Choroidal macrovessel: Systematic review and analysis of anatomic origin
Randy Christopher Bowen1, Vishal Raval2, Hansell Soto2
1Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
Abstract:
There are various hypotheses for the anatomic origin of a choroidal macrovessel. We assess whether a choroidal macrovessel is a dilated posterior ciliary artery. A systematic review of published literature on choroidal macrovessels was performed with two additional cases from our institution. We compared the visible entry and vascular course of the macrovessel in the published literature. We performed a comparative analysis using indocyanine green angiography, swept source optical computed tomography, and 3D reconstruction of two choroidal macrovessels using 3D Slicer (Harvard, Boston, USA, https://www.slicer.org/). From the 14 studies found, 18 cases met inclusion criteria. The reported literature and our two cases showed a radiating course along a sectoral distribution pattern of either short or long posterior ciliary arteries. Our review of literature and 3D reconstruction analysis support the hypothesis that choroidal macrovessels are dilated posterior ciliary arteries.
Insights
Choroidal macrovessels are likely dilated posterior ciliary arteries, according to a systematic review and 3D analysis. This finding clarifies the origin of these vascular anomalies in the eye.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Anatomy
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Choroidal macrovessels are vascular anomalies with debated anatomic origins.
- Understanding their origin is crucial for diagnosing and managing ocular conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesis that choroidal macrovessels represent dilated posterior ciliary arteries.
- To elucidate the precise anatomic origin of choroidal macrovessels.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of published cases of choroidal macrovessels.
- Inclusion of two additional cases from the authors' institution.
- Comparative analysis using indocyanine green angiography, swept-source optical coherence tomography, and 3D reconstruction.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 18 cases from literature and two institutional cases.
- Observed radiating vascular course and sectoral distribution consistent with posterior ciliary arteries.
- 3D reconstruction supported the proposed vascular origin.
Conclusions:
- The findings support the hypothesis that choroidal macrovessels are dilated posterior ciliary arteries.
- This study provides strong evidence for the origin of choroidal macrovessels.
