[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.

PATIENTS AND

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.