Abstract
Purpose::
To evaluate long-term results of the initial experience with 25-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy (TSV 25) for macular pucker at our institution.
Methods::
A retrospective chart review of 80 eyes of 78 patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy with epiretinal membrane peeling using the TSV 25 system for macular pucker at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, Retina Division from April, 2002 to October, 2003 was performed. Outcome measures included post-op visual acuity, intraocular pressure, and cataract progression.
Results::
Mean length of follow-up was 38 months (range 26-50 months). Median pre-operative visual acuity was 20/70 (mean 20/400). Mean post-operative visual acuity at last follow up was 20/50 (mean 20/150). Only one case required conversion of a single port for 20-gauge instrumentation for silicone oil infusion. One case required post-operative closure of the conjunctiva with sutures. Of the 26 phakic eyes that did not undergo simultaneous cataract extraction, 11 showed significant cataract progression during the follow-up period.
Conclusions::
Long-term results suggest that the improvement in visual acuity following pars plana vitrectomy with epiretinal membrane peeling using TSV 25 is long-standing. Post-operative complications during this extended follow-up period were minor.
Keywords: vitreoretinal surgery • macula/fovea