3D B-mode Ultrasound of the Vitreous Prior to Vitrectomy Surgery

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To assess the reliability of 3D B-mode ultrasonography in detection of vitreous adhesions by comparing preoperative imaging studies to intraoperative findings during vitrectomy surgery. Methods: 5 patients requiring vitrectomy surgery were evaluated preoperatively with 3D B-mode ultrasound. The unit acquires and stores approximately 36 images which are interpolated to form a 3 dimensional image in about 8 secs which may be stored and reviewed. Images were interpreted at the time of the study. Attachments of the cortical vitreous to the retina and optic nerve were noted during the procedure. The preoperative and intraoperative findings were compared. Results: Preoperative 3D B-mode ultrasonography and surgeon findings were compared and found to correlate well in all 5 cases. Conclusions: 3D B-mode ultrasonography can detect posterior vitreous adhesions preoperatively which correlate well to intraoperative findings. These imaging studies allow for rapid and accurate evaluation of 3 dimensional relationships between landmarks and vitreo-retinal adhesions with a short data acquisition time. This is clinically useful in planning vitrectomy surgery and in the assessment of patients with media opacities.

Keywords: imaging methods (CT, FA, ICG, MRI, OCT, RTA, S • imaging/image analysis: clinical • vitreous