Sustained-release dexamethasone intravitreal implant for persistent macular edema after vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane

Abstract

Background and objective: Persistent macular edema (ME) after surgical removal of epiretinal membrane (ERM) may impair postoperative visual recovery. Sustained-release dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DEX) was used to treat recalcitrant ME after vitrectomy for ERM.

Patients and methods: Retrospective chart review of eyes treated with DEX for ME after ERM removal. Visual and anatomic outcomes were evaluated.

Results: Five eyes with refractory ME on optical coherence tomography (OCT) after ERM surgery were treated with DEX. Four of five eyes demonstrated reduction in macular thickness on OCT (mean: 106 μm), with mean percentage reduction in central foveal thickness of 25%. Visual acuity improved by one or more Snellen lines in four of five eyes. DEX effect duration was 3 to 9 months. Two eyes with OCT and visual improvement after initial DEX received multiple DEX implants for maintenance therapy.

Conclusion: Inflammatory factors may contribute to persistent ME after vitrectomy for ERM. DEX may be a treatment option in such cases.