Removal of Silicone Oil and Epimacular Proliferation From Eyes Following Vitrectomy

* BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Epimacular proliferation (EMP) represents a localized form of reproliferation at the macula. The significance of EMP in eyes that have undergone vitrectomy is still not clear. This study investigated the redetachment rate following silicone oil removal when combined with removal of EMP. * PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-two consecutive eyes underwent removal of silicone oil and EME These eyes had attached retinas following silicone oil injection used as an adjunct to complex vitreoretinal surgery. * RESULTS: The retina remained attached in 19 (86.4%) of the eyes, with functional improvement in vision in 81.8% of the eyes. Visual acuity of 6/60 (20/200) or better was obtained in 12 (54.5%) of the eyes. The mean follow-up time was 6.3 months. * CONCLUSION: These results suggest that removal of EMP and silicone oil does not increase the risk of redetachment. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers 1996;27:192-196.]