Visual improvement after removal of submacular exudates in patients with diabetic maculopathy

Abstract

Objective: To improve the central visual function of eyes affected by massive hard exudates in cases of diabetic maculopathy.

Patients and methods: Six eyes of 4 patients with diabetic maculopathy were treated by pars plana vitrectomy for massive retinal exudates persisting for more than 3 months. The massive hard exudates were removed from the subretinal space with subretinal forceps. We evaluated the visual acuity of these eyes 6 months after surgery.

Results: Following the removal of the hard exudates, visual acuity improved in all eyes. Massive hard exudates were mainly located in the subretinal space and were removable using subretinal forceps. No serious postoperative complications occurred. The removed tissues consisted of macrophages laden with many cholestrin crystals and lipid droplets, as well as fibrous tissues.

Conclusion: We concluded that central visual function can be improved by removing subretinal exudates surgically.