Morphological and Functional Retinal Assessment in Epiretinal Membrane Surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Surgery
• Macular Diseases

Background:

• Idiopathic epiretinal macular membrane (IEMM) is a condition affecting the macula.
• Surgical intervention is a common treatment for IEMM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze functional and morphological outcomes following 23-Gauge surgery for IEMM.
• To assess visual acuity, retinal sensitivity, and fixation patterns post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Twenty eyes with IEMM underwent 23-Gauge vitrectomy.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) evaluated retinal thickness and layer integrity.
• Visual acuity, retinal sensitivity, and fixation were assessed at multiple time points.

Main Results:

• Significant reduction in central retinal thickness (CRT) from 494.90 µm to 326.90 µm at 180 days.
• Significant improvement in visual acuity (VA) and retinal sensitivity (RS) post-surgery.
• Stable fixation improved from 40% to 75% of patients by 180 days.

Conclusions:

• 23-Gauge surgery for IEMM leads to sustained visual functional improvement beyond six months.
• Progressive reduction in intraretinal edema and retinal layer recomposition contribute to visual recovery.
• Surgical outcomes demonstrate significant morphological and functional benefits for IEMM patients.