Optimal Timing for Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane Peeling Surgery Based on a Preoperative Visual Acuity Threshold

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Surgery

Background:

• Idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) affects the macula, potentially impacting visual acuity.
• Vitrectomy-peeling is a standard surgical treatment for iERM.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy and safety of vitrectomy-peeling for iERM based on preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA).
• To identify the optimal preoperative BCVA threshold for surgical intervention in iERM patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 415 eyes undergoing iERM surgery.
• Patients grouped by preoperative BCVA: poor (≤60 ETDRS letters), moderate (61-76 ETDRS), and good (≥77 ETDRS).
• Analysis of final BCVA, surgical complications, and predictive factors.

Main Results:

• Overall BCVA improved significantly post-surgery (median 75 to 80 ETDRS letters).
• All groups showed visual improvement; those with better preoperative BCVA achieved higher final BCVA.
• Optimal preoperative BCVA threshold identified as >75 ETDRS letters; no significant difference in complications across groups.

Conclusions:

• Patients with higher preoperative BCVA (>75 ETDRS letters) experience superior visual outcomes after vitrectomy-peeling for iERM.
• Surgery is safe and effective, with no increased complications when performed at this visual acuity threshold.