Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026
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Implantation and Evaluation of Melanoma in the Murine Choroid via Optical Coherence Tomography
Published on: December 2, 2022
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Endoresection in Choroidal Melanoma: Outcomes of Intentional Incomplete Tumor Removal
Alexander Anduaga-Beramendi1,2, Marta Caminal-Caramés3, Daniel Lorenzo1,2
1Ophthalmology Department, Bellvitge University Hospital, 08907 L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain.
Current Oncology (Toronto, Ont.)
|December 24, 2025
Summary
This study shows that modified uveal melanoma surgery with residual tumor and ruthenium-106 brachytherapy preserves vision and controls tumors effectively. The technique offers a safe option for choroidal melanoma treatment with low recurrence and metastasis rates.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Surgical Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Uveal melanoma is a rare intraocular malignancy.
- Traditional treatments can lead to significant visual morbidity.
- A modified surgical approach combining endoresection with adjuvant brachytherapy was developed to improve outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the outcomes of a modified surgical approach for uveal melanoma.
- Evaluate the efficacy of endoresection with intentional residual tumor and ruthenium-106 brachytherapy.
- Determine the impact on tumor control, visual function, and survival.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study of 33 patients with choroidal melanoma.
- Pars plana vitrectomy and endoresection with residual tumor followed by ruthenium-106 brachytherapy.
- Analysis of clinical, functional, and oncological outcomes, including Kaplan-Meier survival analysis.
Main Results:
- Low local tumor recurrence (6.06%) and enucleation rate (3.03%).
- High 5-year survival rate (97%) with few metastases (6.06%).
- Visual acuity of 20/200 or better preserved in 60.61% of patients; common complications included retinal detachment and macular edema.
Conclusions:
- Modified endoresection with adjuvant ruthenium-106 brachytherapy is a safe, function-preserving option for selected choroidal melanoma patients.
- The technique achieves good tumor control and visual outcomes with low rates of enucleation and metastasis.
- Cytogenetic analysis revealed an association between chromosome 1p loss and increased recurrence/metastasis risk.
