[Effect of intraocular irrigating solution on electroretinogram during pars plana vitrectomy]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Physiology

Background:

• The impact of intraocular irrigating solutions on retinal function during vitrectomy remains unclear.
• Standardized electroretinograms are crucial for assessing retinal health post-surgery.

Observation:

• 30 Hz-flicker electroretinograms (ERGs) were recorded during vitrectomy to evaluate two irrigating solutions: S-MA2 and DE-057.
• ERG amplitude remained consistent between the two solutions.

Findings:

• Irrigation with S-MA2 significantly increased the peak latency of the 30 Hz-flicker ERG by 14%.
• Switching to DE-057 further elevated peak latency by 37% (p < 0.01).
• These latency changes were reversible upon switching back to S-MA2 (p < 0.01).

Implications:

• Intraocular irrigating solutions can reversibly affect human retinal function, specifically altering signal transmission speed.
• Careful selection and monitoring of irrigating solutions are necessary during ophthalmic surgery to minimize potential retinal side effects.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms behind these observed electrophysiological changes.