Changes in Choroidal Perfusion after Orbital Decompression Surgery for Graves' Ophthalmopathy

To assess choroidal perfusion before and after orbital decompression surgery in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy.

In this interventional case series, surgical decompression for optic nerve compromise was performed on four eyes of three patients with Graves' disease. Complete ophthalmic examination including visual acuity, color vision, and intraocular pressure assessment were done pre- and postoperatively. High-speed indocyanine green angiography was performed prior to surgery and was repeated one year after surgery.

In all three patients, choroidal perfusion defects were noted pre-operatively in the eyes with the compressive optic neuropathy. At 1 year after orbital decompression surgery, the defects improved or completely resolved. Improved visual acuity and color perception, as well as decreased intraocular pressure, were also noted postoperatively.

Patients with Graves' orbitopathy may have abnormal choroidal perfusion even in the absence of optic neuropathy. Orbital decompression may improve choroidal circulation in these patients.