Vitrectomy for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

Vitrectomy for Persistent Macular Edema in Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion

To evaluate the long term outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), with and without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, in eyes with persistent macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

Results suggest the following hypothesis:

• PPV, with and without ILM peeling, appears to be beneficial in eyes with persistent macular edema due to BRVO
• Effectiveness is maintained long term
• ILM peeling does not significantly affect postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA)

Inclusion Criteria:

• duration of symptoms lasting 27 weeks

Exclusion Criteria:

• vitreous hemorrhage
• severe cataract
• biomicroscopic vitreomacular traction and epiretinal membrane
• previous vitreoretinal surgery
• other ocular diseases that could contribute to visual loss.
• patients with macular branch vein occlusion
• patients with a history of previous grid laser photocoagulation