LONG-TERM OUTCOMES FOR OPTIC DISK PIT MACULOPATHY AFTER VITRECTOMY

Peripapillary fluid: Obvious and not so obvious!

Intraretinal or subretinal fluid in the peripapillary area can be clinically visualized in conditions such as peripapillary choroidal neovascularization, optic disc pit maculopathy, and optic nerve head tumors and granulomas. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) helps to visualize peripapillary fluid in many other chorioretinal conditions such as peripapillary pachychoroid syndrome, posterior uveitis, central retinal vein occlusion, malignant hypertension, hypotonic maculopathy as well as neuro-ophthalmological conditions such as glaucoma, microcystic macular edema and disc edema due papilledema, non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, neuroretinitis, and diabetic papillopathy. Often, the differential diagnosis of peripapillary fluid is a bit tricky and may lead to misdiagnosis and improper management. We describe a diagnostic algorithm for peripapillary fluid on OCT and outline the salient features and management of these conditions.

Retinotomies and retinectomies: A review of indications, techniques, results, and complications

Retinotomy refers to "cutting" or "incising" the retina, whereas retinectomy denotes "excising" the retina. Retinotomies and retinectomies aid in tackling traction and retinal shortening that persist following membrane dissection and scleral buckling. We performed a literature search using Google Scholar and PubMed, followed by a review of the references procured. All relevant literature was studied in detail and summarized. We discuss the indications of retinotomies and retinectomies for relaxing retinal stiffness, accessing the subretinal space for choroidal neovascular membrane, hemorrhage and abscess clearance, drainage retinotomies to allow retinal flattening, radial retinotomies to release circumferential traction, harvesting free retinal grafts, and prophylactic chorioretinectomies in trauma.

Minimally invasive procedure for optic disc pit maculopathy: vitrectomy with scleral plug and analysis on pattern of resolution

Optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M) is a rare complication of optic disc pit which can cause irreversible visual impairment. The aim of this study is to evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes and pattern of resolution of ODP-M following vitrectomy with posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) induction and scleral tissue plug for treatment of ODP-M without ILM peeling, laser or use of long term gas/tamponade or head positioning. This retrospective study included 7 patients with ODP-M, meeting the inclusion criteria. Patients were followed up for 6 months. Complete anatomical success was defined as "Total resolution of all the fluid in retinal compartments". All of the patients had complete resolution of the optic pit maculopathy following surgery. The mean duration for complete resolution was 18.3 weeks. Pattern of resolution of ODP-M was found to be resolution of the subretinal fluid (SRF) followed by disappearance of the retinoschitic lesions (RL) and finally disappearance of macular edema (ME). The proposed minimally invasive procedure (MIP) can produce comparably good and equally reliable results for the treatment of ODP-M.

Severe macular complications in glaucoma: high-resolution multimodal imaging characteristics and review of the literature

PURPOSE

To describe imaging characteristics of severe macular complications occurring in glaucoma and discuss available treatments.

METHODS

Retrospective case series of glaucomatous patients with macular retinoschisis (MR) and/or serous retinal detachment (SRD). Patients underwent a complete ophthalmological examination and multimodal imaging including retinography, SD-OCT, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography (FA & ICGA) and adaptive optics (AO).

RESULTS

Ten eyes (8 patients) were included. Initial BCVA was 1.04 ± 1.12 logMAR and IOP was 24.0 ± 9.3mmHg. All eyes presented with MR while SRD was present in 5 eyes (5 patients), with a central macular thickness of 573 ± 152 μm. FA and ICGA allowed to exclude leakage in all cases. A focal lamina cribrosa defect (LCD) was found in four eyes (4 patients) using OCT, with AO providing en-face visualization of the defect in one eye. Outer retinal hole was present in 3 eyes (3 patients). No visual improvement or resolution of the macular retinoschisis was observed in eyes with medical or surgical IOP control (N = 9). Vitrectomy with internal membrane limiting peeling and gas tamponade was performed in one eye with good visual results.

CONCLUSIONS

Multimodal high-resolution imaging is essential to diagnose severe macular complications associated with advanced glaucoma.

OPTIC DISK PIT ASSOCIATED WITH AN UNUSUAL OUTER RETINAL HOLE AND NASAL PERIPHERAL RETINOSCHISIS

PURPOSE

To document a peculiar case of optic disk pit-associated maculopathy with extensive nasal retinoschisis with lamellar outer retinal hole.

METHODS

A 41-year-old woman presented to the eye clinic complaining of new photopsias and enlargement of the blind spot in the left eye. Uncorrected visual acuity was 20/20 in both eyes. Fundus examination of the left eye revealed an anomalous appearing optic nerve with a gray oval depression at the temporal margin of the disk consistent with an optic disk pit.

RESULTS

Optical coherence tomography confirmed the presence of the pit and demonstrated outer plexiform layer schisis superonasal to the fovea and extensive inner and outer retinal schisis nasal to the nerve extending to the equator. A large lamellar outer retinal hole was noted nasal to the disk without associated retinal detachment. The vitreous appeared to be attached over the nasal retina.

CONCLUSION

Multimodal imaging revealed an unusual optic disk pit-associated retinopathy with dramatically more extensive retinoschisis and a lamellar outer retinal hole nasal to the nerve despite the temporal location of the pit. Although the precise pathophysiologic mechanisms are not fully understood, forces associated with the vitreo-retinal adhesion may have contributed to the distribution of the schisis in this case.

Optic Pit Maculopathy: Clinical Features and Management Options

Purpose of Review

In this article, we review the pathogenesis, clinical features, imaging modalities and latest management options for optic pit maculopathy (OPM).

Recent Findings

The pathogenesis of OPM remains to be unclear, but imaging tools such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography are enhancing our knowledge. Observation continues to be the best management strategy for patients with good visual acuity, and many cases have demonstrated spontaneous resolution. For more advanced, progressive vision loss, treatment options involving vitrectomy can be considered and discussed with the patient. Supplementary techniques to vitrectomy have been reported in small studies with relative success such as glial tissue peeling, inverted internal limiting membrane flap, optic pit plugging, and retinal fenestration.

Summary

While there are multiple treatment options available for OPM, there is no consensus on the technique and surgical timing. Individual patient factors and the risks-benefits of treatment must be taken into account in guiding management. Larger clinical trials will further assist in decision making for treating OPM.

Management of optic disc pit maculopathy: the European VitreoRetinal society optic pit study

PURPOSE

To evaluate a variety of techniques, and their anatomical and functional results, for the treatment of optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M). A secondary aim was to report on results of secondary procedures in cases of initial failure or recurrence.

METHODS

Multicentre retrospective study of 95 eyes with ODP-M, treated by 25 surgeons from 12 countries. Primary outcomes were anatomical resolution of subretinal fluid (SRF), intraretinal fluid (IRF) and visual acuity (VA) at 12 months.

RESULTS

Higher rates of SRF and IRF resorption were achieved in eyes treated with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) compared to external laser with or without tamponade: 64/72 (88.9%) versus 8/14 (57.1%) for SRF (p = 0.003), and 50/59 (84.7%) versus 3/10 (30%) for IRF (p = 0.002). The addition of juxtapapillary laser or internal limiting membrane (ILM) peel during PPV did not improve SRF or IRF resolution. Pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with tamponade and PPV with tamponade plus endolaser were associated with significant visual gain. In the former group, VA improved from a mean of logMAR 0.91 (20/162), to a mean of logMAR 0.52 (20/66) at 12 months; in the latter group, VA improved from a mean of logMAR 0.82 (20/132) to a mean of logMAR 0.47 (20/59) at 12 months. Retreatments were performed in 14 eyes (15.7%), only enhancing anatomical outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Vitrectomy with tamponade had better final outcomes than external laser treatment with or without gas tamponade. Laser endophotocoagulation and ILM peel provided no additional benefit. A secondary treatment resulted in anatomical but not functional improvement.

The characteristics of optic disc pit maculopathy and the efficacy of vitrectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the basic characteristics of optic disc pit maculopathy (ODPM) and the efficacies of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) treatment with different adjunctive strategies.

METHODS

The databases PubMed, EMBASE and Ovid up to April 2020 were searched to identify relevant studies. Statistical analyses were conducted with R software version 3.6.3.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine studies were eventually included for different aspects of statistical analyses. The pooling results suggest the general incidence of maculopathy in optic disc pit (ODP) is 51%, and the rate of serous macular detachment and retinoschisis is 49% and 58%, respectively. The incidence of sub-retinal fluid (SRF) only is 10%, intra-retinal retinal (IRF) fluid only is 14%, and SRF plus IRF is 69%. A lamellar macular hole (LMH) is present in 53% of cases, and 58% have communication between the macula with the pit. The incidence of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), vitreo-papillary traction and vitreomacular traction (VMT) is 7%, 28% and 13%, respectively. Besides, the rate of complete anatomic success and visual improvement after PPV are both around 85%. Subgroup analysis reveals the anatomic, and visual success rates of PPV alone are 89% and 100%, respectively. Gas tamponade, laser or internal limiting membrane peeling (ILMP) during vitrectomy are less promising, while PPV with ILM flap stuffing could achieve better outcomes than cases without it.

CONCLUSION

Optic disc pit-associated maculopathy has different fundus characteristics. Based on the current evidence, PPV is effective for ODPM, and the combined application of gas tamponade, laser and ILMP should be used with caution.

Risk factors for failure of resolving optic disc pit maculopathy after primary vitrectomy without laser photocoagulation

PURPOSE

To determine factors significantly correlated with the failure of macular reattachment by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) without laser photocoagulation of the optic disc margin to treat optic disc pit (ODP) maculopathy.

DESIGN

Retrospective, interventional case series.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 35 consecutive patients with ODP maculopathy who underwent PPV without laser photocoagulation. PPV with the creation of a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) was performed in 34 eyes. An epiretinal membrane and internal limiting membrane present in the other eye with a PVD were removed. Patients were followed for 12-193 months (mean 58 months) after surgery. The main outcome measures were the postoperative rate of retinal reattachment and best-corrected visual acuity. The preoperative clinical characteristics of the successful cases were compared to those of the unsuccessful cases.

RESULTS

A complete retinal reattachment was attained in 31 of 35 eyes and it required about one year. The 4 other eyes that did not achieve a macular reattachment after the primary PPV underwent additional therapies. The factors that were significantly associated with a failure of a retinal reattachment after primary PPV were the presence of a retinal detachment connected to the optic disc (P < 0.001) and the presence of preoperative headaches (P = 0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians should be aware that the presence of a preoperative macular detachment connected to the optic disc margin and preoperative headaches are indicators for an unsuccessful outcome of PPV without laser photocoagulation in eyes with ODP maculopathy.

A Case of Multiple Optic Disc Pits: 21-Year Follow-up

Optic disc pits (ODP) are an uncommon congenital abnormality. Patients remain asymptomatic unless they develop maculopathy. The use of optic coherence tomography has critical benefits in the follow-up of patients who are at the amblyogenic age. The aim of this study is to present a case of double ODP in the right eye and single ODP in the left eye in a partially accommodative esotropia patient followed for 21 years. To our knowledge, multiple ODP has never been described in a patient with partially accommodative esotropia.

Fibrin glue for treatment of optic disc maculopathy

We describe clinical and anatomical outcomes of optic disc maculopathy using internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and fibrin glue application over the optic nerve in this retrospective, interventional case series of five eyes. Extent of neurosensory detachment and foveoschisis along with foveal thickness at baseline and follow-up were evaluated. The mean age was 29 ± 10.6 years. The most common location of disc pit was temporal (3 eyes). All eyes underwent peripapillary laser with 532 nm green laser before surgery with a mean interval of 4.9 ± 1.9 months. The mean baseline and final vision was 0.68 ± 0.23 and 0.61 ± 0.33 logMAR, respectively, with a mean follow-up of 7.2 ± 3.5 months. Three eyes showed complete resorption of serous detachment, while the remaining two had reduction in schisis and subretinal fluid. None of the eyes had any complications. Glue application in addition to ILM peeling improves the visual prognosis in optic disc pit maculopathy with restoration of macular anatomy.

Intraoperative optical coherence tomography-assisted displacement of prepapillary membrane in eyes with optic disc pit maculopathy

PURPOSE

To determine the efficacy of displacing a prepapillary membrane during vitrectomy assisted by intraoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) to treat eyes with optic disc pit maculopathy.

METHOD

Pars plana vitrectomy was performed with 27-gauge instruments on 4 eyes of 4 consecutive patients for optic disc pit maculopathy with retinoschisis and foveal detachment. After creating a posterior vitreous detachment, the prepapillary membrane was made visible by brilliant blue G staining. The membrane was peeled from the central retinal vessel and inverted and placed over intraretinal clefts or stuffed into the optic disc pit. These procedures were guided by intraoperative OCT. A gas tamponade and peripapillary laser was not used. The preoperative and postoperative OCT images and surgical outcomes were evaluated.

RESULT

Intraretinal clefts connected to an inner retinoschisis were detected at the edge of the optic disc pit in 3 eyes with intraoperative OCT and 2 eyes with preoperative OCT. The foveal detachment and retinoschisis were resolved completely in all 4 eyes at postoperative 13 to 15 months. The postoperative vision improved from 20/25 to 20/18 at the final examination in all eyes.

CONCLUSION

Intraoperative OCT can detect intraretinal clefts at the edge of the optic disc pit, and the OCT images are helpful in guiding the peeling and placement of the prepapillary membrane to achieve anatomical and visual recovery.

A prospective long-term follow-up study of optic disc pit maculopathy treated with pars plana vitrectomy, drainage of subretinal fluid and peeling of internal limiting membrane

PURPOSE

To describe the long-term results of surgical repair of patients with optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M).

METHODS

Prospective, consecutive, noncomparative follow-up study including 12 patients with ODP-M treated by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), peeling of internal limiting membrane followed by gas tamponade. Subretinal fluid (SRF) was drained in 11 eyes through a retinotomy without laser photocoagulation. Preoperatively, macular detachment with retinoschisis was seen in 9 out of 12 eyes with three eyes having only subretinal fluid in the macular area. The median age at surgery was 20 years (range 9-60 years).

RESULTS

Follow-up time from initial surgery was 63 months (median). Eight eyes were anatomically reattached after one operation without remaining SRF in the macula. Two patients required a reoperation due to leakage from the retinotomy and another two underwent a second PPV procedure due to late recurrences. Successful healing was at follow-up control observed in 11 of 12 eyes. There was no statistically significant difference in visual acuity between patients before and after surgery (p = 0.24). Central visual field defects with depressed mean deviation were detected in all treated eyes.

CONCLUSION

In this long-term study of ODP-M final outcome regarding healing was relatively efficacious, however, a relatively large proportion had complications associated to retinotomies. We conclude that drainage of SRF should likely be avoided since it appears to contribute little to the resorption rate of SRF and seems to linked to unnecessary risks.

Spontaneous resolution of optic pit maculopathy: an OCT report

The separation of the vitreous from the optic nerve head and the macula plays a primary role in the spontaneous resolution of optic disc pit (ODP) maculopathy. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) helps in the non-invasive monitoring of this condition, when treated conservatively. The aim of this report was to describe a pediatric case of spontaneously resolved ODP maculopathy, managed conservatively and monitored by means of spectral domain (SD)-OCT. A 14-year-old girl presented with severe visual loss in the right eye (RE). Fundus examination demonstrated a temporal ODP with altered foveal reflex. The SD-OCT B-scans revealed severe intraretinal schisis-like changes, broad vitreal adhesion in the optic nerve head area, posterior hyaloid thickening, and vitreal entrapment in the premacular space. The patient was managed conservatively. Spontaneous resolution of ODP maculopathy took place over 3 months, with vision improved up to 1.0 (Snellen charts). The macular schisis progressively resolved after posterior vitreous detachment. In conclusion, in our report, a complete restoration of the foveal anatomy was achieved without any surgical intervention. This OCT-based report confirms the role of the vitreomacular abnormalities in the pathogenesis of the disease.

Surgical outcomes in patients with optic disc pit maculopathy: does peeling the ILM lead to better outcomes?

PURPOSE

Optic disc pits (ODPs) are rare congenital anomalies. Several patients develop optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M): visual impairment caused by intra- and/or subretinal fluid. Treatment mode remains controversial. This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and gas tamponade with or without internal limiting membrane (ILM)-peeling in improving visual acuity and reducing subretinal fluid in ODP-M patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 16 patients who underwent surgery for ODP-M from 2002-2015. Six patients underwent PPV with gas tamponade (group 1); ten patients additionally received ILM-peeling (group 2). Pre- and postoperative visual acuity and central retinal thickness (CRT) were compared between groups, as well as retinal morphology and the number of secondary vitrectomies and complications.

RESULTS

Median visual acuity improved by 2 ETDRS lines in both groups (p = 0.713, Mann-Whitney U test). Median CRT decreased by 426.5 µm and 460 µm (p = 0.931). One patient in group 1 underwent repeat vitrectomy for persistent retinoschisis. Three patients in group 2 required repeat vitrectomy: two to treat a macular hole, one for peripheral retinal holes with retinal detachment.

CONCLUSION

In our cohort, PPV with gas tamponade proved to be an effective first-line treatment for ODP-M. Additional ILM-peeling did not give a significant benefit in this study.

Surgical Options for Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy: Perspectives and Controversies

Optic disc pit (ODP) is a rare congenital optic nerve head abnormality, which can be complicated by intraretinal and subretinal fluid at the macula (ODP-maculopathy) with progressive visual loss. The source of this fluid remains unclear and the most dominant hypotheses have pointed to vitreous cavity or cerebrospinal fluid. Although spontaneous resolution has been reported, the majority of untreated cases of ODP-maculopathy result in final visual acuity less than 20/200 or worse. A wide array of interventions, either individually or in combination with adjuvant treatments, have been tried with varying degrees of success. Recently, different surgical procedures to fill the ODP by self-sealing materials in combination with pars plana vitrectomy have been reported as an effective adjuvant treatment. However, given the relative rarity of this condition, the majority of reports describe a small retrospective case series, making it difficult to compare among different treatments options and create a consensus regarding the optimal treatment for ODP-maculopathy. In this situation, a mini-review about surgical treatment modalities and their results can be a useful approach to identify the most effective surgical option in the management of ODP-maculopathy.

Thoughts and Challenges for the Current Treatment of Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy

PURPOSE

The present review describes the procedures that intervene directly in covering and stuffing the optic disc pit (ODP).

METHODS

We made a comprehensive review of the literature regarding the new treatment modalities for the treatment of ODP maculopathy, mainly concentrated on covering and stuffing of the ODP. We presented the anatomical and functional outcomes of these techniques in patients with ODP maculopathy, while potential risks and complications of these techniques are also discussed.

RESULTS

The most commonly used treatment alternative for ODP maculopathy is vitrectomy, which seems to be more successful if it is associated with the covering of the ODP by internal limiting membrane (ILM) inverted flapping. The results of the procedure are successful, if the origin of the fluid comes from the vitreous cavity. Another new procedure aims at the stuffing of the ODP by rolled ILM-flap, autologous scleral tissue or human amniotic membrane, providing promising anatomical results. The so far anatomical and functional results are discussed in detail. The literature, however, is limited regarding these techniques and based mainly on case reports with short-term follow-up. Additionally, the stuffing technique is possible to provoke further damage of optic nerve tissue and remain challenging in its use.

CONCLUSIONS

Both covering and stuffing techniques of the ODP seem to have promising results, when used as adjunct to vitrectomy. One should take into account special considerations and possible further complications for their use in the treatment of ODP maculopathy.

Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy: New Perspectives on the Natural History

PURPOSE

To investigate the natural history of optic disc pit maculopathy and explore the associations between demographic, anatomic, and functional characteristics.

DESIGN

Retrospective, comparative case series.

METHODS

This was a single-center medical record review of previously untreated optic disc pit maculopathy. Baseline data of visual function, demographics, and pit physiognomy were collected, and further subgroup analysis was undertaken on patients with long-term follow-up, according to whether they were monitored or received surgical intervention. LogMAR visual acuity was the primary outcome measure, and anatomic characteristics were reported where available.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven patients were identified with a new presentation of optic disc pit maculopathy. No demographic or pit features were correlated with vision at baseline. In 51 patients with available optical coherence tomography data, only the presence of subretinal fluid at baseline was associated with poorer visual acuity (P < .001). Fifty-two patients who were monitored without treatment had available long-term follow-up data. The mean change in visual acuity in this group was 0.01, with 77% maintaining visual acuity ≤0.30. Twenty-seven patients underwent surgery and showed significant postoperative improvement in vision (P < .001), with 59% achieving an acuity ≤0.30. Duration of postoperative follow-up was associated with better visual acuity (P = .007).

CONCLUSION

Many patients with optic disc pit maculopathy maintain good long-term visual acuity and may demonstrate resolution of subretinal fluid in the absence of surgical intervention. There may be evidence to support delaying surgical treatment until visual deterioration is observed because of the potential stability or spontaneous improvement of the condition, the high rate of reoperation, and the long-term positive outcomes of deferred intervention.

[Macular changes in optic disc pits-Optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M) : Pathophysiology and possibilities of surgical treatment]

An optic disc pit is a rare congenital abnormality of the optic nerve, which in most cases presents as a unilateral finding. Clinically, a greyish oval excavation is seen, most commonly on the temporal side of the optic nerve disc. The optic disc pit alone normally does not lead to substantial symptoms or functional limitations; however, when a maculopathy with intraretinal and/or subretinal fluid and additional other morphological changes in the macula occur, this leads to a decrease in visual acuity. With spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) it is possible to identify the various forms of expression, which show different natural courses. Especially the presence of subretinal fluid and defects in the outer retinal layers have a poor prognosis and have the highest risk for further deterioration. Spontaneous resolution can occur but is rare. Observation is recommended in the first step. In cases of progression or pronounced deterioration, surgical intervention is indicated. Many different techniques have been proposed but there is no gold standard at the moment. Most of the surgical approaches comprise pars plana vitrectomy with peeling of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) and gas endotamponade. Newer methods, such as the ILM flap technique also show good results. Generally, it is important to know that postoperative healing and resorption of the fluid often take a long time period of up to 1 year or even longer.

Optic disk pits and optic disk pit maculopathy: A review

Optic disk pit, one of the optic disk cavitary anomalies, is generally congenital and unilateral and occurs equally in males and females. Optic disk pit maculopathy is characterized by intraretinal and subretinal fluid at the macula, causing visual deterioration. The origin of the macular fluid and the mechanism of transition to the subretinal space in optic disk pit maculopathy pathophysiology are not yet fully understood. With the evolution of imaging modalities, especially optic coherence tomography, our knowledge of this disorder continues to increase. Although many different treatments have been tried, there is no consensus on the most effective.

Fibrin Glue and Internal Limiting Membrane Abrasion for Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To describe a novel surgical technique using pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), internal limiting membrane (ILM) abrasion, and intravitreal fibrin glue for the treatment of optic disc pit maculopathy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Surgical case series technique with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of human post-mortem eyes.

RESULTS

Using SEM, the authors demonstrate the persistent adherence of vitreous fragments to the optic disc following induction of posterior vitreous detachment in human postmortem eyes. The authors describe a surgical technique using PPV, Tano Diamond Dusted Membrane Scraper for an ILM abrasion, intravitreal fibrin glue (Tisseel), and gas-air exchange to seal optic disc pits. The authors report successful long-term visual and anatomical outcomes in three patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal fibrin glue, when combined with ILM abrasion, may be a viable treatment option for optic disc pit maculopathy with good short- and long-term visual acuity outcomes. SEM shows that ILM abrasion removes vitreous fragments, which are persistently adherent and may lead to failure with other interventional techniques. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2018;49:e271-e277.].

Optic disk pit maculopathy: current management strategies

Introduction

Optic disk pit (ODP) is a rare congenital abnormality of the optic nerve head and can lead to visual impairment when macular detachment occurred. Recent advances in retinal imaging brought new insights into the pathophysiology of the disease, while new therapeutic options have been also described.

Methods

We made a comprehensive search of the literature regarding the current treatment modalities for the treatment of ODP maculopathy.

Results

Although there have been reported some cases of spontaneous resolution, current management of ODP maculopathy involves several surgical approaches. The most commonly used treatment alternative for ODP maculopathy management is vitrectomy, either alone or in combination with other treatment modalities, such as gas tamponade or laser photocoagulation. Other options, such as scleral buckling and inner fenestration, are also used, based on the recent findings about pathophysiology of the disease.

Conclusion

The management of ODP maculopathy remains challenging. Even though there are further advances in the understanding of the disease pathophysiology, the applied treatment is not single and therapeutic modalities differ in the success rate, related to the anatomical and functional results.

Optic Disc Pit Maculopathy: A Two-Year Nationwide Prospective Population-based Study

PURPOSE

To identify the incidence, presenting features, treatment, and clinical course of optic disc pit maculopathy (ODPM) in the United Kingdom (UK).

DESIGN

A 2-year nationwide prospective population-based study.

SUBJECTS

All new incident cases of ODPM presenting to UK ophthalmologists using the British Ophthalmic Surveillance Unit monthly reporting system.

METHODS

All reporting ophthalmologists were sent an initial questionnaire requesting data on previous medical and ophthalmic history, presentation details, investigation findings, and management. A further questionnaire was sent at 12 months post diagnosis to ascertain further outcome data.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Visual acuity at initial presentation, at 1 year, and after any intervention. Foveal involvement and optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings, including retinal layers affected, and the location and size of the optic disc pit. Management, including observation, vitrectomy, and associated procedures.

RESULTS

There were 74 confirmed new cases, giving an annual incidence of approximately 1 per 2 million. Complete data were available on 70 patients (70 eyes) at baseline and 68 after 1 year. There were 35 (50%) female patients with a mean age of 35 years (range, 3-82 years). Visual acuity at baseline ranged from 6/5 to hand movements. In 43 patients (61%) subretinal fluid (SRF) was present, whereas 27 (39%) had intraretinal fluid only. The presence of SRF was associated with worse vision and foveal involvement. Of the 53 eyes initially observed with 1-year follow-up, 10 (19%) deteriorated and 9 (16%) improved on OCT; eyes with SRF were more likely to worsen and those without SRF were more likely to improve. Fifteen of the 70 patients (21%) at baseline had primary surgery and a further 10 had deferred surgery within 1 year of presentation; 19 of these 25 eyes (76%) showed anatomic success with a dry fovea at 1 year of follow-up, and 15 (60%) had a greater than 0.1 logMAR improvement in visual acuity.

CONCLUSION

The incidence and presenting features of ODPM were defined. Patients with SRF had worse vision and were more likely to deteriorate than patients with intraretinal fluid only. Surgery was anatomically successful in 75% of cases. Patients without SRF tended to remain stable with observation.

Micropulse laser for persistent optic disc pit maculopathy. A case report

Purpose

Optic disc pits (ODP) are rare and congenital anomalies of the optic disc, sometimes remaining asymptomatic. However, serous macular detachment or optic disc maculopathy is the most common complication, causing significant visual deterioration, without a current consensus about treatment. We describe a case of ODP maculopathy that was treated successfully with micropulse laser.

Observations

A patient with ODP maculopathy remained with macular serous detachment after nine months of follow up after pars plana vitrectomy. Subthreshold micropulse laser was used to treat macular serous detachment, achieving a significant improvement in central macular thickness after one session.

Conclusions and importance

Subthreshold micropulse laser is designed to stimulate the retinal pigment epithelium without damage to the photoreceptors, resulting in absorption of subretinal and intraretinal fluid. Macular serous detachment in patients with ODP requires a prompt diagnosis and treatment to avoid damage to photoreceptors. Subthreshold micropulse laser is a potential treatment for eyes with ODP and macular serous detachment complication.

Role of the Epipapillary Membrane in Maculopathy Associated with Cavitary Optic Disc Anomalies: Morphology, Surgical Outcomes, and Histopathology

Purpose

To evaluate the surgical outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with epipapillary membrane removal in patients with maculopathy associated with cavitary optic disc anomalies.

Methods

Eight patients (8 eyes) with cavitary optic disc anomaly-associated maculopathy who underwent PPV with epipapillary membrane removal were retrospectively reviewed. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and macular and papillary morphologies using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) were evaluated before and after treatment. Immunohistochemistry for an intraoperatively excised epipapillary membrane tissue was also performed.

Results

Before surgery, EDI-OCT revealed that epipapillary membrane was observed in all patients. Retinoschisis was resolved with no recurrence in all patients following vitrectomy regardless of a disease type or the presence or absence of preoperative posterior vitreous detachment. The mean final BCVA and central retinal thickness significantly improved compared with pretreatment values (P = 0.008 and 0.004, resp.). Immunoreactivity for S100 protein and glial fibrillary acidic protein, markers of astrocytes, was positive in the resected membrane tissues.

Conclusions

These results suggest that epipapillary membrane is involved in the pathogenesis of some patients with cavitary optic disc anomaly-associated maculopathy as well as posterior hyaloid membrane. PPV with epipapillary membrane removal may be a useful treatment option for this maculopathy. This trial is registered with UMIN000011123.

Macular retinoschisis in eyes with glaucomatous optic neuropathy: Vitrectomy and natural course

PURPOSE

Our purpose was to determine the effectiveness of vitrectomy in resolving the macular retinoschisis in an eye with glaucomatous optic neuropathy and also to determine the natural course of macular retinoschisis.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case series of patients who were diagnosed with macular retinoschisis and glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Fourteen eyes of 13 patients were studied. Patients with high myopia, vitreomacular traction syndrome, and the pit macular syndrome were excluded.

RESULTS

There were three men and ten women, and 12 had unilateral and one had bilateral macular retinoschisis. Vitrectomy was performed for a serous retinal detachment, macular hole, or severe visual loss in five eyes. The mean follow-up time was 68.8 months in these five eyes, and the macular retinoschisis was resolved and the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at the final visit was significantly improved in all eyes (P = 0.007). However, two of these fiv e eyes developed a macular hole and required a second vitrectomy. Of the nine eyes without treatment with a mean follow-up time of 29.0 months, the BCVA at the final visit remained unchanged from the baseline BCVA in all eyes. The macular retinoschisis was resolved or reduced in three eyes without treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Vitrectomy was effective for the resolution of macular retinoschisis in eyes with glaucomatous optic neuropathy and serous retinal detachment or macular hole or severe reduction of the BCVA. Macular retinoschisis can be resolved without a reduction of the BCVA in some cases without treatment.

VITRECTOMY FOR MACULAR RETINOSCHISIS WITHOUT A DETECTABLE OPTIC DISK PIT

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of vitrectomy in the treatment of macular retinoschisis without a detectable optic disk pit.

METHODS

This retrospective interventional case series included eight patients with acquired, unilateral macular retinoschisis with or without foveal detachment. Patients with an optic disk pit, vitreomacular traction, or high myopia were excluded. Six of the eight patients underwent vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling and fluid-air exchange. The surgical outcome was evaluated in terms of the improvement in the macular anatomy and the best-corrected visual acuity.

RESULTS

During vitrectomy, all the six eyes were confirmed to have preexisting posterior vitreous detachment. Macular retinoschisis was resolved or reduced in all the six eyes after vitrectomy. The mean central foveal thickness showed significant improvement at the time of the patient's final visit after vitrectomy. The mean best-corrected visual acuity was 20/52 before surgery and 20/31 at the final visit.

CONCLUSION

Vitrectomy might be effective for the treatment of macular retinoschisis without an optic disk pit. Although clinically similar to optic pit maculopathy except for the absence of pit, our intraoperative observations of the posterior hyaloid membrane suggest that maculopathy without optic disk pit has a distinct pathogenesis.

Multicenter study of pars plana vitrectomy for optic disc pit maculopathy: MACPIT study

PurposeTo evaluate surgical intervention with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for correction of optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M).Patients and methodsRetrospective chart review from 13 centres of 51 eyes of 50 patients with ODP-M who underwent PPV between 2002-2014. Anatomic and final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes were evaluated for all cases with different adjuvant techniques.ResultsThere were 23 males and 27 females with median age 25.5 (6-68) years. Preoperative median foveal thickness was 694.5 (331-1384) μm and improved to 252.5 (153-1405) μm. Median BCVA improved from 20/200 (20/20000 to 20/40) to 20/40 (20/2000 to 20/20) with 20/40 or better in 31 eyes. Complete retinal reattachment was achieved in 44 eyes (86.3%) at 7.1 (5.9) months. The good surgical outcomes were achieved in different adjuvant groups. Median follow-up was 24 (6 to 120) months.ConclusionsThese results confirm the long-term effectiveness of PPV for ODP-M. Prospective studies are needed to determine the effectiveness of any adjuvant technique in improving the success of PPV for ODP-M.

Use of Evicel Fibrin Sealant in Optic Disc Pit-Associated Macular Detachment

Optic disc pit is a rare congenital anomaly of the optic nerve. Retinal detachment is a common complication with poor outcomes. Many surgical alternatives have been described for the treatment of this condition, producing variable results. Herein, the authors describe four cases of optic disc pit-associated macular detachment managed with pars plana vitrectomy, fluid-air exchange, drainage of subretinal fluid through the optic disc pit, temporal peripapillary laser, and application of Evicel fibrin sealant (human) (Ethicon, Bridgewater, NJ) over the optic disc head. Case 1 showed stable visual acuity and improvement of subretinal fluid. Cases 2 and 3 showed visual acuity and subretinal fluid improvements. At the 1-week follow-up visit, Case 4 showed almost total subretinal fluid absorption. The sealant invariably disappeared between 1 and 2 weeks and was tolerated by all patients. This case series suggests that Evicel fibrin sealant may be considered as an adjunctive option in the surgical treatment of optic disc pit-associated maculopathy. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:358-363.].

Refined Internal Limiting Membrane Inverted Flap Technique for Intractable Macular Detachment with Optic Disc Pit

Purpose

To report a surgical technique for retinal detachment associated with optic disc pit (ODP) by using an internal limiting membrane (ILM) inverted flap as an obstacle between the vitreous cavity and subretinal space.

Case Presentation

A 43-year-old man presented with decreased visual acuity in the right eye for 1 week due to macular detachment associated with ODP. After 2 unsuccessful surgeries, the retina was reattached by vitrectomy with an ILM inverted flap onto the ODP.

Conclusion

Covering the pit with an inverted ILM flap is a reliable method for intercepting fluid from the vitreous cavity. Immediate absorption of subretinal fluid may lead to early macular attachment. This technique would be effective in managing ODP.

Formation of an Intraretinal Fluid Barrier in Cavitary Optic Disc Maculopathy

PURPOSE

Cavitary optic disc maculopathy develops when fluctuating pressure gradients along anomalous communications in the optic nerve head induce migration of fluid into the adjacent retinal tissue. We sought to determine whether carefully titrated laser photocoagulation combined with vitrectomy and gas tamponade can safely create an effective intraretinal barrier to fluid egress from the optic disc cavitation.

DESIGN

Retrospective interventional case series.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated medical records and imaging studies of 22 consecutive patients with cavitary disc maculopathy evaluated by a single surgeon between 1991 and 2014. Patients requiring surgery underwent carefully titrated juxtapapillary laser photocoagulation followed immediately by vitrectomy and gas tamponade. Main outcome measures were change in visual acuity, macular fluid resolution, and recurrence of maculopathy.

RESULTS

Eleven patients (11 eyes) had undergone vitreous surgery and were included in the study. No preoperative evidence for vitreous traction on the optic disc or macula was seen in any eye. Nine patients underwent a single surgery and 2 patients required additional procedures to resolve the macular fluid. Mean length of follow-up after the last surgery was 48.2 months (range, 4-143 months). All 11 patients (100%) had complete resolution of macular fluid, with an average time to resolution of 8.5 months (range, 1-18 months). Only 1 of 11 patients (9%) had recurrence of macular fluid (14 months postoperatively). The average preoperative visual acuity of 20/125 (logMAR 0.81, standard deviation [SD] = 0.36) improved by nearly 4 lines to an average final visual acuity of 20/57 (logMAR 0.45, SD = 0.37) (P = .0072). A possible laser-induced central scotoma was suspected in only 1 patient who had undergone extensive prior laser treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

An effective intraretinal barrier to fluid migration from cavitary optic disc anomalies can be safely achieved in most patients with carefully titrated juxtapapillary laser photocoagulation combined with vitrectomy and gas tamponade. Once achieved, the barrier facilitates resolution of macular fluid and long-term avoidance of recurrent maculopathy.

Vitrectomy for bilateral macular schisis without apparent optic disc anomalies

A 78-year-old man complained of bilateral visual acuity loss. Optical coherence tomography examination showed bilateral macular schisis with fluid accumulation in the external retinal layers without vitreous traction. Fundus examination and fluorescein angiography were normal in both eyes. Both eyes were treated by phacoemulsification, intraocular lens implantation, and vitrectomy without laser, gas exchange, or retinal fenestration. Slow and progressive fluid resorption and improvement in VA were observed in both eyes.

Macular schisis similar to the one associated with optic disc anomalies is a possibility in patients without apparent disc anomalies. Vitrectomy without laser, gas, or retinal fenestration may be a good therapeutic option even in patients with a PVD preoperatively.

LONG-TERM OUTCOMES OF RADIAL OPTIC NEUROTOMY FOR MANAGEMENT OF OPTIC DISK PIT MACULOPATHY

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term outcomes of radial optic neurotomy (RON) in patients with optic disk pit maculopathy and to compare the functional and anatomical outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with temporal side single RON versus PPV without RON.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 15 eyes of 15 consecutive patients who had surgery for optic disk pit maculopathy. Patients were followed for 12 to 115 months after surgery. Anatomical and functional results were evaluated with optical coherence tomography, MP-1 microperimetry in the central 20°, and measurement of best-corrected visual acuity. Descriptive statistical methods, Friedman chi-square test, post hoc Dunn test, Mann-Whitney test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and Fisher's exact test were used to determine the best-corrected visual acuity and MP-1 microperimetry differences between time points and to compare the results between the two treatment groups.

RESULTS

Two male and 5 female patients with a mean age 23.3 ± 8.7 (±standard error) years at presentation had PPV and silicone oil or gas tamponade with RON. Best-corrected visual acuity did not deteriorate after the operation in any of the eyes, and improved in 6 (86%) eyes (3 ± 2 lines). After surgery, complete resolution of fluid in the central macula was observed in 6 (86%) eyes. Five male and 3 female patients with a mean age 28.2 ± 8.2 years at presentation had PPV, posterior vitreous detachment, with or without juxtapapillary laser treatment, and silicone oil or gas tamponade. Best-corrected visual acuity did not deteriorate after the operation in any of the eyes, and improved in 5 (62.5%) eyes (2 ± 0.7 lines). After surgery, fluid in the central macula resolved completely in 4 (50%) eyes.

CONCLUSION

Pars plana vitrectomy with temporal side, single RON seems to be an effective method of managing optic disk pit maculopathy. The anatomical and functional improvements, without additional treatment or complication during the follow-up period, indicate that RON might be an alternative treatment approach to PPV alone for optic disk pit maculopathy.

Optic disc pit maculopathy: when and how to treat? A review of the pathogenesis and treatment options

Optic disc pit (ODP) is a rare congenital anomaly of the optic disc, which can be complicated by a maculopathy associated with progressive visual loss. Optic disc pits are usually unilateral and sporadic in occurrence, and the development of maculopathy is unpredictable with no known triggers. Optic disc pit maculopathy (ODP-M) is characterized by intraretinal and subretinal fluid at the macula, causing visual deterioration. The source of this fluid is still unclear, and several competing theories have suggested it may be vitreous fluid, cerebrospinal fluid, leakage from blood vessels at the base of the pit or leakage from the choroid. The mechanism of pathogenesis of ODP-M has not been fully elucidated, but vitreous liquefaction and traction and pressure gradients within the eye have been implicated to be involved. There are no clear guidelines on the management of patients with ODP-M, and numerous techniques have been described, including laser photocoagulation, intravitreal gas injection, macular buckling and pars plana vitrectomy with many different modifications. The majority of reports describe small series, and as there are no comparative studies there is no consensus regarding the optimal treatment for ODP-M. This review discusses the literature on the possible sources of fluid and mechanisms of pathogenesis in ODP-M, as well as the wide array of treatment modalities and their results. Based on these, a set of recommended key concepts for the timing and choice of treatment for these challenging are presented.