The use of vitreoretinal surgical techniques in subfoveal choroidal neovascularization

Subfoveal choroidal neovascularization generally carries a poor visual prognosis. This review traces the evolving vitreoretinal surgical techniques for the treatment of this entity. Extensive retinotomies to expose large submacular scars caused frequent complications and poor visual results. More recently, small retinotomy techniques with manipulation of subfoveal membranes behind neurosensory retina have been described. Removal of subfoveal neovascularization with this latter approach is summarized. Visual results are variable. If foveal retinal pigment epithelium can be preserved, excellent central visual function can be regained. In the majority of subfoveal membranes, surgical removal creates retinal pigment epithelium defects, and acuity is limited. These approaches merit further evaluation.