Pigment epithelium endoscopic laser surgery for treatment of choroidal neovascularization.

PURPOSE: To present a new concept and technique for subretinal surgery. METHODS: Twenty-four eyes of 24 patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) were included in this study. Nine patients were operated on in Mexico City by one surgeon, 15 patients in Frankfurt by another surgeon. The retina at the posterior pole was detached and subretinal thermal photocoagulation of the CNVs was performed using a 20/19-gauge GRIN rod laser endoscope (Insight Instruments Inc., Sanford, Fla., USA). This procedure was termed PEELS (pigment epithelium endoscopic laser surgery). RESULTS: In 7 patients (Mexico), moderate improvement or stabilization of vision over 6 months or longer was achieved. In 10 out of 12 patients (Frankfurt), stabilization of vision over a follow-up period of 6-18 months was achieved, at least. Serious complications were not observed. Four of the Frankfurt series patients improved their vision. CONCLUSION: PEELS can stabilize or improve vision.