Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose:This study describes the results of combining membrane peeling with intraoperative injection of 4mg of triamcinolone acetate for epiretinal membranes and vitreomacular traction syndrome. Visual results, rapidity of visual recovery, anatomic outcomes, demographic data, and complications were documented and compared to previous reports of membrane peeling alone. Methods:Patients undergoing membrane peel and triamcinolone acetonide injection for either epiretinal membrane or vitreomacular traction syndrome were followed prospectively in the post–operative period. Snellen visual acuity, optical coherence tomography, and complete ocular examination were performed at the post–operative visits. Data from these visits were collected and analyzed. Results:Twelve (12) patients underwent combined membrane peel and intraoperative triamcinolone injection between September 2003 and November 2003. Sutureless 25–gauge vitrectomy was performed on 7 of 12 patients (58%). Concomitant diabetes was present in 8 of 12 patients (67%). Mean preoperative logMar visual acuity was 0.89 or 20/158 (range 20/60–20/800). Mean preoperative central macular thickness measured by optical coherence tomography was 409 +/– 110 microns. One–month postoperative results revealed a mean logMar visual acuity of 0.91 or 20/160 (range 20/40–20/800). One–month postoperative mean macular thickness was 224 +/– 53 microns. No post–operative complications, including endophthalmitis or increased intraocular pressure, were observed. Three–month visual acuity, six–month visual month, and speed of visual recovery to preoperative baseline will be presented. Conclusions:Intraoperative, adjuvant triamcinolone acetonide injection combined with membrane peel may provide more rapid visual and anatomic recovery compared to membrane peel alone. Analysis of long–term visual outcomes, anatomic outcomes, and complications will provide further detail regarding the effectiveness of this therapy.
Keywords: vitreoretinal surgery • corticosteroids