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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
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Retinal Vascular Reactivity as Assessed by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Published on: March 26, 2020
Optical coherence tomography findings in ocular decompression retinopathy
Christina M Bui1, Franco M Recchia, Cynthia C Recchia
1Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA.
Summary
A patient experienced vision loss after trabeculectomy surgery, diagnosed as decompression retinopathy. Optical coherence tomography identified macular edema and detachment, which resolved with topical treatment, restoring visual acuity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Diseases
Background:
- Trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure to treat glaucoma.
- Decompression retinopathy is a rare complication following ocular surgery.
Observation:
- A 47-year-old woman presented with sudden visual acuity decline (20/400) three days post-trabeculectomy.
- Fundus examination suggested decompression retinopathy.
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT) revealed macular thickening, cystoid macular edema, and neurosensory macular detachment.
Findings:
- The patient's foveal anatomy normalized with topical treatment.
- Visual acuity improved to 20/30 by 10 weeks postoperatively.
- Macular detachment and cystoid macular edema are potential causes of visual decline in decompression retinopathy.
Implications:
- Optical coherence tomography is crucial for early detection of treatable pathologies in decompression retinopathy.
- Prompt medical intervention can lead to favorable visual outcomes in this condition.
