Experimental Study And Clinical Application Of Limited Macular Translocation

PURPOSE: By using a newly developed animal model of limited macular translocation (LMT) in rabbit eyes, to explore the physiological mechanism, techniques, indications and complications of LMT, to investigate the factors determining the predictability of anatomic translocation, and then to perform clinical study of LMT based on this research.METHODS: First, for establishment of a simple and effective vitrectomy in animal study, 0.3 mL perfluoropropane (C₃F₈) were injected into vitreous cavity of rabbit eyes in experimental group two weeks prior to the surgery. The C3F8-injected of vitreous body was observed, in terms of liquefaction and posterior vitreous detachment. Vitrectomy was then performed in C3F8-injected and none-injected groups to compare operative time, complications and residual vitreous collagen fibers examined by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM).Second, a modified LMT in rabbit eyes with aid of C₃F₈-mediated vitrectomy was carried out. The postoperative retinal translocation (distance and direction) and complications were analyzed. In a separated group, the impact on postoperative corneal astigmatism was studied after release of scleral shortening sutures 1 month after LMT. In order to study how to manage neuroretina-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) adhesion in LMT, retinas and choroids in 4 pigmented rabbit eyes were pretreated with photocoagulation.Finally, LMT was performed in two patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (SCNV) due to Age-Related Macular Degenration. Comprehensive follow-up was conducted up to 120 days and 40 days, respectively.RESULTS: First, 2 weeks after C₃F₈ injection, vitreous body became liquefied...