EC Ophthalmology

Purpose: To evaluate mid-term safety and efficiency of a new surgical technique using amniotic membrane plugs for the treatment of posterior pole and/or retracted retinal breaks in tractional and delayed rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Methods: Patients with rhegmatogenous associated to at least grade C proliferative vitreoretinopathy or tractional retinal detachment with retinal breaks sealed by amniotic membrane plugs were included. Minimal follow-up of 12 months with visual acuity evaluation, optical coherence tomography, retinophotography, intraocular pressure and re-detachment rate evaluation at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months.

Results: 9 eyes of 9 patients were included. The mean 12-month post-operative best corrected visual acuity was 1.12 logMar. Fundus photography and optical coherence tomography shows that the plugs stayed in place at 1,3,6 and 12 months without dislocation. Glial tissue regeneration was noticed without original retinal layers restoration. Only one retinal re-detachment occurred after silicone oil removal. Neither elevation of intraocular pressure nor signs of inflammation were registered.

Conclusion: Amniotic membrane plugs represent safe and efficient surgical technique to manage posterior pole and/or retracted retinal breaks without the limitations of laser retinopexy.

 Keywords: Amniotic Membrane; Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment; Tractional Retinal Detachment; Vitreoretinal Proliferation; Vitreoretinal Surgery

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