Choroidal hypertransmission width on optical coherence tomography: a prognostic biomarker in idiopathic macular hole surgery.

PURPOSE: To test the hypothesis that optical coherence tomography (OCT) choroidal hypertransmission width (CHW) is a prognostic biomarker in idiopathic macular hole (MH) surgery METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients undergoing successful pars plana vitrectomy for idiopathic MH. We collected demographic, clinical, and OCT variables at the preoperative and last available visits. Two investigators assessed the following OCT parameters: MH minimum diameter, base diameter, CHW, ellipsoid zone, and external limiting membrane status (absent vs. present). Delta CHW was calculated as the difference between CHW and MH minimum diameter. Linear models were used to investigate factors associated with postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and BCVA change. RESULTS: Thirty-six eyes (36 patients) with a median (interquartile range (IQR)) follow-up of 9 (8-11) months were included. The median BCVA (IQR) improved from 0.75 (1-0.6) logMAR preoperatively to 0.2 (0.6-0.1) logMAR at the last visit (p < 0.001). Preoperative MH minimum diameter (for a 10-µm increase, estimate (standard error (SE)): 0.009 (0.003) logMAR, p = 0.003), base diameter (for a 10-µm increase, 0.003 (0.001) logMAR, p = 0.032), CHW (for a 10-µm increase, 0.008 (0.002) logMAR, p < 0.001), and delta CHW (for a 10-µm increase, 0.013 (0.005) logMAR, p = 0.009) were significantly associated with postoperative BCVA. The proportion of variance explained was the highest for MH CHW (R2 0.35), followed by minimum MH diameter (R2 0.24), delta CHW (R2 0.19), and MH base diameter (R2 0.14). None of the study variables was associated with delta BCVA. CONCLUSION: Preoperative CHW is associated with postoperative visual acuity in patients undergoing successful idiopathic MH surgery and may be a useful OCT prognostic biomarker.

Hypotony Failure Criteria in Glaucoma Surgical Studies and Their Influence on Surgery Success.

PURPOSE: Review hypotony failure criteria used in glaucoma surgical outcome studies and evaluate their impact on success rates. DESIGN: Systematic literature review and application of hypotony failure criteria to 2 retrospective cohorts. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 934 eyes and 1765 eyes undergoing trabeculectomy and deep sclerectomy (DS) with a median follow-up of 41.4 and 45.4 months, respectively. METHODS: Literature-based hypotony failure criteria were applied to patient cohorts. Intraocular pressure (IOP)-related success was defined as follows: (A) IOP ≤ 21 mmHg with ≥ 20% IOP reduction; (B) IOP ≤ 18 mmHg with ≥ 20% reduction; (C) IOP ≤ 15 mmHg with ≥ 25% reduction; and (D) IOP ≤ 12 mmHg with ≥ 30% reduction. Failure was defined as IOP exceeding these criteria in 2 consecutive visits > 3 months after surgery, loss of light perception, additional IOP-lowering surgery, or hypotony. Cox regression estimated failure risk for different hypotony criteria, using no hypotony as a reference. Analyses were conducted for each criterion and hypotony type (i.e., numerical [IOP threshold], clinical [clinical manifestations], and mixed [combination of numerical or clinical criteria]). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Hazard ratio (HR) for failure risk. RESULTS: Of 2503 studies found, 278 were eligible, with 99 studies (35.6%) lacking hypotony failure criteria. Numerical hypotony was predominant (157 studies [56.5%]). Few studies used clinical hypotony (3 isolated [1.1%]; 19 combined with low IOP [6.8%]). Forty-nine different criteria were found, with IOP < 6 mmHg, IOP < 6 mmHg on ≥ 2 consecutive visits after 3 months, and IOP < 5 mmHg being the most common (41 [14.7%], 38 [13.7%], and 13 [4.7%] studies, respectively). In both cohorts, numerical hypotony posed the highest risk of failure (HR, 1.51-1.21 for criteria A to D; P < 0.001), followed by mixed hypotony (HR, 1.41-1.20 for criteria A to D; P < 0.001), and clinical hypotony (HR, 1.12-1.04; P < 0.001). Failure risk varied greatly with various hypotony definitions, with the HR ranging from 1.02 to 10.79 for trabeculectomy and 1.00 to 8.36 for DS. CONCLUSIONS: Hypotony failure criteria are highly heterogenous in the glaucoma literature, with few studies focusing on clinical manifestations. Numerical hypotony yields higher failure rates than clinical hypotony and can underestimate glaucoma surgery success rates. Standardizing failure criteria with an emphasis on clinically relevant hypotony manifestations is needed. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE(S): Proprietary or commercial disclosure may be found after the references.

Risk Factors for Failure in Glaucoma Patients Undergoing Microshunt Implantation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate risk factors for failure of Microshunt in glaucoma patients. DESIGN: Multicenter retrospective cohort study. METHODS: The study included 220 eyes from 220 consecutive glaucoma patients undergoing Microshunt implantation at six glaucoma units. Four intraocular pressure (IOP) success criteria were defined: (A) IOP ≤21 mm Hg with ≥20% IOP reduction; (B) IOP ≤18 mm Hg with ≥20% IOP reduction; (C) IOP ≤15 mm Hg with ≥25% IOP reduction; and (D) IOP ≤12 mm Hg with ≥30% IOP reduction from baseline. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to estimate success rates according to the criteria above, and multivariable Cox models were used to identified risk factors for failure according to criterion A. RESULTS: Success rates varied based on different criteria, ranging from 43.3% to 62.5% (overall success for criteria D and A, respectively) and from 35.3% to 44.4% (complete success for criteria D and A, respectively) at 1-year follow-up. Higher intraoperative MMC concentration was associated with reduced risk of failure to maintain complete (0.4 vs 0.2 mg/mL: hazard ratio [HR] = 0.441, P < .001) and overall (0.4 vs 0.2 mg/mL: HR = 0.360, P = .004) success. For complete success, other risk factors for failure were pseudoexfoliation glaucoma/pigmentary glaucoma (HR = 1.641, P = .004), primary angle closure glaucoma (HR = 1.611, P < .001), and previous non-glaucomatous ocular surgeries (HR = 2.301, P = .002). For overall success, other risk factors for failure were lower preoperative IOP (for 1-mm Hg increase, HR = 0.934, P = .005), higher number of preoperative antiglaucoma agents (HR = 1.626, P < .001), and Microshunt combined with cataract surgery (HR = 1.526, P = .033). CONCLUSIONS: This study identified risk factors for Microshunt failure, highlighting the importance of high intraoperative MMC dose and careful patient selection to optimize surgical success.

Membrane Blue Dual Protects Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells/Ganglion Cells-Like through Modulation of Mitochondria Function.

Although recent data highlight the greater protective effects exerted by Membrane Blue Dual (MBD), a precise analysis of the mechanisms of action is missing. We examined the effects of MBD with/without polyethylene glycol (PEG) on both human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE-19) and retinal ganglion cells-like (RGC-5) cultured in the presence/absence of ultraviolet B (UVB) treatment on mitochondria function, oxidants, and apoptosis. In ARPE-19/RGC-5 cells either treated or not with UVB, the effects of MBD with/without PEG were evaluated by specific assays for viability, mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mitoROS) release. Annexin V was used to detect apoptosis, whereas trypan blue and the scratch assay were used for proliferation/migration. In both physiologic conditions and in the presence of UVB, MBD with/without PEG increased cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, proliferation and migration in both ARPE-19 and RGC-5 cells. In general, the effects of MBD with PEG were greater than those caused by MBD without PEG. Our results suggest that, in particular, MBD with PEG is a safe and effective dye for vitreoretinal surgery through the modulation of mitochondrial function.

Microscope-Assisted Episcleral Surgery with Encircling Buckles and Chandelier Endoillumination for Primary Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment in Phakic and Pseudophakic Patients: A 12-Month Comparative Study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to compare postoperative outcomes after microscope-assisted encircling buckle and chandelier endoillumination for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in phakic and pseudophakic (PFK) patients. METHODS: 121 eyes of 117 patients were divided into 2 groups depending on the lens status (group 1, PFK, 53 eyes; group 2, phakic, 68 eyes). The main outcomes include retinal reattachment rate (RRR) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. RESULTS: The overall primary RRR was 91.7% (111/121). In group 1, the primary RRR was 90.6% (48/53), whereas in group 2 it was 92.6% (63/68). The mean preoperative BCVA improved in both groups at 12 months. Undetected retinal breaks were found in 9.9% of cases. When an encircling 5-mm oval sponge was used, no additional exoplants were required and transcleral drainage was performed in 89.7% of the eyes. In group 1, among the 5 PFK eyes with persistent RRD, 4 eyes had a sulcus intraocular lens. CONCLUSIONS: Microscope-assisted episcleral surgery with chandelier endoillumination is an effective technique for primary RRD in both phakic and PFK eyes with uncomplicated cataract surgery. Chandelier endoilluminators help to visualize undetected retinal breaks, especially in PFK eyes. In case of a circumferential 5-mm oval sponge, additional exoplants are not required and transcleral drainage is strongly recommended to flatten the retina by closing the causative breaks.

Color Fundus Autofluorescence to Determine Activity of Macular Neovascularization in Age-Related Macular Degeneration.

Purpose: To evaluate with color fundus autofluorescence (FAF) different lesion components of macular neovascularization (MNV) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and to assess its activity. Methods: In total, 137 eyes (102 patients) with MNV underwent a complete eye examination, including color fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography, and confocal color FAF, with an excitation wavelength at 450 nm. Each image was imported into a custom-image analysis software for quantitative estimation of emission wavelength and green and red emission fluorescence (GEFC/REFC) intensity, considering both single components of neovascular AMD and different MNV types (type 1 and type 2 MNV, active and inactive MNV). Results: Subretinal fluid (SRF) had significantly higher values of GEFC (P = 0.008 and P = 0.0004) and REFC intensity (P = 0.005 and P = 0.0003) versus fibrosis and atrophy. The emission wavelength from SRF was lower compared to atrophy (P = 0.024) but not to fibrosis (P = 0.46). No significant differences were detected between type 1 and 2 MNV. Considering active versus inactive MNVs, a difference was detected for all evaluated parameters (P < 0.001). Mean FAF wavelength of both MNV with SRF and intraretinal fluid (IRF) was lower versus inactive MNV (P < 0.001 and P = 0.005). MNV with SRF (P < 0.001) had higher values of GEFC and REFC versus inactive MNV (P < 0.001). MNV with IRF had higher values of GEFC versus inactive MNV (P = 0.05). Conclusions: Quantitative color FAF can differentiate active versus inactive MNV, whereas no differences were found between type 1 and type 2 MNV. If these data can be further confirmed, color FAF may be useful for automatic detection of active MNV in AMD and as a guide for treatment. Translational Relevance: Automatic quantitative evaluation of green and red emission components of FAF in AMD can help determine the activity of MNV and guide the treatment.

Unilateral multiple serous retinal detachments secondary to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma responsive to systemic steroids.

PURPOSE: To describe a case of unilateral multiple bullous neurosensory retina detachments (NRDs) secondary to non-Hodgkin's aggressive large B-cell lymphoma treated with chemotherapy and high doses of systemic steroids. METHODS: A case report based on patient observation, clinical records, and retinal imaging during 2 years of follow-up. RESULTS: A 26-year-old Hispanic man presented at our clinic with sudden unilateral visual loss and multiple NRDs in the left eye with increased choroidal thickness, 1 week after oral steroid treatment due to low back pain and fever. In the following days, a non-Hodgkin's aggressive large B-cell lymphoma was diagnosed. The patient underwent three cycles of chemotherapy (CHT) with protocol R-CHOP21 (including oral prednisone) with complete resolution of NRD. During 2 years of follow-up, no recurrence of NRD occurred, despite the need to continue CHT with oral steroids for a year due to lymphoma relapse. CONCLUSION: Neurosensory retina detachments may be an initial manifestation of large B-cell lymphoma as a consequence of a pro-inflammatory state involving the chorioretinal structures, thus adding steroid treatment could be useful for its resolution.

Subthreshold Micropulse Laser in Diabetic Macular Edema: 1-Year Improvement in OCT/OCT-Angiography Biomarkers.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate 1-year quantitative changes in specific inflammatory parameters on optical coherence tomography (OCT) / optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in diabetic macular edema (DME) treated with subthreshold micropulse laser (SMPL). Methods: Thirty-seven patients / eyes with previously treatment-naïve DME treated with SMPL were prospectively evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months. Fifteen fellow eyes with only microaneurysms (MAS) not eligible for treatment were controls. Evaluated OCT / OCTA parameters included: central macular thickness (CMT); hyper-reflective retinal spots (HRS); disorganization of inner retinal layers (DRILs); MA in the superficial / deep capillary plexuses (SCP/DCP); cysts in the area at the SCP / DCP; and macular perfusion parameters (MATLAB, version 2017b). Results: In the treated group, mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) progressively increased from 69.4 ± 12.0 to 76.0 ± 9.1 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters (P < 0.001) at 12 months; HRS decreased from baseline (80.75 ± 20.41) at 3 (73.81 ± 17.1, P = 0.002), 6 (69.16 ± 16.48, P < 0.0001), and 12 months (66.29 ± 18.53, P < 0.0001). MA decreased at 3 months in the DCP (P = 0.015), at 6 and 12 months in both plexuses (P ≤ 0.0007). BCVA, HRS, and MA remained stable in the controls during all follow-ups. DRIL was present in 18 of 37 patients at baseline and progressively decreased from 557.0 ± 238.7 to 387.1 ± 282.1 µm (P = 0.01). The area of cyst decreased both in the SCP (P = 0.03) and the DCP (P = 0.02). CMT and perfusion parameters did not change. Conclusions: SMPL reduced the number of HRS (sign of activated microglia cells in the retina), MA, DRIL extension, and the area of cysts. Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary data on the anti-inflammatory effect of SMPL, and to explore the mechanism of action. Translational Relevance: The follow-up of OCT/OCTA noninvasive biomarkers offers a unique insight in the mechanism of laser action, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect of SMPL.

Optical Coherence Tomography Findings Following Orbital Fractures.

INTRODUCTION: A closed globe trauma is often associated with orbital wall fractures. In addition to diplopia, further eye disturbances can be observed. The aim of this preliminary prospective study was to investigate the optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings in patients that presented with orbital fractures in association with diplopia but without decreased visual acuity or further ocular symptoms. METHODS: Only patients who were admitted and surgically treated for orbital wall fractures and that presented diplopia were included in this study. Patients with post traumatic ocular symptoms were excluded. All the patients that were diagnosed with an orbital fracture underwent an ophthalmological assessment, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), examination of fundus oculi, Hess Scheme, OCT, and OCT angiography. RESULTS: Five patients met the inclusion criteria and were enrolled. Hess Scheme examinations confirmed the presence of diplopia in all the included patients. The examination of fundus oculi did not reveal any pathology in 4 patients, whereas in a patient a commotio retinae (Berlin's Edema) was diagnosed in the infero-papillary field. Following OCT assessment, a pachycoroid was observed in 4 patients. CONCLUSIONS: A thorough ophthalmological assessment in patients that have suffered from orbital fractures is fundamental. In particular, OCT examinations seem to provide more insight into the detection and monitoring of choroidal changes after ocular trauma without visible macular changes.

Aflibercept and Ranibizumab Modulate Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Function by Acting on Their Cross Talk with Vascular Endothelial Cells.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: We performed co-culture experiments between human RPE cells (ARPE-19) and human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) in order to evaluate how anti-VEGF drugs could affect NO release, mitochondrial function, the oxidative status, proliferation and migration of RPE cells through modulation of their cross talk with vascular endothelial cells. METHODS: The co-culture HUVEC/RPE, was exposed to Ranibizumab/Aflibercept in the absence/presence of the NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor, the phosphatidylinositol 3'-kinase (PI3K), the extracellular-signal-regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2) and the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) blockers. Specific kits were used for cell viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, NO, ROS and GSH production. Western blot was performed for apoptosis markers, NOS isoforms, and others kinases detection. Cell migration was analyzed by scratch assay, whereas cell proliferation and cell cycle through xCELLigence and flow cytometry. RESULTS: In RPE cells co-cultured with HUVEC in physiological conditions, Aflibercept/Ranibizumab increased NO release in a dose and time-dependent way. Opposite results were obtained in peroxidative conditions. Both anti-VEGF agents were able to prevent the fall of cell viability and mitochondrial membrane potential, an effect which was reduced by various inhibitors, and increased cell migration. Aflibercept/Ranibizumab counteracted the changes of apoptosis markers, NOS expression/activation, PI3K and ERK1/2 activation caused by peroxidation. These results were confirmed by cell cycle analysis. CONCLUSION: This study has shown new mechanisms at the basis of protective effects elicited by Aflibercept/Ranibizumab in RPE cells. HUVEC stimulated with Aflibercept/Ranibizumab, could release some paracrine factors that can modulate the RPE cells response in both physiologic and peroxidative conditions.

OPTICAL COHERENCE TOMOGRAPHY ANGIOGRAPHY CHANGES AFTER SUBTHRESHOLD MICROPULSE YELLOW LASER IN DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA.

PURPOSE: To assess changes on optical coherence tomography (OCT) angiography in diabetic macular edema (DME) treated with subthreshold micropulse yellow laser (SMPL) over a period of 6 months. METHODS: Thirty-five eyes (35 consecutive patients) with treatment-naive DME prospectively underwent (at baseline, 3 and 6 months) best-corrected visual acuity, swept-source OCT angiography/OCT, and fundus autofluorescence. Following parameters were evaluated on OCT angiography in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP) and deep capillary plexus (DCP): the area of foveal avascular zone, number of microaneurysms (MA), area of cysts, and presence of capillary network alterations. Microaneurysm change was also evaluated in 15 fellow eyes, not needing treatment over 6 months. Vessel and perfusion densities were evaluated in the SCP, DCP, and choriocapillaris, with image J. Retina thickness, number of hyperreflective retinal spots, and external limiting membrane integrity were evaluated on OCT. All measurements were performed by two masked graders, independently. RESULTS: All patients had diabetes mellitus Type 2 (mean age, 69.4 ± 10.9 years; duration of diabetes mellitus, 15.7 ± 8.7 years; and HbA1c 7.7 ± 1.2%). Mean best-corrected visual acuity at baseline was 69.7 ± 12.0 letters ETDRS, 72.7 ± 10.7 at 3 months (gain 3.1 ± 4.3, P = 0.0049) and 74.3 ± 9.5 at 6 months (gain 4.6 ± 7.2, P < 0.0001). Foveal avascular zone area decreased in the DCP at 6 months (P = 0.01). Area of cysts decreased in the SCP at 3 months and 6 months (P = 0.038; P = 0.049), and in the DCP at 6 months (P = 0.0071). Number of MA decreased at 6 months in the SCP (P = 0.0007) and at 3 months and 6 months in the DCP (P = 0.048; P < 0.0001) in treated eyes. No significant change in number of MA was found in nontreated eyes. There was no statistically significant change in any other OCT angiography/OCT parameter. CONCLUSION: Subthreshold micropulse yellow laser induces more pronounced changes in the DCP than in the SCP in DME. These changes occurred as early as 3 months after treatment. The evaluation of specific parameters in the DCP may help in determining treatment response.

Diabetic macular edema with neuroretinal detachment: OCT and OCT-angiography biomarkers of treatment response to anti-VEGF and steroids.

PURPOSE: To assess and compare early changes in neuroinflammatory and vascular parameters in diabetic macular edema (DME) with subfoveal neuroretinal detachment (SND) after treatment with intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX-I) and ranibizumab (IVR). METHODS: Thirty-three eyes (33 patients) with treatment naïve DME with SND were retrospectively evaluated at baseline and 2 months after DEX-I (15 eyes) and 1 month after 3 monthly IVR injections (18 eyes). Inclusion criteria were: complete eye examination, good quality OCT and OCT-A images. OCT parameters included: central macular thickness (CMT); number of hyper-reflective retinal spots (HRS) in inner, outer (IR, OR) and full retina; choroidal thickness (CT), extent of disorganization of inner retinal layers (DRIL), outer retina integrity (OR). On OCT-A: foveal avascular zone (FAZ) parameters in the superficial capillary plexus (SCP); cysts area and perfusion density (PD) in SCP and deep capillary plexus (DCP) and flow voids (FV) in choriocapillaris. FAZ was analyzed using ImageJ, perfusion parameters and FV using MATLAB. RESULTS: BCVA increased equally after both treatments (13.0 ± 10.0 ETDRS letters, p < 0.0001). There was a similar decrease (p < 0.05) in: height of SND, cysts area at SCP, central and mean CT, increase in FAZ perimeter and OR integrity, after both treatments. A greater decrease in DEX-I versus IVR group was found in: CMT (- 38.7% vs. - 22.2%, p = 0.012), HRS number in IR (- 29.2% vs. - 14.0%, p = 0.05) and full retina (- 24.7% vs. - 8.0%, p = 0.03), DRIL extension (- 62.0% vs. - 24%, p = 0.008), cysts area at DCP (- 68.7% vs. - 26.1%, p = 0.03), FAZ-CI (- 19.1% vs. - 8.3%, p = 0.02), PD at DCP (- 27.5% vs. + 4.9%, p = 0.02). FV did not change. CONCLUSIONS: More pronounced changes in specific inflammatory parameters in the inner retina are documented after steroid versus anti-VEGF treatment. These include reduction in HRS number, DRIL extension, CMT, cysts area at DCP. These data may help in further study of noninvasive imaging biomarkers for better evaluation of treatment response.

Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors Protect Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells Against Oxidation by Modulating Nitric Oxide Release and Autophagy.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: the anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), Aflibercept and Ranibizumab, are used for the treatment of macular degeneration. Here we examined the involvement of nitric oxide (NO), mitochondria function and of apoptosis/autophagy in their antioxidant effects in human retinal pigment epithelium cells (RPE). METHODS: RPE were exposed to Ranibizumab/Aflibercept in the absence or presence of NO synthase (NOS) inhibitor and of autophagy activator/blocker, rapamicyn/3-methyladenine. Specific kits were used for cell viability, NO and reactive oxygen species detection and mitochondrial membrane potential measurement, whereas Western Blot was performed for apoptosis/ autophagy markers and other kinases detection. RESULTS: In RPE cultured in physiological conditions, Aflibercept/Ranibizumab increased NO release in a dose and time-dependent way. Opposite results were obtained in RPE pretreated with hydrogen peroxide. Moreover, both the anti-VEGF agents were able to prevent the fall of cell viability and of mitochondrial membrane potential. Those effects were reduced by the NOS inhibitor and 3-methyladenine and were potentiated by rapamycin. Finally, Aflibercept and Ranibizumab counteracted the changes of apoptosis/autophagy markers, NOS, Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase/Protein Kinase B and Extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2 caused by peroxidation. CONCLUSION: Aflibercept and Ranibizumab protect RPE against peroxidation through the modulation of NO release, apoptosis and autophagy.

Direct transretinal removal of subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid: the role and timing of internal limiting membrane peeling.

PURPOSE: To describe a case series including 4 patients undergoing direct transretinal aspiration of subfoveal perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling after macula-off retinal detachment surgery. METHODS: Four patients who had undergone vitreoretinal surgery due to primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were further treated because of retained subfoveal PFCL. Direct transretinal aspiration of PFCL through a self-sealing foveal retinotomy was performed in all cases using a 41-G needle placed on the top of the bubble. The ILM was peeled off prior to and after PFCL removal in 2 cases, respectively. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively to assess the status of the macula. RESULTS: Subfoveal PFCL was successfully removed in all cases. Two patients had silicone oil tamponade at the time of the second surgery, which was temporarily removed in both cases and then reapplied in one. Best-corrected visual acuity improved in all cases. No postoperative macular hole was observed by OCT. CONCLUSIONS: Direct transretinal aspiration of subfoveal PFCL with a 41-G cannula combined with conventional ILM peeling is a safe and effective technique to avoid long-term damage to the retinal layers with good functional outcomes. Performing the ILM peeling immediately before or after the PFCL aspiration does not seem to influence anatomic results.

INVERTED INTERNAL LIMITING MEMBRANE FLAP TECHNIQUE FOR MACULAR HOLE SURGERY WITHOUT EXTRA MANIPULATION OF THE FLAP.

PURPOSE: To determine whether surgical manipulation steps of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap, such as ILM trimmed, ILM tuck inside the hole, ILM massage, are mandatory to obtain satisfactory outcomes for the repair of large stage IV idiopathic macular hole using the inverted ILM flap technique. METHODS: In this interventional comparative prospective single-masked study, 81 eyes were randomized into 2 treatments groups. In Group 1 (41 eyes), the classic inverted ILM flap technique was performed. In Group 2 (40 eyes), a modified procedure was used: after ILM peeling, no extra flap manipulation was performed. The macular hole was covered by the inverted ILM flap because of the air pressure at the time of the fluid-air exchange. RESULTS: At 12 months, macular hole closure was observed in 40 eyes (97.6%) in Group 1 and in 39 eyes in Group 2 (97.5%). U-shape closure rate, ellipsoid zone defects, and external limiting membrane defects were similar in both groups. The results indicate no statistical difference in anatomical and functional success between both groups. CONCLUSION: The macular hole closure rate, improved visual acuity, and no extra complications indicate noninferiority of the modified inverted ILM technique. Internal limiting membrane finishing, tucking, and massage may not be required to obtain surgical success.

Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) versus perfluoropropane (C3F8) tamponade and short term face-down position for macular hole repair: a randomized prospective study.

BACKGROUND: To compare early visual and anatomical outcomes after either sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) or perfluoropropane (C3F8) tamponade for macular hole repair. METHODS: 147 eyes affected by primary full-thickness macular hole underwent pars plana vitrectomy with dye assisted removal of the internal limiting membrane and gas tamponade. Prone position was prescribed for 48 h after surgery. All patients were divided into 3 groups depending on the size of the hole: small (<250 µm), medium (>250-<400 µm) or large (>400 µm). Eyes within the same group randomly received either SF6 (70 eyes) or C3F8 (77 eyes). A complete ophthalmic evaluation, including best corrected visual acuity and anatomic status of the macular holes, was conducted preoperatively, at 1 week and 1 month after surgery. Macular hole volume was calculated using optical coherence tomography scans. The Wilcoxon Signed Ranks Test, the Mann-Whitney Test, the Spearman's rank-order correlation coefficient and the study of variance for repeated measures were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Mean best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.92 logMAR to 0.28 logMAR (P < 0.001). A reduction of the dimensions of macular holes was observed in all cases, with a total repair of 90 % (63/70 eyes) in the SF6 group and 91 % in the C3F8 group (70/77 eyes). There was a negative correlation between the initial minor diameter, the volume of the hole and the rate of anatomic success. CONCLUSIONS: Short-term anatomical and visual outcomes were similar in eyes treated with either SF6 or C3F8, independently of the stage of the macular hole. The initial volume and the minor diameter of the hole may be considered as valid tools for predicting surgical success. Age and gender did not appear to have influenced the prognosis.

Corneal involvement in uneventful cataract surgery: an in vivo confocal microscopy study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate corneal subbasal layer changes after uneventful cataract surgery by means of in vivo confocal microscopy. METHODS: This prospective study included 30 patients. Before surgery, and 1, 3, 6, 8 and 10 months after cataract surgery, all patients underwent a complete ophthalmological and confocal microscopy examination in the central and temporal corneal areas. Number of fibers, beading, tortuosity and reflectivity were analyzed. RESULTS: Important changes were shown in the central cornea up to 3 months after surgery: a reduction in nerve fiber number (baseline: 4.4 ± 1.7; month 1: 1.2 ± 0.5, p < 0.0001; month 3: 2.5 ± 1.2, p < 0.005) and reflectivity (baseline: 3.6 ± 0.5; month 1: 1.4 ± 0.6, p < 0.0001; month 3: 1.9 ± 0.9, p < 0. 0001), and an increase in beading (baseline: 0.3 ± 0.5 beads/100 µm(2); month 1: 2.7 ± 0.6 beads/100 µm(2), p < 0.0001; month 3: 2.6 ± 0.5 beads/100 µm(2), p < 0. 0001). The confocal parameters completely progressively recovered thereafter (60% at 6 months, 87% at 8 and 10 months). The temporal plexus was absent at 1 month and fully recovered in all patients at month 8. CONCLUSION: Uneventful cataract surgery induces relevant corneal modifications when inspected by means of confocal microscopy.

Corneal involvement in Crohn's disease: an in vivo confocal microscopy study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the corneal changes of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) using confocal microscopy and to investigate the association among confocal parameters and CD activity and CD treatment. METHODS: Thirty consecutive patients (age: 42 ± 12 years; 19 women and 11 men) affected by CD and 30 control eyes (age matched and gender matched) underwent an ophthalmic examination and, in 1 eye chosen at random, confocal microscopy of the central cornea using the cornea module of Heidelberg Retina Tomograph. The following confocal parameters were evaluated: density of basal epithelial cells, epithelial dendritic cells, anterior and posterior stromal keratocytes, and endothelial cells; the subbasal plexus was assessed for number and tortuosity of the nerve fibers. RESULTS: Routine ophthalmic evaluation was normal in the whole population. At confocal microscopy, 40% of patients with CD had hyperreflective dots in the basal epithelium, which were absent in the control group. Activation of keratocytes was found in 86.6% of patients with CD and was absent in the control group. Compared with controls, patients with CD had lower density of dendritic cells (12.2 ± 26.3 vs. 50.3 ± 37.6 cells per square millimeter; P = 0.001). The other confocal parameters were similar in the 2 groups. No correlation between CD activity index and confocal changes was found. CONCLUSION: Confocal microscopy can detect subtle corneal changes in patients with CD, which may be signs of subclinical inflammation.

Influence of cataract surgery with implantation of different intraocular lenses on scanning laser tomography and polarimetry.

PURPOSE: To describe the influence of cataract surgery with implantation of different intraocular lenses on scanning laser tomography (SLT) and scanning laser polarimetry (SLP) and to measure the birefringent properties of intraocular lenses in a laboratory setting. DESIGN: Prospective cohort study. METHODS: The influence of phacoemulsification cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation (56 polymethylmethacrylate [PMMA; 31 Pharmacia/Upjohn 811 B and 25 Domilens Flex 60]; 25 hydroxyethylmethacrylate/methylmethacrylate (HEMA/MMA) [Technomed, Memory Lens]; 32 silicone [Allergan Si40]; 25 acrylic [Storz Hydroview]) on SLP and SLT measurements was evaluated preoperatively and 3 to 4 weeks postoperatively in 138 eyes of otherwise healthy patients. Lens opacities were classified according to the Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III). Imaging was performed with TopSS and GDx (Laser Diagnostic Technologies, San Diego, California, USA) for SLT and SLP, respectively. Additionally, birefringent properties of intraocular lenses were measured in a laboratory setting. RESULTS: Our results show that imaging with SLT and SLP is possible with lens opacity-induced visual acuity reductions down to 0.2 and 0.16, respectively. There were no significant differences in the topographic parameters assessed before and after cataract surgery with SLT. However, standard deviations between three within-session single measurements were smaller postoperatively. Nerve fiber layer patterns were similar before and after cataract surgery with SLP, whereas certain total nerve fiber layer thickness values were significantly higher postoperatively. As a consequence, "the number" is significantly lower in the Domilens Flex 60 group (P =.01) and in the Storz Hydroview group (P =.02), and with a tendency also in the other groups as well. Measurements with a high-resolution optical bench revealed no birefringent properties of the implanted lenses. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that after cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation some SLP values are altered significantly, whereas SLT parameters are not influenced. These findings are of clinical interest, especially in the follow-up of glaucoma patients.