Transpupillary Thermotherapy(TTT) in the Treatment of Choroidal Neovascularization: Alternative Indications

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: To describe alternative indications in the use of TTT in the treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Methods: A retrospective case review of 5 patients who underwent TTT treatment of choroidal neovascularization with non-standard indications for treatment. None of these patients presented with the previously well-described indication of an occult subfoveal CNV. Results: All patients presented with a complaint of sudden severe loss of central vision. Three patients had CNV secondary to age-related macular degeneration. Two patients had idiopathic CNV. Two patients had occult peri-papillary CNV, two had classic CNV, and one had thick submacular hemorrhage associated with minimally classic CNV. All patients received TTT with treatment parameters as previously describe for subfoveal occult CNV. Two patients had TTT treatment applied to the optic nerve as well as the CNV without deleterious effects. All 5 patients experienced a significant recovery of central vision. Conclusion: Alternative indications for using TTT in the treatment of non-subfoveal CNV should be considered. TTT is highly effective in destroying peri-papillary occult CNV, as well as treating idiopathic classic CNV. In addition, TTT can be applied to the optic nerve without causing injury . CR: None

Keywords: age-related macular degeneration • choroid: neovascularization • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: tre