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Objectives: To explore the feasibility and safety of using a foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) in managing severe ocular trauma and silicone oil-dependent eyes., Methodology: This is a retrospective study of 61 ocular trauma patients (61 eyes) who presented to the Department of Eye Emergency, Hebei Eye Hospital from May 1, 2018, to May 31, 2019, including 51 male patients (51 eyes) and 10 female patients (10 eyes) with an average age of 44.98 ± 14.60 years old. The oldest patient was 75 years old, and the youngest was 8 years old. These cases represented 51 eyes with severe eyeball rupture and 10 eyes with severe, complicated ocular trauma, which became silicone oil-dependent after the operation. These patients received FCVB implants, and data regarding their visual acuity, intraocular pressure, changes in eye axis, cornea, retina, and FCVB state were recorded after the operation., Results: In all patients, the FCVB was properly positioned and well supported with the retina. All 61 patients cleared a follow-up window of 1-36 months with no reports of important changes in their visual acuity. Among the patients, 91.8% reported normal intraocular pressure, the retinal reattachment rate reached 100%, and the eyeball atrophy control rate reached 100%. There was no report of rupture of the FCVB, allergies to silicone, intraocular infection, intraocular hemorrhage, silicone oil emulsification, or sympathetic ophthalmia., Conclusions: Foldable capsular vitreous bodies (FCVBs) designed to mimic natural vitreous bodies are suitable as long-term ocular implants that can provide sustained support for the retina without the need for any special postoperative postures. Their barrier function may effectively prolong the retention time of the tamponade and prevent various complications caused by direct contact of the eye tissues with the tamponade., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To describe a surgical technique using the structural advantages of beveled tip cutters., Methods: The introduction of beveled tips has been one of the few modifications that have been performed to vitrectomy probes since first described by Machemer in 1972. Shovel and cut technique uses this incredible modification to access tighter planes and remove broad diabetic membranes., Description of Technique: The shovel and cut technique can be used with any gauge probe to which the bevel tip is applied. The beveled tip of the cutter is used in a shovel manner to create a tissue plane between the diabetic plaque and the retina. As the beveled tip of the cutter moves parallel to the underlying retina, scar tissue naturally feeds into the cutting port where it is cut and aspirated with low flow rates., Conclusion: Shovel and cut technique takes advantage of beveled tip technological innovation to allow easy access and tissue dissection of the most difficult plaques in diabetic membranes. This technique allows us to remove these plaques in a safer, more controlled manner than previous described techniques.

Background: This study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the implantation of foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) in severe retinal detachment eyes., Methods: A retrospective study in retinal detachment eyes was performed at Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University. A standard three-port pars plana vitrectomy was performed, and the FCVB was triple folded and implanted into the vitreous cavity. The silicone oil (SO) was then injected into the capsule of the FCVB to support the retina and eye. During the follow-up period, The treated eyes were examined by ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, and tonometry. B-scan ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and computed tomography (CT), were also performed., Results: From May 2020 to November 2021, 31 cases with severe retinal detachment were enrolled in the study. The postoperative follow-up time gradient ranged from 1 to 72 weeks, At various observation time points during the 72 weeks after surgery, The postoperative IOP was maintained at around 10 mmhg at various time points, with a slight decrease compared to the preoperative IOP (14.2 ± 4.6 mmHg n = 18), and was statistically significant. 9 of 31 patients had clear refractive media, both fundus and OCT showed retinal reattachment, OCT showed the 200 μm thick FCVB capsule support retina. The remaining 22 patients with unclear refractive media, B-scan showed arcuate hyperechoes in front of the retina. There was also no significant difference in visual acuity compared to preoperative. The FCVB was well positioned in the vitreous cavity, and no serious complications such as endophthalmitis, glaucoma, silicone oil emulsification, product exposure, or sympathetic uveitis were found., Conclusions: FCVB has retinal support with certain ability to maintain IOP and eye morphology and avoid eye removal in patients with severe retinal detachment during the 72-week observation period., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Purpose: To explore the effectiveness, safety and psychological impact of foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) implantation for complicated retinal detachment caused by severe ocular trauma., Methods: This was a prospective, single-arm, surgical interventional case series study. A standard 3-port 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy was performed, and the FCVB was implanted into the vitreous cavity. Observed indicators, including the best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure (IOP), retinal reattachment, complications, and patient satisfaction, were analyzed to evaluate the study., Results: A total of 28 cases (eyes) were enrolled, with a mean follow-up of 16.93 ± 9.67 months and an average age of 51.11 ± 10.14 years, including 22 men (78.57%). The FCVB was successfully implanted, and the retina was reattached in all cases. The postoperative best-corrected visual acuity improved in 7 cases, and remained unchanged in 21 cases ( P > 0.05). The average IOP was 7.01 ± 2.43 mmHg before surgery and 8.54 ± 2.93 mmHg after surgery ( P < 0.05). Complications such as FCVB displacement, endophthalmitis, secondary glaucoma, silicone oil emulsification, and escape did not occur during the follow-up period. Patients with FCVB implantation are highly satisfied. Most patients feel hope, positive, and optimistic about life., Conclusion: Foldable capsular vitreous body implantation for complicated retinal detachment caused by severe ocular trauma is effective and safe, and it allows patients to face life positively and optimistically., (Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. on behalf of the Opthalmic Communications Society, Inc.)

Polymer-based hydrogels used in the vitreous cavity could lead to an unsatisfactory gel-forming state, uncontrollable swelling, and potential cytotoxicity. Their application can significantly impair the filling effect and cause severe side effects in the surrounding tissues. To address the concerns, a poly(ethylene glycol)-engineered hydrogel capable of fast in situ gel formation (less than 1 min), with an ultralow swelling ratio and no cytotoxicity in the rabbits' eyes, was constructed as a vitreous substitute. The multi-arm polyethylene glycols (PEGs) modified with functional groups (thiol and maleimide) possess high reaction efficiency in the vitreous cavity and present excellent biomimetic characteristics of the natural vitreous humor in vitro . After injection with a double syringe via a 25-gauge needle in the eyes of rabbits for 6 months, the hydrogel functioned as an artificial vitreous body that could highly promote retinal detachment repair, with excellent biocompatibility and high transparency, and without bio-degradation or ocular complications. Collectively, the fast in situ forming hydrogel could achieve quick and good filling in the vitreous cavity without cytotoxicity, which makes it a promising long-term endotamponade substitute.

It is known that social factors affect the choice of treatments, and special attention has been paid to sex differences. The purpose of this study was to determine whether regional and sex differences exist in the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD). We used Japan-RD Registry database of 2523 patients aged ≥ 40 years between February 2016 and March 2017 in 5 Japanese regions. Regional differences of patients' perioperative factors were analyzed. The factors affecting the proportion of patients who underwent surgery within one week of the onset, defined as early-surgery, were examined by logistic regression. We observed regional differences in perioperative factors, especially in the use of phacovitrectomy, general anesthesia, and air-tamponade, which was higher in certain regions. (Fisher's exact test, all P = 0.012) The proportion of early-surgery was significantly higher among men in Kyushu region (Odds ratio (OR) 1.83; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-3.12; P = 0.02), and it was also significantly higher after adjusting for covariates (OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.06-3.42; P = 0.02). Regional and sex differences exist in the treatment of RD in Japan. Although there was no significant differences in the anatomical outcomes, women in certain regions of Japan are less likely to receive early surgical intervention for RD., (© 2021. The Author(s).)

Background/purpose: To evaluate the prevalence and extent of vitreous cortex remnants (VCR) on the surface of the retina in eyes with primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and posterior vitreous detachment., Methods: Triamcinolone acetonide was injected in the vitreous cavity of 100 consecutive cases of acute primary RRD undergoing pars plana vitrectomy. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to determine any association between the presence and pattern of stained VCR on the surface of the retina and the following variables: age, diabetes, axial length, phakic status, extent of RRD, and macular status., Results: Vitreous cortex remnants were found in 42 eyes. These were focal in eight eyes and diffuse in 34 eyes. Age was the only strong and independent risk factor associated with the presence of VCR (P = 0.0019). Age (P < 0.0001), axial length (P = 0.0037), and phakia (P = 0.01) were independent risk factors associated with the diffuse pattern. Neither diabetes, extent of RRD, nor macular status were significant risk factors for the presence or extent of VCR., Conclusion: Older patients with primary RRD and posterior vitreous detachment seem to be at a higher risk of having diffuse VCR. Further studies are needed to investigate the relevance of VCR in the pathogenesis, progression and treatment of RD.

Currently, there are no clear recommendations about the safety of certain temperature conditions for intraocular structures during vitreoretinal surgery; instructions on the safe rate of rewarming of the vitreous cavity; and the advisability of monitoring ocular temperature in the postoperative period. The purpose was to study the dynamics of epibulbar and intraocular temperature during vitreoretinal surgery. This study included 20 patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (10 eyes) and retinal detachment associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (10 eyes). All patients underwent vitreoretinal surgery. In all cases, the ambient temperature, the patient's body temperature, the temperature of the irrigating solution, and temperature in the anterior, mid-, and posterior vitreous were recorded during surgery. Pre- and postoperative thermometry was also performed on the outer ocular surface. During vitreoretinal surgery with room temperature irrigation solution, a decrease in temperature ( p  < 0.001) versus the initial one was found in all segments of the vitreous cavity. In the absence of continuous irrigation, a rapid rewarming of the vitreous cavity was noted (an average of 0.18°C/min). Our study also demonstrated the presence of regional hyperthermia of the operated eye in a number of patients (25%) in the postoperative period. Current research shows that vitreoretinal surgery is performed under conditions of uncontrolled local ocular hypothermia and is characterized by a rapid uncontrolled rewarming of the vitreous cavity after cessation of cooling, and in the postoperative period local hyperthermia of the operated eye is observed in a number of patients.

Background: Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is one of the most important complications following vitreoretinal surgery. So far, surgical strategies have been the gold standard in treatment. Pharmacological approaches for prevention and treatment of PVR are under clinical investigation and intervene in different phases of the PVR cascade., Methods: The relevant literature as well as own data and experience with PVR are discussed in this review article. The most important aspects of pharmacological approaches for PVR prophylaxis and treatment are explained., Results: A prophylactic use of systemic prednisone administration as an anti-inflammatory substance showed contradictory results, while there was no additional benefit for intravitreal triamcinolone. Orally administered isotretinoin also seems to be able to minimize the formation of PVR after retinal reattachment surgery, whereas there was no improvement in the success rate in established PVR. Cell proliferation inhibitors have already been extensively studied. The combined intravitreal prophylactic approach of 5‑fluorouracil and low molecular weight heparin was recently further investigated in a multicenter, placebo-controlled study and showed a positive effect in some studies. New preclinical and experimental approaches include the inhibition of growth factors, modulation of integrin activity and the induction of apoptosis., Conclusion: Most clinical studies dealt with an anti-inflammatory or antiproliferative approach. So far, no pharmacological substance has been established for the treatment of PVR but there are promising approaches for prophylaxis.

Purpose: To evaluate the different mechanisms of retinal detachment recurrence after retinectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) complicated by proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) and to study its outcome and prognosis., Methods: Retrospective, multicenter study conducted between January 2009 and November 2016. Retrospective review of 56 patients with recurrent RD (RRD) after a first relaxing retinectomy., Results: The secondary retinal attachment rate was 58.9% (33/56 cases). The various mechanisms of RRD were mainly related to PVR (52/56 cases: 93%). This PVR was anterior in 10 cases (21%), posterior in 31 cases (60%), and combined anterior and posterior in 11 cases (21%). The RRD mechanism was not PVR in 4 of the 56 cases. Some of the RRD mechanisms were specific to retinectomy: fibrosis of the edge of the retinectomy (26 cases: 46.4%), beyond-the-edge proliferation (8 cases: 14.3%), and severe inferior retinal folding (2 cases: 3.6%). In the 2 cases of severe inferior retinal folding, the retina could not be reattached. The anatomical outcome and the mechanism of RRD (anterior PVR, posterior PVR, or combined anterior and posterior PVR) were not correlated (P = 0.12). Visual acuity was significantly better only in patients with complete secondary success, that is, having an attached retina after silicone oil removal: mean preoperative visual acuity was 2.01 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution versus 1.01 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution postoperatively (P = 0.019)., Conclusion: Proliferative vitreoretinopathy caused most of the recurrences, and the anatomical outcome did not depend on the type of PVR involved. Only complete secondary success (attached retina after silicone oil removal) was accompanied by visual acuity improvement.

Background/objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of pars plana vitrectomy for symptomatic floaters., Subjects/methods: Forty-eight vitreoretinal surgeons from 16 countries provided information on 581 eyes who underwent vitrectomy for floaters in this retrospective survey study conducted by European VitreoRetinal Society. Percentage symptomatic improvement, incidence of retinal tears/detachment and post-vitrectomy cataract surgery, and the factors associated with satisfaction and complications were investigated., Results: Ninety-two percent were satisfied with the results, with 86.3% reporting complete resolution of daily-life symptoms. Overall satisfaction was lower in patients with smaller vitreous opacities at presentation (OR:0.4). Iatrogenic retinal breaks occurred in 29 eyes (5%). Core vitrectomy and cut rates of 1500-4000 or >4000 cuts/min were associated with lower risk of retinal breaks than complete vitrectomy (OR:0.05) and cut rates < 1500 cuts/min (OR: 0.03, 0.12, respectively). Fourteen eyes (2.4%) developed retinal detachment at a median of 3 months; and 84 (48.6%) developed cataract at a median of 16 months post-vitrectomy., Conclusions: Pars plana vitrectomy resulted in high patient satisfaction with relatively low rate of severe complications in a large group of patients. The procedure may be safer when core vitrectomy and cut rates > 1500 cuts/min are favoured. Proper patient selection and informed consent are the most important aspects of surgery.

Background: Modern laser surgery uses Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis for symptomatic vitreous floaters (VF). We report a case of acute retinal detachment seven days after Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy combined with Nd:YAG laser vitreolysis and analyze the cause of this complication., Case Presentation: A 58-year-old myopic woman complained of decreased visual acuity and symptomatic floaters with her left eye for 3 months. We found she had significant PCO and VF in the posterior vitreous. She underwent neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum (Nd:YAG) laser vitreolysis immediately after Nd:YAG capsulotomy. After 7 days, she complained of rapid vision decline and dark shadows in her treated eye. We found she had a acute severe rhegmentogenous retinal detachment (RD) involving the macula. Then she underwent vitrectomy, retinal reattchment and silicone oil tamponade surgery immediately. Six months later, silicone oil was removed and the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of her left eye gradually improved to 10/20 and maintained during a 1-year follow-up period., Conclusion: As myopic patients are at risk of developing retinal detachment, Nd:YAG vitreolysis and capsulotomy should be performed with caution. The laser energy should be as low as possible and careful focus is necessary to reduce interference to the retina.

Purpose: To evaluate outcomes of small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) without scleral-depressed shaving of the vitreous base., Methods: Retrospective, consecutive case series. Surgical technique included small-gauge PPV (25G, 23G, 25G+ or 27G) and wide-angle vitrectomy viewing system in all cases. No cases were excluded based on the level of complexity of RD. Outcome measures were retinal reattachment rates and Snellen visual acuity (best-corrected visual activity [BCVA])., Results: 312 eyes of 301 patients, mean age 60.8 years, and mean follow-up 23.1 months. Baseline characteristics included macula-off RD in 207 (66%) eyes, psudophakia in 124 (40%) eyes, high myopia in 74 (24%) eyes and giant retinal tear in 14 (5%) eyes. The retina was reattached with one procedure in 296 (95%) eyes. Final retinal reattachment was achieved in 310 (99%) eyes. The BCVA at baseline was >20/40 in 76 (24%) eyes, 20/50-20/100 in 48 (15%) eyes, 20/200-20/400 in 46 (15%) eyes and <20/400 in 142 (46%) eyes. At the last follow-up, the BCVA was >20/40 in 168 (54%) eyes, 20/50-20/100 in 60 (19%) eyes, 20/200-20/400 in 49 (16%) eyes and <20/400 in 35 (11%) eyes. The mean change in logMAR equivalent was -0.12 for the macula-on group and -1.13 for the macula-off group (p<0.0001)., Conclusion: Small-gauge PPV without scleral-depressed vitreous base shaving can be associated with good anatomical and visual outcomes. Case selection based on the complexity of RD may not be required when considering small-gauge PPV., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2019. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

Internal-tamponade agents are crucial surgical adjuncts in vitreoretinal surgery. Clinically used endotamponade agents act through buoyancy forces, yet can result in prolonged post-operative positioning, temporary loss of vision, raised intra-ocular pressure, cataract formation or the need for additional removal surgery. Here, we describe a thermogelling polymer that provides an internal tamponade effect through surface tension and swelling counter-forces. We tested the long-term biocompatibility of the polymer endotamponade in rabbit vitrectomy models, and its surgical efficacy and biocompatibility in a non-human primate retinal-detachment model. We also show that, while the thermogel biodegrades during the three months following surgery, it promotes the reformation of a vitreous-like body that mimics the biophysical properties of the natural vitreous. The thermogelling endotamponade might serve as a long-term vitreous substitute.

Background and Objective: To describe a two-forceps bimanual approach for complex diabetic detachments., Patients and Methods: Curved scissors were used to create a zone of decreased resistance within a thick fibrovascular membrane in a previously vitrectomized patient. Using two forceps, the linear defect was propagated into the periphery in a direction tangential to the retina. The tissue was repeatedly regrasped at the leading edge of the propagating tear, allowing for progressive separation of the hyaloid from the retinal surface., Results: Separation of the diabetic membrane and hyaloid from the retinal surface in a previously vitrectomized patient., Conclusion: The authors describe a two-forceps approach for dense fibrovascular proliferation in the setting of persistently attached cortical vitreous that may be employed in cases of severe diabetic retinopathy with traction and fibrovascular membranes, even after previous vitrectomy. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2019;50:e176-e178.]., (Copyright 2019, SLACK Incorporated.)

Purpose: To assess the incidence of iatrogenic retinal breaks (IRBs) and postoperative retinal detachments (RDs) in microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) compared with 20-gauge (20 G) vitrectomy., Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed to find relevant studies and a meta-analysis of the IRBs and postoperative RDs rates after 20 G vitrectomy versus MIVS was conducted., Results: Thirty-two studies were selected, including 14,373 eyes (6932 eyes in the 20 G group, 7441 eyes in the MIVS group). The meta-analysis demonstrated that the incidence of IRBs was significantly higher in 20 G vitrectomy vs. MIVS (OR = 2.22, 95% CI, 1.93-2.57, P < 0.00001) and in a subanalysis vs. 23 G MIVS (OR = 2.19, 95% CI, 1.87-2.56, P < 0.00001) and vs. 25 G MIVS (OR = 2.27, 95% CI, 1.62-3.18, P < 0.00001). Similar result was obtained in a subanalysis for macular surgery (OR = 2.44, 95% CI, 1.99-2.99, P < 0.00001), and also for sclerotomy-related IRBs (OR = 3.73, 95% CI, 2.55-5.44, P < 0.00001), but not for surgically induced posterior vitreous detachment-related IRBs (OR = 1.59, 95% CI, 0.89-2.84, P = 0.12). The incidence of postoperative RDs in 20 G vitrectomy was significantly higher compared to MIVS (OR = 1.72, 95% CI, 1.21-2.46, P = 0.003) and in a subanalysis vs. 23 G MIVS (OR = 2.45, 95% CI, 1.50-4.00, P = 0.0003), but not for 25 G MIVS (OR = 1.01, 95% CI, 0.63-1.64, P = 0.96). Similar result was obtained in a subanalysis for macular surgery (OR = 1.89, 95% CI, 1.26-2.85, P = 0.002)., Conclusion: This meta-analysis demonstrated that MIVS is associated with a lower risk of IRBs and postoperative RDs compared to 20 G vitrectomy.

Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest

Purpose: To describe the all-probe lift and shave technique to remove fibrovascular tissue and repair diabetic retinal detachments. Anatomical and visual acuity outcomes with this technique are presented., Methods: In this single surgeon, retrospective review of a consecutive series of eyes with tractional retinal detachment associated with diabetic retinopathy repaired with probe-only dissection techniques. The technique of alternating aspiration with blunt dissection and shaving with the vitrectomy probe is described and shown in video., Results: Forty-two eyes with tractional retinal detachment were successfully repaired and achieved anatomical attachment with the lift and shave technique. Twenty eyes were repaired with 27 g vitrectomy and 22 eyes with 25 g. Ninety percent of eyes improved two or more Snellen lines. Minimum follow-up was 6 months. Complications included iatrogenic breaks in one eye (5%), nonclearing vitreous hemorrhage in four eyes (9%), and reoperation in three eyes (7%) for epiretinal membranes., Conclusion: The all-probe lift and shave technique of fibrovascular dissection is a streamlined approach for the management of tractional retinal detachments. Advantages include the need for minimal ancillary instrumentation, increased efficiency, and reduced complications.

Purpose: To investigate the frequency of residual cortex and the effectiveness of removal of residual cortex in the fovea during vitrectomy for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the charts and the operative videos of the 80 patients (80 eyes) who underwent vitrectomy for repair and who were observed for more than 6 months. After triamcinolone acetonide injection, we observed residual cortex on the surface of the retina. Residual cortex was removed with a diamond-dusted scraper. After surgery, we watched for the occurrence of epiretinal membrane (ERM) for at least 6 months. We graded ERM according to the postoperative visual acuity (thin membranes that did not affect vision vs. thick membranes that reduced vision)., Results: Of the 80 eyes, 60 eyes (75%) showed macular residual cortex, which we removed with a scraper, and 20 eyes (25%) did not have visible cortical remnants. Postoperative ERM occurred in 30% of eyes (24/80). The rate of postoperative ERM was 35% (21/60) in eyes with residual cortex and 15% (3/20) in eyes without residual cortex (P = 0.091). In the 60 eyes with residual cortex during vitrectomy, a thin membrane occurred in 18 eyes (30%) and a thick membrane occurred in 3 eyes (5%). In the 20 eyes without residual cortex, however, a thin membrane occurred in 3 eyes (15%) and no thick membrane was found., Conclusion: Eyes with residual cortex have a higher rate of ERM than eyes with no residual cortex after vitrectomy for primary repair. It is uncertain whether removing the cortex reduces the rate of postoperative ERM. The residual cortex may have already started the pathogenesis of ERM, or surgical trauma may have played a role.

Purpose: Retinal detachment (RD) separates the retina from the underlying retinal pigment epithelium, resulting in a gradual degeneration of photoreceptor (PR) cells. It is known that RD also results in an inflammatory response, but its contribution to PR degeneration is unknown. In this study we examine the inflammatory responses to RD in patient vitreous and validate a mouse experimental RD as a model of this phenomenon., Methods: Multiplex bead arrays were used to examine cytokine levels in vitreous samples from 24 patients with macula-off rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) undergoing reattachment surgery and from 10 control patients undergoing vitrectomy for vitreous opacities or epiretinal membrane. Activation of the innate immune response was then examined in a mouse model of RD., Results: Twenty-eight factors were significantly increased in vitreous from RD patients versus controls. Notable were the cytokines MCP-1 (CCL2), IP-10 (CXCL10), fractalkine (CX3CL1), GRO (CXCL1), MDC (CCL22), IL-6, and IL-8, which all exhibited relatively high concentrations and several-fold increases in the vitreous of RD patients. Concentrations of various analytes correlated with a range of clinical variables such as duration of detachment and visual acuity. Retinal detachment in the mouse resulted in cytokine mRNA expression changes consistent with human RD vitreous results, as well as microglial proliferation and migration toward the outer retina., Conclusions: The findings suggest that an inflammatory response involving microglia is a component of the reaction to retinal detachment that may impact visual acuity after surgical repair and that mouse experimental RD can serve as a model to study this effect.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and the restoration of the anatomic conditions (retinal reattachment) in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treated by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) using air as endotamponade., Methods: Twelve patients (12 eyes) with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment were included in the study. These were eyes with retinal detachment both with and without macular involvement. During the PPV surgery, the peripheral and central part of the vitreous body was excised to eliminate the formation of vitreoretinal traction after surgery, laser therapy was performed peripherally and in retinal openings, and the eyeball was filled with filtered air. Local conditions were evaluated at 1, 7, 14, 30, 90, and 180 days after the procedure., Results: The result of the patients' examination on the 30 day after surgery showed that 100% of cases achieved retinal reattachment and improved vision (best corrected visual acuity). In the long-term assessment, the final visual acuity was better in 11 patients (91.7%) compared to the initial results. On average, 7 days after the surgery, air in the eyeball occupied about one-fifth of the vitreous chamber and was completely absorbed about 10 to 14 days after surgery., Conclusions: In the above-mentioned study, very good results of treatment of open-rooted retinal detachment were achieved. The air was quickly absorbed and visual acuity improved. Owing to the relatively fast absorption time, this method could be used successfully in high altitude patients and people often travelling by airplane.

Purpose: This study aims to quantify the concentration of apolipoprotein A1 (APOA1) and retinol binding protein (RBP4) expressed in the vitreous humors of patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment (RRDCD), rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), and idiopathic epimacular membrane (IEM). This study also aims to investigate the potential role of APOA1 and RBP4 as biomarkers of RRDCD., Methods: Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits were used to obtain levels of APOA1 and RBP4 from the vitreous humor samples of 76 primary patients. These patients included 23 patients with RRDCD, 28 patients with RRD, and 24 patients with IEM. All patients were undergoing planned pars plana vitrectomy. The differences between the concentrations of the molecular biomarkers among different patient groups were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U-test for nonparametric values and independent samples t- test or one-way ANOVA analysis for parametric data. The relationship between the molecular biomarkers, grades of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), and quadrants of retinal detachment were analyzed using nonparametric Spearman's rank correlation analysis., Results: The vitreous concentrations of APOA1 and RBP4 were statistically significantly higher in the RRDCD group compared to the RRD and IEM groups. Patients with severe PVR demonstrated a higher concentration of APOA1 and RBP4 compared to those with mild PVR, but this finding was not statistically significant. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between APOA1 and RBP4 in the RRDCD and RRD groups. Nonparametric Spearman's rank correlation analysis revealed that levels of APOA1 and RBP4 increased statistically significantly with an increasing number of detached retinal quadrants in the RRDCD and RRD groups., Conclusions: The findings of this study allude to the potential of APOA1 and RBP4 as specific biomarkers of RRDCD. The findings of this study may contribute to increased understanding regarding the role of APOA1 and RBP4 in RRDCD.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of maximal pneumatic retinopexy (PR) and subretinal fluid (SRF) drainage combined with scleral buckling (SB) in the treatment of complicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). Methods Patients with RRD who underwent maximal PR and SRF drainage combined with SB from June 2007 to June 2012 were included in this multicenter retrospective study. The outcome measures were the primary and final operation success rates and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Results In total, 159 consecutive patients were included. The mean follow-up period was 13.76 ± 1.97 months. Primary operation success was achieved in 146/159 (91.82%) eyes. After salvage management, the final reattachment rate increased to 98.11%. All eyes had improved BCVA, with 62/159 (38.99%) attaining BCVA of ≥20/40. Conclusions Maximal PR and SRF drainage combined with SB achieved satisfactory anatomical and visual recovery in relatively complicated cases of RRD. The decreased need for vitrectomy makes this surgical approach more widely available.

Purpose: Our purpose was to determine the effect of fluid-air exchange on the amount of silicone oil (SO) droplets remaining in the vitreous cavity after removal of the main body of the SO., Methods: This was a retrospective comparative study of 56 eyes of 56 patients that had undergone vitrectomy with SO tamponade. Fluid-air exchange was performed during surgery in 30 eyes [Air Ex(+) group] and was not done in 26 eyes [Air Ex(-) group]. All of the eyes were examined by ultrasonography, and the images were converted to binarized image. The amount of residual SO droplets/vitreal area in the images was expressed as the, "silicone oil index (SOI)". The correlations between SOI and clinical findings were determined., Results: The SOI was significantly correlated with the axial length (AL, R = 0.444, P = 0.023). The SOI in the Air Ex(+) group was significantly higher (7.4 ± 2.6%) than in the Air Ex(-) group (4.9 ± 3.4%; P = 0.004). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that the SOI was independently and significantly correlated with the AL and the Air Ex(+) group (P = 0.003, P = 0.006, respectively)., Conclusions: Fluid-air exchange during vitrectomy to remove residual SO is not effective. Our findings indicate that it may increase the amount of residual SO droplets.

The efficacy of two novel artificial vitreous body substitutes (VBS) consisting of highly biocompatible thiolated cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA)-based hydrogels in comparison to silicone oil in a model of retinal detachment was investigated. Pars plana vitrectomy (23G) was performed in the right eye of 24 pigmented rabbits. Retinal detachment of two quadrants was induced by creating a small retinotomy near the vascular arcade and injecting balanced salt solution (BSS) subretinally. The retina was reattached by injecting air, which was followed by increasing the infusion pressure, and the retinal tear was treated by endolaser photocoagulation. At the end of the procedure, the eye was filled either with 5000-cs silicone oil (after fluid air exchange) or the respective hydrogel (with two different viscosities). Follow-up examination included slit lamp examination, funduscopy, intraocular pressure measurements (IOP), optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electroretinogram (ERG) measurements. After a maximum follow-up of four weeks both eyes were removed, examined macroscopically, photographed, and prepared for histology. Of the eight rabbits that received silicone oil, seven (87.5%) developed a recurrent retinal detachment with pronounced proliferative vitreoretinopathy within the first two weeks after surgery. In contrast, in the hydrogel treated eyes, the retina stayed attached in the majority of the cases (73.3%). IOP and retinal morphology were normal as long as the retina remained re-attached. In conclusions, this model of retinal detachment, both thiolated crosslinked hyaluronate hydrogels showed superior efficacy when compared to silicone oil. These hydrogels have a promising potential as novel vitreous body substitutes.

Purpose. We had earlier reported positive hsa-miR-148a-3p expression in eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) and its involvement in the epithelial-mesenchymal transition of retinal pigment epithelium in vitro. Here we investigated the association of hsa-miR-148a-3p expression levels in the vitreous fluid of patients with RRD with severity of RRD. Methods. The hsa-miR-148a-3p expression levels in the vitreous fluid, range (degree) of retinal detachment (RD), and pixels of retinal break were measured in 27 eyes with RRD. The association of hsa-miR-148a-3p expression levels with other factors was evaluated by multiple regression analysis. Results. The hsa-miR-148a-3p expression levels, time from onset of RRD to vitrectomy, range of RD, and pixels of retinal breaks were 23.68 ± 43.00, 12.07 ± 15.36 days, 155.85 ± 86.67 degrees, and 37000 ± 67100 pixels, respectively. Five eyes with RRD had vitreous hemorrhage preoperatively. The hsa-miR-148a-3p expression levels were significantly associated with pixels of retinal breaks ( β = 0.699) and the time from onset of RRD to vitrectomy ( β = 0.358) but not with the range of RD or presence of vitreous hemorrhage. Conclusion. The hsa-miR-148a-3p expression levels in the vitreous fluid were significantly associated with the size of retinal break and disease duration., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

Proliferative vitreoretinal retinopathy (PVR) is a very severe complication of vitreoretinal surgery. PVR is characterised by a complex cellular reaction. This corresponds to a vitreoretinal wound healing reaction and leads to tractional retinal detachment fixed by membranes. A rational goal of treatment is the removal of active cells and membranes, particularly the whole vitreous body; this can only be achieved surgically., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Hereditary vitreous degeneration muddy is rare in clinic. Here we report ten cases (thirteen eyes) of hereditary vitreous degeneration muddy from two families. All patients presented with vitreous opacity, and the textures appeared tough and tensile. Two cases had concurrent detachment of rhegmatogenous retina. HE staining showed red changeableness, and methyl violet staining appeared purple. All patients received vitrectomy with traditional Chinese medicine treatment, and got satisfactory efficacy.

Purpose: Microparticles (MPs) are membrane-derived vesicles measuring less than 1 μm in diameter. They are shed from nearly every activated or preapoptotic cell and may exhibit biologic activities in inflammation or apoptosis settings. The main purpose of this study was to determine whether MP shedding was higher in the vitreous of patients with retinal detachment (RD)., Methods: This was a prospective, comparative study. Levels of vitreous MPs (including phosphatidylserine [PS]-expressing MPs, photoreceptor cell-derived MPs, and photoreceptor cell-derived MPs expressing PS) and soluble proinflammatory factors (i.e., monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and IL-6) were analyzed by flow cytometry. Samples were obtained from 49 eyes undergoing RD surgery and 41 control eyes., Results: Vitreous levels of all the MPs studied were significantly increased in the RD group. Vitreous MP levels were correlated with levels of at least one proinflammatory factor depending on MP subsets. Concerning clinical parameters, vitreous PS-expressing MP and PS-expressing photoreceptor cell-derived MP levels were higher depending on the duration of RD at surgery, the detached retina surface, and the macula status and were found more sensitive than proinflammatory factors only for the duration of RD at surgery., Conclusions: Vitreous concentrations of MPs (mainly derived from photoreceptor cells) are higher after rhegmatogenous RD and found to be correlated with soluble proinflammatory factors.

Aim: To study outcomes after using perfluoro-n-octane (PFO) as a short-term postoperative vitreous substitute in eyes undergoing primary vitrectomy with or without sclera buckling for complex rhegmatogenous retinal detachments with inferior/multiple breaks or giant retinal tears (GRTs) or retinal detachment with extensive proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR)., Methods: A prospective study was carried out where in 43 patients (Group 1) PFO was exchanged with silicon oil in the same surgical procedure and in 22 patients (Group 2) PFO was kept for 3 days and then exchanged with silicon oil by a separate surgical procedure. The respective surgeon took the decision whether to exchange PFO on the same day or after 3 days. The patients were followed up for 6 months to analyze the anatomical attachment rates, visual acuity gain, and postoperative complications in both the groups., Results: There were 33 male and 10 female patients in group 1 and 18 male and 4 female patients in group 2. Mean age distribution in group 1 was 38.88 years (SD ± 21.45) and in group 2 was 38.09 years (SD ± 16.36). Mean preoperative best corrected visual acuity in group 1 was 2.02 ± 0.58 and in group 2 was 2.01 ± 0.53 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR). The LogMAR Visual acuity in group 1 improved to 1.76 ± 0.43 after 1 month (P = 0.01, paired t test) and to 1.62 ± 0.62 after 6 months (P = 0.01, paired T test). This visual acuity in group 2 improved to 1.85 ± 0.42 after 1 month (P = 0.24, paired T test) and 1.90 ± 0.72 after 6 months (P = 0.49, paired T test). There was no difference regarding visual improvement in between two groups after 1 month and 6 months of follow-up (P = 0.125, independent sample T test). The retina was detached in 6 patients (14%) in group 1 and in 7 patients (31%) in group 2 after 6 months of follow-up. There was no statistically significant difference in between two groups regarding final attachment of retina (P = 0.109, Fisher exact test). There was also no significant complication. like increased posterior capsular opacification or glaucoma found after retaining PFO for 3 days. Conclusion: Perfluoro-n-octane is efficacious and safe as a short-term vitreous substitute in primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair cases with inferior/multiple breaks or GRTs or with extensive PVR. But keeping perfluoro-n-octane for 3 days does not significantly reduce the risk of re-detachment with complex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment cases.

Importance: Aggressive posterior retinopathy of prematurity (AP-ROP) rapidly progresses to retinal detachment despite application of photocoagulation. Early vitreous surgery might achieve prompt regression of neovascular activity and a high incidence of retinal reattachment., Objective: To evaluate visual outcomes in eyes with AP-ROP after early vitreous surgery., Design: Retrospective nonrandomized study of patients who underwent early vitreous surgery with lensectomy when retinal detachment developed despite photocoagulation. Aphakic correction with spectacles or contact lenses and the use of orthoptics were continued postoperatively. The best-corrected visual acuity (VA) was measured in eyes with a total retinal reattachment using the preferential looking technique in patients ranging in age from 8 months to no more than 3 years and a VA chart with Landolt rings or pictures for older children. The VA findings were converted to Snellen lines., Setting: Institutional ophthalmology practice., Participants: Of the 103 eyes (57 patients) that underwent early vitreous surgery for AP-ROP, the VA was measured in 58 (32 patients) at a corrected age ranging from 8 months to 4 years., Interventions: Early vitreous surgery and VA measurement using the preferential looking technique and a VA chart., Main Outcomes and Measures: Postoperative VA, ROP stage, extent of fibrovascular tissue (FT) growth, and laterality of the eyes that underwent surgery., Results: The VAs ranged from 20/2000 to 20/40. The VA may not be related to the preoperative ROP stage 4A or 4B but may depend on the preoperative extent of FT growth. In 39 of 58 eyes (67.2%), the FT had not reached the vitreous base preoperatively, and foveal formation occurred postoperatively with nearly age-appropriate VA (range, 20/250 to 20/40). In 17 of 58 eyes (29.3%), the FT had reached the vitreous base, and no fovea formed (VA range, 20/2000 to 20/250). Two of 58 eyes (3.4%) had deprivation amblyopia with a VA worse than 20/1600. The difference in VA between both eyes of patients who underwent bilateral vitreous surgery depended on ROP progression; patients who underwent a unilateral procedure in which the fellow eyes with ROP stabilized after photocoagulation tended to have poor vision because of deprivation amblyopia., Conclusions and Relevance: Early vitreous surgery may be beneficial for AP-ROP and should be performed before the FT reaches the vitreous base to facilitate foveal formation and good VA outcomes. The roles of photocoagulation, vitreous surgery, and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy in the treatment of AP-ROP should be investigated in randomized trials regarding efficacy, safety, convenience, and cost.

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of partial posterior hyaloidectomy (PPH) in preventing iatrogenic retinal breaks related to the induction of a posterior vitreous detachment (IPVD)., Methods: Fifty-nine patients who necessitated IPVD for an epiretinal membrane or macular hole were included in this prospective, interventional case series. Extensive removal of vitreous gel, close to the retina, was conducted before IPVD under 23 G (gauge)-vitrectomy system. The PPH involved the limited extent of IPVD and limited removal of the outermost vitreous cortex to an area slightly beyond the margin of the temporal major vascular arcade. The incidence of retinal breaks related to the surgery was compared with 57 eyes that had undergone conventional 23-G total vitrectomy accompanied by extensive IPVD using χ(2)-test., Results: Patients were followed-up for a mean of 14.3 months (6-30 months) after the surgery. The incidence of peripheral retinal breaks after the PPH was 3.4% (2/59 eyes), which was significantly lower than that in the eyes that underwent conventional 23 G vitrectomy (15.8%, 9/57 eyes, P=0.023) for the same disorders that required an IPVD. No patient complained of postoperative floaters, postoperatively., Conclusions: PPH would be an efficient procedure to prevent iatrogenic peripheral retinal breaks related to an IPVD.

Unlabelled: To decrease evisceration of eyes, endoscopy-assisted pars plana vitrectomy is a choice for patients with severe endophthalmitis accompanied with retinal detachment and corneal edema., Purpose: To evaluate surgical outcomes using an intraocular videoendoscope for vitrectomy in patients with severe endophthalmitis with retinal detachment., Methods: From December 2006 to August 2009, the medical records of 21 patients undergoing endoscopy-assisted vitrectomy for endophthalmitis with retinal detachment were studied. Only patients with ≥18 months follow-up were included., Results: Intraocular infections were under control in 19 of the 21 patients. Postoperatively, the visual acuity of three of the patients ranged from 2/100 to 20/100 (14.3 %), two of the patients left with finger counting (9.5 %), eight had hand motion (38.1 %), six had light perception (28.6 %), and the other two had their eyes eviscerated (9.5 %) because of recurrent and uncontrollable infection., Conclusions: In patients with severe endophthalmitis accompanied with retinal detachment and marked corneal opacity, it is appropriate to conduct endoscopy-assisted pars plana vitrectomy to decrease evisceration of eyes.

Purpose: We aim to understand how mechanical causation influences retinal detachment and reattachment processes. In particular, myopes suffer retinal detachment more frequently than emmetropes, and following a retinal detachment, scleral buckling promotes retinal reattachment. We test the hypothesis that stresses arising from saccadic eye rotations are involved in the processes, and that the alteration in the stress due to the change in the vitreous chamber geometry is sufficient to explain the phenomena., Methods: The vitreous chamber of the eye has an approximately spherical shape and it is filled with vitreous humor. We developed a mathematical model, treating the vitreous chamber in emmetropic and myopic eyes as a spheroid and in eyes subjected to scleral buckling as a sphere with a circumferential indentation. We assume that the eye performs prescribed small-amplitude, periodic, torsional rotations and we solve semi-analytically for the fluid pressure, velocity, and stress distributions., Results: The shape of the vitreous chamber has a large effect on the retinal stress. The vitreous and the retina of a highly myopic eye continuously experience shear stresses significantly higher than those of an emmetropic eye. An eye fitted with a scleral buckle experiences large stress levels localized around the buckle., Conclusions: Our results provide a mechanical explanation for the more frequent occurrence of posterior vitreous detachment and retinal detachment in myopic eyes. To understand how the stress distribution in a buckled eye facilitates reattachment, an additional model of the details of the reattachment process should be coupled to this model.

Purpose: To compare the incidence rates of retinal breaks in eyes in which posterior vitreous detachment was induced during 23-gauge and 20-gauge vitrectomies to treat macular holes or preretinal membranes., Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 122 eyes of 115 patients with a macular hole or preretinal membrane who underwent induction of posterior vitreous detachment during 23-gauge vitrectomy (23-gauge group) and 61 eyes of 58 consecutive patients with the disorders who underwent induction of posterior vitreous detachment during 20-gauge vitrectomy performed by 1 surgeon., Results: No difference was found in the incidence rates of intraoperative retinal breaks between the 23-gauge (16% [20/122]) and 20-gauge (16% [10/61]) groups. A postoperative rhegmatogenous retinal detachment developed in 2 (2%) eyes in the 23-gauge group, whereas no eyes in the 20-gauge group had postoperative retinal breaks or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. The incidence rates of retinal breaks in eyes with a macular hole and preretinal membrane did not differ significantly., Conclusion: Posterior vitreous detachment induced during vitrectomy frequently results in intraoperative retinal breaks, the incidence of which may be independent of the gauge of the vitreous instruments. Surgeons should be alert to the development of retinal breaks.

Purpose: To describe the diagnosis and management of an intraretinal cyst., Case Report: A 34-year-old man with a history of retinal detachment presented sudden loss of vision in the left eye. Visual acuity was hand movement. Examination revealed hematic vitreous haze and ultrasound showed a rounded mobile object in the vitreous cavity., Results: After differential diagnosis ruled out cysticercosis, pars plana vitrectomy revealed a neovascularized intraretinal macrocyst attached to a posterior flap of a 13-year-old retinal tear. Retinotomy and retinectomy were performed, removing this cyst located in the upper retina together with a portion of detached retina. At 1 year, the retina had adapted and the vitreous cavity was clear. Final visual acuity was 18/20., Conclusions: Intraretinal cysts are usually asymptomatic and associated with long-standing retinal detachment, as seen in our clinical case. Periodic fundus examination is essential for their detection. Surgical treatment of the underlying condition usually leads to complete resolution.

Purpose: We previously invented a novel foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) in the treatment of severe retinal detachment. The purpose of this study was to determine its hydrolytic stability in vitro and further evaluate its efficacy and safety in human eyes., Methods: The hydrolytic stability test proceeded according to State Food and Drug Administration guidelines about intraocular lenses of the ophthalmic implants. A standard three-port pars plana vitrectomy was performed, and FCVB was triple folded and sent into the vitreous cavity of three eyes; then silicone oil was injected into the capsule to support the retina. The treated eyes were examined using Goldmann applanation tonometry, fundus photography, optical coherence tomography, noncontact specular microscopy, and ultrasound biomicroscopy during a 12-month follow-up appointment., Results: The mass of FCVB with silicone oil after 60-day accelerating aging temperature was equal to that at baseline. The FCVB can easily be implanted into the vitreous cavity through a 3-mm incision. The visual acuity and intraocular pressure after FCVB implantation show a slight elevation compared with those of preoperative eyes. The fundus and optical coherence tomography showed that the FCVB was well distributed in the vitreous cavity and evenly supported the retina. Retinal reattachment was found in 3 eyes at the 12-month examination. There was no statistically significant decrease in the density of corneal endothelial cells from baseline to 12 months after FCVB implantation. Ultrasound biomicroscopy showed that the FCVB smoothly contacted but not crushed the ciliary body., Conclusion: Silicone oil-filled FCVB was shown to be effective and safe in 3 eyes as a vitreous substitute over a 12-month observation time.

Purpose: To analyze the level of human inflammatory immune mediators in the intraocular fluid aspirated from foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) filled-eyes during FCVB removal surgery, 3 months after implantation., Methods: 8 samples of intra-FCVB fluids (n = 8) were collected from 8 FCVB filled patients in our previous FCVB exploratory clinical trial. The intra-FCVB fluids were aspirated from the FCVB filled-eyes during the FCVB removal surgeries at the third month. For the control groups, the vitreous fluids were collected from patients with idiopathic macular hole (n = 9) or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (n = 6) during pars plana vitrectomy. A multiplex immunoassay was used to determine levels of 9 cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, IFN-γ and VEGF) in these samples. The VEGF level of some intra-FCVB fluids (n = 6) were re-tested using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)., Results: In the intra-FCVB fluids, 9 cytokines concentrations of most samples (n = 5) measured by Multiplex immunoassay showed low values, except for Patient 02, 06, and 09. The VEGF concentrations of some intra-FCVB fluids (n = 6) tested by ELISA were in accordance with Multiplex immunoassay results. For all eight patients (n = 8), the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ and VEGF were slightly higher as compared to the idiopathic macular hole control group. While, the concentrations of IL-8, IL-10, and IL-17 were not statistically significant different compared with the idiopathic macular hole control samples. Most cytokines concentrations (IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, IFN-γ, VEGF) were not statistically significant different compared to the rhegmatogenous retinal detachment control group except IL-1β., Conclusions: The FCVB had sufficient porosity to allow cytokines to pass through. This study first discovered that the FCVB possesses favorable permeability of proteins in the human eye.

Purpose: To determine the supporting role of a novel foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the treatment of severe retinal detachment in human eyes., Methods: The study examined nine eyes of nine patients. Among the nine eyes, five had suffered penetrating injuries while four had suffered contusions of the eyeball involving large defects of the retina or choroids. A standard three-port pars plana vitrectomy was performed, FCVB was triple-folded and sent into the vitreous cavity; balanced salt solution (BSS) was injected into the capsule to support the retina. Three cardinal axes of nine eyes were examined using MRI at baseline and at the 3-month follow up., Results: MRI revealed that the signal intensity of the FCVB was similar to the normal vitreous body, with low-signal intensity on T1-weighted image and high-signal intensity on T2-weighted image. In three pre-operative silicone oil- or heavy silicone oil-filled eyes, FCVBs were not fully inflated, and eyeball deformation was observed in one eye. Shifts of three cardinal axes of three eyes (horizontal, anteroposterior, and vertical) according to MRI, were -4.33, -4.67, and -2.67 mm. In the remaining six eyes, FCVBs were well distributed in the vitreous cavity and evenly supported the retina; the cardinal axes of the eyes were similar to pre-operation. Shifts of three cardinal axes of six eyes were -0.34, -0.34, and -0.34 mm. In a total of nine eyes, shifts of three cardinal axes were -1.67, -1.77, and -1.11 mm. Statistically significant difference showed only between the horizontal axis of nine eyes pre-operatively and post-operatively (P1=0.041, P2=0.058, P3=0.123)., Conclusion: This study demonstrated the effectiveness of MRI to monitor the supporting role of an FCVB in the treatment of severe retinal detachment in human eyes.

Objective: To report on the results of the surgical management of diabetic tractional retinal detachments using 25-gauge vitrectomy and a newly developed viscodissection instrument., Design: Single-surgeon, noncomparative, consecutive case series of 30 eyes with severe diabetic tractional retinal detachment in patients who underwent viscodissection-assisted 25-gauge vitrectomy using the viscodissection instrument., Results: Median preoperative visual acuity was 20/400. Median follow-up was 170 days. All retinas were attached at last follow-up. Median postoperative visual acuity was 20/70. Visual acuity improved by 2 or more lines in 17 eyes and remained stable in 11 eyes, without worsening of vision in any eyes., Conclusion: The newly developed viscodissection instrument facilitates microincisional vitrectomy for complex diabetic tractional retinal detachment.

Purpose: To determine the flexibility, efficacy, and safety of a novel foldable capsular vitreous body (FCVB) in the treatment of severe retinal detachment in human eyes., Methods: The study involved 11 patients with 11 severe retinal detachments. A standard three-port pars plana vitrectomy was performed, and the FCVB was triple-folded and implanted into the vitreous cavity. Balanced salt solution was then injected into the capsule of the FCVB to support the retina. The treated eyes were examined by ophthalmoscopy, fundus photography, and tonometry during a 3-month implantation period. B-scan ultrasonography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), and electroretinogram (ERG) were also performed. The FCVB was removed and examined in the laboratory at the end of the 3-month treatment time., Results: The FCVB was easily implanted into the vitreous cavity through a 3-mm incision and was easily removed through a 2-mm scleral incision. Retinal reattachment was found in 8 (73%) of 11 eyes at the end of the 3-month treatment time. The fundus, B-scan, and OCT showed that the FCVB was well distributed in the vitreous cavity and evenly supported the retina. IOP and visual acuity in the FCVB-treated eyes did not show a significant difference when compared with the preoperative measurements. UBM showed that the FCVB smoothly contacted but did not crush the ciliary body. Laboratory examinations showed no significant inflammatory cells in the balanced salt solution, no decrease in spectral transmittance, and no blocking of tiny apertures from the FCVB after a 3-month implantation period., Conclusions: The FCVB was shown to be flexible, effective, and safe as a vitreous substitute over a 3-month implantation time. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00910702.).

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of pneumatic retinopexy as an initial management of retinal detachment associated with hypotony, severe choroidal detachment, and vitritis., Methods: Retrospective, interventional, noncomparative case series. We included nine eyes from nine patients (six women and three men) with retinal detachment associated with hypotony, severe choroidal detachment, and vitritis managed with pneumatic retinopexy (either SF6 or C3F8) as their initial management between January 1, 1992, and December 31, 2007., Results: Hypotony and choroidal detachment were rapidly and significantly improved 1 to 3 days after pneumatic retinopexy in all patients. The extent of retinal detachment was decreased in five patients. After vitreoretinal surgery for these five patients, all had attached retina. Complete reattachment of the retina was noted in four patients after pneumatic retinopexy. Two of these patients did not require further surgery because the entire retina remained attached at 6 months and 16 months postoperatively., Conclusion: Pneumatic retinopexy is a useful initial procedure in managing retinal detachment associated with hypotony, severe choroidal detachment, and vitritis. By rapidly resolving the hypotony and choroidal detachments, it facilitates subsequent surgical repair of this complicated retinal detachment. In addition, complete retinal reattachment after pneumatic retinopexy alone was initially achieved in 33% of eyes.

Purpose: To quantify the extent of cellular proliferation and immunohistochemically characterize the proliferating cell types in epiretinal membranes (ERMS) from four different conditions: proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), proliferative diabetic retinopathy, post-retinal detachment, and idiopathic ERM., Methods: Forty-six ERMs were removed from patients undergoing vitrectomy and immediately fixed in paraformaldehyde. The membranes were processed whole and immunolabeled with either anti-MIB-1 or anti-SP6 to detect the K(i)-67 protein in proliferating cells, in combination with anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein or anti-vimentin to identify glia, anti-ezrin to identify retinal pigment epithelial cells, Ricinus communis to identify immune cells, and Hoechst to label nuclei. Digital images were collected using a laser scanning confocal microscope. The cell types were identified, their combined proliferative indices were tabulated as the average number of anti-K(i)-67-positive cells/mm(2) of tissue, and the number of dividing cells was related to the specific ocular condition and estimated disease duration., Results: ERMs of all four types were shown to be highly cellular and contained proliferating cells identified as glia, retinal pigment epithelium, and of immune origin. In general, membranes identified as PVR had many more K(i)-67-positive cells in comparison to those in the other three categories, with the average number of K(i)-67-positive cells identified per mm(2) of tissue being 20.9 for proliferative diabetic retinopathy, 138.3 for PVR, 12.2 for post-retinal detachment, and 19.3 for idiopathic ERM. While all membrane types had dividing cells, their number was a relatively small fraction of the total number of cells present., Conclusions: The four ERM types studied demonstrated different cell types actively dividing at the time of removal, confirming that proliferation is a common event and does continue over many months. The low number of dividing cells at the time of removal in comparison to the total number of cells present, however, is an indicator that proliferation alone may not be responsible for the problems observed with the ERMs. Treatment strategies may need to take into consideration the timing of drug administration, as well as the contractile and possibly the inflammatory characteristics of the membranes to prevent the ensuing effects on the retina., (© 2011 Molecular Vision)

Purpose: To investigate the clinical course of patients with acute retinal necrosis (ARN) in order to evaluate the efficacy of treatment., Methods: Clinical characteristics, causative virus, treatment and clinical course were analyzed in 14 eyes of 14 patients with ARN who presented between December 2000 and April 2008., Results: All patients were treated with systemic anti-viral agents. Four eyes (29%) did not develop retinal detachment nor did they undergo prophylactic vitreous surgery; 3 of these eyes were of patients with baseline systemic diseases and were in a state of relative immunosuppression. Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment occurred in 6 eyes (43%) for which vitreous surgery with silicone oil tamponade was performed. Successful retinal reattachment was obtained in 5 of these eyes, although the silicone oil could not be removed in 3 eyes judged to be at high risk for recurrent detachment. Prophylactic vitreous surgery was performed in 3 eyes (21%) that had no retinal detachment. The indication for surgery in these eyes was an acute worsening of vitreous haze obscuring view of the fundus. Two of these eyes required a second surgical procedure, but all 3 eyes maintained useful vision with final attachment of the retina., Conclusions: Good outcomes were obtained in ARN patients who at baseline were in a state of relative immunosuppression, suggesting a role for strong immune reactions in the development of retinal detachment in ARN. Silicone oil could not be removed in most eyes that had undergone vitreous surgery after the onset of retinal detachment. Indications for the use of prophylactic vitreous surgery for ARN eyes without retinal detachment require further evaluation.

Introduction: We introduce the use of low-molecular-weight silicone oil as an infusion and as a peroperative tool to facilitate three specific surgical steps, namely internal search for retinal breaks, vitreous base shaving and drainage of subretinal fluid., Method and Patients: Ethics committee approval was obtained to test this novel agent in a small number of cases as a pilot study. Following vitrectomy the posterior retina was reattached and stabilised using perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL). The infusion of balanced salt solution was then stopped and replaced with 5 mPas silicone oil. Subsequent surgery was assessed as to whether the infusion was helpful in the three surgical steps. Five cases were selected for this pilot study. Three presented with long-standing rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) of 2 or more months: 1 had dense vitreous haemorrhage and no fundal view at presentation; 2 had proliferative vitreoretinopathy. Of the remaining 2 cases, 1 had a giant retinal break and the other case had a combined diabetic tractional retinal detachment and RRD., Results: Additional retinal breaks were found in 2 patients. The silicone oil joined with the PFCL to form a single bubble. The vitreous base along with the operculum of any retinal break was reflected anteriorly. The infusion of oil stabilised the anterior retina, making it possible to shave the vitreous closely in all 5 patients. Visualisation of the vitreous gel was also improved. There was a clear interface between vitreous and oil because of the large difference between the refractive indices of vitreous and oil. Four of the 5 patients had a total reattachment with one procedure. In the 2 cases in which 5,000 mPas silicone oil was used for long-term postoperative tamponade, no emulsification was observed. Follow-up of patients ranged from 6 to 13 months. There were no additional serious adverse reactions recorded., Conclusion: We found that the experience of using silicone oil was very highly positive., (Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Objective: To report on pars plana vitrectomy with diffuse illumination, wide-angle viewing, and meticulous vitreous dissection for identifying and managing retinal breaks when no breaks were detected before surgery for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment., Methods: Prospective clinical study of 61 of 800 consecutive eyes (7.6%) (61 of 782 patients) seen at a university hospital during the 48-month study for primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment in whom no break could be identified preoperatively despite thorough examinations. All of the patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy alone with meticulous peripheral vitreous dissection assisted by diffuse illumination, a wide-angle viewing system, perfluorocarbon liquid, triamcinolone acetonide suspension, and balanced salt solution to identify and manage primary retinal breaks., Results: Retinal breaks were found intraoperatively in 60 eyes (98%). In 51 of 61 eyes (84%), balanced salt solution was left in the vitreous cavity. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/40 or better in 25 of 61 study eyes (41%). Primary retinal reattachment was attained in 60 study eyes (98%). Final reattachment was achieved in all 61 eyes (100%)., Conclusions: Pars plana vitrectomy alone with diffuse illumination and extensive vitreous dissection led to identification and management of retinal breaks undetectable before surgery, achieving a high primary reattachment rate.

Background: Stickler syndrome causes ocular abnormalities, including retinal detachment and vitreoretinal degeneration, and systemic anomalies such as arthritis and deafness. Although retinal detachment is characteristic of this syndrome, the pathogenesis is unknown., Case Report: A 10-year-old boy reported decreased vision and presented 5 days after visual loss., Results: Ophthalmoscopy showed a retinal detachment with a giant tear in the right eye, and a nonpigmented epithelial detachment with pars plicata breaks in the left eye. Bilateral findings included an empty vitreous and a vitreous membrane at the equator. The systemic abnormalities included short stature and joint hypermobility. The diagnosis was type 1 Stickler syndrome, and the eyes were treated surgically. Immunohistochemistry showed that the vitreous membrane resected intraoperatively was comprised primarily of Müller cells. Electron microscopy showed dense collagen fibers around the cells in the membrane that were identical to the vitreous collagen inserted into the basement membrane of the cells, which was similar to the ultrastructure of the vitreous base., Conclusion: Müller cells might be primary components of the vitreous membrane in type 1 Stickler syndrome. The vitreoretinal interface, which resembled the ectopic vitreous base, in the vitreous membrane may be related to the pathogenesis of the retinal detachment.