Central and pericentral retinal sensitivity after macular translocation surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Diseases
• Macular Degeneration

Background:

• Neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) involves the RPE-choriocapillaris and retina.
• Macular translocation surgery is a treatment option for nAMD.
• Understanding the distinct contributions of retinal and RPE-choriocapillaris function is crucial for nAMD treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the separate contributions of the retina and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-choriocapillaris to visual function.
• To measure retinal sensitivity in different areas after macular translocation surgery for nAMD.

Main Methods:

• Retinal sensitivity was measured using microperimetry in 35 patients post-macular translocation surgery.
• Median retinal sensitivity scores (MRSS) were compared across three areas: translocated fovea over healthy RPE (Area 1), retina over treated neovascularization (Area 2), and retina over undisturbed RPE (Area 3).

Main Results:

• Retinal sensitivity in Area 1 was significantly greater than in Area 2 (median difference 3.0 dB, P < 0.001).
• Area 1 sensitivity was lower than in Area 3 (median difference 5.0 dB, P < 0.001).
• MRSS in Area 1 correlated more strongly with reading speed than with visual acuity.

Conclusions:

• Disturbed RPE-choriocapillaris significantly limits retinal function in nAMD.
• Persistent retinal dysfunction can impede vision recovery even after successful macular translocation surgery.
• The study highlights the importance of both retinal and RPE-choriocapillaris health for visual function in nAMD.