Abstract
Purpose: :
To describe the characteristics and clinical course of vitreo-macular traction syndrome (VMTS) using optical coherence tomography (OCT).
Methods: :
VMTS was defined by OCT as prominent vitreo-foveal adhesion with an epiretinal membrane (ERM) under the detached perifoveal posterior vitreous. 10 patients were identified. Depending on the severity of symptoms, patients were observed (6 patients) or underwent pars plana vitrectomy with ERM peel (4 patients).
Results: :
Features of VMTS included anterior-posterior vitreo-macular traction, macular thickening, and in one case macular detachment. The natural course of the observed patients was stable. Eyes undergoing vitrectomy had decreased postoperative macular thickness and improved visual acuity except one eye which developed a macular hole.
Conclusions: :
Since the introduction of OCT, VMTS has been diagnosed more frequently and accurately. VMTS can be managed with a similar diagnostic approach and indication for surgery as ERMs. The presence of an ERM in VMTS, thus preventing direct vitreo-retinal traction, seems protective against macular hole formation.
Keywords: macula/fovea • vitreoretinal surgery