Encircling Laser Prophylaxis for Retinal Detachment in Stickler Syndrome: The Impact on Visual Field

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Surgery
• Medical Treatments

Background:

• Retinal detachment is a risk for Stickler syndrome (SS) patients.
• Encircling laser retinopexy is used for prophylaxis.
• Concerns exist about visual field loss with posterior extension of this treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess visual field and acuity changes after posterior encircling laser retinopexy (OSC/SS).
• To evaluate visual disability and symptoms resulting from OSC/SS.
• To address concerns about visual field loss as a barrier to treatment efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of visual field and acuity in four SS patients.
• Use of disability tables and validated questionnaires (Turano, NEI VFQ-25).
• Characterization of visual disability and symptoms post-OSC/SS.

Main Results:

• Posterior encircling laser retinopexy resulted in a small percentage of visual field impairment (0-21%).
• This impairment is significantly less than vision loss from untreated retinal detachment.
• Patient questionnaires indicated no significant impact on mobility and travel visual tasks.

Conclusions:

• Encircling laser retinopexy extending to vortex vein ampullae is safe and effective for SS.
• No significant visual disability or symptomatic visual field loss was observed in treated patients.
• Prospective studies are underway to further evaluate OSC/SS safety and effectiveness.