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To determine the effect of lockdown on medical care, with the example of ophthalmology.Patients in a period during the first lockdown were compared to a non-lockdown period, with a total of 12 259 patients included in an observational study. Changes in different areas (elective, emergency, inpatients, surgeries) and eye care subspecialties were compared. Emergency patients were analyzed according to severity and urgency. Patients showing hints requiring treatment for urgent cardiovascular diseases were determined. Differences in patients who would have suffered severe vision loss without treatment were identified and the QALY (quality-adjusted life years) loss was determined accordingly. A model to prioritize patient visits after the end of lockdown or in future lockdown scenarios was developed. Data were collected at the University Eye Hospital LMU Munich and patient files were reviewed individually by ophthalmologists.The average patient number decreased by - 59.4% (p 0.001), with a significant loss in all areas (elective, emergency, inpatients, surgeries; p 0.001). There was a decline of - 39.6% for patients at high risk/high severity. Patients with indications of a risk factor of future stroke declined significantly (p = 0.003). QALY loss at the university eye hospital was 171, which was estimated to be 3160 - 24 143 for all of Germany. Working up high losses of outpatients during these 8 weeks of projected lockdown in Germany would take 7 - 23 weeks under normal circumstances, depending on ophthalmologist density. The prioritization model can reduce morbidity by up to 78%.There was marked loss of emergency cases and patients with chronic diseases. Making up for the losses in examinations and treatments will theoretically take weeks to months. To reduce the risk of morbidity, we recommend a prioritization model for rescheduling and future lockdown scenarios.Erfassung der Auswirkungen eines Lockdowns auf die medizinische Versorgung am Beispiel der Augenheilkunde.In einer Beobachtungsstudie wurden Patienten in einem Zeitraum während des ersten Lockdowns mit einem Zeitraum ohne Lockdown verglichen. Hierbei wurden insgesamt 12 259 Patienten eingeschlossen. Es wurden Veränderungen in verschiedenen Bereichen (elektive Fälle, Notfälle, stationäre Fälle, Operationen) und augenärztlichen Subspezialitäten verglichen. Notfallpatienten wurden nach Schweregrad und Dringlichkeit analysiert. Patienten mit ophthalmologischen Erkrankungen, die einen Hinweis auf behandlungsbedürftige, dringende kardiovaskuläre Erkrankungen darstellen, wurden ermittelt. Unterschiede von Patienten, die ohne Behandlung einen schweren Sehverlust erlitten hätten, wurden identifiziert und der QALY-Verlust entsprechend ermittelt. Ein Modell zur Priorisierung von Patientenbesuchen nach dem Ende des Lockdowns oder in zukünftigen Lockdownszenarien wurde entwickelt. Die Daten wurden an der Universitätsaugenklinik LMU München erhoben und die Patientenakten einzeln von Augenärzten geprüft.Die durchschnittliche Patientenzahl sank um − 59,4% (p 0,001) mit einem signifikanten Verlust in allen Bereichen (elektive Fälle, Notfälle, stationäre Fälle, Operationen; p 0,001). Bei Patienten mit hohem Risiko/hohem Schweregrad ergab sich ein Rückgang von − 39,6%. Patienten mit ophthalmologischen Erkrankungen, die einen Hinweis auf ein mögliches erhöhtes Risiko für einen zukünftigen Schlaganfall geben, nahmen signifikant ab (p = 0,003). Der QALY-Verlust an der Universitätsaugenklinik betrug 171, geschätzt für Deutschland 3160 – 24 143. Die Aufarbeitung der hohen Verluste an ambulanten Patienten während der 8 Wochen Sperrung würde auf Deutschland hochgerechnet unter normalen Umständen je nach Augenarztdichte 7 – 23 Wochen dauern. Das Priorisierungsmodell kann die Morbidität um bis zu 78% reduzieren.Es kam zu eminenten Verlusten sowohl bei Notfallpatienten als auch bei Patienten mit chronischen Erkrankungen. Das Aufarbeiten der verpassten Untersuchungen und Behandlungen wird theoretisch Wochen bis Monate dauern. Um das Morbiditätsrisiko zu reduzieren, empfehlen wir ein Priorisierungsmodell für die Wiedereinbestellung nach dem Lockdown und künftige Lockdownszenarien.

Lamellar macular holes (LMHs) are an entity of a progressive disease in which the efficacy of the therapy of choice, vitrectomy, seems to be reduced. It is unknown whether highly concentrated autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is of value in the therapy of LMHs. The purpose of this study was to gauge the potential of highly concentrated PRP to restore foveal anatomy in LMH surgery.In this interventional case series, eight eyes of eight patients with progressive LMH were included. All patients underwent a 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy with induction of a posterior vitreous detachment and peeling of tractive epiretinal membranes whenever present. Under air tamponade, 0.1 mL of highly concentrated autologous PRP was applied. Subsequently, a gas or air tamponade was performed. All patients were instructed to rest in the supine position for the first 1 to 2 postoperative hours. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) testing, microperimetry, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and fundus photography were performed prior to and 3 months after surgery.SD-OCT showed closure of the macular defect with restoration of a normal foveal configuration in all (8 of 8) patients 3 months postoperatively. BCVA improved significantly, from 0.28 ± 0.08 to 0.12 ± 0.14 logMAR (Wilcoxon: p = 0.03). Microperimetry remained unchanged (24.13 ± 1.96 vs. 23.7 ± 1.54 dB; p = 0.46). No clinically significant intra- or postoperative complications were observed.The use of highly concentrated PRP enables excellent anatomical and functional outcomes in the surgical therapy of LMH. Further prospective comparative trials are warranted to compare this promising technique with existing surgical strategies.Makulaschichtforamina sind eine progrediente Erkrankung, bei der die Wirksamkeit der Therapie der Wahl, der Vitrektomie, reduziert zu sein scheint. Das Potenzial von hochkonzentriertem autologem Thrombozytenkonzentrat (Platelet-rich Plasma, PRP) in der Therapie von Makulaschichtforamina ist unbekannt. Ziel dieser Studie ist die Beurteilung des Potenzials von hochkonzentriertem autologem Thrombozytenkonzentrat in der chirurgischen Therapie von Makulaschichtforamina.In diese interventionelle Fallserie wurden 8 Augen von 8 Patienten mit progressivem LMH eingeschlossen. Alle Patienten erhielten eine 23-Gauge-Pars-plana-Vitrektomie mit Induktion einer hinteren Glaskörperabhebung und Peeling traktiver epiretinaler Membranen, sofern vorhanden. Unter Lufttamponade wurde 0,1 ml hochkonzentriertes autologes Thrombozytenkonzentrat appliziert. Anschließend wurde eine Gas- oder Lufttamponade eingegeben. Alle Patienten wurden angewiesen, in den ersten 1 – 2 postoperativen Stunden in Rückenlage zu ruhen. Der bestkorrigierte Visus (BCVA), Mikroperimetrie, optische Kohärenztomografie (SD-OCT) und die Fundusfotografie erfolgten präoperativ sowie 3 Monate postoperativ.In der SD-OCT zeigte sich einen Verschluss des Makuladefekts mit Wiederherstellung der normalen fovealen Konfiguration bei allen (8 von 8) Patienten 3 Monate postoperativ. Die bestkorrigierte Sehschärfe verbesserte sich signifikant von 0,28 ± 0,08 auf 0,12 ± 0,14 logMAR (Wilcoxon: p = 0,03). Die Mikroperimetrie blieb stabil (24,13 ± 1,96 vs. 23,7 ± 1,54 dB; p = 0,46). Es wurden keine klinisch signifikanten intra- oder postoperativen Komplikationen beobachtet.Die Verwendung von hochkonzentriertem autologem Thrombozytenkonzentrat ermöglicht hervorragende anatomische und funktionelle Ergebnisse in der chirurgischen Therapie der Makulaschichtforamina. Weitere prospektive Vergleichsstudien sind notwendig, um diese vielversprechende Technik mit bestehenden chirurgischen Strategien zu vergleichen.

Evaluation of the three currently most common techniques for intraocular lens (IOL) sclera fixation: (1) Prolene suture with Hoffman sclera pocket (2) four-point GoreTex suture technique (3) sutureless flanged intrascleral IOL fixation with double-needle ("Yamane") technique.Retrospective, clinical case series (chart review) at the Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU), Munich, Germany. Enrolled in the study were 51 patients with 55 eyes. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA); manifest refraction (OR); corneal tomography (central corneal thickness, CCT); biometry; central macular thickness (CMT) by optical coherence tomography (OCT); intraocular pressure (IOP); and IOL type and IOL power were recorded and compared prior to and 3 - 12 months post IOL sclera fixation surgery. Pre- and postsurgery difference analysis was performed by Wilcoxon rank sum testing (z).Intrascleral fixation by GoreTex suture was performed in 14 (25.5%) eyes, by Prolene suture in 19 (34.5%,) and by Yamane technique in 22 (40.0%) eyes. Within the 3 - 12 months follow-up post scleral fixation, a total of 2 (14.3%) eyes from the GoreTex, 3 (15.8%) from the Prolene and 1 (4.5%) eye from the Yamane group required refixation. Pre- and post-surgery analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in the total patient population BCVA (exact Wilcoxon test: z = - 3.202; p = 0.001; n = 55) and the Yamane subgroup (exact Wilcoxon test: z = - 2.068; p = 0.001; n = 22). The GoreTex (n = 14) and Prolene (n = 19) subgroups revealed no statistically significant differences versus preoperative baseline. Across groups, there was no statistically significant difference in IOP, CMT, and CCT. No retinal complications were observed, neither intraoperatively nor during follow-up.The volume of IOL revision surgery is increasing. Often, the only option left for visual rehabilitation is scleral IOL fixation. All three scleral fixation techniques studied demonstrated a good safety profile with no statistically significant impact on IOP, CMT, CCT, but with a notable revision rate. Visual rehabilitation to preoperative baseline levels (GoreTex [n = 14] and Prolene [n = 19]) and a statistically significant increase in visual acuity (total cohort [n = 55] and Yamane [n = 22]) seems possible. Unlike iris fixation, scleral fixation is surgically more complex and the surgeon must master a steeper learning curve.Evaluation der 3 aktuell meistverwendeten Sklerafixationstechniken für Intraokularlinsen (IOL) (1) Prolene-Naht mit Hoffman-Skleratasche, (2) GoreTex-Naht mit 4-Punkt-Aufhängung, (3) nahtlose intrasklerale Fixation mit gekauterten IOL-Haptikenden und Doppelnadeltechnik („Yamane-Technik“).IRB-genehmigte retrospektive klinische Studie an der Augenklinik der Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) München. 55 Augen (n = 55) von 51 Patienten wurden eingeschlossen. Bestkorrigierter Fernvisus (BCVA), objektive Refraktion (OR), Hornhauttopografie (CCT), Biometrie, zentrale Makuladicke (CMT) mittels optischer Kohärenztomografie (OCT), Augeninnendruck (IOD), IOL-Typ und IOL-Stärke wurden vor und 3 – 12 Monate nach IOL-Sklerafixation untersucht. Eine statistische Auswertung über Unterschiede präoperativ zu postoperativ wurde mittels eines Wilcoxon-Rangsummentests (z) durchgeführt.Eine Sklerafixation mittels GoreTex-Naht wurde in 14 (25,5%) Augen, mittels Prolene-Naht in 19 (34,5%,) und mittels Yamane-Technik in 22 (40,0%) Augen durchgeführt. Innerhalb der 3 – 12 Monate Beobachtungszeitraum nach Sklerafixation mussten insgesamt 2 × (14,3%) GoreTex-, 3 × (15,8%) Prolene-, 1 × (4,5%) Yamane-Augen refixiert werden. Die Analyse zeigte einen statistisch signifikanten Unterschied bei der BCVA in der gesamten Kohorte (exakter Wilcoxon-Test: z = − 3,202; p = 0,001; n = 55) und in der Yamane-Subgruppe (exakter Wilcoxon-Test: z = − 2,068; p = 0,001; n = 22) im Vergleich zu prä-OP. Die GoreTex- (n = 14) und die Prolene-Subgruppe (n = 19) zeigten keine statistisch signifikanten Unterschiede zu prä-OP. Gruppenübergreifend war kein statistisch signifikanter Unterschied bei IOD, CMT und CCT festzustellen. Es traten keine retinalen Komplikationen auf, weder während der OP noch im Beobachtungszeitraum.Die Anzahl der IOL-Revisionen nimmt zu. Oft bleibt als einzige Option nur eine IOL-Sklerafixation zur visuellen Rehabilitation. Alle 3 untersuchten Sklerafixationsmethoden zeigten ein gutes Sicherheitsprofil ohne statistisch signifikanten Einfluss auf IOD, CMT, CCT, aber eine nennenswerte Revisionsrate. Eine visuelle Rehabilitation des BCVA auf den präoperativen Status (GoreTex [n = 14] und Prolene [n = 19]) bzw. ein statistisch signifikanter Visusanstieg (Gesamtkohorte [n = 55] und Yamane [n = 22]) scheint möglich. Verglichen mit der Irisfixation ist die Sklerafixation chirurgisch komplexer und hat eine steilere Lernkurve für den Chirurgen.

PURPOSE The study was performed to evaluate the refractive and visual outcome of patients with misaligned toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) after operative realignment, with and without back-calculation of the toric axis after implantation of the IOL. DESIGN Institutional, retrospective case-control study. METHODS This is a retrospective case series of 39 patients who underwent a second operation to realign a misaligned toric IOL from August 2013 to December 2019 at the Department of Ophthalmology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany. Ideal toric axis was calculated using the back-calculator astigmatismfix.com. RESULTS The study consists of 39 treated eyes (20 [51%] right eyes). The toric IOLs showed a postoperative misalignment of 25.69 ± 26.06°. Postrotational, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) improved from 0.39 ± 0.29 logMAR to 0.27 ± 0.18 logMAR. Refractive outcome showed a reduction of residual sphere and cylinder. The postoperative UDVA when performing alignment to the preoperative calculated axis (51%) was 0.24 ± 0.16 logMAR with a cylinder of 0.90 ± 0.90 diopter (D). In the group with alignment to a back-calculated axis (49%), the UDVA was 0.32 ± 0.20 logMAR with a cylinder of 0.76 ± 0.72 D. High cylinder power IOLs (≥2 D) showed a higher decrease in residual cylinder when back-calculation was performed than low cylinder power IOLs (

To perform a systematic analysis of articles on the ophthalmological implications of the global COVID-19 pandemic.PubMed.gov was searched for relevant articles using the keywords "COVID-19", "coronavirus", and "SARS-CoV-2" in conjunction with "ophthalmology" and "eye". Moreover, official recommendations of ophthalmological societies were systematically reviewed, with a focus on the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth).As of April 16, 2020, in total, 21 peer-reviewed articles on the ophthalmological aspects of COVID-19 were identified. Of these, 12 (57.1%) were from Asia, 6 (28.6%) from the United States of America, and 3 (14.3%) from Europe. There were 5 (23.8%) original studies, 10 (47.6%) letters, 3 (14.2%) case reports, and 3 (14.2%) reviews. These articles could be classified into the topics "Modes and prevention of (ocular) transmission", "Ophthalmological manifestations of COVID-19", "Clinical guidance concerning ophthalmological practice during the COVID-19 pandemic", and "Practical recommendations for clinical infrastructure". Practical recommendations could be extracted from official statements of the AAO and the RCOphth.Within a short period, a growing body of articles has started to elucidate the ophthalmological implications of COVID-19. As the eye can represent a route of infection (actively via tears and passively via the nasoacrimal duct), ophthalmological care has to undergo substantial modifications during this pandemic. In the eye, COVID-19 can manifest as keratoconjunctivitis.Ein substanzieller Teil der aktuellen Literatur zur COVID-19-Pandemie beschäftigt sich mit deren ophthalmologischen Aspekten. In diesem Übersichtsartikel soll ein Überblick über die bisher publizierten Studien gegeben werden, die für die Ophthalmologie relevant sind.PubMed.gov wurde systematisch nach Artikeln mit den folgenden Schlüsselwörtern durchsucht: „COVID-19“, „Coronavirus“ und „SARS‐CoV‐2“ in Verbindung mit „Ophthalmology“ und „Eye“. Darüber hinaus wurde eine Analyse der Empfehlungen der ophthalmologischen Fachgesellschaften durchgeführt, insbesondere der American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) und des Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth).Es wurden 21 Artikel mit Peer Review zu den ophthalmologischen Aspekten von COVID-19 identifiziert (Stand: 16. April 2020). Davon stammten 12 (57,1%) aus Asien, 6 (28,6%) aus den Vereinigten Staaten und 3 (14,3%) aus Europa. Darunter befanden sich 5 Originalarbeiten (23,8%), 10 (47,6%) Briefe an den Herausgeber, 3 (14,2%) Fallberichte und 3 (14,2%) Übersichtsartikel. Es erfolgte eine Sortierung in folgende Themen: „(Okuläre) Übertragungswege und Prävention“, „Ophthalmologische Manifestation von COVID-19“, „Klinische Richtlinien für die ophthalmologische Praxis während der COVID-19-Pandemie“ und „Praktische Empfehlungen für den klinischen Alltag“. Letztere wurden den Empfehlungen der AAO und des RCOphth entnommen.Eine Vielzahl kürzlich erschienener Artikel befasst sich mit den ophthalmologischen Aspekten von COVID-19. Da COVID-19 über das Auge übertragen werden kann (aktiv über die Tränenflüssigkeit und passiv über den Ductus nasolacrimalis), ist eine sorgfältige Infektionsprävention in der ophthalmologischen Praxis von großer Bedeutung. Eine Augenbeteiligung kann sich als Keratokonjunktivitis manifestieren.

Patienten haben mittlerweile die Moglichkeit, sich bei der Linsenchirurgie fur Sonderlinsen zu entscheiden. Mittels dieser Intraokularlinsen (IOL) kann z. B. eine ausgepragte Hornhautverkrummung ausgeglichen werden (torische IOL) oder dem Patienten ermoglicht werden, in mehreren Distanzen scharf zu sehen (multifokale IOL). Von dem ausgepragten Wettbewerb im Linsenmarkt profitiert der Patient, da es zur schnellen Weiterentwicklung von Linsenmodellen kommt. In diesem Ubersichtsbeitrag werden die am haufigsten eingesetzten Arten von Sonderlinsen, aspharische, torische und multifokale IOL, vorgestellt, und die aktuelle Studienlage zu den Linsentypen wird zusammengefasst. Sonderlinsen konnen im Vergleich zu Standardlinsen das unkorrigierte Sehvermogen in der Ferne oder in der Nahe verbessern. Andererseits kann ihr Nutzen bei einigen Patienten nur marginal sein, dann stellen sie v. a. einen unnotigen Kostenfaktor fur den Patienten dar. Bei Nichtbeachtung von Ein- und Ausschlusskriterien konnen die Sonderlinsen sogar zu einem schlechteren Gesamtergebnis fuhren.

PURPOSE To evaluate functional outcome after retinal detachment (RD) repair surgery in eyes with a multifocal intraocular lens (mIOL). SETTING Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany. DESIGN Single-center case control study. METHODS 52 pseudophakic eyes with successful anatomical outcome after surgical RD repair were included. Retrospectively, 21 mIOL eyes were compared with a matched group of 21 monofocal eyes over 6 weeks. Prospectively, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was evaluated over 12 months in these eyes. Furthermore, uncorrected distance, intermediate, and near visual acuity (UDVA, UIVA, and UNVA, respectively), defocus curves, and patient-reported outcomes were evaluated at 1 year in 24 mIOL eyes. RESULTS 52 eyes of 48 patients comprised the study. The mean CDVA (logMAR) improved significantly from 1.35 ± 1.38 to 0.29 ± 0.37 at 6 weeks and remained stable at 12 months postoperatively in monofocal eyes (P = .001) and from 1.16 ± 1.2 to 0.37 ± 0.29 (6 weeks) and 0.20 ± 0.36 (12 months) in mIOL eyes (P = .001). Univariate factorial analysis of variance showed no statistically significant differences in CDVA at 6 weeks or 12 months postoperatively for IOL type or for preoperative macular status (P > .05). In the prospective cohort of 24 mIOL eyes, a mean CDVA of 0.13 ± 0.33 logMAR, UDVA of 0.21 ± 0.34 logMAR, UIVA of 0.17 ± 0.28 logMAR, and UNVA of 0.23 ± 0.32 logMAR was achieved. Macular status did not affect final outcome significantly (P > .05). Most patients stated they usually did not need spectacles; no patient wanted mIOL replacement. CONCLUSIONS 1 year after successful anatomical repair after 23-gauge vitrectomy with gas tamponade, functionality of mIOL was restored, and CDVA was comparable with that of patients with monofocal IOL.

Myopia is the most common refractive error. Surgical correction with laser is possible. LASIK and SMILE are the techniques currently most used. Aim of the study was to compare changes in corneal volume and thickness after the respective laser treatment. 104 eyes of 52 patients were matched based on refractive error into two equally sized groups, either treated with LASIK or SMILE. Measurements were obtained from the Scheimpflug camera (Pentacam) preoperatively and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively. 3 months postoperatively, the flapless SMILE procedure resulted in a significant overall greater loss of corneal volume (P < 0.01) and corneal thickness (P < 0.01) compared to LASIK. No significant difference was found when comparing the 3 to 12-months values in each group. Within the currently used ranges of refractive error correction, loss in central corneal thickness and corneal volume with SMILE is higher in comparison to LASIK. As greater loss in corneal volume and thickness might contribute to higher level of corneal instability maximum ranges of refractive error correction with SMILE should not supersede those set currently for LASIK until more long-term results on corneal ectasia are available for SMILE.

Sub-retinal fluid (SRF) has been discussed as a protective factor against macular atrophy in eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).To gauge the impact of SRF on macular atrophy, a database of 310 nAMD eyes was screened for eyes manifesting an SRF-only phenotype under treat & extend anti-VEGF treatment, defined as nAMD expressing CNV exudation beyond the three monthly anti-VEGF loading doses by SRF only without any signs of exudative intra-retinal fluid (IRF) for ≥3 years. Incidence of macular atrophy and treatment responses were evaluated on multimodal imaging, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), blue autofluorescence (BAF) and near-infrared (NIR) confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and fluorescence and indocyanine green angiography (FAG/ICGA). In total, 27 eyes (8.7%) of 26 patients with a mean follow-up of 4.2 ± 0.9 (3–5) years met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 72 ± 6 (range: 61–86) years. The SRF only phenotype was seen from baseline in 14 eyes (52%), and in 13 eyes (48%) after a mean 1.0 ± 1.3 (1–3) injections. In years 1 to 5, mean 7.5, 5.9, 6.1, 6.1 and 7.0 anti-VEGF injections were given (p = 0.33). Cumulative macular atrophy incidence was 11.5% at year 1, 15.4% throughout years 2 to 4, and 22.4% at year 5. In conclusion, eyes manifesting activity by SRF only in treat & extend anti-VEGF regimen for nAMD seem to exhibit rather low rates of macular atrophy during long-term follow-up. SRF might be an indicator of a more benign form of nAMD.

PURPOSE To implant a small-aperture intraocular lens (IOL) (IC-8) in eyes with severe corneal irregularities to reduce higher-order aberrations and provide better central visual acuity. SETTING University Hospital, LMU Munich, Germany. DESIGN Prospective nonrandomized interventional case series. METHODS Eyes with severe corneal irregularities due to keratoconus, previous penetrating keratoplasty, status postradial keratotomy, or scarring after ocular trauma were enrolled. Exclusion criteria were progressive keratoconus, pseudoexfoliation, glaucoma, maculopathy, reduced endothelial cells (

PURPOSE We assessed differences in compliance and adherence (lateness of patients, visual acuity, reasons for abstaining) between patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) and patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), both under anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy. METHODS We included 136 patients with DME (36% women, 65 years, 22 visits, 13.9 injections, and 29.9 months of follow-up) and 109 patients with AMD (59% women, 76 years, 20 visits, 14.7 injections, and 22.3 months of follow-up) (minimum follow-up of 12 months and at least 5 injections). We assessed missed appointments (lateness >14 days) and therapy break-offs (lateness >100 days). All delayed patients were called and interviewed for abstaining reasons. RESULTS Forty-six percent of patients with DME and 22% of patients with AMD had at least one break-off. Thirty-five percent of patients with DME and 50% of patients with AMD were always on schedule. In patients with DME, there was significant correlation (P = 0.017) between the number of break-offs and change of visual acuity. In 60% DME and 38% AMD of break-off cases, visual acuity was worse than the before break-off. The most common reason for abstaining was comorbidities (33% AMD and 20% DME). CONCLUSION There are significant differences between patients with AMD and DME regarding compliance and adherence, which also affects outcome. Strategies to tie patients with DME to costly intravitreal therapy need to be developed to improve outcomes and efficacy.

PURPOSE: To report the impact of increasing minimum lenticule thickness on the safety and efficacy of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) in low myopia up to −3.50 diopters (D). METHODS: SMILE was performed in 76 eyes of 76 patients. Thirty-eight eyes of 38 patients with low myopia were prospectively operated on with a programmed minimum lenticule thickness of 15 to 30 μ m (thicker lenticule group). Thirty-five eyes suitable for analysis were then retrospectively matched by spherical equivalent to 35 eyes operated on with a minimum standard setting of 10 μ m (standard thickness group), as provided in the database of the SMILE Eyes Clinic Linz, Linz, Austria. Comparison of outcomes was performed with the Standard Graphs for Reporting Refractive Surgery and by analysis of higher order aberrations as provided by Scheimpflug imaging. RESULTS: Apart from lenticule thickness, there was no significant difference in preoperative baseline or treatment parameters between both groups. Mean minimum lenticule thickness differed significantly (standard thickness = 10 ± 0 μ m; thicker lenticule = 20 ± 5 μ m; P < .0001). This also translated into a significant difference in maximum lenticule thickness (standard thickness: 54 ± 11 μ m; thicker lenticule: 62 ± 8 μ m; P = .0002). Mean SEQ preoperatively was −2.25 ± 0.51 (standard thickness) and −2.24 ± 0.46 (thicker lenticule) D, respectively, and changed to −0.11 ± 0.50 (standard thickness) and +0.01 ± 0.36 (thicker lenticule) D postoperatively ( P < .0001 for both comparisons). Uncorrected postoperative visual acuity was −0.08 ± 0.35 (standard thickness) versus −0.10 ± 0.09 (thicker lenticule) logMAR ( P = .706). After SMILE, the thicker lenticule group showed better safety (1.20 vs 1.08; P = .025) and efficacy (1.14 vs 0.96; P = .011) indices, translating into more eyes within ±0.50 D from target (91% vs 77%) and with at least 0.0 logMAR visual acuity (97% vs 86%), and fewer eyes losing one (3% vs 17%) and two (0% vs 3%) lines. CONCLUSIONS: Increasing minimum lenticule border thickness seems to improve the safety and efficacy of SMILE in low myopia. [ J Refract Surg. 2018;34(7):453–459.]

To determine functional and anatomical outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy for persistent full-thickness macular hole (MH) after intravitreal injection of ocriplasmin.This is a multicenter retrospective interventional study of 37 eyes of 37 patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling for persistent MH after ocriplasmin treatment between December 2013 and December 2015 and comparison with 35 eyes of 35 patients who were offered ocriplasmin injection but underwent pars plana vitrectomy alone without pharmacologic vitreolysis before surgery. In addition, 24 matched pairs (MH diameter at baseline ±5 µm) were analyzed. Clinical data such as visual acuity, intraoperative characteristics, and spectral domain optical coherence tomography images were reviewed. Main outcome measures were visual acuity and MH closure rate.After a mean follow-up period of 9 months, postoperative mean visual acuity showed no significant differences between ocriplasmin-treated eyes (logarithm of minimum angle of resolution 0.37 ± 0.26, Snellen 20/47) and eyes without ocriplasmin treatment (logarithm of minimum angle of resolution 0.39 ± 0.25; Snellen 20/49) (P0.9). After ocriplasmin injection, mean MH diameter enlarged from 217 ± 102 µm to 384 ± 239 µm (P0.001). Matched-pair analysis revealed no difference in gain of visual acuity between the first visit and the last follow-up (P = 0.29). Macular hole closure was observed in similar proportion in ocriplasmin-treated eyes (97%) and vitrectomy-only eyes (94%) (P0.5).Eyes with persistent MH after ocriplasmin injection showed significant visual improvement after pars plana vitrectomy. Matched-pair analysis revealed no statistical differences in functional and anatomical postoperative results comparing with eyes of similar MH diameter that proceeded directly to surgery without ocriplasmin pretreatment.

Purpose To develop a near-real-time data warehouse (DW) in an academic ophthalmologic center to gain scientific use of increasing digital data from electronic medical records (EMR) and diagnostic devices. Design Database development. Methods Specific macular clinic user interfaces within the institutional hospital information system were created. Orders for imaging modalities were sent by an EMR-linked picture-archiving and communications system to the respective devices. All data of 325 767 patients since 2002 were gathered in a DW running on an SQL database. A data discovery tool was developed. An exemplary search for patients with age-related macular degeneration, performed cataract surgery, and at least 10 intravitreal (excluding bevacizumab) injections was conducted. Results Data related to those patients (3 142 204 diagnoses [including diagnoses from other fields of medicine], 720 721 procedures [eg, surgery], and 45 416 intravitreal injections) were stored, including 81 274 optical coherence tomography measurements. A web-based browsing tool was successfully developed for data visualization and filtering data by several linked criteria, for example, minimum number of intravitreal injections of a specific drug and visual acuity interval. The exemplary search identified 450 patients with 516 eyes meeting all criteria. Conclusions A DW was successfully implemented in an ophthalmologic academic environment to support and facilitate research by using increasing EMR and measurement data. The identification of eligible patients for studies was simplified. In future, software for decision support can be developed based on the DW and its structured data. The improved classification of diseases and semiautomatic validation of data via machine learning are warranted.

Purpose To characterize patient-reported long-term quality of vision (QoV) after small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), and to identify potential clinical parameters that might predispose to experiencing deteriorated visual quality. Setting University Eye Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany. Design Prospective cross-sectional study. Methods For the assessment and scoring of visual symptoms, the Quality of Vision questionnaire was employed, which constitutes a clinically validated, linear-scaled 30-item instrument providing a QoV score on three scales (symptom frequency, severity, and bothersome). Subgroup analyses were performed for patient subgroups stratified by baseline characteristics (eg, age) and treatment parameters (eg, surgical refractive correction) as well as refractive outcomes (eg, residual refraction) and visual outcomes (eg, uncorrected distance visual acuity [UDVA]). Results The study comprised 394 eyes of 197 patients (117 women [59.4%], 80 men [40.6%]) were included with a mean postoperative follow-up of 24.4 months ± 14.1 (SD). The QoV scores for symptom frequency, severity, and bothersome were 34.63 ± 13.69, 29.60 ± 12.38, and 24.56 ± 16.00, respectively. Patients with a preoperative binocular corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) of 20/12.5 or better, patients who lost 1 or more lines of UDVA as compared with preoperative CDVA, patients older than the age of 40, and patients with inadvertent anisometropia more than 0.375 diopters reported worse QoV scores. Conclusion The relationship between objective clinical parameters and patient-reported subjective QoV after SMILE seems complex. Defined prognostic factors that convey a higher risk for experiencing visual disturbances were identifiable and should be discussed with patients seeking SMILE treatment during preoperative counseling.

Christoph Kern, Karsten Kortüm, Michael Müller, Florian Raabe, Wolfgang Johann Mayer, Siegfried Priglinger, Thomas Christian Kreutzer University Eye Hospital Munich, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany Purpose: Our aim was to correlate the overall patient volume and the incidence of several ophthalmological diseases in our emergency department with weather data. Patients and methods: For data analysis, we used our clinical data warehouse and weather data. We investigated the weekly overall patient volume and the average weekly incidence of all encoded diagnoses of “conjunctivitis”, “foreign body”, “acute iridocyclitis”, and “corneal abrasion”. A Spearman’s correlation was performed to link these data with the weekly average sunshine duration, temperature, and wind speed. Results: We noticed increased patient volume in correlation with increasing sunshine duration and higher temperature. Moreover, we found a positive correlation between the weekly incidences of conjunctivitis and of foreign body and weather data. Conclusion: The results of this data analysis reveal the possible influence of external conditions on the health of a population and can be used for weather-dependent resource allocation. Keywords: corneal injury, trauma, uveitis, conjunctivitis, weather

Background. The association between cardiovascular events, such as acute coronary syndrome and emotional triggers, such as football world cups is well-known. Significant differences could sometimes be identified depending on the country of origin and design of the study. From an ophthalmological perspective the correlation between preexisting cardiovascular diseases and retinal angiopathy is well-known. This study investigated whether the incidence of retinal vein occlusion (RVO) at a German university eye clinic increased during and 4 weeks after the 2014 football World Cup. Methods. From the electronic files of almost 290,000 patients contained in the Smart Eye database, those with RVO during and 4 weeks after the 2014 football World Cup (from 12 June to 13 August 2014) and during the same time period in 2013 could be identified. Demographic data, visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP) and laboratory parameters were extracted and compared, when available. Results. From 10 male (average age 68 years) and 8 female (average age 62 years) a total of 9 central RVO (CRVO), 8 branch RVO (BRVO) and 1 hemi-CRVO were identified in 2013 with a visual acuity ranging from 0.05 to 0.9 (average 0.39) and an IOP from 12 mmHg to 25 mmHg (average 16 mmHg). In 2014 a total of 26 patients (11 male average age 67 years and 15 female average age 76 years) were identified, an increase of 69% (15 CRVO, 6 BRVO and 5 hemi-CRVO). The visual acuity ranged from 0.05 to 1.0 (average 0.63) and the IOP from 8 mmHg to 24 mmHg (average 15 mmHg). Conclusion. Due to the high comparability of the patient collectives an increase of RVO during and 4 weeks after the 2014 football World Cup could be identified, compared to the same period in 2013. It can be assumed that emotional strain caused by a World Cup is a risk factor. Data from other centers have to be assessed in order to be able to make a more general statement.

To investigate the effectiveness and safety of a dexamethasone implant (Ozurdex) to treat pseudophakic macular edema (Irvine-Gass syndrome).Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany.Prospective nonrandomized study.Preoperatively and in 12 monthly postoperative intervals, a complete ophthalmic examination was performed in study patients, including measurement of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) using the standard Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study chart, intraocular pressure, foveal thickness using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and retinal sensitivity (mean defect depth) using microperimetry. Morphological aspects of the inner segment-outer segment junction and visual function were correlated.Twenty-three eyes (23 patients) with pseudophakic macular edema after uneventful cataract surgery were included. The mean duration of macular edema before treatment with a dexamethasone implant was 5.4 months (range 2 to 8 months). The CDVA increased in all patients from 30.2 letters ± 4.3 (SD) at baseline to 50.4 ± 4.9 letters at 12 months (P = .0016), regardless of the time of macular edema duration. Foveal thickness decreased from 520.8 ± 71.4 μm to 232.7 ± 26.6 μm (P.002). Retinal sensitivity (mean defect depth) increased significantly over a 12-month follow-up, correlating positively with a restored inner segment-outer segment junction on SD-OCT analyses. No relevant adverse events were reported, and 9 recurrences occurred with a peak after 3 months and required a second dexamethasone implant injection.The dexamethasone implant was safe and effective in treating pseudophakic macular edema regardless of the duration of the edema.Drs. Mayer and Haritoglou are consultants to Allergan, Inc. No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Purpose To correlate the incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis with changes in the preoperative prophylaxis over a 20-year period. Setting Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany. Design Retrospective chart review. Methods Patients diagnosed with postoperative endophthalmitis from 1990 to 2009 after intraocular surgery performed at the same institution were included. Because of changes in the preoperative prophylaxis during the study period, 3 groups were formed for data analysis: Period 1 (1990 to 1992), no standardized prophylaxis regimen; period 2 (1993 to 1998), preoperative topical medication, povidone–iodine 10.0% periorbitally, and 1 drop of povidone–iodine 1.0% in the conjunctiva sac; and period 3 (1999 to 2009), similar to period 2 except with irrigation of the conjunctival sac with 10 mL of povidone–iodine 1.0%. Results The overall rate of postoperative endophthalmitis was 0.113% (77/68 323) for all intraocular surgeries. It decreased significantly from 0.291% (16/5505) in period 1 to 0.170% (33/19 413) in period 2 to 0.065% (28/43 405) in period 3 ( P P Staphylococcus was the most commonly isolated organism (47.4%). Conclusions The rate of postoperative endophthalmitis decreased over a 20-year period at a single academic institution. Although multiple factors might have contributed to this decline, implementation of a preoperative prophylaxis protocol using copious povidone–iodine might have been the most important contributor. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Purpose:To evaluate the outcomes of myopic small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) monovision in presbyopic patients.Methods:This study included 49 presbyopic patients older than 45 years seeking surgical correction of myopia or myopic astigmatism who underwent bilateral SMILE with planned monovision in the SMILE Eyes Clinic Linz, Austria. Target refraction was plano for dominant (distance) eyes and ranged between -1.25 and -0.50 D for nondominant (near) eyes. Best-corrected distance visual acuity, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), uncorrected near visual acuity, as well as spectacle dependence were assessed after a mean postoperative period of 7.2 ± 4.8 months.Results:Mean age was 49 ± 3 years and female to male ratio was 30:19. Distance eyes achieved a spherical equivalent correction of ±0.50 D from target refraction in 80% of patients and 96% were within ±1.0 D. Binocular UDVA of 20/20 or better was achieved by 90% of patients and all patients achieved 20/25 or better. The proportion of patients with a binocular UDVA of 20/20 or better who could read J2 or better amounted to 84%. Complete spectacle independence was achieved by 84% of patients and independence from reading glasses was achieved in 92% of cases. No patient requested refractive enhancement or monovision reversal.Conclusions:This first evaluation of SMILE monovision endorses the approach as a safe and effective option for the correction of presbyopia in myopic patients seeking refractive surgery.

Purpose: To compare the efficacy of a computer-assisted marker system for toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) (Callisto Eye System) with manual marking techniques. Setting: University Eye Hospital Munich, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany. Design: Prospective case series. Methods: This study included patients having cataract surgery with implantation of a toric IOL (Torbi 709 M). They were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups based on the marking system used, manual or digital. Patients were included if they had age-related cataract and a regular comeal astigmatism of 1.25 diopters (D) or higher. Visual and refractive outcomes as well as rotational stability were evaluated. Vector analysis was performed to evaluate total astigmatic changes. Results: The study comprised 57 eyes of 29 patients;there were 28 eyes in the manual group and 29 eyes in the digital group. The mean toric IOL misalignment was significantly lower in the digital group than in the manual group (2.0 degrees +/- 1.86 [SD] versus 3.4 +/- 2.37 degrees;P = .026). The mean deviation from the target induced astigmatism was significantly lower in the digital group (0.10 +/- 0.08 D versus 0.22 +/- 0.14 D;P = .008). During surgery, the mean toric IOL alignment time was significantly shorter in the digital group (37.2 +/- 11.9 seconds versus 59.4 +/- 15.3 seconds;P = .003). The mean overall time required to perform the surgery was significantly shorter in the digital group (727.2 +/- 198.4 seconds versus 1110.0 +/- 382.2 seconds;P < .001). Conclusions: A digital tracking approach for toric IOL alignment was efficient and safe to improve refractive outcomes. Furthermore, image-guided surgery helped streamline the workflow in refractive cataract surgery. (C) 2017 ASCRS and ESCRS

To assess treatment effects following intravitreal injection of ocriplasmin for vitreomacular traction (VMT), with or without full-thickness macular hole (FTMH), in real-life setting. This is a monocentric, retrospective, consecutive series of 82 eyes from 82 patients who underwent ocriplasmin treatment between July 2013 and December 2016. We included 57 eyes with pure VMT, 17 eyes with small FTMHs, and eight eyes with medium FTMHs. Primary outcome measures were VMT release and MH closure rates. Secondary outcomes were visual acuity (VA), morphological changes, and subjective visual impairment after 1, 3, and 6 months and at last follow-up. After a median follow-up of 10 months, VMT release was achieved by pharmacologic vitreolysis in 57% of all eyes, whereas the macular hole closure rate was 32%. In those presenting with five or more positive prognostic factors (PPF), eyes with pure VMT showed nonsurgical traction release in 88%, and FTMHs were released in 93%, with a closure rate of 20%. Small FTMHs closed in 41% and medium FTMHs in 13%. The mean change in VA (LogMAR) was −0.07 ± 0.24 (median − 0.10) in all eyes. Subretinal fluid accumulation and ellipsoid zone changes were seen in 31% and 37% of all eyes, respectively. They were more frequent in eyes with traction release, but were self-limited. In a real-life setting, release of VMT by ocriplasmin injection can be achieved in the majority of eyes, relying on a strict patient selection. Closure of FTMHs rather correlates with hole diameter than with presence of PPF, and remains a rare finding in medium FTMHs.

Purpose: This is a prospective, randomized, multicenter, investigator-initiated trial to evaluate the 12-month effectiveness of isovolemic hemodilution (IH) with prompt versus deferred intravitreal injections (IVI) of ranibizumab 0.5 mg for the treatment of macular edema secondary to early central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Methods: Eyes with macular edema due to CRVO having occurred not more than 8 weeks previously received either monthly ranibizumab IVI in combination with IH (group I, n = 28) or IH alone (group II, n = 30). From month 2 to 12, the patients in both groups could be treated with monthly intravitreal ranibizumab. The main outcome variables were gain of visual acuity and the course of central retinal thickness as measured with optical coherence tomography. Results: At 12 months, eyes in group I on average gained +28.1 (±19.3) letters compared to +25.2 (±20.9) letters in group II (p = 0.326). This result was achieved with significantly fewer injections in group II. Additionally, 30% of the eyes in group II did not need ranibizumab IVI during the 12 months of the trial. Conclusion: Ranibizumab IVI in addition to IH proved to be highly effective in increasing visual acuity and reducing macular edema secondary to CRVO. Initial IH in early CRVO may be a first treatment option in patients anxious about IVI.

Purpose To assess the clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction after bilateral cataract surgery with implantation of a bifocal refractive enhanced depth of focus intraocular lens (IOL) with a low near addition (add). Setting Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich, Munich, Germany. Design Prospective longitudinal case series. Methods Eyes with bilateral age-related cataract and corneal astigmatism of less than 1.0 diopter (D) had standard microincision cataract surgery with implantation of a bifocal nondiffractive shape-segmented enhanced depth of focus IOL (Lentis Comfort, LS-313 MF15). The corrected and uncorrected (UDVA) distance visual acuities, uncorrected intermediate (UIVA) and near (UNVA) visual acuities, defocus, corneal astigmatism, spectacle independence, contrast sensitivity, rotational stability, photic phenomena, and patient satisfaction were evaluated over a 3-month follow-up. Results The study comprised 22 patients (44 eyes). The mean postoperative manifest spherical equivalent was −0.10 D ± 0.58 (SD), resulting in a mean UDVA of 0.07 ± 0.10 logMAR, mean UIVA of 0.21 ± 0.15 logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR), and mean UNVA of 0.53 ± 0.15 logMAR. Binocular UDVA was 0.01 ± 0.08 logMAR. The best reading distance was 0.46 ± 0.09 m. More than 95% of patients were satisfied with their visual acuity, and less than 10% reported photic phenomena. The IOL showed an excellent rotational stability. Conclusions The enhanced depth of focus IOL with 1.5 D of near add showed excellent intermediate and far visual performance and acceptable near visual restoration. Patient satisfaction was very high, and few patients reported disturbing photic phenomena.

To prospectively characterize the stromal thickness changes during the first year after myopic small-incision lenticule extraction using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).Department of Ophthalmology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria.Prospective case series.This study evaluated eyes that had small-incision lenticule extraction to treat myopia or myopic astigmatism. A high-resolution SD-OCT system (RS 3000 Advance) in conjunction with a custom image-segmentation algorithm was applied to directly measure stromal thickness within the central 5.0 mm corneal zone. Measurements were obtained preoperatively and postoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year.The study enrolled 42 eyes of 21 patients. The mean surgical refractive correction was -4.94 diopters ± 1.75 (SD). Postoperatively, the stromal thickness showed a significant decrease during the first 6 weeks, which amounted to a mean of 10.4 ± 6.3 μm at the apex (P .001). Subsequently, the central stroma thickened by a mean of 8.8 ± 5.9 μm up until the 1-year follow-up (P .001). One year postoperatively, the mean observed central stromal thickness reduction was 18.7 ± 5.7 μm smaller than the planned lenticule thickness. This difference was smallest 6 weeks postoperatively (mean 9.8 ± 7.8 μm).Significant anatomic changes in the corneal stroma were detected during the first year after small-incision lenticule extraction. The achieved lenticule thickness was systematically lower than planned, and the mismatch was more pronounced with higher lenticule thickness. Refractive outcomes did not appear to be influenced by lenticule thickness accuracy.

Purpose To compare the safety and efficacy between femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery using the Victus laser system and conventional cataract surgery. Setting Department of Ophthalmology, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria. Design Prospective randomized case series. Methods Both eyes of patients with age-related cataract were randomized to conventional cataract surgery or femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery, both with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Postoperative follow-up was at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months and comprised corrected distance visual acuity, endothelial cell density (ECD), central corneal thickness (CCT), and central retinal thickness. The main outcomes were intraoperative and postoperative complications and the effective phacoemulsification time (EPT). Intraocular lens and capsulotomy centration were evaluated using retroillumination slitlamp photography. Results The study enrolled 50 patients. No intraoperative complications occurred in either group. The ECD, CCT, and central retinal thickness were similar between the groups at all follow-up examinations (P > .05). The EPT was not statistically significantly different between the groups (P = .22). The IOL centration was similar between the groups (P = .93). Conclusion Femtosecond laser–assisted and conventional cataract surgery using the mentioned system were equally safe and effective.

Die Oberlidstraffung ist einer der am haufigsten durchgefuhrten Eingriffe in der plastischen Gesichtschirurgie (im Jahr 2011 zweithaufigster Eingriff, Quelle: International Communication Research, American Association of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons). Heutzutage ist es mit einer simplen Resektion des Hautuberschusses nicht getan – will man ein asthetisch und funktionell optimales Ergebnis erzielen. Unabdingbar verknupft mit der Korrektur der Oberlider ist die Beurteilung und Korrektur der Brauenposition, die im Bedarfsfalle zuerst durchzufuhren ist. In diesem Artikel werden die aktuellen Standardverfahren zur operativen Korrektur der Dermatochalasis der Lider und der Brauenptosis dargestellt und klinische Beispiele prasentiert.

Defect reconstruction after radical oncologic resection of malignant chest wall tumors requires adequate soft tissue reconstruction with function, stability, integrity, and an aesthetically acceptable result of the chest wall. The purpose of this article is to describe possible reconstructive microsurgical pathways after full-thickness oncologic resections of the chest wall. Several reliable free flaps are described, and morbidity and mortality rates of patients are discussed.

Purpose To investigate the impact of various experimental microkeratome settings and blade reuse on the accuracy of the flap thickness created with the new Amadeus® II microkeratome (SIS, Ziemer Ophthalmic, Port, Switzerland). Methods In this prospective study, 120 porcine eyes were used to create corneal flaps with the Amadeus® II using 2 different cutting heads (140 μm, 160 μm) with the Surepass® blade. Using each blade twice, a head advance speed of 1.5 mm/s and 3.5 mm/s and oscillation rates of 8000 rpm, 10,000 rpm, and 13,000 rpm were used. Flap thickness was measured by optical low coherence reflectometry (OLCR). Descriptive statistical analysis was based on means, medians, and quartiles, with graphical representation on box plot. Pearson correlation test and Mann-Whitney U-test for unpaired samples were employed to identify the impact of different settings. Results Using the 140 μm cutting head, highest precision of the flap thickness was achieved with a head advance rate of 1.5 mm/s and an oscillation rate of 10,000 rpm (mean 132.1±10.0 μm; range 120.2–147.2 μm). Reusing the blade, highest accuracy (mean 130±6.9 μm; range 118.5–135 μm) was achieved with 8000 rpm. Using the 160 μm cutting head, an optimum flap thickness was reached with a head advance rate of 3.5 mm/s and an oscillation rate of 13,000 rpm (mean 162.4±7.7 μm; range 151.9–169.8 μm). Reusing the blade with the 160 μm cutting head, an adjustment to 3.5 mm/s and 10,000 rpm was necessary (mean 157.4±7.7 μm; range 153.7–161.8 μm). Conclusions Optimized microkeratome settings lead to minimized deviation from the intended flap thickness and are mandatory to improve flap accuracy. OLCR is an ideal method to proof individualized settings.

To evaluate intraocular pressure (IOP) in the vitreous cavity during various stages of cataract surgery.University Eye Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.In consecutive eyes having combined phacoemulsification, intraocular lens implantation, and pars plana vitrectomy, IOP was monitored in real time through a 25-gauge pars plana cannula connected to an external pressure transducer. Surgery was performed by standard clear corneal phacoemulsification with a 2.5 mm incision and a Mega-Tip (1.26 mm aperture) (Group 1) or by microcoaxial phacoemulsification with a CMP-Tip (0.80 mm aperture) (Group 2).The 2 groups had 5 eyes each. The mean IOP in Group 1 and in Group 2, respectively, was 15.9 mm Hg +/- 9.5 (SD) and 17.0 +/- 13.5 mm Hg preoperatively (P = .442), 40.1 +/- 12.7 mm Hg and 36.5 +/- 17.2 mm Hg during lens removal (P.001), 17.6 +/- 14.2 mm Hg and 22.6 +/- 8.6 mm Hg during irrigation/aspiration (P.001), 13.3 +/- 13.2 mm Hg and 16.3 +/- 13.1 mm Hg during IOL implantation (P = .005), and 22.9 +/- 7.0 mm Hg and 21.5 +/- 10.0 mm Hg after IOL implantation through the end of surgery (P = .329).Although the IOP levels were significantly lower than those in previous studies, both phacoemulsification techniques had safe IOP profiles during various steps of surgery. Real-time IOP monitoring may prevent the surgeon from inducing excessive IOP elevation during intraocular manipulation.No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.

Hintegrund Retinale angiomatose Proliferationen (RAP) sind eine Unterform der neovaskularen altersbedingten Makuladegeneration (AMD), die sich durch eine besonders schlechte Prognose auszeichnen. Ziel dieser Studie ist es, die Aufsattigungsphase und die Erhaltungsphase fur RAP wahrend intravitrealer Anti-VEGF-Therapie darzustellen.

To evaluate the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, CA) injections on visual acuity and foveal retinal thickness in patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).In this prospective, noncomparative, consecutive, interventional case series, 46 patients received repeated intravitreal injections (1.25 mg) of bevacizumab. Main outcome measures were visual acuity (Snellen and ETDRS charts) and optical coherence tomography measurements in a 6-month follow-up period.Mean visual acuity improved from 20/250 at baseline to 20/80 at the 6-month follow-up (P0.001). ETDRS chart findings revealed a mean letter gain +/-SD from baseline to 6 months of 13.9 +/- 14.4 letters. Mean central retinal thickness +/-SD decreased from 535 +/- 148 microm at baseline to 323 +/- 116 microm at the 6-month follow-up. Ischemic CRVO was associated with significantly lower visual acuity than nonischemic CRVO (P0.001). However, visual acuity gain was similar in both groups. Independent of duration of symptoms, CRVO was associated with a similar gain in visual acuity.Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab appears to be a new treatment option for patients with macular edema secondary to CRVO.

Purpose: To compare posterior capsule opacification (PCO) by observing lens epithelial cell growth in the human capsular bag in vitro between conventional lens surgery using phacoemulsification (Phaco) technique and femtosecond laser-assisted lens surgery (FLACS). Methods: For the in vitro human capsular bag model, 18 cadaver eyes from nine human donors underwent three types of lens surgery. Three groups consisting of six capsular bags were established, that is FLACS, Phaco and extracapsular lens extraction (ECCE). The capsular bag was transferred into equal cell culture conditions after using one of the defined surgical approaches. Cellular growth of lens epithelial cells was observed and photo-documented. The time until full cell-coverage of the capsular bag was measured. Results: The human capsular bag model can be successfully prepared using FLACS. There was no statistically significant difference in time until cell-coverage of the human donor capsular bag in vitro in all three surgical settings (ECCE versus Phaco p = 0.6;ECCE versus FLACS p = 1.0;Phaco versus FLACS p = 1.0). Conclusions: In our in vitro human capsular bag model, we could not observe a statistically significant difference in PCO formation using different surgical approaches of lens extraction. Therefore, PCO formation might not be attributed to the type of surgery. Furthermore, this study shows that FLACS can be used for the human capsular bag model preparation and validates the human capsular bag model for future research.

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of a laser photolysis (LP) system in preventing posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in a human ex vivo PCO model. Setting Ars Ophthalmica Study Center, Department of Ophthalmology, General Hospital Linz, Medical Faculty of Johannes Kepler University, Linz, Austria, and the Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximillians-University, Munich, Germany. Design Prospective randomized controlled laboratory trial. Methods Open sky extracapsular cataract extraction following implantation of a capsular tension ring (CTR) into the capsular bag was performed in 28 human donor eyes. Donor eyes received LP treatment of the capsular bag fornix and the anterior capsule for 180 or 360 degrees, whereas the contralateral eyes served as a control group. Lens epithelial cell (LEC) growth onto the posterior capsule was determined objectively during 3 months of organ culture incubation. Results The mean interval until a complete monolayer of LECs on the posterior capsule had formed was 8.2 days ± 1.2 (SD) for control eyes and 9.4 days ± 1.1 for eyes with 180-degree LP treatment (P = .042). Eyes with 360-degree treatment showed no sign of LEC growth or migration onto the posterior capsule during the entire observation period. Transmission light microscopy revealed many residual LECs on the anterior lens capsule of untreated areas, whereas no evidence of remaining LEC in areas treated with LP was found. Conclusions This study demonstrates complete and sustained PCO prevention by a prototype LP system in a capsular tension ring–based human ex vivo model. Laser capsule polishing has the potential to serve as a successful surgical strategy for PCO prevention. Financial Disclosure The authors have no proprietary or financial interest in any of the materials or equipment mentioned in this study.

Purpose To report the treatment of a patient with a misaligned intraocular lens (IOL). Methods We describe a case of a misaligned bitoric single-piece, plate haptic IOL (AT TORBI 709M®, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany) 15 months after uneventful phacoemulsification and IOL implantation in the capsular bag. Keratoconus with partly regular astigmatism was preexisting. Results Thorough examination showed a misalignment of the bitoric IOL of 25 degrees, explaining the patient's symptoms (monocular diplopia). Despite capsular fibrosis, surgical revision with IOL rotation was advised and could be performed without major difficulty. A follow-up visit showed a corrected distance visual acuity of 16/20 and a correctly aligned toric IOL. Conclusions A long preceding operation should not detain the surgical revision of a misaligned toric IOL in the capsular bag.

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of a computerized color vision testing (Arden color contrast test) as a screening test for detection of diabetic macular edema (DME). Materials and Methods: A consecutive, prospective case series of 83 eyes of 42 diabetic patients with and without macular edema was enrolled. Macular edema was assessed clinically by stereoscopic grading and by central retinal thickness measurement with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Additionally, a computerized chromatest for the protan- and tritan-axis was performed. Analysis of test characteristics included receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calculated sensitivity and specificity. Results: Sixty-one eyes had clinically significant macular edema (CSME). OCT yielded an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.92. Color vision testing yielded an AUC of 0.82 for the tritan- and 0.80 for the protan-axis. Using a cut off of 199 microns OCT resulted in a 100% sensitivity at 39% specificity. With a cut-off of 4.85, color testing yielded a sensitivity of 100% at a specificity of 8% on the tritan-axis, respectively. Considering OCT instead of clinical examination as a reference standard resulted in a comparable high sensitivity, but low specificity for color vision testing. Disturbance of the tritan axis was more pronounced than for the protan axis in present macular edema and also better correlated (r = 0.46) with retinal thickness measured with OCT. Conclusions: Computerized, quantitative color testing using the chromatest allows detection of diabetic maculopathy with high sensitivity. However, only a low specificity exists for retinal macular edema, as in diabetic retinopathy (DR) frequently abnormalities of the tritan axis exist before any retinal thickening occurs.

PURPOSE To assess the reactive changes of the corneal epithelial thickness (ET) profile induced by small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for treatment of myopia. METHODS This prospective observational study included 46 eyes of 23 patients that were scheduled for myopic SMILE. High-resolution spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and a custom image segmentation algorithm were applied to measure corneal ET at multiple time points within the central 5-mm zone. Postoperative ET alterations were correlated with treatment parameters and refractive outcomes. RESULTS Mean age was 33 ± 6 years and mean spherical equivalent of surgical refractive correction was -4.78 ± 1.75 diopters. The average ET (averaged over the central 5-mm zone) increased from 52.3 ± 3.6 μm preoperatively to 57.7 ± 5.1 μm 6 months postoperatively (P < 0.01). Average ET was 101.9% of the preoperative thickness at 24 hours postoperatively, 103.2% at 1 week, 106.7% at 6 weeks, 109.3% at 3 months, and 110.4% at 6 months postoperatively. The epithelial thickening response could be modeled by an exponential recovery function and stabilized after 3 months. The extent of epithelial hyperplasia was highly dependent on the magnitude of the induced refractive correction (P = 0.002). CONCLUSIONS In this initial study of corneal ET remodeling after myopic SMILE, significant epithelial thickening was detected as a function of the extent of surgical refractive correction. Moreover, the epithelial remodeling response to the corneal refractive change appeared to decrease with higher age. In our hands, the observed epithelial changes did not appear to affect the refractive outcome of SMILE. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02614625).

Daniel Kook*, Thomas C Kreutzer*, Armin Wolf, Christos HaritoglouDepartment of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Germany*These authors contributed equallyBackground: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the applicability and variability of echographic imaging using 10 mHz and high-resolution 20 mHz B scanning for measurement of intraocular tumors.Methods: This prospective consecutive study comprises 27 eyes in 27 patients with uveal melanoma. Each patient was examined by three experienced examiners independently on three occasions within a two-week time frame in a blinded manner. The height of the lesion was measured by all examiners using the 10 mHz B, 20 mHz B, and 8 mHz A scan probes. Additionally, basal diameter was examined using the 10 and 20 mHz B scan.Results: Tumor height measurements for all examiners using the standardized A scan tended to be higher than for both B scan measurements. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in tumor height between B and A scan measurements. No difference in tumor height was found between the two B scan techniques (P = 0.239). Basal tumor diameter measurements revealed significant differences between 10 mHz and 20 mHz B scans (P < 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively). For the 10 mHz B scan, basal diameter results tended to be larger than for the 20 mHz B scan. No difference was found for interobserver variation in all A scan and B scan examinations. The mean standard deviation of the difference in tumor height measurements between the examiners was ±0.24 mm for the 8 mHz A scan, ±0.46 mm for the 10 mHz B scan, and ±0.42 mm for the 20 mHz B scan. Both the 10 mHz and more precise 20 mHz B scan evaluations underestimated tumor height.Conclusion: The 20 mHz ultrasound probe, despite its theoretically higher resolution, is not able to replace A scan measurements of tumor height.Keywords: standardized echography, 20 mHz, B scan, A scan, intraocular tumor

ArisN Kollias, Markus M Schaumberger, Thomas C Kreutzer, Michael W Ulbig, Carlo A LackerbauerUniversity Eye Hospital,Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, GermanyPurpose: The point of interest of this retrospective case review is to study refractive changes caused by the hinged lamellar keratotomy and the refractive outcome after laser ablation in a second step within the scope of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in patients with penetrating keratoplasty.Methods: Data from eight patients obtained before lamellar keratotomy, before laser ablation, and three months later were evaluated. Keratotomies were performed with the Moria® LSK one and the Amadeus® 2 microkeratome, laser ablation was performed with the Schwind® Keratome I and the Wavelight® Allegretto WaveEyeQ. Results: Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) improved significantly from 1 [logMar] to 0.4 [logMar] at the last visit. Median gain of UCVA was 7.38 ± 2.96 Snellen lines. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity did not change significantly. Preoperative manifest refraction spherical equivalent decreased from -4.02 ± 4.77 diopters (D) to -1.11 ± 2.45 D after laser ablation. Mean preoperative manifest astigmatism was -7.27 ± 3.65 D, after lamellar keratotomy -6.72 ± 3.68 D, and after laser ablation -2.08 ± 1.80 D. Manifest astigmatism did not change significantly after the keratotomy.Conclusions: Lamellar keratotomy causes biomechanical changes to the cornea. We favor a two-step LASIK in penetrating keratoplasty patients in order to improve precision and predictability of the refractive outcome.Keywords: two-step, cornea, LASIK, keratoplasty, astigmatism

Background: Our purpose was to compare the effect of triamcinolone and bevacizumab (Avastin) on the retinal thickness and functional outcome in patients with diabetic macular edema. Methods and Materials: A collective of 32 patients, who had been treated by a single 4.0-mg intravitreal triamcinolone injection (group 1), was matched to 32 patients (‘matched pairs’), who had received 3 injections of 1.25 mg of bevacizumab within 3 months in 4-week intervals (group 2). The outcome variables were changes in best corrected visual acuity (VA) and central retinal thickness 3 months after therapy. Results: Both groups did not differ regarding preoperative VA and central retinal thickness measured by optical coherence tomography. The baseline mean VA was 0.72 ± 0.39 logMAR in group 1 and 0.73 ± 0.39 logMAR in group 2 (p = 0.709). The mean central retinal thickness measured by optical coherence tomography was 548 ± 185 µm in group 1 and 507 ± 192 µm in group 2. While the patients in group 1 experienced a slight increase in VA of on average 0.7 lines following a single triamcinolone injection to a mean of 0.64 ± 0.40 logMAR (p = 0.066) after 3 months, the patients in group 2 showed almost no effect on VA with an average increase of 0.2 lines to a mean VA of 0.72 ± 0.30 logMAR (p = 0.948) following 3 intravitreal injections of bevacizumab. Comparing the effect on VA between both groups no statistically significant difference (p = 0.115) was noted. Concerning decrease in central retinal thickness both therapies were highly effective (p < 0.001 each), again, without statistically significant difference between the groups (p < 0.128). Conclusion: Our data suggest that a single triamcinolone injection may be as effective as a 3 times repeated intravitreal administration of bevacizumab for the treatment of diabetic macular edema. Further prospective trials should be performed.

To determine the efficacy of conjunctival bacterial eradication following a 1-day, 3-day and 7-day application of topical 0.5% levofloxacin, with and without eyelid scrub, in patients with chronic blepharoconjunctivitis (CBC).Patients with CBC (n = 60) were prospectively randomized to three groups (n = 20 in each group): no antibiotic treatment, topical levofloxacin four times per day in both eyes, and eyelid scrub in addition to topical levovofloxacin four times a day in both eyes. Patients without CBC (n = 40) were enrolled as the negative control group. Cultures of the conjunctiva were obtained from both eyes at baseline, 1 day, 3 days, and 7 days following treatment.The most common bacteria isolated for all groups at baseline were coagulase-negative Staphylococcus. Eight patients did not complete the study. The remaining 52 patients with CBC had a significantly higher rate of positive thioglycolate broth cultures (94%) compared to a 58% positive culture rate in patient without CBC (P0.0001). Treatment with at least 3 days of topical antibiotic in patient with CBC resulted in a significant reduction (P0.05) in the number of thioglycolate positive cultures (or= 60%) compared to non-treated eyes (or= 88%). Following a minimum of a 1-day application of antibiotic, the median colony-forming unit was 0-1 compared to 3-8 for eyes without antibiotic treatment (P0.05). Scrubbing of the eyelids did not provide further benefit compared to antibiotic treatment alone.CBC eyes have a significantly higher number of positive cultures than eyes without CBC. The application of topical 0.5% levofloxacin for at least 3 days provided a significant reduction in the number of positive cultures as well as the number of bacteria harbored on the conjunctival surface.

PURPOSE To evaluate the long-term efficacy of bevacizumab for the treatment of chronic diffuse diabetic macular edema after various previous treatments. METHODS A total of 126 patients (mean age: 66 years) with chronic diffuse diabetic macular edema were consecutively incorporated in this prospective, noncomparative case series. Inclusion was performed independently from the size of edema, retinal thickness, visual acuity (VA), age, metabolic control, type of diabetes, or type of previous treatments. The patients underwent a complete eye examination including best-corrected VA with ETDRS charts, slit lamp examination, intraocular pressure measurement, stereoscopic biomicroscopy of the macula, retinal thickness measurement using optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography, and fundus photography. All patients were treated with repeated intravitreal injections of bevacizumab (1.25 mg). Patients were observed in intervals of 4-12 weeks for a period of up to 6-12 months. RESULTS All patients had received various previous treatments such as laser treatment (62% focal laser treatment, 38% panretinal laser treatment), vitrectomy (11%), or intravitreal injection of triamcinolone (41%). All patients completed 6 months and 59 patients (47%) completed 12 months of follow-up; within this period 48% had received at least three intravitreal injections of bevacizumab. Mean diameter of foveal avascular zone was 858 +/- 341 microm. At baseline mean VA was 40.3 ETDRS letters (0.82 logMAR Snellen VA) and mean central retinal thickness on OCT was 463 microm. Throughout follow-up VA changes were not significant with a mean change of -1.6 ETDRS letters after 6 months, but significant with +5.1 ETDRS letters after 12 months. Mean central retinal thickness (OCT) decreased to 374 microm after 6 months (P < 0.001) and to 357 microm after 12 months (P < 0.001). Changes of retinal thickness and visual acuity did not correlate. No other factors investigated, such as age, central retinal thickness, or previous treatments, were predictive for a change of VA. Macular ischemia was not exacerbated as a result of the treatment. CONCLUSION Even in cases with chronic diffuse ischemic diabetic macular edema, a long-term decrease of central retinal thickness can be observed following repeated intravitreal injections of bevacizumab. In these patients, mean decrease in retinal thickness is aligned with a gain in mean VA. Treatment with bevacizumab at an earlier stage of diabetic macular edema without ischemia may be associated with an even better functional outcome.

Aim: To assess whether low concentrations of a fluorescent dye such as Rhodamine 6G would help the unaided human eye visualise the vitreous and the internal limiting membrane (ILM) under standard halogen illumination. Material/methods: The UV/Vis absorption (E) and fluorescence (I) spectra of Rhodamine 6G in water were measured and compared with Indocyanine Green (ICG). Surgery was performed in two rhesus monkeys and consisted of standard pars plana vitrectomy with halogen light source used for illumination. Rhodamine 6G was diluted in balanced salt solution (BSS). A few drops of the dye in a concentration of 0.1% (307 mOsm) were applied over the posterior pole in the air-filled globe and washed out by irrigation after 1 min. Immediately after surgery, the globes were enucleated, fixated and prepared for histological evaluation. Results: In contrast to ICG, both the maximum of the absorption and emission of Rhodamin 6G are very much within the spectral sensitivity of the human eye. The Rhodamine 6G–BSS itself appears red in colour. Using a dye concentration of 0.1%, there was no visible red-staining of the ILM as such. As the dye was irrigated out with BSS, a marked green fluorescence of the fluid within the vitreous cavity was noted. With halogen illumination through a standard 20-gauge light pipe, the dye provided a sufficient green fluorescence to identify and safely remove the ILM and to clearly differentiate areas of peeled from non-peeled ILM. During light microscopy, eyes revealed a peeled ILM demarcation with no signs of acute retinal toxicity. Conclusion: The findings indicate that a fluorescent dye can be used for ILM peeling. Assuming that the fluorophore provides a high enough fluorescence quantum yield after adsorption to the ILM, much lower dye concentrations could be used compared with absorbent dyes, thereby minimising toxic effects.

PURPOSE To describe visualization of the vitreous and the posterior hyaloid membrane using bromophenol blue during vitrectomy for macular hole and retinal detachment. PATIENTS AND METHODS Six patients with macular holes and four with retinal detachments were included in the study. Before and after surgery, complete clinical examination, including funduscopy and measurements of best-corrected visual acuity and intraocular pressure, was performed. Additional functional tests, such as fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography (Stratus OCT; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany, Germany), Goldmann perimetry, and multifocal electroretinography as well as photography of the posterior pole, were performed for macular hole patients. Bromophenol blue was used in concentrations of 0.2%. During macular hole surgery, the dye was injected into the air-filled globe, while during surgery for retinal detachment, the globe was partially filled with perfluorocarbon before dye injection after induction of a posterior vitreous detachment to stain the vitreous peripherally. RESULTS Bromophenol blue provided sufficient staining of the attached posterior hyaloid membrane and vitreous remnants in the periphery. This was especially helpful for patients in whom a posterior vitreous detachment could not be induced mechanically by suction using the vitrectomy probe alone, as seen in three of six interventions for a macular hole in this series. In addition, staining of the vitreous or vitreous remnants in the periphery and at the vitreous base was seen in all patients and helped to completely remove the vitreous in a controlled fashion. After macular hole surgery, increase of visual acuity from 20/100 (mean) to 20/40 was seen during follow-up up to 6 months. In one case, the hole persisted and required a second operation. Finally, closure of the hole was achieved in all patients. After retinal detachment surgery, reattachment was achieved in all cases. No dye-related adverse events were seen during follow-up as shown by the functional tests (visual acuity measurement, electroretinography, and perimetry) applied. CONCLUSION Delineation of the vitreous and the posterior hyaloid using bromophenol blue staining greatly facilitates vitreoretinal procedures. Bromophenol blue appeared to be a very helpful and safe tool to visualize the posterior hyaloid membrane in macular hole surgery and assured its complete separation from the retinal surface. The dye also helped to remove vitreous at the vitreous base during retinal detachment surgery. Therefore, bromophenol blue appears as a very good alternative to triamcinolone, which has been used for this purpose, because the dye has no pharmacological properties and no side effects are likely to occur such as cataract formation and increase in intraocular pressure. Further studies including larger numbers of patients are mandatory.

Purpose To evaluate a capsular tension ring (CTR)–supported anterior and posterior capsule opacification (PCO) model in cadaver eyes. The effect of CTR designs on lens capsule shape and lens epithelial cell (LEC) growth were investigated in vitro. Setting Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany. Methods Following open-sky extracapsular cataract extraction, CTR models were implanted in 32 eyes of 16 human donors. The lens capsule expansion by the CTRs was evaluated. The capsular bags supported by the CTRs were excised and maintained at physiological conditions for up to 3 months. The area of LEC coverage over the posterior capsule surface was objectively determined twice a day using a graticule. Results After CTR implantation, all lens capsules could be safely excised and transferred into organ culture. The CTR designs resulted in different shapes of lens capsule expansion. Complete LEC confluence occurred after a mean of 8.25 days ± 2.87 (SD) with the AcriRing KR10 (AcriTec), 6.50 ± 1.0 days with the Acrimed, 8.62 ± 3.34 days with the InjectoRing (Corneal), 9.00 ± 1.87 days with the Morcher 14C, 9.33 ± 0.75 days with the Morcher 2A, and 6.25 ± 0.5 days with the Ophthalmic Innovation CTR. Conclusion The CTR-supported in vitro PCO model offers a physiological method to support the lens capsule and is a reproducible system for the study of LEC proliferation.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab (Avastin) injections on visual acuity (VA) and foveal retinal thickness in patients with macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion. Methods: A prospective, non-comparative, consecutive, interventional case series of 34 patients. Patients received repeated intravitreal injections of 1.25 mg bevacizumab. Main outcome measures were VA (Snellen charts and ETDRS) and retinal thickness (optical coherence tomography measurements) in a follow-up period of 6 months. Results: Patients presented at a mean age of 69 years (range 44–86). Mean duration of symptoms was 40 weeks (range 1–300). Mean (SD) VA at baseline was 0.79 (0.39) logMAR, improving to 0.51 (0.34) logMAR at 6 months (p = 0.009). Mean number of letters on the ETDRS chart at baseline was 45.3 (19.0), improving to 60.6 (19.9) at 6 months (p = 0.003). Mean (SD) retinal thickness at baseline was 474 (120) μm, declining to 316 (41) μm at 6 months. Conclusion: Intravitreal injection of 1.25 mg bevacizumb appears to be an effective treatment option for branch retinal vein occlusion.