bare sclera. The patient demographics, cause of scleromalacia, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), recurrence rate, postoperative complications, and restoration appearance were evaluated.Results: A total of 58 patients (58 eyes) were enrolled in this study. The mean age of patients was 65.7 ± 9.6 years, and 32 patients (55.2%) were women. The mean follow-up period was 28.1 ± 17.3 months. The most common cause of scleromalacia was pterygium operation (53 patients, 91.4%). The reinforcement materials were mainly amniotic membrane (31 patients, 53.4%) and acellular sclera (15 patients, 25.7%). There was no recurrence of scleromalacia or structural instability during the follow-up period. The preoperative and postoperative mean BCVA values were 0.24 ± 0.24 and 0.21 ± 0.23 logMAR, respectively. Wound dehiscence (three patients, 5.2%) and conjunctival cyst (three patients, 5.2%) occurred with the highest frequency.Conclusions: The use of the appropriate reinforcement material graft according to the severity of scleromalacia and amniotic membrane transplantation using a pedicular rotatory inferior conjunctival flap to prevent a bare sclera can be effective for treating scleromalacia, without long-term recurrence.

Association between Retinal Thickness Variability and Visual Acuity Outcome during Maintenance Therapy Using Intravitreal Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Agents for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Previous studies based on clinical trial data have demonstrated that greater fluctuations in retinal thickness during the course of intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) is associated with poorer visual acuity outcomes. However, it was unclear whether similar findings would be observed in real-world clinical settings. This study aimed to evaluate the association between retinal thickness variability and visual outcomes in eyes receiving anti-VEGF therapy for nAMD using pro re nata treatment regimen. A total of 64 eyes which received intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy (bevacizumab, ranibizumab or aflibercept) for the treatment of nAMD were evaluated. Variability in spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) central subfield thickness (CST) was calculated from the standard deviation (SD) values of all follow-up visits after three loading doses from month 3 to month 24. Eyes were divided into quartiles based on the OCT CST variability values and the mean best-corrected visual acuity values at 2 years were compared. At baseline, the mean ± SD logMAR visual acuity and CST were 0.59 ± 0.39 and 364 ± 113 µm, respectively. A significant correlation was found between CST variability and visual acuity at 2 years (Spearman’s ρ = 0.54, p < 0.0001), indicating that eyes with lower CST variability had better visual acuity at 2 years. Eyes with the least CST variability were associated with the highest mean visual acuity improvement at 2 years (quartile 1: +9.7 letters, quartile 2: +1.1 letters, quartile 3: −2.5 letters, quartile 4: −9.5 letters; p = 0.018). No significant difference in the number of anti-VEGF injections was found between the four CST variability quartile groups (p = 0.21). These findings showed that eyes undergoing anti-VEGF therapy for nAMD with more stable OCT CST variability during the follow-up period were associated with better visual outcomes. Clinicians should consider adopting treatment strategies to reduce CST variability during the treatment course for nAMD.

Baseline Subfoveal Choroidal Thickness as a Predictor for Response to Short-Term Intravitreal Bevacizumab Injections in Diabetic Macular Edema.

PurposeThis article aims to evaluate how the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) respond to the intravitreal injection of bevacizumab and to assess the correlation between these changes. It will also assess the use of the baseline SFCT as a predictor for BCVA changes in eyes of treatment-naive, diabetic macular edema (DME) patients.MethodsThis retrospective, consecutive case series comprised 59 eyes of 39 treatment-naive DME patients. Complete slit-lamp assessment, swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) scans to measure SFCT and BCVA values were performed at two stages: baseline and one month after the third monthly injection of intravitreal bevacizumab.ResultsPatients’ ages ranged from 46.3 to 76.4 years (mean: 62.6 ± 2.3). The mean SFCT was 318 ± 82 μm at baseline, which decreased after 3 months to 300 ± 66 μm (P-value = 0.021). There was an improvement in the mean of the logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from 0.7 (decimal equivalent: 0.2) to 0.5 (decimal equivalent: 0.3) (P-value = 0.019). There was no association between SFCT changes and BCVA changes (P-value = 0.180). Wilcoxon signed-rank test disclosed that a better BCVA improvement was related to a greater subfoveal choroidal thickness at baseline P-value <0.00.ConclusionEyes with a higher baseline subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) attained greater BCVA improvement than eyes with a lower baseline SFCT. In addition to this, changes to SFCT do not appear to correlate with BCVA changes. These findings do not support using OCT SFCT changes as a prognostic factor for changes to BCVA after intravitreal bevacizumab treatment in evaluating treatment-naive DME eyes.

Diabetic macular edema: Safe and effective treatment with intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (Taioftal)

To suggest the safety and efficacy of preservative-free triamcinolone acetonide intravitreal injectable suspension (Taioftal) for the treatment of diabetic macular edema. A prospective clinical study involved 49 patients (49 eyes), that were treated with Taioftal and followed-up for six months. Complete ophthalmic examination, including spectral domain optical coherence tomography, was performed at baseline, and at month 1, 3, 6 after the intravitreal injection. Accurate collection and analysis of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and adverse events (AEs) were carried out in order to evaluate visual function and macular morphology before and after treatment. Median BCVA value chosen as comparing statistics was significantly improved at every follow-up time points (gain of 6 letters at month 1, 12 at month 3 -improvement up to 24% at month 3 with stabilization until month 6) compared to baseline, as certified by Kruskal-Wallis rank sum test (P<0.05). Median CFT significantly waned at each follow-up times (decrease of about 65 μm at month 1, 155 at month 3 -reduction up to 28% at month 3 keeping good outcome until month 6) compared to baseline (P<0.05). IOP elevation, with no severe increases, was the most common among spotted AEs (median of 23 mmHg at month 1, 20 at month 3). Intravitreal injection of preservative-free triamcinolone (Taioftal) is an effective, safe and inexpensive drug used to improve visual acuity and reduce central foveal thickness in eyes affected by diabetic macular edema during an average time of 6 months. Temporary, never severe, elevation of IOP is totally manageable with topical medications. No serious vision-threatening complications are related to the use of intravitreal triamcinolone injections.

Effects of Antithrombotic Agents on Ophthalmological Outcomes, Cardiovascular Risk, and Mortality in Hypertensive Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion: An Exploratory Retrospective Study.

Background and objectives: Because few data are available, the aim of this study is to analyze the effects of antithrombotic agents (ATAs) on visual function and long-term risk of cardiovascular events and mortality in hypertensive patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO). Materials and methods: Hypertensive patients with RVO were consecutively selected from 2008 to 2012 and followed for a median of 8.7 years. Ophthalmologists evaluated and treated RVO complications, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was checked at each visit during the first one year of follow-up. Survival analysis was conducted on the rate of the composite endpoint of all-cause deaths or non-fatal cardiovascular events. Results: Retrospectively, we collected data from 80 patients (age 68 ± 12 years, 39 males). Central and branch RVO was present in 41 and 39 patients, respectively, and 56 patients started ATAs (50 antiplatelet drugs, 6 warfarin, and 2 low-molecular weight heparin). Average BCVA of the cohort did not change significantly during one-year of follow-up. The only predictor of BCVA was the baseline BCVA value. There was a reduction in proportion and severity of macular edema and an increase in the cumulative proportion of retinal vein patency reestablishment during the follow-up, independent of treatment. ATAs had no effects on one-year BCVA, intraocular complications, or the composite endpoint rate. Conclusions: In this exploratory study, ATAs had no effect on BCVA during the first one year of follow-up and on the composite endpoint during the long-term follow-up. Further prospective studies need to be conducted with an accurate standardization of the intraocular and antithrombotic treatment to define the positive or negative role of ATAs in hypertensive patients with RVO.

Predictors of visual outcome in post-fever retinitis: a retrospective analysis.

To identify the predictors of final visual outcome in cases with post-fever retinitis (PFR). This is a retrospective study of cases with diagnosis of post-fever retinitis. Colour fundus photograph and optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters at presentation and final visit were analysed. Various factors at presentation [age, systemic illness, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), area of retinitis and hard exudates, OCT parameters], at final visit (OCT parameters) and the treatment modalities used were correlated with BCVA at final visit. Twenty-four eyes of 16 patients with PFR were included in the study. Median BCVA at presentation was 6/60 and at final visit was 6/9. By multiple linear regression after adjusting for other variables, for every 1 unit increase in height of subretinal fluid (SRF) at fovea at presentation, the value of final BCVA decreased by 0.001 unit. For every 1 unit increase in extent of ellipsoid zone (EZ) loss and subfoveal deposit height, the value of final BCVA decreased by 0.0001 unit and 0.004 unit, respectively. The baseline OCT parameters that had negative correlation with final BCVA included central macular thickness (r: - 0.5182, p: 0.02), maximum SRF height (r: - 0.5539, p < 0.01) and SRF height at fovea (r: - 0.582, p < 0.01). The OCT parameters at final visit which had a negative correlation with final BCVA included disorganisation of retinal inner layers (DRIL) within 1000 microns from centre of fovea (r: - 0.6494, p < 0.01), height of subfoveal deposit (r: - 0.7627, p < 0.01), horizontal extent of subfoveal deposit (r: - 0.6695, p < 0.01) and extent of EZ loss (r: - 0.8216, p < 0.01). Height of SRF at presentation, extent of EZ loss and subfoveal deposit height at final visit were associated with poor final BCVA in PFR.