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Purpose : To evaluate the effect of loss to follow up (LTFU) on outcomes in eyes with diabetic macular edema (DME) treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Design : Retrospective cohort study Methods : Single-center study of 90 eyes of 73 patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) and DME treated with anti-VEGF injections who were LTFU for >6 months. Main outcomes were the change in mean visual acuity (VA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) at the return and final visits compared to the visit before LTFU. Results : Mean age was 64.5 years, mean LTFU duration was 322 days, and mean follow-up duration after return was 502 days. Compared to the mean VA at the visit before LTFU (0.42, Snellen ∼20/52), mean VA worsened at the return visit (0.54, Snellen ∼20/69, p=0.004). No significant change in the mean VA was noted at the 3-month after return visit (0.50, Snellen ∼20/63), the 6-month after return visit (0.46, Snellen ∼20/57), the 12-month after return visit (0.42, Snellen ∼20/52) and the final follow up (0.47, Snellen ∼20/59). When analyzed by NPDR severity before LTFU, no difference in VA was found from the visit before LTFU to the final visit. Mean CFT increased when comparing the visit before LTFU (270 μm) to the return visit (305 μm, p=0.012), but no difference was found by the final visit [247 μm, p=0.07]. Conclusions : Anti-VEGF treated DME patients who were LTFU for a prolonged period experienced a modest decline in VA that recovered after restarting treatment.

Background/aimsTo compare risk factors for poor visual outcomes in patients undergoing primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair and to develop a scoring system.MethodsAnalysis of the Primary Retinal detachment Outcomes (PRO) study, a multicentre interventional cohort of consecutive primary RRD surgeries performed in 2015. The main outcome measure was a poor visual outcome (Snellen VA ≤20/200).ResultsA total of 1178 cases were included. The mean preoperative and postoperative logMARs were 1.1±1.1 (20/250) and 0.5±0.7 (20/63), respectively. Multivariable logistic regression identified preoperative risk factors predictive of poor visual outcomes (≤20/200), including proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) (OR 1.26; 95% CI 1.13 to 1.40), history of antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections (1.38; 1.11 to 1.71), >1-week vision loss (1.17; 1.08 to 1.27), ocular comorbidities (1.18; 1.00 to 1.38), poor presenting VA (1.06 per initial logMAR unit; 1.02 to 1.10) and age >70 (1.13; 1.04 to 1.23). The data were split into training (75%) and validation (25%) and a scoring system was developed and validated. The risk for poor visual outcomes was 8% with a total score of 0, 17% with 1, 29% with 2, 47% with 3, and 71% with 4 or higher.ConclusionsIndependent risk factors were compared for poor visual outcomes after RRD surgery, which included PVR, anti-VEGF injections, vision loss >1 week, ocular comorbidities, presenting VA and older age. The PRO score was developed to provide a scoring system that may be useful in clinical practice.

Topical povidone-iodine (PI) is widely used as an ocular surface antiseptic for intravitreal injections (IVIs). Although PI is generally well tolerated, it can be associated with significant ocular irritation. Aqueous chlorhexidine (AqCHX) has been described as a possibly better tolerated antimicrobial for ophthalmic procedures. We compared patient pain scores, ocular surface characteristics, and antimicrobial efficacy between PI 5% and AqCHX 0.1% during IVIs.Prospective single-center, randomized clinical trial.Patients receiving same-day bilateral intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections.Each patient had 1 eye randomized to PI or AqCHX, and the second eye received the other agent. Both eyes received topical proparacaine 0.5%.After IVIs, participants rated their pain (Wong-Baker, scale 0-10) for each eye 1 minute after PI or AqCHX instillation and 1 day after the procedure. Each eye was assessed using a standardized quantitative grading system of corneal epitheliopathy (ocular staining score). Microbial swab cultures of the conjunctiva both before instillation of topical antisepsis and 10 minutes after IVIs were given.A total of 100 eyes of 50 patients were included. The mean patient age was 68 years (range, 39-92), and 30 of 50 (60%) were male. Compared with AqCHX, eyes receiving PI had a greater mean pain score immediately after injection (1.44 vs. 0.44, P0.001) but not on postprocedure day 1 (1.04 vs. 0.48, P = 0.06). Eyes that received PI had a higher ocular staining score indicating worse corneal epitheliopathy (4.22 vs. 3.10, P0.001). There was no difference in rates of positive microbial cultures between groups. There was no difference in rates of adverse events between groups (P = 0.99), and no cases of endophthalmitis occurred.Povidone-iodine demonstrated greater ocular surface discomfort and corneal epitheliopathy compared with AqCHX during same-day bilateral IVIs. The 2 agents otherwise demonstrated no difference in positive microbial cultures or adverse events. Aqueous chlorhexidine may be a better tolerated alternative to PI for antimicrobial prophylaxis during IVIs for some patients.

PURPOSE To describe characteristics and outcomes of primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in older adults (age ≥ 80). METHODS Consecutive patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), scleral buckling (SB), or PPV/SB in the Primary Retinal Detachment Outcomes Study were evaluated. Outcome measures included single surgery anatomic success and visual acuity. RESULTS Of 2,144 patients included, 125 (6%) were 80 years or older. Compared with younger patients (age 40-79), older adults were more likely to be pseudophakic (P < 0.001), have macula-off detachments (P < 0.001), and have preoperative proliferative vitreoretinopathy (P = 0.02). In older adults, initial surgery was PPV in 73%, PPV/SB in 27%, and primary SB in 0%. Single surgery anatomic success was 78% in older adults compared with 84% in younger patients (P = 0.03). In older adults, single surgery anatomic success was 74% for PPV and 91% for PPV/SB (P = 0.03). The final mean logMAR was lower for older adults (0.79 [20/125] vs. 0.40 [20/40], [P < 0.001]). In older adults, the final mean logMAR for eyes that underwent PPV was 0.88 (20/160) compared with 0.50 (20/63) for PPV/SB (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION Octogenarians and nonagenarians presented with relatively complex pseudophakic rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. Single surgery anatomic success and visual outcomes were worse compared with younger patients, and PPV/SB had better outcomes compared with PPV alone.

Introduction Rhegmatogenous retinal detachments with inferior retinal breaks are believed to have a higher risk of recurrent rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. This study compared anatomic and visual outcomes between primary pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and combination PPV with scleral buckle (PPV/SB) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachments with inferior retinal breaks. Methods This is an analysis of the Primary Retinal Detachment Outcomes study, a multi-institutional cohort study of consecutive primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment surgeries from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015. The primary outcome was single-surgery success rate. Only eyes with inferior retinal breaks (one break in the detached retina between five and seven o'clock) were included. Results There were 238 eyes that met the inclusion criteria, 95 (40%) of which underwent primary PPV and 163 (60%) that underwent combined PPV/SB. The single-surgery success rate was 76.8% for PPV and 87.4% for PPV/SB (P = 0.0355). This remained significant on multivariate analysis (P = 0.01). Subgroup analysis showed that a superior single-surgery success rate of PPV/SB was especially noted in phakic eyes (85.2% vs. 68.6%; P = 0.0464). Conclusion Retinal detachment with inferior retinal breaks had a higher single-surgery success rate if treated with PPV/SB compared with PPV alone, particularly in phakic eyes.

Purpose To evaluate topical dorzolamide hydrochloride-timolol maleate as an adjunct therapy to intravitreous anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections in eyes with retinal vein occlusion resistant to treatment. Methods Retinal vein occlusion patients with a history of persistent macular edema, despite fixed-interval intravitreous anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections, were enrolled between April 4, 2016, and June 4, 2017. On enrollment, patients were instructed to administer one drop of topical dorzolamide-timolol twice daily for the duration of the study. They were maintained on the same anti-vascular endothelial growth factor drug and same interval between injections as preenrollment for the subsequent two visits. Primary outcome measures were change in central foveal thickness, central subfield thickness, and thickest macular cut at the final study visit. Results Eight patients (8 eyes) were eligible for enrollment and completed the study. There was a significant decrease in central foveal thickness (P = 0.02), central subfield thickness (P = 0.03), and thickest macular cut (P = 0.01) between the enrollment visit and the final visit. There was a decrease in mean (±SD) logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution from 0.52 (±0.35) (20/66, Snellen equivalent) at the enrollment visit to 0.41 (±0.35) (20/51, Snellen equivalent) at the final visit (P = 0.08). Conclusion Topical dorzolamide-timolol may have a beneficial anatomical and functional effect in eyes with macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion resistant to treatment.

To compare 2 mg intravitreal triamcinolone (IVT) versus 40 mg posterior sub-Tenon triamcinolone acetonide (STT) for the treatment of eyes with pseudophakic cystoid macular edema.A retrospective, single-center review of eyes receiving 2 mg IVT between 3/1/2012-3/1/2017 and 40 mg STT between 1/1/2015-3/1/2017. Visual acuity (VA) and central macular thickness (CMT) were recorded at baseline, 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up visits.Forty-five eyes were included in the IVT group and 50 eyes in the STT group. Change in VA from baseline to 1, 3, and 6 months was not significantly different between IVT and STT (6 months: 2.3 lines vs. 2.4 lines,2 mg IVT and 40 mg STT both achieved significant improvement in vision and CMT with no significant difference between interventions at 3- and 6-month follow-up.

To compare rates of ocular hypertension (OHT) in eyes receiving 40 mg sub-Tenon triamcinolone (STT), 0.7 mg dexamethasone implant (DEX), and 2 mg intravitreal triamcinolone (IVT).This study is a single-centre, retrospective case series. All patients receiving STT and DEX between 4/1/2014 and 3/1/2017 and IVT between 3/1/2012 and 3/1/2017 with a minimum of 3 months' follow-up were included. OHT was defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP)24 mm Hg. Patients receiving any other form of topical, oral, or intravitreal steroid were excluded.113 eyes from 104 patients in the STT group, 122 eyes from 109 patients in the DEX group, and 109 eyes from 103 patients in the IVT group were included. The mean number of injections for each eye was 1.7 in the STT group, 2.6 for the DEX group, and 2.8 for the IVT group (p0.001). Twenty eyes (17.7%) developed OHT in the STT group, 19 eyes (15.6%) developed OHT in the DEX group, and 14 eyes (12.8%) developed OHT in the IVT group (p = 0.60). IOP was controlled in all eyes with observation, topical IOP-lowering medication, or surgical intervention. The rate of incisional glaucoma surgery was 1.7% in the STT group, 1.6% in the DEX group, and 0% in the IVT group (p = 0.55).The rate of OHT was similar across treatment groups. The proportion of OHT in patients with a history of glaucoma was no different from that in patients without a history of glaucoma. All cases were successfully managed with observation, medical treatment, or incisional surgery.

Purpose: This article compares 2-mg intravitreal triamcinolone (IVT) and 0.7-mg dexamethasone (DEX) implant for the treatment of diabetic macular edema in eyes that had a suboptimal response to antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy. Methods: A single-center, retrospective review was conducted of patients receiving either IVT between January 1, 2013, and January 1, 2018, or patients receiving DEX between October 1, 2015, and January 1, 2018. Visual acuity and central macular thickness (CMT) were recorded at visit of first injection and all subsequent visits. Results: Twenty-five eyes were included in the DEX group and 32 eyes were included in the IVT group. Change in vision from baseline was similar between DEX and IVT at 6-month follow-up (1.1 lines vs 2.3 lines, respectively; P = .24). Mean decrease in CMT from baseline was not different at 6-month follow-up (DEX: 120 µm vs IVT: 185 µm; P = .17). Conclusions: DEX and 2-mg IVT both achieved improvement in vision and CMT with no significant differences between treatment groups at 6-month follow-up.

To determine outcomes of eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) receiving intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections who return after a period of being lost to follow-up (LTFU).Retrospective, cross-sectional study.Eyes that received intravitreal bevacizumab, ranibizumab, or aflibercept for nAMD and were LTFU for6 months.Comparison of visual outcomes and structural parameters at the visit before LTFU, return visit, and final visit.Logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity (VA), presence of subretinal fluid and intraretinal fluid, and central foveal thickness (CFT) by OCT.A total of 93 eyes of 77 patients were included in the analysis. Mean duration from date of LTFU to return was 346 (±122) days. Overall, 53.7% of patients had worse median logMAR VA by the final visit. Median logMAR VA worsened from 0.60 (0.40-2.00) (Snellen 20/80 [20/50-20/2000]) at the visit before LTFU to 1.00 (0.48-2.00) (20/200 [20/60-20/2000]) at the return visit (P0.001). Median logMAR VA remained worse at 6- and 12-months after return from LTFU: 1.00 (0.48-2.00) (20/200 [20/60-20/2000]) (P = 0.001) and 0.70 (0.44-1.30) (20/100 [20/55-20/399]) (P = 0.004), respectively. Despite a mean of 383 (±270) days of follow-up after returning and 5.0 (±5.1) additional injections, the median logMAR VA remained worse at 1.00 (0.54-2.00) (20/200 [20/70-20/2000]) at the final visit compared with the visit before LTFU (P0.001). There was greater worsening in mean logMAR VA from the visit before LTFU to the final visit in eyes that received bevacizumab (0.32) and ranibizumab (0.28) compared with aflibercept (P = 0.003, P = 0.04, and P = 0.03, respectively). Mean CFT increased from 201 (±106) μm at the visit before LTFU to 240 (±147) μm at return (P = 0.004). By the final visit, the mean CFT had decreased to 183 (±101) μm, which was not significantly different from the visit before LTFU (P = 0.10).Eyes with nAMD receiving intravitreal anti-VEGF that were LTFU experience significant VA decline at the return visit that persists on final follow-up despite normalization of CFT.

Purpose To report the incidence and course of ocular hypertension after intravitreal injection of 2-mg triamcinolone acetonide (IVT). Methods In a retrospective, consecutive series, all patients receiving 2-mg IVT at a single institution between March 1, 2012, and March 1, 2017, with a minimum of 3-month follow-up were reviewed. Ocular hypertension was defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement over 24 mmHg at any follow-up visit after IVT. Patients receiving topical, periocular, or intravitreal corticosteroid other than 2-mg IVT were excluded. Results A total of 106 eyes in 100 patients receiving at least one injection of 2-mg IVT were included. Eyes received an average of 2.9 injections (range 1-17), and average patient follow-up was 15.1 months (range 3.0-52.5 months). A total of 14 eyes (13.2%) in 14 patients developed ocular hypertension after a median of 1.5 injections (range 1-9) with an average peak IOP of 29 mmHg (range 25-38 mmHg). Overall, a total of 11 eyes (10.4%) had an IOP elevation ≥10 mmHg above baseline at any point after first IVT. In all cases of ocular hypertension, IOP was successfully managed with observation or topical IOP-lowering medication alone; no patients required surgical intervention. Conclusion Ocular hypertension developed in 13.2% of eyes receiving intravitreal injection of 2-mg triamcinolone acetonide. Incidence of ocular hypertension after 2-mg IVT compares favorably with other intravitreally administered corticosteroids.

Purpose To assess whether vitreous culture results affect the clinical management of patients with acute endophthalmitis after intravitreal anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection. Design Retrospective case series. Methods Setting : Single-center. Study Population : Patients who developed endophthalmitis after intravitreal injection of aflibercept, bevacizumab, or ranibizumab between January 1, 2016, and May 31, 2018. Observation : A change in clinical management was defined as additional intravitreal antibiotic injections or pars plana vitrectomy. Main Outcome Measures : A change in clinical management within 2 weeks of initial endophthalmitis culture and treatment; visual acuity. Results Of 204,986 intravitreal anti-VEGF injections performed, 60 cases (0.0293%) of endophthalmitis were identified, 18 of which were culture-positive. Six of 60 eyes (10%) had a change in clinical management. A change in clinical management was initiated in 3 of 18 (17%) culture-positive cases compared to 3 of 42 (7%) culture-negative cases (P = .357). Changes in management for culture-positive cases were performed based on declining vision (2 cases) and worsening clinical examination (1 case). Changes in management for culture-negative endophthalmitis cases were performed based on declining vision (1 case) and worsening clinical examination (2 cases). No additional interventions were initiated based on positive-culture results. Comparing vision loss from baseline by culture result, at final follow-up, oral flora-associated culture-positive cases lost 17.5 lines, non–oral flora-associated culture-positive cases lost 9.1 lines, and culture-negative cases lost 2.5 lines of vision (P Conclusion Following endophthalmitis from intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agents, vitreous culture data may help prognosticate visual outcomes but appear to have a limited effect on clinical management.

To determine long-term visual outcomes in patients who developed endophthalmitis after intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections and to correlate visual outcomes with clinical features.This is a retrospective, multicenter, consecutive case series of patients diagnosed with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injection-related endophthalmitis who were treated at Mid Atlantic Retina, the Retina Service of Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, and the University of Southern California Roski Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA. Patients were included if they had at least 1 year of follow-up. Primary outcome was to evaluate long-term visual outcomes up to 5 years of follow-up. The secondary outcome was to determine clinical features (e.g., culture results) that may predict long-term visual acuity outcomes.A total of 56 cases of endophthalmitis from 168,247 anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections were identified (0.033%, 1/3,004 injections), from which 51 eyes met inclusion criteria. Mean follow-up period was 3.3 years (median 4 years; range 1-5 years). A total of 24 patients (47%) reached a maximum final follow-up of 5 years. Mean Snellen visual acuity at the causative injection visit was 20/102 and decreased to counting fingers at diagnosis (P0.001). At 6-month follow-up, mean visual acuity improved to 20/644 (P0.001) and remained stable up to 5 years (20/480, P = 0.003) follow-up compared with diagnosis. At the final follow-up, 20 eyes had visual acuity that returned to within one line of baseline visual acuity (visual recovery group), whereas 31 patients' visual acuity was at least one line worse than initial visual acuity (visual deterioration group). The cultures for the visual recovery group were more likely to grow coagulase-negative Staphylococcus, whereas the visual deterioration group primarily grew Streptococcus species, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus faecalis (P = 0.002, comparing organisms isolated in the visual recovery and deterioration group).Visual outcomes after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injection-related endophthalmitis seem to reach peak improvement by 6 months and remain stable up to a median of 4-year follow-up. Patients who develop culture-negative endophthalmitis or endophthalmitis secondary to coagulase-negative Staphylococcus are more likely to regain baseline visual acuity compared with cases secondary to Streptococcus species.

To report the rate, risk factors, and outcomes of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) after intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor medications.Single-center, retrospective, consecutive review.All patients receiving ranibizumab, bevacizumab, or aflibercept for neovascular age-related macular degeneration or retinal vein occlusion between October 1, 2014, and October 1, 2017.The total number of eyes and injections were determined from billing codes. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment patients were determined from billing records and confirmed with chart review.Rate of retinal detachment and visual acuity outcomes.A total of 180 671 intravitreal injections in 12 718 unique patients were included. An RRD occurred in 24 patients within 3 months after injection, giving a rate of 1 RRD per 7532 intravitreal injections (0.013%) and 1 RRD per 530 patients (0.19%). No association was found between RRD risk after injection and diagnosis (P = 0.54), physician experience (P = 0.23), injection site (P = 0.41), caliper use (P = 0.75), or 31- versus 30-gauge needle use (P = 0.18). A retinal tear was found located in the quadrant of the injection site (within 1.5 clock hours of the injection) in 15 of 24 patients (62.5%; P0.0001). At the time of RRD diagnosis, the macula was attached in 9 patients (37.5%). Interventions for RRD repair included pars plana vitrectomy (PPV; 15 patients), combined scleral buckle and PPV (4 patients), pneumatic retinopexy (3 patients), and laser or cryotherapy alone (2 patients). Single-surgery success rate was 54.2%, with 54.5% of recurrent detachments caused by proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Average loss from visual acuity recorded at the visit before diagnosis of RRD was 1.0 line for macula-on detachments versus 6.8 lines for macula-off detachments (P = 0.027) at final follow-up (average, 16.3 months).Retinal detachment after intravitreal injection is uncommon, with a rate of approximately 1 in 7500 injections. Macular status at the time of RRD diagnosis significantly affects visual outcomes.

Purpose To evaluate refractive outcomes after combined pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and scleral fixation of an intraocular lens (IOL) using Gore-Tex suture. Design Retrospective cohort study. Participants Fifty-five eyes from 53 patients who underwent PPV with a Gore-Tex sutured IOL from June 2013 through December 2017. Methods Patients who underwent combined PPV and scleral fixation of an IOL with Gore-Tex suture were identified. All eyes underwent scleral fixation of either an Akreos A060 or enVista MX60 IOL and were fixated either 2 mm or 3 mm posterior to the limbus. Postoperative manifest refractions were performed at least 3 months after surgery and were compared with preoperative predicted target refraction based on in-the-bag IOL calculations. Subgroup analyses based on sclerotomy placement and IOL models were performed. Main Outcome Measures Postoperative manifest refraction and difference with sclerotomy placement and IOL model. Results The mean postoperative spherical equivalent (SEQ) was –0.99±1.00 diopters (D). The mean difference in SEQ (ΔSEQ) from preoperative predicted target was –0.64±1.00 D. The IOL was fixated 2 mm posterior to the limbus in 14 eyes and 3 mm in 41 eyes. Within these 2 subgroups, the mean postoperative SEQ was –1.53±1.35 D for fixation 2 mm posterior to the limbus and –0.82±0.83 D for fixation 3 mm posterior to the limbus (P = 0.09). The mean ΔSEQ was –0.43±0.71 D for fixation 3 mm posterior to the limbus and –1.35±1.32 D for fixation 2 mm posterior to the limbus (P = 0.03). The mean amount of surgically induced astigmatism in the overall cohort was 0.77±0.65 D. The mean ΔSEQ and induced astigmatism were similar between IOL models. Conclusions After combined PPV and Gore-Tex–sutured IOL implantation, mean postoperative refractive outcomes were more myopic when the IOL was fixated 2 mm from the limbus compared with 3 mm from the limbus. No significant difference was found between IOL models. Based on these results, future implant power calculations may be adjusted to approximate preoperative target refraction more accurately.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To identify the proportion of patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) with loss to follow-up (LTFU) along with potential risk factors after receiving an intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A retrospective review based on billing codes was performed from January 1, 2012, to January 1, 2017. LTFU was defined as no office visit within 12 months following an intravitreal injection. Potential risk factors for LTFU were screened using univariate analysis for inclusion in a final multivariate logistic regression model. RESULTS: A total of 3,400 unique patients with RVO with macular edema met the study inclusion criteria. Of these, 863 patients (25.4%) were LTFU. Rates of LTFU varied based on race / ethnicity, age, RVO type, distance from clinic, insurance status, and regional average adjusted gross income. In the multivariate analysis, patients with LTFU were more likely to be black (odds ratio [OR] = 1.37), Hispanic (OR = 2.37), and living more than 20 miles away from clinic (OR = 1.47). Patients who were 65 to 80 years old (OR = 0.71) and those with branch retinal vein occlusion (OR = 0.70) were less likely to be LTFU. Subgroup analysis showed that patients with baseline visual acuity better than 20/50 were also less likely to be LTFU. CONCLUSIONS: Approximately one in four patients did not return for a year or more after receiving an intravitreal injection for RVO. Given the importance of ongoing therapy to prevent vision loss, these “real-world” findings are of significant concern. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina . 2019;50:159–166.]

Purpose To compare the rates of infectious endophthalmitis following intravitreal injection of ranibizumab using prefilled syringes vs conventional preparation. Design Multicenter retrospective cohort study. Methods All eyes receiving intravitreal injection of 0.5 mg ranibizumab for retinal vascular diseases at 10 retina practices across the United States (2016 to 2017) and Japan (2009 to 2017) were included. The total numbers of eyes and injections were determined from billing codes. Endophthalmitis cases were determined from billing records and evaluated with chart review. Primary outcome was the rate of postinjection acute endophthalmitis. Secondary outcomes were visual acuity and microbial spectrum. Results A total of 243 754 intravitreal 0.5 mg ranibizumab injections (165 347 conventional and 78 407 prefilled) were administered to 43 132 unique patients during the study period. In the conventional ranibizumab group, a total of 43 cases of suspected endophthalmitis occurred (0.026%; 1 in 3845 injections) and 22 cases of culture-positive endophthalmitis occurred (0.013%; 1 in 7516 injections). In the prefilled ranibizumab group, 12 cases of suspected endophthalmitis occurred (0.015%; 1 in 6534 injections) and 2 cases of culture-positive endophthalmitis occurred (0.0026%; 1 in 39 204 injections). Prefilled syringes were associated with a trend toward decreased risk of suspected endophthalmitis (odds ratio 0.59; 95% confidence interval 0.31-1.12; P = .10) and a statistically significant decreased risk of culture-positive endophthalmitis (odds ratio 0.19; 95% confidence interval 0.045-0.82; P = .025). Average logMAR vision loss at final follow-up was significantly worse for eyes that developed endophthalmitis from the conventional ranibizumab preparation compared to the prefilled syringe group (4.45 lines lost from baseline acuity vs 0.38 lines lost; P = .0062). Oral-associated flora was found in 27.3% (6/22) of conventional ranibizumab culture-positive endophthalmitis cases (3 cases of Streptococcus viridans, 3 cases of Enterococcus faecalis) compared to 0 cases in the prefilled ranibizumab group. Conclusion In a large, multicenter, retrospective study the use of prefilled syringes during intravitreal injection of ranibizumab was associated with a reduced rate of culture-positive endophthalmitis, including from oral flora, as well as with improved visual acuity outcomes.

PURPOSE To compare proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR)-related surgical failure and non-PVR-associated failure after scleral buckling for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. METHODS In this single-center, retrospective, consecutive case series, eyes with surgical failure after scleral buckling for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were identified. Eyes with surgical failure were categorized as PVR-associated and non-PVR-associated failure, and these groups were compared. RESULTS Of the 530 scleral buckling procedures performed, 69 were surgical failures (13%), of which 27 of the 530 (5%) were due to PVR and 42 of the 530 (8%) were from non-PVR causes. Patients with PVR-associated failure were more likely to be smokers (P < 0.001), have a delayed presentation after symptoms (P = 0.011), have preoperative vitreous hemorrhage (P = 0.004), and have preoperative PVR (P = 0.002). Multivariate logistic regression models showed that the odds of PVR-associated failure were greater in eyes with preoperative vitreous hemorrhage (odds ratio, 8.2; P = 0.048), preoperative PVR (odds ratio, 22.7; P = 0.023), and among previous smokers (odds ratio, 28.8; P < 0.001). Thirty-two of 69 patients (46%) required one additional surgical intervention, and 37 of the 69 patients (53%) required two or more additional interventions to achieve final reattachment. CONCLUSION Proliferative vitreoretinopathy-related surgical failure after primary scleral buckling was 5%. Risk factors for PVR-associated failure parallel those commonly referenced for pars plan vitrectomy, including smoking history, preoperative vitreous hemorrhage, and preoperative PVR.

Cystoid macular edema (CME) following cataract surgery is a well-known entity. Less is known regarding the risk factors of developing CME following repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRD...

To identify differences in preoperative characteristics and intraoperative approaches between surgeons with higher versus lower single surgery success rates (SSSR) for repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs).This study is a sub-analysis of subjects who underwent RRD repair in the Primary Retinal Detachment Outcomes (PRO) study, a multi-institutional, retrospective comparative interventional study. The PRO study examined consecutive primary RRD surgeries from January 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015. The primary outcome was variations in surgical approach to different types of RRDs with secondary analyses of pre and intraoperative metrics for surgeons with SSSR 90% compared to those80% who performed at least 40 operations during the study period.A total of 689 surgeries were included in the analysis. The mean SSSR was 94% for the higher tier and 75% for the lower tier (p 0.0001). Surgeons with90% SSSR were more likely to have graduated fellowship more recently (p = 0.0025), use less perfluorocarbon liquid (p 0.0001), perform less 360 degree laser retinopexy (p 0.0001), and perform a higher percentage of primary buckles and combined PPV/SB (p 0.0001). For pseudophakic eyes there was no difference between PPV and PPV/SB use (p = 0.6211).Surgeons with high SSSR typically performed SB as well as combination PPV/SB for more RRDs. Similar numbers of PPV and PPV/SB were performed for pseudophakic eyes, suggesting that the difference in SSSR between the two groups may be related to a combination of preoperative and intraoperative decisions as well as differences in technique.

Background/aimsTo evaluate the outcomes of eyes with macular oedema due to retinal vein occlusion (RVO) that are lost to follow-up (LTFU) after antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections.MethodA retrospective, single-centre, consecutive case series of RVO patients receiving injections who were LTFU >6 months was conducted. Data were collected from the visit before LTFU; return visit; 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after return; and the final visit.ResultsNinety eyes of 83 patients were included. Fifty (55.5%) eyes had branch RVO and 40 (44.5%) had central RVO. Mean LTFU duration was 277.8 days with additional mean follow-up for 748.1 days after return. Mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution visual acuity (VA) (Snellen) at the visit before LTFU was 0.72 (20/105) which worsened on return [1.04 (20/219), pConclusionRVO patients receiving anti-VEGF injections who were LTFU experienced a decline in VA that did not return to the levels seen before LTFU despite improvement in CFT after restarting therapy, underscoring the importance of ongoing treatment.

Aims: To evaluate whether the incidence, microbial spectrum, and visual outcomes of endophthalmitis following intravitreal injections have changed over time. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of ...

Purpose To evaluate the incidence of unexpected management changes on the first day after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for retinal detachment repair. Design Retrospective cohort study. Methods The medical and billing records of a large academic private practice were electronically queried for all cases of PPV for retinal detachment performed between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2017. All cases of PPV for rhegmatogenous or tractional retinal detachment with completed postoperative day 1 (POD1) and postoperative week 1 (POW1) visits were included. The preoperative consultation, operative report, and POD1 and POW1 (postoperative days 5-14) visits were reviewed. Main outcome measures were incidence of unexpected management changes (change in or extended positioning, additional procedure, change in drop regimen, or shortened interval follow-up) at the POD1 visit after uncomplicated PPV for retinal detachment. Results Overall, 418 surgeries from 364 eyes and 355 patients were included. Eleven cases (2.6%) had an intraocular pressure (IOP) over 30 mm Hg at POD1. IOP-lowering drops were prescribed for 30 cases (7.2%). Silicone oil tamponade was positively associated with high IOP at POD1 (relative risk = 3.23, 95% confidence interval 0.96-10.84, P = 0.06). No additional management changes were made besides treating elevated IOP. Conclusions Management changes on POD1 after vitrectomy for retinal detachment repair are relatively uncommon and were solely IOP related in this patient group. There may be flexibility regarding the type of POD1 encounter necessary, including an IOP check with an ophthalmic technician or non–retinal eye care provider. Larger, prospective studies are needed to better determine the most efficient follow-up routine.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The aim of this study was to report characteristics of patients presenting with serious ocular injuries during the COVID-19 stay-at-home orders. RECENT FINDINGS: Of 1058 patients presenting for emergency evaluation during the stay-at-home order, 62 (5.9%) patients [mean (SD) age, 41.1 (19.2) years; 19 (31%) women; 31 (50%) white] presented with severe ocular trauma. The daily mean (SD) number of patients who presented for emergency evaluation decreased from 49.0 (9) to 36.4 (6) during the quarantine (P 

Purpose To assess the utility of microbiologic culture data for the management of endophthalmitis after cataract surgery. Design Retrospective, single-center, cohort study. Participants All patients treated for endophthalmitis after cataract surgery between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2017, at a single institution. Methods Endophthalmitis cases were determined from billing records and confirmed with chart review. A change in clinical management was defined as additional intravitreal antibiotic injections or pars plana vitrectomy. Main Outcome Measures A change in clinical management within 2 weeks of initial endophthalmitis culture and treatment; visual acuity (VA). Results A total of 111 eyes of 111 patients were treated for endophthalmitis after cataract surgery, of which 57 (51%) were culture-positive. After initial treatment of endophthalmitis, a change in clinical management after vitreous culture occurred in 9 of 111 eyes (8%), including 6 of 57 (11%) culture-positive eyes compared with 3 of 54 (6%) culture-negative eyes (P = 0.49). Change in clinical management for culture-positive eyes was based on declining vision (3 eyes), worsening clinical examination results (2 eyes), and retinal detachment (1 case). Change in clinical management for culture-negative endophthalmitis eyes was based on worsening clinical examination results (2 eyes) and declining vision (1 eye). No additional interventions were initiated on the basis of positive culture results. At final follow-up, mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) VA was 1.09 (∼20/250) for the culture-positive eyes compared with 0.59 (∼20/80) for culture-negative eyes (adjusted difference, 0.394; 95% confidence interval, 0.02–0.77, P = 0.03). Rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs) or retinal tears occurred in 19 of 111 eyes (17%) after developing endophthalmitis, and culture-positive eyes developed a secondary RRD in 11 of 57 eyes (19%) compared with 3 of 54 (6%) culture-negative eyes (P = 0.03). Conclusions After endophthalmitis related to cataract surgery, vitreous cultures may have prognostic value for final visual outcomes but have a limited effect on clinical management.

Background: To compare the incidence and outcomes of ocular hypertension (OHT) after intravitreal injection of 0.7 mg dexamethasone (DEX) and 2 mg triamcinolone acetonide (IVT).Methods: In a single...

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: In 2018, cases of inflammation were reported after intravitreal aflibercept (IVA), which resulted in switches to intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR). The authors' purpose was to evaluate outcomes after switching from IVA to IVR in diabetic macular edema (DME). PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective cohort study. Eyes switched from IVA to IVR for treating DME were included. Data were gathered from three visits before to three visits post-switch. Outcome measures included central subfoveal thickness (CFT) and Snellen visual acuity (VA). RESULTS: There was a statistically significant increase in CFT at the first visit (325 µm ± 234 µm; P = .006) compared to the switch visit, but no difference later visits (268 µm ± 103 µm; P = .32; 284 µm ± 118 µm; P = .11; n = 54). There was no statistically significant change in mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution VA between the switch and later visits (0.43 ± 0.38, P = .95; 0.38 ± 0.30, P = .12; 0.41 ± 0.37, P = .69). CONCLUSIONS: The authors observed transient worsening of macular edema in eyes treated for DME when switched from aflibercept to ranibizumab. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina . 2020;51:691–697.]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Most surgeons now utilize small-gauge (23- or 25-gauge) pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without scleral buckling for repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRD), in addition to primary scleral buckle (SB), but comparative data between the two gauges are limited. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This study is an analysis of primary RRD repairs comparing 23- versus 25-gauge vitrectomy for PPV or combination PPV/SB from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015, across multiple institutions. The primary outcome was single-surgery success and secondary outcomes included postoperative complications. RESULTS: There were 1,932 eyes that met inclusion criteria. There was no statistically significant difference in single-surgery success (82.9% vs. 83.8%; P = 0.6329). There were similar rates of postoperative hypotony, endophthalmitis, vitreous hemorrhage, and choroidal detachment. The findings were similar when analyzing only eyes that underwent primary PPV without SB. CONCLUSION: Both 23- and 25-gauge vitrectomy systems have similar anatomic and visual outcomes in the primary repair of RRD. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2021;52:70–76.]

Importance Some eyes with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have persistent exudation despite frequent intravitreal anti–vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections. Adjuvant therapies that further reduce edema may improve vision outcomes. Objective To compare the short-term effect of topical dorzolamide-timolol vs placebo in eyes with neovascular AMD that have persistent exudation following intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. Design, Setting, and Participants Randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial with enrollment from March 1, 2017, through October 30, 2018. Multicenter trial at 4 clinical sites in the United States. Sixty-three patients with neovascular AMD who had persistent exudation despite intravitreal anti-VEGF injections at 4-week, 5-week, or 6-week intervals. Interventions Patients were randomized to use dorzolamide-timolol or artificial tears for the study duration. They continued to receive the same anti-VEGF drug at the same interval as the 2 visits before enrollment for 3 additional study visits. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome measure was change in mean central subfield thickness on optical coherence tomography from baseline to visit 3 (approximately 3 months). Secondary measures included change in mean maximum subretinal fluid height, mean maximum pigment epithelial detachment height, and mean visual acuity (VA). Results This trial included 52 patients. All 27 patients (100%) assigned to dorzolamide-timolol and 23 of 25 (92%) assigned to placebo were analyzed for the primary outcome. Mean (SD) age was 78.4 (7) years, and 34 of 50 patients (68%) were women. Mean (SD) injections were 20.5 (14) (range, 4-58) before enrollment. Mean (SD) baseline logMAR VA was 0.361 (0.26) (approximate Snellen equivalent, 20/50). Comparing the dorzolamide-timolol with placebo group from baseline to visit 3, mean (SD) change in central subfield thickness (primary outcome) was −36.6 (54) μm vs 1.7 (52.3) μm (difference, 30.8; 95% CI, 0.3-61.3;P = .04); secondary outcomes: maximum PED height was −39.1 (65) μm vs 1.1 (16) μm (difference, 39.6; 95% CI, 9.6-69.6;P = .01) and change in VA from baseline to visit 3 was −2.3 (5) vs 0.3 (1) letters (difference, 2.6 letters; 95% CI, −1.9 to 7.1 letters;P = .78). Conclusions and Relevance These findings suggest use of dorzolamide-timolol in patients with neovascular AMD with persistent exudation resulted in anatomic but not visual acuity improvements compared with placebo at approximately 3 months. Additional clinical trials with longer follow-up and larger sample sizes presumably would be needed to determine the role, if any, of dorzolamide-timolol in neovascular AMD. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:NCT03034772

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Non-causal macular holes (MHs) can occur concurrently with rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs). The visual outcomes and surgical approach for these eyes are variable. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a multi-institutional, retrospective review of all primary retinal detachment surgeries from January 1, 2015, through December 31, 2015. Pre-, intra-, and postoperative metrics were recorded. RESULTS: There were 2,242 eyes that had pars plana vitrectomy for primary RRD, 43 (1.9%) of which had a MH at the time of surgery. The mean postoperative logMAR visual acuity (VA) for the MH cohort was 0.87 ± 0.64 (20/148) and for eyes without a MH was 0.47 ± 0.63 (20/59; P < .0001). The single-surgery re-attachment rate for the MH cohort and no MH cohort was 86.1% and 84.9%, respectively ( P = 1.0000). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with noncausal MHs and RRD had significantly worse VA than patients without a MH. Preoperative counseling is imperative in patients with both RRD and MH. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina . 2020;51:500–505.]

PurposeTo examine the effect of low-dose, oral isotretinoin in lowering the risk of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) following rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair.MethodsProspective, open label, dual-cohort study with pathology-matched historical controls. The prospective experimental arms included two cohorts, composed of 51 eyes with recurrent PVR-related RRD and 58 eyes with primary RRD associated with high-risk features for developing PVR. Eyes in the experimental arms received 20 mg of isotretinoin by mouth once daily for 12 weeks starting the day after surgical repair. The primary outcome measure was single surgery anatomical success rate at 3 months following the study surgery.ResultsThe single surgery anatomic success rate was 78.4% versus 70.0% (p=0.358) in eyes with recurrent PVR-related retinal detachment exposed to isotretinoin versus historical controls, respectively. In eyes with RRD at high risk for developing PVR, the single surgery success rate was 84.5% versus 61.1% (p=0.005) for eyes exposed to isotretinoin versus historical controls, respectively. For eyes enrolled in the experimental arms, the most common isotretinoin-related side effects were dry skin/mucus membranes in 106 patients (97.2%), abnormal sleep/dreams in 4 patients (3.7%) and fatigue in 3 patients (2.8%).ConclusionThe management and prevention of PVR is challenging and complex. At the dose and duration given in this study, oral istotretinoin may reduce the risk of PVR-associated recurrent retinal detachment in eyes with primary RRD at high risk of developing PVR.

PURPOSE To evaluate practice patterns for bilateral same-day intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections and determine the rate of unilateral and bilateral postinjection endophthalmitis after bilateral same-day intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS The records of a large academic private practice were electronically queried for all office visits, during which bilateral intravitreal anti-VEGF injections were performed between April 1, 2012 and August 21, 2017 for patients with a diagnosis of neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, or retinal vein occlusion. Demographic information and indication for injection were recorded for each patient and office visit. Charts of patients with endophthalmitis were reviewed, and information was collected on presentation examination, culture data, and visual outcomes. RESULTS During the study period, 101 932 bilateral same-day intravitreal anti-VEGF injections were performed over 50 966 office visits for 5890 patients. The mean (standard deviation) age of patients in this cohort was 74.2 (14.1) years and 60.6% of patients were female. The 2 most common indications for injection were neovascular age-related macular degeneration (54.3% of patients) and diabetic macular edema (35.4% of patients). Twenty-eight cases of endophthalmitis (0.027% of total injections) occurred during the study period. There were no cases of bilateral endophthalmitis, and no patients had more than 1 occurrence of endophthalmitis. CONCLUSIONS In this large cohort of patients undergoing bilateral same-day intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, there were no cases of bilateral endophthalmitis. Additionally, the overall rate of unilateral endophthalmitis was low and comparable to prior studies of unilateral injections. These results support the safety of bilateral same-day intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment.

Loss to follow-up (LTFU) may contribute to vision loss in patients with active proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). The aim of this study is to determine and compare the rates of LTFU in patients with PDR receiving panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) or intravitreal injections (IVIs) with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) over approximately 4 years. Moreover, this study evaluates various risk factors for LTFU.Retrospective cohort study.A total of 2302 patients with PDR receiving IVIs with anti-VEGF or PRP between January 1, 2012, and April 20, 2016.Intervals between each procedure and the subsequent follow-up visit were measured. Loss to follow-up was defined as at least 1 interval exceeding 12 months duration.The LTFU rates and associated risk factors.A total of 1718 patients (74.6%) followed up postprocedure and 584 patients (25.4%) were LTFU over approximately 4 years. Of the patients receiving PRP, 28.0% were LTFU compared with 22.1% of patients receiving IVI with anti-VEGF (P = 0.001). The LTFU rates decreased as age increased, with rates of 28.1% for patients aged ≤55 years, 27.0% for patients aged 56 to 65 years, and 20.9% for patients aged65 years (P = 0.002). Loss to follow-up also differed by race, with rates of 19.4% for whites, 30.2% for African Americans, 19.7% for Asians, 38.0% for Hispanics, Native Americans, and Pacific Islanders, and 34.9% for patients of unreported race (P0.001). The LTFU rates also increased as regional average adjusted gross incomes (AGIs) decreased, with rates of 33.9% for patients with regional average AGI of ≤$40 000, 24.0% for patients with regional average AGI from $41 000 to $80 000, and 19.7% for patients with regional average AGI$80 000 (P 0.001). Procedure type, age, race, and regional average AGI were all significant (P0.05) independent risk factors of LTFU in the multivariate regression.A large proportion of patients with PDR were LTFU after receiving PRP or an anti-VEGF injection over approximately 4 years. Key risk factors included age, race, and regional average AGI.

PURPOSE To examine rates of acute infectious endophthalmitis after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in eyes that received intraoperative subconjunctival antibiotics versus eyes that did not. METHODS A retrospective, nonrandomized, comparative case series of 18,886 consecutive cases of transconjunctival 23-, 25-, and 27-gauge PPV over a 5-year period was performed. The impact of prophylactic intraoperative subconjunctival antibiotics on the development of acute infectious postoperative endophthalmitis was examined. RESULTS Of 18,886 cases of PPV, 14,068 (74.5%) received intraoperative subconjunctival antibiotics, whereas 4,818 (25.5%) did not. Sixteen cases (0.085%, 1/1,176) of post-PPV endophthalmitis were identified. The incidence of endophthalmitis in eyes that received subconjunctival antibiotics was 0.078% (11/14,068 cases, 1/1,282), whereas the incidence in those that did not receive subconjunctival antibiotics was 0.10% (5/4,818 cases, 1/1,000). No statistically significant difference was identified in the incidence of endophthalmitis between those that received subconjunctival antibiotics and those that did not (P = 0.598). Microbial culture was performed in 11 cases with 6 culture-positive cases (5/8 cases that received subconjunctival antibiotics and 1/3 cases that did not). CONCLUSION Prophylactic subconjunctival antibiotics were not associated with a significantly reduced rate of post-PPV endophthalmitis. With consideration of emerging multidrug-resistant bacteria, routine prophylactic subconjunctival antibiotics may not be justified.

There has been limited evidence on the benefits of pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peel (PPV-MP) for epiretinal membrane (ERM) in eyes with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We sought to assess anatomic and functional outcomes of PPV-MP for ERM in this subset of eyes.A retrospective cohort study.Patients with dry AMD who underwent PPV-MP for ERM from January 1, 2010, to December 1, 2016.Visual acuity (VA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) as measured on spectral-domain OCT were recorded and analyzed for the preoperative, 6-month, and final follow-up visits. The presence of cystoid macular edema (CME) and ellipsoid zone (EZ) integrity were recorded and compared with postoperative imaging. Conversion to neovascular AMD in eyes for which at least 2 years of follow-up were available, as confirmed by either OCT and/or fluorescein angiography and documentation of treatment with intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor, was recorded and compared between case eyes that underwent PPV-MP versus fellow control eyes.Postoperative VA.A total of 38 eyes from 38 patients met the study criteria. There was a significant improvement in the median (interquartile range, [IQR]) logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] VA from 0.60 (IQR 0.46-1.00) (20/80, Snellen equivalent) at the preoperative visit, to 0.48 (IQR 0.30-0.70) (20/60, Snellen equivalent) at the 6-month follow-up visit (P = 0.04), and to 0.48 (IQR 0.30-0.70) (20/60, Snellen equivalent) at the final visit (P = 0.01). There was a significant median decrease in CFT at the final visit (P0.001) compared with the preoperative CFT. Only eyes with either CME or an intact EZ showed significant improvement in median logMAR VA at the final visit compared with the preoperative visit (P = 0.01 and P = 0.004, respectively). In a subgroup analysis of eyes for which a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were available, 4 of 25 (16.0%) vitrectomized eyes and 1 of 25 (4.0%) fellow control eyes progressed to neovascular AMD (P = 0.16).PPV-MP appears to confer anatomic and functional improvement in eyes with ERM and coexisting dry AMD. Moreover, greater preoperative CFT, the presence of CME, and an intact EZ were predictors of VA improvement in these eyes.

Purpose: To describe a case of disseminated cryptococcal meningitis with multifocal choroiditis and provide optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings correlated with described histopathology in a patient with advanced acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Observations: The patient was a 54-year-old man with AIDS who presented with dyspnea and headache followed by acute vision loss. OCT demonstrated a lesion with a small area of fluid that was limited by a more prominent and irregular external limiting membrane with underlying nodular choroidal thickening, mild RPE disorganization, and hyperreflectivity of the overlying photoreceptor layer. Patient was found to have disseminated cryptococcal infection and passed away despite aggressive therapy. Autopsy was performed including bilateral enucleation and a Cryptococcus lesion was confirmed on histopathology. Conclusion and importance: This case highlights the clinical, imaging, and histopathologic findings of cryptococcal choroiditis and provides a review of the updated treatment recommendations for disseminated infection in a patient with advanced AIDS. Although currently fundoscopy has proven most useful in directing the diagnostic algorithm in choroiditis in the setting of advanced immunosuppression, OCT may provide insight into the spread of Cryptococcus within the eye. Keywords: Cryptococcus neoformans, Cryptococcal choroiditis, Meningitis, HIV, AIDS, Clinicopathologic correlation

Background/aimsVitrectomy to repair retinal detachment is often performed with either non-contact wide-angle viewing systems or wide-angle contact viewing systems. The purpose of this study is to assess whether the viewing system used is associated with any differences in surgical outcomes of vitrectomy for primary non-complex retinal detachment repair.MethodsThis is a multicenter, interventional, retrospective, comparative study. Eyes that underwent non-complex primary retinal detachment repair by either pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) alone or in combination with scleral buckle/PPV in 2015 were evaluated. The viewing system at the time of the retinal detachment repair was identified and preoperative patient characteristics, intraoperative findings and postoperative outcomes were recorded.ResultsA total of 2256 eyes were included in our analysis. Of those, 1893 surgeries used a non-contact viewing system, while 363 used a contact lens system. There was no statistically significant difference in single surgery anatomic success at 3 months (p=0.72), or final anatomic success (p=0.40). Average postoperative visual acuity for the contact-based cases was logMAR 0.345 (20/44 Snellen equivalent) compared with 0.475 (20/60 Snellen equivalent) for non-contact (p=0.001). After controlling for numerous confounding variables in multivariable analysis, viewing system choice was no longer statistically significant (p=0.097).ConclusionThere was no statistically significant difference in anatomic success achieved for primary retinal detachment repair when comparing non-contact viewing systems to contact lens systems. Postoperative visual acuity was better in the contact-based group but this was not statistically significant when confounding factors were controlled for.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcomes of in-office laser demarcation (LD) for peripheral rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (RRDs). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective analysis of peripheral RRDs treated with LD. Patient demographics, visual acuity (VA), and RRD characteristics were recorded. Complications requiring additional procedures were recorded. Multiple logistic regression was used to characterize the association of RRD anatomy to treatment complications. RESULTS: A total of 112 eyes of 107 patients were analyzed with mean follow-up of 20 ± 12 months. VA at baseline and last follow-up was equivalent (0.16 logMAR, Snellen equivalent 20/29). Ninety-five (84.8%) eyes were successfully treated without an additional procedure. In multivariate analysis, the presence of VH (odds ratio [OR] = 4.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–17; P = .04) and RRDs in the inferior 6 clock hours (OR = 6.2; 95% CI, 1.5–29; P = .01) were associated with complications. CONCLUSIONS: LD is successful in treating peripheral RRDs. RRD characteristics less conducive to laser include presence of VH and inferior RRD. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2020;51:428–434.]

To better characterize the demographics and outcomes of endogenous bacterial endophthalmitis (EBE).Retrospective observational case series of 49 eyes of 41 patients with EBE evaluated at a single academic center.Gram stain (EBE in a North American population showed poor visual recovery despite treatment. It was most commonly due to gram-positive bacteria with the most common infectious source being endocarditis. Malignancy should be considered in patients with bilateral EBE.

To determine the incidence and timing of delayed retinal breaks and retinal detachments (RDs) after acute posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and associated risk factors.Retrospective case-control study.Acute PVD eyes treated between October 2015 and August 2018 at a single academic retina practice.Eyes with a PVD diagnosis and history of extended ophthalmoscopic examination on presentation were identified using diagnostic billing codes. The number of eyes with a history of laser retinopexy, cryotherapy for retinal tear, or RD repair was determined using procedural billing codes, and the duration between initial and treatment visits was measured. Records of eyes with a delayed retinal break or RD and of a reference group comprising the first 100 presenting eyes with no initial or delayed retinal break or RD were reviewed to determine and compare the presence of select risk factors on initial examination.Development of a delayed retinal break or RD.Of 7999 eyes with acute PVD, 1280 (16.0%) showed a retinal break and 499 (6.2%) showed an RD on presentation. Delayed retinal breaks and RDs were found in 209 (2.6%) and 80 (1.0%) eyes, respectively. Of delayed breaks, 116 (55.5%) were found in 6 weeks or less and 93 (44.5%) were found more than 6 weeks after presentation. Of delayed RDs, 26 (32.5%) were found in 6 weeks or less and 54 (67.5%) were found more than 6 weeks after presentation. Compared with the reference group, vitreous hemorrhage (hazard ratio, 2.53 [P0.001] and 2.80 [P = 0.001]) and male gender (hazard ratio, 1.36 [P = 0.03] and 1.87 [P = 0.02]) were risk factors for delayed retinal breaks and RDs, respectively. Pseudophakia (hazard ratio, 2.10; P = 0.004) was also a risk factor for delayed RD; older age (odds ratio, 0.96; P = 0.01) was slightly protective. Vitreous hemorrhage was a risk factor for earlier retinal breaks (≤6 weeks vs.6 weeks; odds ratio, 3.58; P0.001).Clinically significant rates of newly detected retinal breaks and RDs may occur after acute PVD, suggesting that repeat examination may be prudent in these patients.

To characterize temporal trends and regional variance in retinal imaging utilization in the United States Medicare fee-for-service population from 2012-2016.Cross-sectional, retrospective database analysis.This study addresses office or operating-room based retinal imaging. Our study population included retina specialists, defined as ophthalmologists performing either intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections or posterior segment laser photocoagulation and no neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser capsulotomy. We recorded fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), intravenous fluorescein angiography (IVFA), indocyanine-green angiography, and ophthalmic ultrasound (B-scan) billed in the Medicare fee-for-service population from 2012-2016. Imaging obtained on any platform or device was eligible for inclusion (eg, posterior pole imaging vs ultrawidefield imaging). The main outcome measure was the relative utilization of retinal imaging modalities.National relative utilization of OCT increased from 61.5% in 2012 to 70.5% in 2016 (P .001), while IVFA fell from 20.9% to 15.1% over the same interval (P.001). Fundus photography decreased from 14.6% in 2012 to 11.7% in 2016 (P .001). By 2016, the Midwest region had the highest relative utilization of OCT (75.2%) and lowest of IVFA (12.0%), while the West region had the lowest OCT (68.4%) and highest IVFA (17.0%).Among retina specialists, OCT usage increased while the utilization of fundus photography and IVFA has declined. The Midwest region had the highest utilization of OCT and lowest of IVFA.

To evaluate endophthalmitis rates after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and endothelial keratoplasty (EK) and to compare clinical outcomes.Retrospective cohort study.The medical and billing records of several large academic private practices in Philadelphia, PA were electronically queried for all surgical visits during which a PK or EK was performed between April 1, 2012 and August 31, 2018. Demographic information and transplant characteristics were recorded for each patient and office visit. An additional query was performed to identify all cases of endophthalmitis based on diagnosis and procedure billing codes. Charts of patients with endophthalmitis were individually reviewed, and information was collected on triggering factors, clinical evaluation at presentation, management, culture data, visual outcomes, and graft survival rates. The main outcome measure was incidence of presumed infectious endophthalmitis following PK or EK.During the study period, 1676 PKs and 2292 EKs for 3069 patients were performed. The mean age of patients in this transplant cohort was 66.4 (± 17.5) years and 54.6% of patients were women. Sixteen cases of endophthalmitis occurred during the study period; 12 cases of endophthalmitis occurred after PK and 4 cases occurred after EK. The rate of endophthalmitis after EK (4 of 2292; 0.2%) was significantly lower than that after PK (12 of 1676; 0.7%) (P = .01). In addition, the odds of developing endophthalmitis after PK or EK performed in conjunction with anterior vitrectomy were significantly higher than after either PK or EK alone (odds ratio 8.66; 95% confidence interval 2.98-25.18; P.001). Visual acuity outcomes were poorer after PK-related endophthalmitis than EK-associated cases (P = .01). The rate of graft failure at final follow-up was significantly higher in post-PK endophthalmitis (P = .02).In this large cohort of patients undergoing either PK or EK, rates of endophthalmitis were low for both procedures and significantly lower for EK compared with PK. Eyes with endophthalmitis after PK had poorer visual acuity outcomes and graft prognosis compared with those with endophthalmitis after EK.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: To determine the efficacy of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy for macular edema due to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) in younger adults. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The outcomes of CRVO patients age 40 years or younger with baseline logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) visual acuity (VA) between 1.30 (20/400 Snellen equivalent) and 0.30 (20/40 Snellen equivalent) and central retinal thickness (CRT) greater than 250 μm were reviewed. VA and CRT were measured at baseline and months 1, 3, 6, and 12. RESULTS: Seventeen eyes of 17 young CRVO patients were included in this study. The logMAR VA improved significantly from 0.64 (20/87 Snellen equivalent) to 0.14 (20/28 Snellen equivalent) 12 months following treatments ( P < .001). The CRT decreased from 619 μm ± 238 μm at baseline to 290 μm ± 34 μm at 12 months ( P < .001). CONCLUSION: Anti-VEGF injections appear to be effective for macular edema regression and vision improvement in younger adults with CRVO over 12 months of follow-up. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:e96–e104.]

Purpose: To determine the incidence of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and other ocular findings in previously diagnosed diabetes using telehealth retinal screening with nonmydriatic fundus phot...

Loss to follow-up (LTFU) after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injections increases the risk of vision loss among patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD).To report rates of LTFU among patients with nAMD after anti-VEGF injections and to identify risk factors associated with LTFU in this population.This retrospective cohort study of data from 9007 patients who received anti-VEGF injections for treatment of nAMD was performed at an urban, private retina practice with multiple locations from April 1, 2012, to January 12, 2016.Rates of LTFU after anti-VEGF injections. Loss to follow-up was defined as receipt of 1 or more injections with no subsequent follow-up visit within 12 months.Among the 9007 patients (mean [SD] age, 81.2 [8.8] years; 5917 [65.7%] female; 7905 [87.8%] white), 2003 (22.2%) were LTFU. Odds of LTFU were greater among patients 81 to 85 years of age (odds ratio [OR], 1.58; 95% CI, 1.38-1.82; P .001), 86 to 90 years of age (OR, 2.29; 95% CI, 2.00-2.62; P .001), and more than 90 years of age (OR, 3.31; 95% CI, 2.83-3.86; P .001) compared with patients 80 years of age and younger. Odds of LTFU among African American patients (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.00-2.16; P = .05), Asian patients (OR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.71-4.03; P .001), patients of other race (OR, 3.07; 95% CI, 1.38-6.82; P = .006), and patients of unreported race (OR, 2.29; 95% CI, 1.96-2.68; P .001) were greater than odds of LTFU among white patients. Odds of LTFU were greater among patients with regional adjusted gross income of $50 000 or less (OR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.30-1.79; P .001), $51 000 to $75 000 (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.17-1.56; P .001), and $76 000 to $100 000 (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.08-1.50; P = .004) compared with patients with incomes greater than $100 000. Odds of LTFU for patients living 21 to 30 miles (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.05-1.69; P = .02) and more than 30 miles (OR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.28-1.88; P .001) from clinic were greater compared with patients who lived 10 miles or less from the clinic. Odds of LTFU were greater among patients who received unilateral injections (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.28-1.61; P .001) than among patients who received bilateral injections.We found a high rate of LTFU after anti-VEGF injections among patients with nAMD and identified multiple risk factors associated with LTFU among this population. Although our results may not be generalizable, data on LTFU in a clinical practice setting are needed to understand the scope of the problem so that interventions may be designed to improve outcomes.

A full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) is a rare sequela to submacular hemorrhage. Herein, the authors report a case of an 80-year-old man actively being treated for neovascular age-related macular degeneration who presented with sudden vision loss in the right eye. Examination with optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging revealed submacular hemorrhage. The patient underwent vitrectomy with subretinal tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) with no intraoperative complications. Dilated fundus examination and OCT imaging revealed a FTMH at postop week 1. Possible causes for MH development include the submacular hemorrhage itself and subretinal administration of the tPA infusion. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina . 2019;50:e257–e259.]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the residual subfoveal fluid (SFF) immediately after rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair using intraoperative optical coherence tomography (iOCT). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective cohort study assessed fovea-involving RRD repaired by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) using different drainage techniques. iOCT images were acquired through the fovea at the start of the case prior to initiating vitrectomy and then again immediately prior to introduction of tamponade. RESULTS: Ten eyes (32.3%) received perfluoro-n-octane (PFO), 12 (38.7%) underwent a posterior drainage retinotomy, and nine (29.0%) had drainage through the retinal break. There was no significant difference in the mean SFF thickness between eyes in either group ( P = .85). There was no significant association between SFF thickness on iOCT and functional or anatomic outcomes ( P > .05). CONCLUSION: There is no difference in the amount of residual SFF as measured on iOCT during RRD repair with pars plana vitrectomy using either direct drainage, drainage retinotomy, or PFO. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina . 2019;50:497–503.]

To determine the rate of loss to follow-up (LTFU) and associated risk factors in patients with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) who had diabetic macular edema (DME) and were receiving intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections.Retrospective cohort study.A total of 2595 NPDR patients with DME who received at least one anti-VEGF injection at a single large retina practice from January 1, 2012, to January 1, 2017.A retrospective review based on billing codes was performed. LTFU was defined as no subsequent office visits within 12 months after an intravitreal injection. Patient demographics and clinical features were evaluated, and logistic regression was used to identify independent predictors for LTFU.LTFU rates and potential risk factors.LTFU was found in 413 (25.3%) of 1632 patients. Examining LTFU by racial groups, 21.3% identified themselves as white, 29.1% as black, 30.6% as Asian, and 35.0% as Hispanic (P0.001). A difference in LTFU was also found based on average adjusted gross income (AGI) (P0.001) and NPDR stage (P = 0.04). In the multivariate model, factors associated with LTFU included Hispanic (odds ratio [OR] 1.66), American Indian, Pacific Islander, multiple races (OR 2.60), and unknown race (OR 1.59) compared with those who were white. Additional factors included those with an average AGI of $50000 to $75000 (OR 1.37) and$50000 (OR 1.88) compared with those with an average AGI$75000. Based on subgroup analysis of patients with available visual acuity data, a significant association was found between decreasing baseline vision and LTFU (P0.001).Approximately 1 in 4 patients with NPDR who had DME had no follow-up visit for at least 1 year after an anti-VEGF injection. Given the importance of ongoing therapy, these real-world findings may help identify at-risk groups for noncompliance with care.