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Vitreoretinal surgery and endoresection in high posterior choroidal melanomas
J García-Arumí1, L Sararols, V Martinez
1Hospital Vall d'Hebrón, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Spain. 17215jga@comb.es
Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|October 20, 2001
Summary
Internal resection of thick posterior choroidal melanomas offers a viable alternative to enucleation, preserving vision without increasing metastasis risk. Further follow-up is needed to confirm long-term safety.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Oncology
- Medical Retina
Background:
- Posterior choroidal melanomas exceeding 9 mm in thickness often necessitate eye removal due to radiotherapy complications.
- Evaluating alternative treatments is crucial for vision preservation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and efficacy of internal resection for thick posterior choroidal melanomas.
- To determine if this surgical approach can conserve ocular and functional vision.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-five patients with posterior choroidal melanomas (>9 mm thick) underwent internal resection.
- Procedures involved vitrectomy, tumor removal, and retinal reattachment, with modifications for retinal invasion.
Main Results:
- Complete tumor removal was achieved in all 25 eyes.
- Postoperative complications included cataract (40%) and retinal detachment (16%).
- Mean visual acuity improved from 20/60 preoperatively to 20/100 postoperatively, with no recurrences or metastases observed.
Conclusions:
- Internal resection appears to be a safe and effective method for treating thick posterior choroidal melanomas.
- The procedure may conserve vision and does not seem to elevate the risk of metastatic disease.
- Longer follow-up is recommended to fully establish the long-term safety profile.