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Lutein-based dye vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane: a pilot study.
Settimio Rossi1, Carlo Gesualdo1, Michele Della Corte1
1Eye Clinic, Multidisciplinary Department of Medical, Surgical and Dental Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
Frontiers in Medicine
|July 1, 2025
Summary
A new lutein-based vital dye (LB-VD) effectively stained the vitreous and posterior hyaloid during epiretinal membrane surgery. This dye facilitated surgical maneuvers and led to significant improvements in vision and retinal thickness post-surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Innovation
- Biomaterials
Background:
- Vital dyes are crucial for enhancing visualization of the vitreous and vitreoretinal interface during ophthalmic surgery.
- Current vital dyes may have limitations in selective staining or safety profiles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel lutein-based vital dye (LB-VD) for selective staining of the vitreous body and posterior hyaloid.
- To assess the impact of LB-VD on surgical visualization and patient outcomes during 25-gauge vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 18 patients undergoing ERM surgery with LB-VD assistance.
- Postoperative surgeon satisfaction questionnaire assessing vitreous staining.
- Collection of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and fixation stability data at baseline and 4-6 months post-surgery.
Main Results:
- LB-VD provided effective staining of the vitreous and posterior hyaloid, aiding surgical maneuvers.
- Significant improvements in BCVA (0.60 to 0.32 LogMAR) and CRT (429 to 323 μm) were observed at 6 months (p<0.05).
- Approximately 95% of patients showed improved fixation stability by 6 months, with no significant IOP changes.
Conclusions:
- LB-VD offers clear visualization of the vitreous and posterior hyaloid, facilitating key vitreoretinal surgical tasks.
- LB-VD demonstrates efficacy and safety as an alternative to traditional vital dyes in vitreoretinal surgery.
