Surgical Outcomes of Epiretinal Membranes with and without Epiretinal Proliferation: A Comparative Study

Summary

PPV ERM with and without epiretinal proliferation (EP) – EP worse post-operative VA, more microcystic ME, and increased CRT. Retrospective, 65 eyes.

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of the study was to compare clinical findings, OCT characteristics, and postoperative outcomes in eyes with epiretinal membrane (ERM) with and without associated epiretinal proliferation (EP).

Methods: Eyes with ERM with or without associated EP were analyzed for clinical findings and OCT characteristics. The primary outcomes measured were changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and OCT features from baseline to the final follow-up visit. Patients with ERM were categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of EP. Surgical outcomes were also evaluated.

Results: Significant changes were reached in each group, particularly for BCVA (p < 0.001 for the ERM group, p = 0.010 for the EP-ERM group). Compared with ERM eyes, EP-ERM had a lower BCVA recovery at 6 months after surgery (p = 0.009). EP-ERM patients demonstrated more frequent microcystic macular edema (MME) (73.3% vs. 37.1%, p = 0.008) and increased central retinal thickness (CRT) (p < 0.001) at 6 months after surgery. No statistically significant differences in terms of external limiting membrane and ellipsoid zone defects were registered at 6 months (p = 0.234, p = 0.446, respectively).

Conclusion: EP-ERM showed poorer post-surgical BCVA compared with ERM alone. EP-ERM had a greater chance of MME at 6 months after surgery, with higher CRT. These findings highlight the need for deeper assessment of ERM characteristics to accurately predict surgical outcomes.