[Comparative investigation of the etiology of visual field defects after epimacular surgery].
BACKGROUND
Sectorial visual field defects after macular hole surgery were described by several authors. The intraocular gas tamponade is discussed to be a possible causative factor for this complication.


METHODS
Goldmann perimetry and threshold perimetry were performed preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively in 48 patients who underwent epimacular surgery because of macular pucker (23 eyes) or macular holes stage II - IV (25 eyes). Laser polarimetry was performed additionally using the Nerve Fiber Analyzer. The results were compared quantitatively. In all cases an epimacular membrane was peeled off. Eyes with macular holes underwent fluid-gas exchange with SF 6 without drying up the retina completely.


RESULTS
No patient showed a sectorial visual field defect. The quantitative comparison of visual field examinations did not prove a difference between both groups.


CONCLUSIONS
We could not detect any impairing influence of the intraocular gas tamponade in our patients. Without complete desiccation of the vitreous cavity, visual field defects after macular hole surgery are unlikely.
Augenklinik, Bundesknappschaft Sulzbach/Saar.
Patrick
P
Dillinger
Heiko
H
Lägel
Ulrich
U
Mester
D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012167:Retinal Perforations / Q000601:surgery*; D014794:Visual Fields; D014821:Vitrectomy