Abstract
Purpose:
High resolution imaging using adaptative optics (AO) allows an improved viewing of retinal microstructures. Here, we analyzed the AO features of epimacular membranes (ERMs) before and after surgery.
Methods:
Seven eyes with ERM were included. For each patient, a complete ophthalmological examination including measurement of visual acuity, optical coherence tomography and AO infrared flood imaging (rtx1, ImagineEye, Orsay, France) was performed. In four patients these exams were repeated after surgical ablation of the membrane.
Results:
A very precise viewing of the ERMs and of the underlying retinal wrinkling was obtained. The ERM surface showed a myriad of highly reflective dots, whose reflectance varied with the light incidence. Around ERMs, radial retinal folds were seen. The peculiar aspect of ERMs at their very beginning, which seemed to develop around vessels, could be identified. By changing focus, it was possible in three cases to distinguish the ERM itself from the underlying retinal wrinkling. After surgery, retinal unfolding could be documented.
Conclusions:
Specific interests of AO imaging in ERM patients comprise the ability to identify the earliest stages of ERMs, which seem to develop primarily around vessels, and the characterization of the optical properties of the ERM surface. The strong dependence of reflectance to the angle of the incident light suggested that ERMs have a bumpy mosaic-like surface.
Keywords: 688 retina •
550 imaging/image analysis: clinical •
585 macula/fovea