International Journal of Ophthalmology Press -->Clinical Research

Standard coaxial phaco microincision cataract surgery: a corneal endothelium study

Alessandro Franchini,Saverio Frosini and Vieri Boddi

To assess whether the new microincision cataract surgery (MICS) induces less endothelium damages than the standard coaxial phacoemulsification. · METHODS: Two hundred consecutive patients affected by age-related cataract were randomly assigned to undergo phacoemulsification using either standard coaxial phaco (SCP) or MICS. Central cornea and 12 o'clock endothelial cell count, cell size variation coefficient, percentage of hexagonality and central cornea thickness were measured before and up to one year after surgery. · RESULTS: One hundred and seventy-three patients completed the trial. At the one-year follow-up visit, the loss of endothelium cells was 6.5204% in the MICS group and 8.726% in the SCP group (P <0.00005). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of coefficient of variation in cell size, percentage of hexagonal cells, corneal thickness the day after surgery and variation of endothelial cell density measured both at the incision site and at the central cornea. In patients with hard cataracts, the increase in endothelial cell density loss was higher indepen- dently of the procedure. · CONCLUSION: MICS induces a significant lower endothelial cell density loss than SCP.

Risk factors for anterior chamber membrane forma- tion after phacoemulsification

Ayse Gul Kocak Altintas,M Alpaslan Anayol and aban Simsek

To investigate the risk factors for the development of membrane formation in the anterior chamber after phacoemulsification. METHODS: A total of 1 356 patients who underwent phacoemulsification with implantation of single piece polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) IOL were prospectively evaluated. Presence of pseudoexfoliation syndrome, nuclear hardness, pupil size, phaco time, effective phaco time, systemic diseases, postoperative complications (capsulorhexis rupture, zonular dialysis, posterior capsule rupture with vitreous loss), location of IOL placement and postoperative complications(intraocular pressurechanges, synechiaformation) were analyzed as risk factors for development of membrane formation. ·RESULTS: In 111 (8.1%) patients postoperative fibrinous anterior uveitis with membrane formation was observed. The mean time for membrane formation was postoperative second day (range postoperative 1^st and 7^th day). Mean duration of the presence of membrane was 5.2 days (range 1 to 48 days). Among the patients who had membrane formation, +4 hardness of the nucleus was present in 45%, while it was present in only 13.5% of patients who did not have membrane formation. The difference was statistically significant ( <0.05). In the membrane-forming group, mean phaco time was 2.4 minutes and mean effective phaco time was 32.8 seconds, compared to 1.8 minutes and 22.1 seconds in the membrane-free group. Both parameters were significantly longer in the membrane-forming group ( <0.05). Posterior capsule rupture with vitreous loss and sulcus implantation of IOL was seen in 33% of membrane-forming patients and in 11%of membrane-free patients ( <0.05). Other risk factors were not statistically different between membrane-forming and membrane-free patients. On postoperative first and 7^th day, the mean best corrected visual acuity in the membraneforming group was 0.2 and 0.4 respectively, versus 0.4 and 0.6 in the membrane-free group on Snellen chard ( <0.05). But three months after surgery, the best corrected visual acuity was similar between the membrane-forming and membrane- free patients (0.8 and 0.9 respectively). ·CONCLUSION: Higher nucleus hardness, longer phaco time and effective phaco time, and posterior capsule rupture during surgery are risk factors which significantly associated with postoperative fibrinous membrane formation in the anterior chamber.

Vitrectomy results in proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Jie Luan,Fumitaka Ando,Hirosi Hirose and Osumu Yasui

To evaluate the effectiveness of vitrectomy on eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). · METHODS: A total of 139 eyes of 93 cases with PDR underwent vitrectomy and were followed up for 3-24 months (16.72±8.53 months; mean±SD). The visual acuity and the factors causing recurrence of operation were analyzed. · RESULTS: The visual acuity was improved in 98 eyes (70.50%) after vitrectomy. The mean postoperative visual acuity was significantly better than the mean preoperative visual acuity. The main reasons for the failure of operation were retinal detachment and maculopathy. · CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that vitrectomy is generally an effective procedure in treating PDR

Low vision aid in exudative macular degeneration treated by photodynamic therapy and thermal laser photocoagulation

Montero JA,Ruiz-Moreno JM,Sanchez -de Castro MJ and Fabiani C

To determine the efficacy of low vision rehabilitation (LVR) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) treated by photodynamic therapy (PDT) compared to those treated by thermal laser photocoagulation (TLP). · METHODS: A retrospective study was performed examining the files of 42 patients (42 eyes) with AMD who had been treated either by TLP (Group 1) and PDT (Group 2). Once AMD was considered to be inactive they underwent visual rehabilitation in the LVR Unit in order to increase their ability for distant and near vision. · RESULTS: Eighteen eyes had received PDT and 24 had received TLP. Average corrected visual acuity after laser therapy was 0.14 in Group 1, and 0.16 in Group 2. No statistically significant differences were found between both groups before and after laser therapy. Both groups showed improvement after LVR; however, statistically significant differences between both groups were found only for near vision. · CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that even though both PDT and TLP are associated to a decreased visual acuity after treatment, LVR may be more successful for near vision among patients treated by PDT

Pterygium surgery: amniotic membrane or conjunc- tival autograft transplantation

Mohammad Reza Besharati,Seyed Ali Mohammad Miratashi and Amir Bahrami Ahmadi

To compare the outcomes of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) with conjunctival autograft transplantation (CAT) in primary and recurrent pterygium. · METHODS: This study was designed as a prospective study on consecutive cases of pterygium from April 2004 to February 2006. The cases were randomly divided into two groups of AMT (26 cases) and CAT (24 cases). All subjects were operated with an extensive excision of the fibro vascular tissues with AMT or CAT approach. Patients were followed for recurrence and complications for 24 months. The surgical procedures were performed by a single surgeon. The associations between demographic variables, surgical techniques (AMT, CAT), recurrences and postoperative complications were analyzed. · RESULTS: The patients' male to female ratio was 4:1. Involvement of right to left eye ratio was 3:2. Pterygium in 70% of cases was primary and in 30% was recurrent. The most common clinical signs were red eye and reduced visual acuity while the most common complications were recurrence and corneal scar. In the first month of follow up, the recurrence rates in AMT and CAT approaches were 3.8% vs 8.3% respectively and these rates increased to 46.2% vs 25% respectively after 24 months of follow up. · CONCLUSION: The success rate of 2 years follow up was better in CAT technique. The AMT technique for pterygium surgery has an unacceptably high recurrence rate.

Ｍacular hole surgery ｗithor ｗithout internal liｍiting ｍeｍbrane peeling

Alvin K H Kwok and timothy Y Y Lai

to comParethe anatomical and visualoutcome in Primary idioPathic macular hole surgery withor without indocyanine green (ICG) stained internal limiting membrane (ILM) Peeling. ·METHODS:the medical recordsofthe 40 consecutive eyes receiving Primary idioPathic macular hole surgery with gas as internaltamPonade Performed by a single surgeon were retrosPectively reviewed and analyzed. All eyes had a follow-uPof at least 6 months. Inthe initial 22 consecutive eyes, no ILM Peeling was Performed (non-ILM Peeling grouP).the subsequent 18 eyes underwent surgery with ICG stained ILM Peeling (ILM Peeling grouP). ·RESULTS:the Primary anatomical closure rates were 88.9% and 59.1% inthe ILM Peeling grouP and non-ILM Peeling grouP, resPectively.the difference was statistically significant (Fisher's exacttest, P =0.038). ImProvement in visual acuity was more marked inthe ILM Peeling grouPthan inthe non-ILM Peeling grouP, with a mean imProvementof 3.6 and 1.3 lines resPectively (two-tailedt -test, P =0.036).there were significantly more cases with imProvementoftwoor more linesof visual acuity after surgery, with 66.7% inthe ILM Peeling grouP and 31.8% non-ILM Peeling grouP (Chi-squaretest, P = 0.028). However,there was no significant difference inthe final PostoPerative logMAR best corrected visual acuity(BCVA) betweenthetwo grouPs (two-tailedt -test, P =0.073). ·CONCLUSION: Basedonthis study, ICG stained ILM Peeling seemsto imProvethe anatomical and visualoutcome in Primary idioPathic macular hole surgery. Further studies inthis asPect are warranted.

Neuroprotective effects of erigeron breviscapus (vant.) hand-ｍazzon glaucoｍa—a ｍulti-center clinicaltrial

to evaluatethe neuroProtective effectsof a Chinese herbal drug, erigeron breviscaPus (vant.) hand-mazz (EBHM),on glaucoma Patients with controlled intraocular Pressure (IOP) after surgical and/or medicaltheraPies. ·METHODS: Atotalof 99 Primary glaucoma Patients (113 eyes) with medicallyor surgically controlled IOP were givenorally either EBHMor Placebo for 6 months andthen evaluated in a multi-center, ProsPective, randomized and double masked clinicaltrial by quantifyingthe visual field changes using visual field defect scoring (VFDS). ·RESULTS: After 2, 4, 6 monthsoftreatment,the VFDS in EBHM GrouP (66 eyes/55 Patients) decreased by 0.44±1.60, 1.27±2.16 and 1.42±2.37 resPectively, indicating atime- dePendent imProvementof visual field uPon EBHMtreatment, whereasthe VFDS in Placebo Control GrouP (47 eyes/47 Patients) decreased by -0.02±1.5, 0.68±1.73 and 0.40±1.57 resPectively. Statistically,the differencesof VFDS betweenthetwo grouPs were significant (P <0.05) at 2 and 4 months, and highly significant at 6 monthsoftreatment (P = 0.007).the average IOP in both grouPs was 15mmHg (range 8-18mmHg) duringthe Periodofthe study (P >0.05). No serious side effects were rePorted in glaucoma Patientson EBHM. ·CONCLUSION: EBHM aPPearedto be safe and effective in neuroProtection for Patients with glaucoma. More studies are neededto determinethe safety and effectivenessof longer-term EBHMtreatment.

Risk factors for corneal graft failure and rejection in penetrating ｋeratoplasty

Yan-Feng Yang,Yi-Fei Huang,Li-Qiang Wang,Dong-Fang Yin and Kun Zhang

to evaluate risk factorsof graft failure and allograft rejection after Penetrating keratoPlasty (PK). ·METHODS: Clinical dataof PKson 224 eyes (212 Patients) from 1996to 2006 were studied retrosPectively.the graft survival rate and rejection-free survival rateover 10 years were estimated with KaPlan-Meir's lifetable, and differences between levelsof each factor were comPared with log-ranktest. Cox regression was also Performedto further assessthe imPactof related clinical factorsonthe Prognosisofthe corneal graft. ·RESULTS:theoverall ratesof graft survival and rejection-free graft survival at 10 years after PK were 81.4% and 78.2% resPectively. Relatively higher riskof graft failure was associated with corneal vascularization, regraft, aPhakiaor PseudoPhakia, Presenceof anterioror Posterior synechia, long (≥90 minutes )oPerationtime andolder (≥60 years) ageof reciPient. Relatively higher riskof rejection was associated with corneal vascularization and longoPerationtime. Cox regression analysis showed corneal vascularization（RR = 2.46, P =0.04）, regraft (RR =5.67,P <0.01), aPhakia (RR = 3.64,P <0.05),or PseudoPhakia (RR =6.83,P <0.01), Presenceof anterior (RR =2.76,P = 0.05)or Posterior synechia (RR =3.12, P =0.05) were indePendent risk factors for corneal graft failure. ·CONCLUSION:the risk factors for graft failure after PK were corneal vascularization, regraft, aPhakiaor PseudoPhakia, Presenceof anterioror Posterior synechia.the risk factors after PK for allograft rejection were corneal vascularization and longoPerationtime.

Stress and continuous relaxation spectrum of porcine cornea after LASIK

Xue-Jun Fang,Yan-Chun Xu,Tian-Yu Shi,Li Zhang and Zi-Fan Li

AIM: To explore the characteristic of relaxation of porcine cornea after LASIK. · METHODS: Usual LASIK was performed on fresh porcine corneas with stable intraoculer pressure(IOP) maintained through optic nerve irrigation . The ablation depth on stroma is 30%, 50% and 70% respectively. Then the dumbbell- shaped corneal strip specimens were cut and stored in 20% Human Albumin solution for use (4oC).Sip up the Albumin solution on specimens, and fixed them on homemade jig. Stress relaxation tests were performed on Tytron250 Dynamics Experiment System. The loading speed was 385mm/min，extending rate was 1.5, and relaxation time was 1 000s. The data were collected electronically and automatically. · RESULTS: In LASIK procedure, though a single flap-cutting can cause a little reduction of corneal stress relaxation (P < 0.05, P =0.49), the cornea may still remain its property of visco-elasticity. When ablation depth was 30% or more, corneal stress relaxation decreased to almost one half (P < 0.01).The change of corneal stress relaxation degree in vertical meridian specimen was lower than that in horizontal specimen, especially when ablation depth was 70%, and it's statistically significant（P <0.001）. In LASIK operation, the more depth the ablation, the more reduce the stress relaxation degree, and it’s easy to cause deformation and creep deformation. · CONCLUSION: The changes of the stress relaxation in vertical and longitudinal meridian specimens are similar, and slightly obvious in longitudinal specimen, especially in 70% ablation group.

Combined scleral buckle and vitrectomy as a primary surgery for pseudophakic and aphakic retinal detachments

Bo Qin,Li-Na Huang,Tie-Ying Zhao and Hong-Bo Cheng

AIM: To determine whether a combined scleral buckle and pars plana vitrectomy, as a primary surgery, owns any advantage over a single scleral buckling in pseudophakic and aphakic retinal detachments. · METHODS: Thirty consecutive pseudophakic/aphakic retinal detachments were included in this retrospective study. Each patient underwent combined scleral buckle and pars plana vitrectomy, and was followed up for 3 to 14 months. Patients were examined with respect to anatomic reattachment, visual acuity improvement, and surgical complications. · RESULTS: All eyes were anatomically reattached after the first operation. All patients had an increase in their visual acuity, and there were no complications attributable to the vitrectomy procedure. · CONCLUSION: A combined surgery for primary pseudophakic/ aphakic retinal detachments offers significant benefits to scleral buckling alone. The improved success rate is contributing to the function of vitrectomy, which improves peripheral visibility and reduces the occurrence of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR).

Application of a modified pars plana lensectomy within traumatic eyes

Yue Zhang,Wan-Rong Huang and Shi Zhang

AIM: To investigate a surgical method of modified lensectomy within combined lensectomy and vitrectomy surgery in traumatic eyes. · METHODS: Clinical records were studied retrospectively for a series of consecutive 27 traumatic patients who were performed vitrectomy combined with lensectomy surgery. A modified lensectomy through pars plana incision of sclera was performed to these cases and lens capsule was reserved. It was then combined with vitreous and retinal operations. · RESULTS: All lens were removed completely with lens capsule remained. All cases achieved improved visual acuity. Intraocular pressure (IOP) in all eyes was in normal range after surgery. · CONCLUSION: The modified lensectomy is a safe and effective surgery manner which has few complications and is more suitable for traumatic eyes in the combined lensectomy and vitrectomy surgery.

Improving quality of vision with an anterior surface modified prolate intraocular lens: A prospective clinical trial

V Subrayan,E Mavrikakis and J A Bell

AIM: To compare the optical performance of the anterior surface modified prolate Tecnis Z9000 IOL with the standard 911A IOL in terms of contrast sensitivity outcomes. · METHODS: The Tecnis Z9000 silicone IOL shares the same basic characteristics with the 911A IOL including a 12.0mm overall diameter, 3-piece equiconvex 6.0mm optic and angulated cap C polyvinylidene fluoride haptics. This is a randomized prospective study that involved ten consecutive patients (20 eyes) with bilateral cataracts. Each patient underwent phacoemulsification and received randomly the Tecnis Z9000 IOL in one eye and the control (911A IOL) in the fellow eye within 6 weeks period of one another. Contrast sensitivity was measured after six postoperative weeks. The collected data were analyzed through using Mann Whitney U test. · RESULTS: The mean pre-operative best spectacle corrected Snellen visual acuity in the eyes that were randomly selected to receive the Tecnis IOL was 6/8.5 (0.70) and in the eye selected to receive the 911A IOL was 6/9.4(0.64). Postoperatively all 20 eyes achieved best corrected Snellen visual acuity of 6/6 (1.0). Postoperative contrast sensitivity testing showed statistically significant differences (P <0.05) between the two IOLs at 12 and 18 cpd under photopic, at 1.5 and 3 cpd under mesopic, and at 1.5 and 3 cpd under mesopic with glare conditions. · CONCLUSION: The Tecnis Z9000 IOL proved to have statistically significant superior contrast sensitivity to the 911A IOL at high spatial frequencies under photopic conditions and at low spatial frequencies under mesopic and mesopic with glare conditions.

Indications for penetrating keratoplasty in west Malaysia

S C Reddy and I Tajunisah

AIM: To determine the indications for penetrating keratoplasty in Malaysia and to compare the leading indications with recently published data from other countries. · METHODS: A retrospective review of the medical records of all patients who underwent penetrating keratoplasty at Medical Centre, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia over a period of fifteen years (1991/2005) was done. The gender, age, race of patients, eye operated, indication for surgery were noted from the records, and analyzed. · RESULTS: A total of 125 penetrating keratoplasties were performed in 105 patients (male 71 and female 34; Chinese 55, Indians 33, and Malays 17; unilateral 85 and bilateral 20) during the study period. The mean age of patients was 51.3 years (range 13-79 years). The indications for penetrating keratoplasty were pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (28.8%), corneal scar (20.0%), keratoconus (17.6%), regrafts (9.6%), corneal dystrophies (8.8%) and corneal perforations (7.2%). · CONCLUSION: Pseudophakic bullous keratopathy is the most common indication for penetrating keratoplasty in Malaysia. The three leading indications (pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, corneal scar and keratoconus) in our study are similar to many countries in the world, but they differ in the order of frequency from some countries.

Primary chronic angle-closure glaucoma in younger patients

Xiu-Lan Zhang,Ang Li,Lei-Lei Teng,Shao-Lin Du,Yun-Yun Zhu and Jian Ge

AIM: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of management in younger patients with primary chronic angle-closure glaucoma (PCACG). ·METHODS: Thirty-eight patients (50 eyes) aged 40 or younger with confirmed diagnosis of PCACG in advanced or late stage who received surgical treatment in Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center from January 2000 to December 2005 were retrospectively investigated. All patients underwent trabeculectomy. The mean follow-up was 23.6± 7.5 months. Full ophthalmic examinations were performed. The clinical outcomes including clinical presentations, surgical results and complications were evaluated. ·RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 33.5± 6.1 years old. There was a female preponderance (60.5%). The mean axial length was 22.4 ± 3.5mm with 18.0% short axis of eyeball and 14% nanophthalmos. There was 60.0% flat anterior chamber depth (<1.9mm). Ultrasonic Biomicroscopy identified that plateau iris was the most common underlying etiology (80.6% ). There was a statistically significant differenceinintraocular pressure(IOP) reductionpostoperatively preoperatively ( <0.001). Four eyes failed to control IOP and received second filtration surgery. The main postoperative complications included shallow anterior chamber (20.0%) and malignant glaucoma (12.0%). ·CONCLUSION: The younger PCACG patients in advanced or late stage can be effectively managed by trabeculectomy. They have more frequency of postoperative sustained shallow anterior chamber and malignant glaucoma. Careful ophthalmic examinations, delicate surgical procedures and well-managed technique of complications were suggested on younger PCACG patients

Recombinant tissue plasminogen activator for treatment of fibrinous membranes after cataract surgery

AIM: To investigate the efficacy of recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) for treatment of fibrinous membranes following cataract surgery. · METHODS: 25μg of TPA was injected into the anterior chamber of 15 pseudophakic eyes with moderate to severe fibrinous membranes that developed after cataract surgery. Simultaneously, topical corticosteroid and cycloplegic therapy was continued. Routine follow-up included slit-lamp examination and intraocular pressure measurement. · RESULTS: Injection of the solution of tissue plasminogen activator into anterior chamber of 15 eyes resulted in complete dissolution of the fibrinous membranes in 9 (60.0%) eyes after 2 hours, and 11 (73.3%) eyes within 1 day. In 3 eyes, within a few days after injection, fibrinous membrane recurred. Increased anterior chamber reaction (P =0.54) and corneal edema (P =0.083) were seen after 24 hours. No evidence of toxicity was observed as measured by slit-lamp biomicroscopy and intraocular pressure. Finally, expectable stable result was obtained in all of the eyes. · CONCLUSION: Safety and high efficacy of TPA in the treatment of fibrinous membranes after cataract surgery are confirmed.

Changes of intraocular pressure after intravitreal injection of 4mg triamcinolone acetonide in treatment of macular edema

Li-Li Wang,Hu-Ping Song and Bei Liu

AIM: To investigate the changes of intraocular pressure (IOP) and associated factors of IOP elevation after 4mg intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) in treatment of macular edema. ·METHODS: The study is prospective, consecutive, and non-comparative interventional case series including 93 eyes with macular edema associated with retinal vein occlusion ( =54 eyes) or diabetic retinopathy ( =39 eyes), which received 4mg IVTA injection. The change in IOP was followed for all cases at pre-operation and 14 days, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 months post-operation. Associated factors of IOP elevation were examined regarding baseline IOP, causal disease, age and gender. ·RESULTS: IOP increased significantly ( <0.001) at 14 days 16.02 ± 2.45mmHg after injection and peaked at 18.80 ± 6.20mmHg at 2 months post-injection ( <0.001) from 14.85± 2.55 mmHg preoperatively. An IOP rise to the value higher than 21mmHg was observed in 2 (2.2%) eyes 14 days after injection and which was observed in 14 (15.1%), 18 (19.5%), 9(9.6%), 4(4.3%), 0, and 0 eyes respectively at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 months after injection. One eye (1.07%) showed pressure elevation of over 5mmHg than baseline 14 days after injection and IOP peaked to 22mmHg (23.7%) at 2 months after injection. Five (5.3%) eyes had an increase of 10mmHg at 1 month and IOP peaked to 12mmHg (12.9%) at 2 months after injection. The rise in IOP was statistically associated with younger age (correlation coefficient -0.18- -0.29, <0.05), high baseline IOP (correlation coefficient 0.52-0.79, all <0.001), and the presence of diabetes mellitus (correlation coefficient 0.23, <0.001) but independent of gender (correlation coefficient -0.002-0.04, all >0.05). In all eyes, IOP could be lowered to the normal range with topical medication, without development of glaucomatous optic nerve head changes. ·CONCLUSION: Elevated IOP after 4mg IVTA injection is common and patients should be monitored beyond 6 months post-injection. In all the cases, IOP can be normalized by topical medication. Patients with high baseline IOP, diabetic retinopathy, and younger age should be carefully monitored for an elevated IOP.

Retinopathy of prematurity in a tertiary center in south of Brazil

AIM: To investigate the incidence of retinopathy of prematurity(ROP) in the southern Brazil, the rate of treatment and outcomes in all premature infants born at Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil, from October 2002 to October 2006. · METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted on 323 premature children born at Hospital de Clinicas de Porto Alegre, Brazil, from October 2002 to October 2006 with birth weight equal to or less than 1 500g or a gestational age at birth of 32 weeks or less. All of the newborns were examined by indirect binocular ophthalmoscopy with the 28 diopters lens after pupil's dilation and a lid speculum after the sixth week of life with examinations repeated depending on the disease classification. The main clinical outcome was the occurrence of ROP at any stage. · RESULTS: ROP occurred in 82 infants with an incidence rate of 25.7%. Threshold disease occurred in only 17 of the patients (5.3%), all of them had the disease affecting posterior Zone II needing laser treatment. None of the treated children had Zone I or aggressive posterior disease despite that three of the treated children needed a second laser session. One patient of the re-treated group needed scleral buckling with an equatorial silicon band after progression to stage 4 of ROP. · CONCLUSION: The incidence of retinopathy and the threshold disease in this study was similar to the international results reported. This study showed a high survival rate (70.1%), high incidence of retinopathy, and high laser treatment necessity among newborns under 28 weeks of gestational age or under 1 000g of birth weight. This study drove attention about the no identification of any Zone I posterior disease in this cohort of patients.

Vitrectomy for the treatment of posttraumatic endophthalmitis

Xiao Ma,Zao-Xia Liu,Yi-Fei Huang and Zhao-Hui Li

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of vitrectomy in combination with intravitreal dexamethasone and vancomycin perfusion in the management of severe posttraumatic endophthalmitis. · METHODS: Thirty eyes of 30 cases diagnosed as posttraumatic infectious endophthalmitis were analyzed retrospectively from April 2004 to April 2006. All the patients underwent vitrectomy in combination with intravitreal drugs perfusion and were followed up for 12 to 24 weeks. The visual acuity, traumatic causes and microorganisms culture were analyzed. · RESULTS: There are significant reduction in inflammation at 3 months after surgery. Infectious symptoms were completely controlled in 97% of the cases(29/30). Final visual acuity were improved in 93% of cases (28/30). Among traumatic causes, foreign body is the most common cause (57%). Staphylococcus aureus is the commonest microorganism. · CONCLUSION: Vitrectomy in combination with intravitreal dexamethasone and vancomycin perfusion is the most effective method in the treatment of severe posttraumatic endophthalmitis.

The measurement of anterior chamber depth and axial length with the IOLMaster compared with contact ultrasonic axial scan

Quan-Hao Bai,Jun-Li Wang,Qing-Qiang Wang,Qi-Chang Yan and Jin-Song Zhang

AIM: To compare the measurement of anterior chamber depth (ACD) and axial length (AL) by IOLMaster and contact ultrasonic (US) axial scan (A-scan). · METHODS: Measurements of ACD and AL were prospectively obtained in 137 eyes of 121 subjects with the IOLMaster compared with measurements with the US. · RESULTS: There was an excellent correlation between IOL Master and US measurements for the ACD (r =0.823;P < 0.001) and AL (r =0.996;P <0.001). The mean values of the parameters measured by IOLMaster and US were, respectively, as follows: ACD, 2.94±0.49mm, 2.58±0.51mm; AL, 24.37±3.04mm, 23.81±2.83mm. The mean differences of ACD and AL values between IOLMaster and US measurements were 0.36±0.30mm, 0.56±0.34 mm respectively, and they proved to be statistically significant (P < 0.001), with the 95% limits of agreement (LoA) from -0.08mm to +0.38mm for ACD and from -0.09mm to +0.69mm for AL. · CONCLUSION: As noncontact biometry, IOLMaster provides accurate values. A high degree of agreement between US and IOLMaster was noted. It not only has the advantage of performing noncontact examinations, but also produces various additional data simultaneously and may thus obviate the need for multiple examinations. Further studies are needed to assess the interchangeability of measurements in clinical practice.

Clinical study on "one-stitch anastomosis through the skin" repair of canalicular laceration

AIM：To evaluate the efficacy and safety of "one-stitch anastomosis through the skin" repair of canalicular laceration. METHODS：The data of 32 cases (32 eyes) of canalicular laceration who underwent repair of lacerated canaliculi with one-stitch anastomosis through the skin were retrospectively reviewed, inferior canalicular laceration in 29 patients, superior canalicular laceration in 1 patient, 2 cases involving both the inferior and superior canalicular laceration. All the operations were performed under surgical microscope, 5-0 silk sutures were used and silicone tube of 0.8mm diameter was employed in intubation. The stents were left in place for 3 months postoperatively and then removed. The follow-up period was 1 to 36 months. · RESULTS: In 32 patients, 28(88%) patients were cured entirely, 3 (9%)patients were meliorated, and 1(3%) patient had no effects. A total of 29 patients complied with scheduled follow up 1-36 months (average 12 months) after stent removal, and 3 patients were lost in follow-up. All the patients had got good recovery of eyelid laceration with no traumatic deformity in eyelid and canthus. · CONCLUSION: In "one-stitch anastomosis through the skin" repair of canalicular laceration, the cut ends could be anastomosed directly，for there was no suture remained in the wound permanently, so there was no suture-related granuloma which might cause obstruction or stenosis of canaliculi. It was simple, economical，effective and safe.

Dry eye in post-menopausal Asian women on hormone replacement therapy

B Shaharuddin,S F Ismail-Mokhtar and E Hussein

AIM: To compare the occurrence of dry eye in post- menopausal women between those with hormone replacement therapy and those without hormone replacement therapy (HRT). · METHODS: A comparative cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the occurrence of dry eye in control subjects and those on HRT. Schirmer's test, tear film break-up time and Rose Bengal staining were performed on all participants. · RESULTS: Fifty-four women were examined. Among them 30 (55.6%) were on hormone replacement therapy (Group 2), while the control group consisted of 24 (44.4%) women without any hormone replacement therapy (Group 1). In Group 2 (HRT), 11 patients were on estrogen (Group 2A) and 19 patients were on combined estrogen and progesterone (Group 2B). Dry eye was found in 29.2% of patients in Group 1 (Control) and in 70.0% of patients in Group 2 (HRT) (P = 0.003). In Group 2 (HRT), dry eye was more common in Group 2B, 84.2% compared to Group 2A, 45.5% (P =0.042). · CONCLUSION: Dry eye was found more commonly in post-menopausal women who took HRT in our study. Our finding has negated the previous assumption that HRT is a protective factor against dry eye.

Study of the indications and changing trends of enucleation and evisceration in West Malaysia

I Tajunisah,S C Reddy and S Mas-Ayu

AIM: To study the demographic pattern and indications for enucleation and evisceration in West Malaysia, and to evaluate the changing trends of the same over the past three decades. · METHODS: In a retrospective hospital based study, case records of all patients who underwent enucleation and evisceration at University of Malaya Medical Centre over a period of 20 years (1985/2004) were reviewed. Age, gender, ethnicity of patients, indications for enucleation and evisceration were evaluated. · RESULTS: Out of 160 patients, enucleation was done in one eye in 85 patients and evisceration was done in one eye in 75 patients during the study period. The mean age of patients was 36.4 years with a range of 6 months to 90 years. In our study, panophthalmitis (26.9%) and retinoblastoma (18.8%) were the most common causes of evisceration and enucleation respectively. Infections of the eye contributed to 72.0% of eviscerations while tumors contributed to 51.8% of enucleations. There was a significant decrease in the removal of eyes over the past three decades in our hospital. The number of removal of eyes for glaucoma and trauma-related causes significantly reduced while removal for infection- related causes and painful blind eyes significantly increased when compared to the figures reported three decades ago from our hospital. · CONCLUSION: Panophthalmitis and intraocular tumors are the major indications for the removal of eyes. Although the frequency of removal of eye has significantly decreased over time in our country, the indications for the same suggest that there is a need of further improvement of eye care services in Malaysia.

Clinical features of Graves' ophthalmopathy in Iran

AIM: To determine the clinical characteristics of a prospective study of patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy(GO). · METHODS: We reviewed clinical manifestations, and medical records of 103 patients in whom GO was diagnosed between 2003 and 2005. · RESULTS: Among 103 patients with GO, 48 (46.6%) male and 55 (53.3%) female, with mean age of 45 (range; 18-73) years, 95 (92.2%) patients had Graves' hyperthyroidism, 3 (2.9%) had primary hypothyroidism, and 5 (4.8%) were euthyroid. The mean duration of ocular symptoms was 13.2 (range 2-95) months while the mean duration of dysthyroid symptoms was 39.4 (range 6-180) months. Unilaterality occurred in 12 patients. Eyelid retraction was presented in 90 patients (87%), whereas the approximate frequency of exophthalmos was 77.6% (80 patients); restrictive extraocular myopathy, 29% (30 patients); evidence of extraocular enlargement on CT-scan in 52 patients of 70 patients (74%) that was evaluated, and optic nerve dysfunction, 5.8% (6 patients). 22 (21%) patients had glaucoma associated with GO that 7 (6.7%) of them were normal-tension glaucoma. · CONCLUSION: Eyelid retraction was the most common clinical sign of GO in our patients. Larger prospective studies are suggested to evaluate both the prevalence and possible racial difference in its clinical presentation in Iranian population.

Contrast sensitivity after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy for myopia

Mahmoud Jabbarvand,Javad Bakhshi and Mohammad Taher Rajabi

AIM: To evaluate contrast sensitivity in patients who had undergone uncomplicated excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) for myopia. · METHODS: Monocular contrast sensitivity function was measured with the CSV-I000E chart in 41 patients who had received PRK by the Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser system. Mean preoperative refractive error was -2.62±1.33 D (range, -0.75 to -4.00 D). Contrast sensitivity function was measured preoperatively, 1week, 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery through the CSV-1000E contrast sensitivity unit (VectorVision). · RESULTS: Logarithmic values of contrast sensitivity at each spatial frequency were used for statistical analysis and normalized values were used for graphical representation. Contrast sensitivity decreased 1 week and 1 month postoperatively. Starting from the first month, there was rapid recovery of contrast sensitivity especially at low spatial frequencies, and at the third month, only at 6 and 12 cycles per degree (cpd) statistically significant decrease was seen. Six months after surgery, there was an increase in contrast sensitivity values at all spatial frequencies. · CONCLUSION: Photorefractive keratectomy can induce significant reductions in contrast sensitivity in the first month after surgery; these values returned to the preopereative values at 6 months after surgery.

Early phototherapeutic keratectomy in recurrent corneal erosion

M N Hashemian,S Moghimi,F Rahimi,B Dehsarvi,Z Najmi and M T Rajabi

AIM: To evaluate the morphological and functional outcomes of earlier excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) for treatment of recurrent corneal erosion (RCE). · METHODS: A total of 25 eyes of 23 patients with RCE were enrolled in a prospective non-randomized consecutive study. In all cases, RCEs were unresponsive to conventional treatment methods. No one had experienced stromal puncture or tried contact lens previously. After complete ophthalmologic examination, central excimer laser PTK with ablation depth of 10μm and optical zones of 4-8 mm was performed. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalents (SE) and refractive cylinder (RC) were compared before and after phototherapeutic keratectomy. · RESULTS: Previously 2 patients had undergone epithelial scraping. Duration of disease ranged from 2 months to 3 years prior to PTK (mean=9.3 months). The mean follow-up time was 10.1±5.5 months (4.2-19.2 months). Success rate after PTK, regarding prevention of recurrence was 96% when they were under follow-up. BCVA was also increased from 0.69±0.30 to 0.90±0.23 (P <0.001). Mean SE remained constant with values of 0.41±1.67D preoperatively and 0.35?.63D postoperatively (P =0.26). Mean RC was also improved from -1.22±0.90D preoperatively to -0.57±0.57D postoper- atively (P <0.001). · CONCLUSION: PTK using 193nm excimer laser is an effective and safe choice of treatment for a fast epithelial closure, an increase of visual acuity and alleviating symptoms in most patients with RCE in earlier course of the disease.

A comparison study of the clinical features between Chinese and Indian primary congenital glaucoma patients

Mao Li,Xiao-Ming Chen,Ya-Li Liu,Ru-Gang Pan,Dong-Jing Liu and Ni Li

To summarize the clinical features of Chinese primary congenital glaucoma(PCG) and to investigate the discrepancies of the clinical features between the Chinese and Indian patients. · METHODS: Clinical records of 40 Chinese PCG patients were reviewed. The clinical features were summarized as several quantifiable clinical parameters and the severity of the disease was evaluated. Both the quantified clinical features and severity were statistically compared with those of the Indian patients, which were cited from the previously published articles. · RESULTS: Forty Chinese and 43 Indian patients were included in the study. In Chinese patients, sex ratio (male to female )was about 2:1, family history was presented in 3 patients(7.5%) and consanguinity was found in one patient (2.5%). The main symptoms and signs observed in Chinese patients spanned a wide spectrum of manifestations. The most frequent signs noted in the initial examination were enlarged eyeball (42.5%) and decreased visual acuity(VA)(35.0%). Compared with Indian patients, Chinese patients had a later onset, a delayed diagnosis , more severe corneal changes and more severe optic nerve damages(P <0.01). The combined trabeculectomy and trabeculotomy operation was preferred by both Chinese and Indian doctors whereas a higher proportion of Indian patients received the combined operation (P <0.01). The proportions of the severity grade were different between Chinese and Indian patients. Most Chinese patients were in the severe grade while most Indian patients were in the very severe grade (P <0.01). · CONCLUSION: Chinese PCG patients were sporadic and non-consanguineous. Compared with Indian patients, Chinese patients had a relative later onset, a delayed diagnosis and treatment. More attempts are needed in Chinese PCG prevention and treatment.

Changes in intraocular pressure after topical anaesthetic instillation

To determine the influence of topical anaesthetic drops, age and central corneal thickness (CCT) in the determination of intraocular pressure (IOP) by non contact tonometry (NCT). · METHODS: Ninety-three eyes from 47 patients were examined for CCT and IOP by NCT before and after the instillation of topical anaesthetic drops. · RESULTS: Average age was 66.4 (SD 16, range 34 to 88 years-of-age). Thirty one patients were female and 16 were male. Average basal IOP was 16.0mmHg (SD 4.0, range 8.5 to 26.1). IOP one minute after topical anesthesia instillation was 15.0mmHg (SD 3.8, range 7.7 to 26.7), and 14.9mmHg (SD 3.9, range 7.6 to 26.3) five minutes after the instillation. The differences were statistically significant for the 0 to 1 minute lapse(P =0.0007) and for the 0 to 5 minute lapse (P = 0.0003), but not for the 1 to 5 minute lapse (P =0.27) (Student's t test for paired data). Average CCT before topical anaesthetic drops was 565.4 microns. Simple linear regression analysis demonstrated absence of significant variation between age and IOP changes and between CCT and IOP changes. · CONCLUSION: Our study confirms that the instillation of topical anaesthetics causes a reduction in IOP, which is progressive during the first 5 minutes after instillation. This IOP reduction does not seem to be associated with basal CCT or age.

Early changes of retinal function in diabetic patients detected by multifocal electroretinogram

Mei Wang,Yu-Qing Lan,Yan-Fen Liu,Hui Guo,Zhao-Xia Xia and Zi-Li Zhou

To investigate the early changes of retinal function in diabetic patients detected by multifocal electroretinogram (mfERG). ·METHODS: The first-order kernel responses of mfERG were recorded fromeyes of 33 normal control subjects, 63 diabetic patients without retinopathy and 43 diabetic patients with background retinopathy. The response densities and implicit times of N₁ and P₁ were compared among the control, diabetic patients without retinopathy and diabetic patients with retinopathy. ·RESULTS: The response densities of N1 and P1 in central 3 rings were reduced significantly in diabetic eyes with and without retinopathy. And the implicit times of N₁ and P₁ were delayed significantly only in diabetic eyes with retinopathy. ·CONCLUSION: mfERG can detect the early changes of retinal function quantitatively in diabetic patients. Analysis of response densities and implicit times of N₁ and P₁ can reflect the progress of local retinal dysfunction in diabetes

PFCL and ILM peeling in macular hole with retinal detachment

Nazimul Hussain,Anjli Hussain and Sundaram Natarajan

Evaluation of the acute effect of Sildenafil citrate on visual function in patients with early -stage age related macular degeneration

Neveen Mostafa Sabra Ibrahim,Hisham Aly Hashem and Ahmed Youssef Helal

To assess the effect of a single dose of Sildenafil citrate on the visual function in men with early-stage age related macular degeneration(AMD). · METHODS: Forty men (mean age 71, range from 55-86 years)with early-stage AMD were prospectively randomized to receive either placebo or Sildenafil citrate (Viagra; Pfizer Inc, New York, NY) 100mg as a single oral dose. Subjects underwent visual acuity, Amsler grid and color discrimination in each eye before and at specific intervals within 9 hours after dosing. · RESULTS: Compared with placebo, no pattern of errors were evident in any visual function test following Sildenafil administration. No statistically or clinically relevant changes from baseline were observed in visual acuity or color discrimination. No clinically relevant changes were observed in the Amsler grid. Sildenafil treatment was associated with transient mild or moderate headache and flushing. · CONCLUSION: A single 100mg dose of Sildenafil was well tolerated and produced no significant acute visual effects in a sample of men with early-stage AMD.

Visual outcome after optimized aspheric transition zone laser keratomileusis compared to conventional LASIK

Li Xu,Tao Qian and Yi-Zhuang Li

To compare the visual effects of optimized aspheric transition zone Laser keratomileusis （OATｚ-LASIK ） versus conventional Laser in situ keratomileusis (con. LASIK). METHODS: In a prospective study 44 patients (88 eyes) underwent OAT_ｚ-LASIK and 50 patients (92 eyes) received conventional LASIK surgery. Visual acuity,refractions、contrast sensitivity （CS）, glare sensitivity （GS）, and increment of Q-value after surgery were studied. RESULTS: All of operations on 94 cases were successful without severe complication after 3 months' follow-up. There was no significant difference in term of postoperative refractions between the two groups ( -test). The uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), CS, GS, and increment of Q-value of OAT_ｚgroup were significantly better compared to the tradition group 3 months after the surgery ( <0.05). CONCLUSION: OATｚ- LASIK is a more effective procedure to improve visual quality compared to conventional LASIK

Topographic changes at the optic disc in 33 patients with primary open angle glaucoma

AIM: To show frequency of progression and the progression at the optic disc in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). METHODS: A total of 33 patients (66 eyes), 14 male and 19 female, aged 14 to 79 with POAG were imaged using the Heidelberg Retina Tomography II (HRT II) three or more times during follow-up periods of 6 years (2000-2006). Disc progression was determined by regression analysis of global and segmental changes in optic disc parameters. Every patient was tested by Octopus G1 once a year. Imaged optic disc parameters with scanning laser tomography were: rim area (ra), cup/disc (C/D), rim volume (rv), mean RNFL thickness (mRNFL). Imaged segments of the optic disc were global (G), temporal (T), temporal superior (TS), temporal inferior (TI), nasal (N), nasal superior (NS) and nasal inferior (NI). RESULTS: Global frequency of progression according to c/d ratio existed in 34 eyes (51%), but 32 eyes (48%) were without frequency of progression. Progression existed in 12 eyes (18%) in temporal, 7 eyes (10.6%) in TS, 14 eyes (21%) in TI, 8 eyes (12%) in N, 7 eyes (10.6%) in NS, and 13 eyes (20%) in NI segment. Without progression were 5 eyes (8%). CONCLUSION: Disc progression in our study is mostly in N and TI segments. Most frequently are stricken TI and NI, but most infrequently NS segment. Most sensitive parameter is c/d ratio. Segmental scanning is of importance in POAG progression analysis.

Corneal topography and hyperopia

AIM: To evaluate Orbscan II corneal topography in hyperopic cases. METHODS: A retrospective, observational, consecutive, clinical case series in 295 eyes of hyperopic patients who undergo a LASIK evaluation. The information that was reviewed included age, sex of the patients and the Orbscan II corneal topographic maps. Refractive powers and the following test indices produced by Orbscan II were analyzed: keratometry, corneal diameter, pupil diameter and anterior chamber depth. · RESULTS: The total mean corneal thickness was 546.3±35.5μm. It was found; 547.3±38.4μm in 17-29 years old, 553.4±38.3μm in 30-44 years old and 546.2±29.3μm in older than 45 years old. The mean corneal thickness was found 551.5±35.9μm in female, and 542.6±34.7μm in male. The total mean depth of anterior chamber was 2.57±0.40mm and in 17-29 years old patients was 2.82±0.39mm. In 30- 44 years old patients was 2.49±0.39mm and in patients older than 45 years old was 2.37±0.40mm. The mean depth of anterior chamber was 2.53±0.40mm in female and 2.60±0.40mm in male. A reverse significant relation between corneal thickness and keratometry were found. Refractive error severity had a reverse correlation with depth of anterior chamber and a correlation with keratometry (P =0.061, r = 0.108).Corneal thickness had a reverse correlation with keratometry (P =0.005, r =0.160), and correlation with pupil diameter (P =0.013, r =0.144). · CONCLUSION: We provides a description and analysis of Orbscan II findings in hyperopic patients These show mean corneal thickness 546.3±35.5μm and anterior chamber depth 2.57±0.40mm in hyperopic patients.

Hospital -base epidemiology, risk factors and microbiological diagnosis of bacterial corneal ulcer

AIM: To determine the predisposing factors, clinical and microbial characteristics of bacterial corneal ulcer. METHODS: Three hundred patients (300 eyes) of clinically suspected microbial corneal ulcer were included in the study. Data was collected through history and slit lamp examination. Using standard techniques, corneal scraping was performed. A portion of each scraping was examined by direct microscopy for the presence of bacteria, fungi and acanthamoeba by using 100g/L potassium hydroxideand also by Gramand staining. Another portion was inoculated directly on the surface of solid media such as blood agar, Mac-Conkey agar, chocolate agar and Sabouraud's agar. A bacterial corneal ulcer was defined as a suppurative corneal infiltrate and overlying epithelial defect associated with presence of bacteria on corneal scraping examination and cured with antibacterial therapy. RESULTS: Of the 300 patients, sixty were lost in follow up, they were excluded from study. Of the remaining 240, bacterial corneal ulcer was identified in 156 (65.0%) patients. The age of patients ranged from 14 to 74 (mean age of 48) years. Majority of them were male (102). Corneal localization of the ulcers was distributed as central in 96 (61.5%) patients and peripheral in 60 (38.5%) patients. Ulcer depth in 82 (52.6%) patients was less than 1/3 of corneal thickness. In 64 (41.0%) patients, anterior chamber inflammation was 1+ to 2+ Tyndall effect with 1+ to 2+ cells present. Bacteria were isolated in 125 (80.0%) patients from the corneal smears. Sixty-nine percent of isolated bacteria were Grams' positive, and 39% were Grams' negative. Gram negative bacteria were associated with severe anterior chamber inflammation (P =0.003) and depth more than 2/3 of cornea (P =0.001). The most frequent organism isolated was Staphylococcus aureus. Forty percent of patients had good visual outcome with visual acuity same or better than the level at admission. Among the others 60% patients, final outcome was poor. CONCLUSION: Bacterial corneal ulcer is aserious ocular infectious disease that remains a therapeutic challenge and vision threatening ocular condition. Rapid isolation of bacteria and treatment with intensive ocular antibiotics represent decisive steps in the management of such pathologies.

Reappraisal of the capsulorhexis: tearing angle in capsulorhexis

AIM: To determine the tearing angle and tearing force, and effects of associated pressures in tearing of various materials and human lens capsule in continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (CCC). METHODS: Tearing was done on different materials such as aluminum-laminated paper, different types of thin transplant plastics and human lens capsule with blunt tip needle. During the procedure, angle and direction of force were measured. Effects of increased underlying pressure on tearing of tearable materials and effect of anterior chamber depth and vitreous pressure on 24 postmortem human eyes with different ages (range from10 to 75 years), was evaluated. RESULTS: Tearing angle in every material was unique for that material Angle and force of tearing was decreased reversely with increasing age (from 85 degree in a 10-years-old to 10 degree in older than 50 years). Increasing vitreous pressure and decrease in AC depth causes higher pressure on point of tearing. Safe methods in controlling CCC were discussed in the context. · CONCLUSION: Understanding the physics and vector of forces during CCC is necessary in good performance and avoidance of radial tears. Change in capsular properties between different ages and different type of cataract causes different tearing angle and tearing force that should be considered during CCC.

Study on dominant eye measurement

Nimet ünay Gündo?an,Ay?e Canan Yazlcl and Ayten ?im?ek

AIM: To examine a new performance test for detecting eye dominance by testing and re-testing with two different methods of the same subjects for comparing and discussing the reliabilities of these tests. METHODS: A total of 179 university students (mean± SD: 19.37± 1.62 years) were voluntarily participate in this survey consisting of 110 females (61.5%) and 69 males (38.5%). Eye dominances were determined by two different methods which were named McManus and a Gündoğan tests. The reliability of the survey was examined using a test-retest method. RESULTS: Without sex difference, right eyes were found dominant in 128 (71.5 %) participants by McManus test. The same subjects were re-tested by Gündo an method, the right eye dominance were found in 110 (61.5%) subjects. The results of these two methods were related significantly by Fisher exact test(P<0.01), with an agreement score( k=0.256, P<0.001). In females, the right eye dominance was found in 74 (67.3%) and left eye was found in 36 (32.7%) by McManus test. When the same subjects were re-tested by G ndo an method, the right eye dominance was found in 62 (56.4%) and the left eye dominance was found in 48 (43.6%) subjects.McManus and Gündoğan methods results for females were related significantly by Fisher exact test ( P<0.05), with a weak agreement score ( k=0.239, P<0.01). In males, the right/left eye dominances were found respectively 54 (78.3%), 15(21.7%) by McManus test as they were found 48 (69.6 %), 21 (30.4 %) in the same participants when they were re-tested by Gündoğan method.χ ² test and Fisher exact test were used for the analysis of categorical data. The agreement between different methods was analyzed with Kappa statistics. Comparison of proportions was made by two proportions test. value less than 0.05 was considered as significant. CONCLUSION: Without gender difference and also in both females and males marked right eye dominance is observed. The right eye dominance is considering functional laterality may due to the dominance of left hemisphere instead of right hemisphere. It is an important topic for future research in laterality, and it may well become an important model system for future research."

Comparative incidence of posterior capsular opacification in AcrySof and PMMA intraocular lenses

AIM: To evaluate the extent of significant posterior capsular opacification (PCO) after implanting polyme-thylmethacrylate (PMMA) and soft acrylic intraocular lenses. METHODS: A total of one hundred patients (110 eyes) undergoingintraocular lens(IOL) implant surgerywererandomly divided into two groups based on the type of IOL implanted: Group I: AcrySof (SA60AT) and Group II: PMMA (LX10BD). The density of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) was assessed 3, 6, 12 and 18 months after surgery by taking best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the digital photographs. RESULTS: At the end of 3 months postoperatively, the PCO density in the Group I (PMMA) increased significantly (3.6%) while no increase was found in the Group II (Acrylic). By the end of 18 months follow-up, the incidence of significant PCO was found to be less in the acrylic group (14.5%) as compared to the PMMA group (34.5%).On the basis of density, the PCO was more extensive with the PMMA lens than the AcrySof lens, which led to more severe visual loss. CONCLUSION: The intraocular implantation of the AcrySof IOL helps to reduce the incidence of PCO to a greater degree as compared to the PMMA IOL.

Fungal keratitis:84 cases report in Southern Pakistan

AIM: To identify the predisposing factors, causative fungi and to improve the facilities for the laboratory diagnosis of fungal keratitis. METHODS: Two hundred and forty eyes of 240 patients of clinically suspected microbial corneal ulcer were included in the study. Data was collected through history and slit lamp examination. Using standard techniques, corneal scraping was performed.A portion of each scraping was examined by direct microscopy for the presence of fungi, bacteria and acanthamoeba by using 100g/L potassium hydroxide and also by Gram and Giemsa stainings. Another portion was inoculated directly on the surface of solid media such as blood agar, Mac-Conkey agar, chocolate agar and Sabouraud agar in C-shaped streaks for culture. RESULTS: A total of 240 patients with suppurative corneal ulcer were enrolled in the study, out of which fungi were identified in 84 (35%) patients. Of these, 48 (57.1%) were males and 36 (42.9%) females. The age ranged between 22-80 years. Sixty patients (71.4%) belonged to rural population and twenty four (28.6%) to urban population. Trauma with vegetative material was the most frequent cause noted in eighteen (21.4%) patients. Peak incidence was in the months of October-November. Out of 84 eyes with fungal keratitis, fungi alone were the etiologic agents in 74 (80.10%) cases and bacteria with fungi were identified in 10 (11.90%). The most frequently isolated organism was Candida albicans which was found in 66 (78.6%) patients. CONCLUSION: Fungal keratitis is the leading cause of infective corneal ulcer and Candida albicans being the most commonly isolated pathogen in the patients belonging to Southern Pakistan. The direct microscopic examination with potassium hydroxide 100g/L method is a simple, rapid, inexpensive and reliable method in the diagnosis of this infection.

Bacterial colonization of hydrogel disposable contact lenses

AIM: To determine the rate of bacterial colonization in hydrogel disposable contact lenses and solutions and to identify the contaminating organisms. METHODS: A cross sectional study with purposive sampling was carried out. One hundred hydrogel contact lenses were collected from wearers among undergraduate students of Health Campus, University Sains Malaysia. All lenses and storage solutions were sent for microbiological culture and gram staining. RESULTS: The majority of study participants were females (98%). The mean age was 21.36±1.63 years. Forty-one subject participants (82%) showed positive bacterial colonization of the lenses. From storage solutions 32% yielded positive colonization by bacteria. The most common organisms were coagulase negative staphylococcus, Staph aureus and streptococci while Pseudomonas sp. and Serratia sp. were isolated more frequently from contact lenses. CONCLUSION: Contact lens wearing is potentially dangerous as a result of high rate of bacterial colonization of the lenses and its storage solutions. Extreme precaution and adherence to strict hygienic practice is recommended during lens handling and wearing.

Anterior single flap external dacryocystorhinostomy: outcome in 200 Sudanese patients

AIM: To present the outcome of anterior single flap external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in Sudanese patients. METHODS: The data of 200 consecutive patients were retrospectively analyzed, who had anterior single flap external DCR with a minimum of one year follow-up. The surgeries were performed by the same surgeon (the first author) and patients were followed up for one year postoperatively. Presence of epiphora at the end of one year and no response to syringing and probing was considered failure. RESULTS: The mean age of the study sample was 29.7 years (ranged 4-65 years). The ratio of male to female was 1∶2. The success rate was 98%. Failure was reported in 4 patients, two of them were traumatic cases with preexisting orbital disfigurement. CONCLUSION: This study adds on to the evidence of the usefulness of anterior single flap DCR. Although it is simpler and easier to master the technique, this procedure showed a success rate comparable to that of the conventional method in literature.

Traumatic visual loss of inpatients in Yazd, Iran from 2005 to 2006

AIM: To investigate the conditions of traumatic visual loss of inpatients in Yazd, Iran from 2005 to 2006, and to explore the possible causes and preventive methods. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed data on all patients with eye injuries (70 cases) hospitalized at Shahid Sadoughi Hospital between August 2005 and August 2006, including age, gender, causes, type of injury, time of initial treatment, visual acuity during admission and discharge, surgical procedures, and final outcome. Furthermore, standardized international classification of ocular trauma (Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology) was used for eye injury categorization. · RESULTS: A total of 70 inpatients with ocular injuries were selected by simple approach. The male/female ratio was 2.8 to 1. The most frequent causes of eye injury were metallic objects (34.3%) especially in age group of ≤10 and ≥30 years old, accidents (22.8%) and assaults (17.2%). Waiting time to initial treatment was 6-24 hours in most cases (51.4%). Trauma was blunt in 38.6% and penetrating in 61.4%. The most and the least final visual acuity in blunt and penetrating trauma was LP (51.8%, 41.8%) and HM (7.5%, 4.7%) respectively. Surgery outcome was globe saving with acceptable visual acuity in 72.9% and enucleation in 24.2%. CONCLUSION: With regard to the high incidence of ocular trauma and consequent severe visual loss, parents' attention, eye safety protection and early treatment should be considered as final preserving globe in most accidents.

Evaluation of computerized image analysis system for quantification of posterior capsular opacification

Li-Wei Ma,Jin-Song Zhang,Jun Xu,Jiao Zhang and Ping Zhao

Multifocal VEP in patients with optic nerve disease

Xiao-Peng Hu,Shi-Zhou Huang and Le-Zheng Wu

AIM:To determine whether the multifocal visual evoked potential (mfVEP) can be used as a clinical method to assess the patients with optic nerve disease. METHODS:Fifteen patients with optic nerve disease were examined in this study. All patients underwent visual acuity examination, slit-lamp inspection, ophthalmoscopy, Goldmann perimeter, fundus fluorescein angiography, visual field and mfVEP. Although these patients with unilateral optic nerve damage,data from both eyes were included in the analysis. RESULTS:In all patients the visual fields defect was demonstrated on the mfVEPand showed good correspondence in location of the scotoma. However, we also found some slight difference between visual field and mfVEP. In some locations, when the local visual fields were normal, mfVEP showed that its amplitude reduced. In reverse, when the local mfVEPseemed normal, visual field showed abnormity. CONCLUSION:Multifocal visual evoked potential could be used as a clinical diagnosis option in patients with optic nerve disease. Local monocular damage to the optic nerve can be measured by an interocular comparison of the mfVEP

Long-term efficacy of transpupillary thermotherapy for subfoveal choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration

Leyla S Atmaca and Figen Batioglu

AIM: To determine the long-term efficacy of transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) in the treatment of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Fourteen eyes of 14 patients with subfoveal CNV secondary to AMD were treated with diode laser (810nm) TTT. The mean age was 67.1 years. Complete ophthalmic examination was done, color fundus photographs and macular optical coherence tomography scans were taken, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography were performed during initial and at subsequent follow-up examinations. Treatment was given in one minute using 2-3mm spot sizes, and laser power settings were between 650-800mW. The follow-up period was between 5 and 64 months and the mean was 28.6 months. RESULTS: There was subfoveal classic CNV in 10, predominantly classic CNV in 2, minimally classic CNV in 1, and type 1 occult CNV in one of the fourteen eyes. Four patients were noted to have post-treatment hemorrhage which was absorbed in a short time. Macular non-perfusion occurred in one patient immediately after treatment. Most of the eyes demonstrated a decrease in exudation during the follow-up. With a mean follow-up of 28.6 months, visual acuity improved in 5, remained the same in 8 and decreased in 1 of the 14 eyes. CONCLUSION: Transpupillary thermotherapy is shown to close subfoveal CNV with rapid resolution of subretinal fluid while maintaining visual function in patients with AMD. It may be performed as an alternative laser treatment in classic and predominantly classic subfoveal choroidal neovascularization due to AMD.

Neuropathy and retinopathy in diabetes: Is there any association?

AIM: To evaluate correlation of retinopathy and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) as microvascular complications of diabetes and also to identify their risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study in an outpatient diabetes clinic during an 18-month period. 100 patients (51 male and 49 female), all affected by non-insulin- dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), were examined for the presence of diabetic neuropathy and diabetic retinopathy. RESULTS: 78.1% of patients with retinopathy had DPN; and 79.1% of patients with DPN had retinopathy. Analysis of the association between DPN and retinopathy showed no significant correlation between them. 90.9% of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) had DPN; and 27.8 % of patients with DPN had PDR. Both the univariate analysis and multiple logistic regression analysis revealed significant correlation between them (r =0.42, P =0.02). CONCLUSION: A severe diabetic retinopathy is associated with diabetic neuropathy. Our study further supports that diabetic neuropathy might be used as a tell-tale sign of diabetic retinopathy, necessitating more intensive ophthalmic care, especially in long-lasting diabetes.

Combined lens and vitreoretinal surgery in patients with traumatic cataract and intraocular foreign body

Shi-Hong Zhao,Yuan Zhang,Jin-Hui Wu,Dong-Yan Pan,Xin Liu and Yu Xu

AIM: To analyze the postoperative anatomical and functional outcomes as well as complications after combined phacoemul- sification, pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), removal of the intraocular foreign body (IOFB) and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in patients with traumatic cataract and intraocular foreign body. METHODS: Medical records of 13 patients(13 eyes) with traumatic cataract and IOFB who had undergone combined phacoemulsification, PPV, foreign body extraction and IOL implantation were retrospectively analyzed. The postoperative follow-up ranged from 2 to 12 months. The main measure- ments of outcomes were the extraction success of cataract and intraocular foreign body, intraoperative and postoperative complications and the final best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). ·RESULTS: The mean age of 13 patients(10 male, 3 female )was 36.8 years (range: 17-65 years). All eight IOFBs were removed. Four intraocular lenses were implanted after vitrectomy intraoperatively. In 5 cases, intraocular lenses were implanted during the second operation. Intraocular lenses were not implanted in 4 cases. BCVA at last ranged from 0.8 to hand movement. BCVA was 0.5 or better in four eyes, 0.1 to 0.4 in five eyes, less than 0.1 in four eyes. Intraoperative complications were encountered in 3 patients. They had vitreous hemorrhage. Postoperative complications were encounter- ed in 2 patients. They had retinal detachment. The reoperations of the two patients were successful. CONCLUSION: The combined phacoemulsification, PPV, removal of IOFB and IOL implantation is safe and effective for patients with traumatic cataract and intraocular foreign body. The visual outcome depended primarily on the corneal or scleral wound and underlying posterior segment pathology and sites.

Bovine bone xenograft as orbital implants in rabbit eyes

S Mohd Mansor,H K Tan,I Shatriah,W H Wan Hazabbah and J Hasnan

AIM: To assess the biocompatibility of bovine bone as orbital implants in rabbits. METHODS: Bovine bone graft was used as an ocular im- plant in rabbits to determine whether it could be successfully used in the anophthalmic socket as an alternative to the expensive synthetic alloplastics. Evisceration of eyes with and without bovine bone orbital implantation was performed in the right eyes of 12 New Zealand white rabbits. Group Y (n = 6) was eviscerated without implant, meanwhile Group X (n = 6) was eviscerated with insertion of an orbital implant using bovine bone. Observation was carried out on day 1, day 7, day 14, day 28 and day 42. Serial clinical examination was carried out based on a few fixed criteria, which included rate of infection, implant migration, evidence of wound breakdown and any restriction of intraocular movements. The implanted eyes were then enucleated on day 42. The enucleated eyes were sent for histopathological evaluation to record the type of inflammatory reaction and rate of fibrovascular ingrowth. RESULTS : Serial clinical examination showed presence of mini- mal infection in all eyes, both in Group X (implanted) and Group Y (control) on first postoperative day, which responded well with antibiotics. Infection occurred in the implanted group after first postoperative day, but there was no evidence of orbital migration or extrusion of implant, wound breakdown, restriction of extraocular movement, severe infection or any physical abnormality. Histopathological examination revealed good fibrovascular ingrowth in the implanted group, with minimal rejecting reaction of rabbit eye towards bovine bone implant. CONCLUSION: This study shows that bovine orbital implant has a good biocompatibility in rabbit eyes and its cost is acceptable.

Efficacy of probing in the treatment of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction in three age groups

AIM: To compare the success rates of probing for the treatment of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction in children divided into three age groups. METHODS: One hundred and eighty children with uncomplicated congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction underwent probing in Eye Hospital of Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan from March 2005 to January 2008. The children were divided into three groups: Group I (aged 4-6 months), Group II (aged 7-12 months) and Group III (aged 13-24 months). Success was defined as complete resolution of signs and symptoms. The chi-square test was used to analyze the results. RESULTS: The success rate was 100.0% in Group I, 88.5% in Group II and 82.3% in Group III. The overall cure rate for the entire study was 90.7%. CONCLUSION: The efficacy of probing decreases with the increasing age. However, when probing is done within six months of age, it is highly effective and results in complete resolution of symptoms.

Comparison of fibrin glue and suture technique in pterygium surgery performed with limbal autograft

Bora Yüksel,Sultan Kaya ünsal and Sevgi Onat

AIM: To compare the efficiency and safety of fibrin glue to suture technique in pterygium surgery performed with limbal autograft. METHODS: A prospective randomised clinical trial was carried out in 58 eyes of 58 patients operated for primary nasal pterygium. Autologous conjunctival graft taken from the superotemporal limbus was used to cover the sclera after pterygium excision. In 29 eyes, the transplant was attached to the sclera with a fibrin tissue adhesive (Beriplast P) and in 29 eyes with 8-0 Virgin silk sutures. The Mann-Whitney U test was used for statistical analysis. Postoperative patient discomfort (pain, stinging, watering) and biomicroscopic findings (hyperemia, edema) were graded. Patients were followed up at least for six months. RESULTS: Subconjunctival hemorrhage occured under the graft in one patient in group 1. In seven cases of group 2, sutures were removed at the 15th day because of granulomatous tissue reaction. Patient symptoms were significantly less and biomicroscopic findings were better in group 1. Pterygium recurrence was seen in one case of group 1, and 2 cases of group 2. Average surgery cost was higher (P<0.05) and surgery time was shorter (P<0.05) in fibrin group. CONCLUSION: Using fibrin glue for graft fixation in pterygium surgery causes significantly less postoperative pain and shortens surgery time significantly.

Chronic macular edema associated with extrafoveal vitreoretinal traction

Aaron Trevino,Michael R Martinez and Avinoam Ophir

AIM: To describe an association between extrafoveal vitreoretinal traction and chronic macular edema, either diffuse (DiME) or cystoid (CME), by the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: Charts and OCT findings of two patients with persistent DiME or persistent DiME accompanied by CME, both associated with extrafoveal vitreous traction membranes were analyzed. Excluded were eyes that either had another vitreoretinopathy that could affect the analysis, had undergone pars plana vitrectomy or that had been treated by intravitreal medications. An age-matched normal control group for OCT (n=12) allowed for the quantification of the normal macular thicknesses. RESULTS: One patient (one eye) following perforating ocular injury and one patient (one eye) of idiopathic origin, both with chronic macular edema refractive to conventional treatment, were found to be associated with extrafoveal vitreoretinal traction in each eye. Retinal edema that was underlying the traction site in each eye was in continuum with the central macular edema, thus manifesting as diffuse macular edema. The automatic central 6-radial lines program in the OCT enabled the detection of the traction site in one eye, while in the other eye the diagnosis was achieved only with the additional use of the Line group program. CONCLUSION: Chronic diffuse macular edema might be related to extrafoveal vitreoretinal traction. Careful search with the diverse OCT programs should be made in order to detect extrafoveal traction sites. Further studies and a larger cohort are required to compare the efficacy of early vitrectomy or pharmacologic vitreolysis versus the current therapeutic approaches in these situations.

Intraocular pressure as indicator of sympathetic asymmetry in the eyes

Sagili Chandrasekhara Reddy and Satagopam Mitti Mohan

AIM: To determine the asymmetry in the sympathetic activity in the eyes as indicated by intraocular pressure(IOP). METHODS: In a prospective cross sectional study, the IOP in 150 newborns, 80 young adults and 159 old people was measured with Tono-Pen under topical anaesthesia. RESULTS: The mean IOP in the newborns was 16.16mmHg in right eye and 15.79mmHg in left eye; in young adults 15.04mmHg in right eye and 14.71 in left eye; in old people 15.16 in right eye and 15.03 in left eye. A statistically significant higher IOP was noted in the right eye in the newborns (P=0.03) and in young adults (P=0.02), but not in the old people (P=0.26). The higher IOP in the right eye indicates the lowered sympathetic activity in that eye. CONCLUSION: We hypothesize that the sympathetic asy- mmetry in the bilaterally placed organs helps to establish the dominant pattern of the organ in the body.

Assessing amblyogenic factors in 100 patients with congenital ptosis

AIM: To study the frequency of amblyogenic factors in patients with congenital ptosis. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 114 eyes of 100 patients with congenital ptosis more than 1 year old were included. Amblyopia was defined as best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) less than 10/10 or a difference between the two eyes of at least 2/10. In patients too young to be measured by the linear Snellen E test, fixation behavior was observed. Different types of amblyopia were assessed for each patient as: 1) anisometropic amblyopia: astigmatic anisometropia ≥1 dpt, hyperopic spherical anisometropia ≥1 dpt, myopic spherical anisometropia ≥-3 dpt (with cycloplegia); 2) strabismic amblyopia, and 3) stimulus deprivation amblyopia (SDA). Then the total incidence of amblyopia and each type of it were obtained. Patients with uni- and bi-lateral ptosis were also compared. RESULTS: The incidence of amblyopia in ptotic eyes was 39/114 (34.2 %), and for each specific cause was: refractive amblyopia in 29.8%, SDA in 10.5%, strabismic amblyopia in 4.3%. Amblyopia was more frequent in severe ptosis, 76% in patients with covered optical axes (OA), compared to non-covered OA (22.5%). In unilateral ptosis with covered OA, astigmatic anisometropic amblyopia was more frequent, and in bilateral ptosis with at least one eye covered OA, spherical anisometropic amblyopia was more frequent. In both unilateral and bilateral ptosis, SDA was more common if the OA was covered. CONCLUSION: As refractive anisometropic amblyopia is more prevalent than SDA, paying attention to all causes of amblyopia may be important in preventing amblyopia in a child with a ptotic eye.

Clinical spectrum of 15 patients with HIV-related ocular involvement in Tehran

AIM: To determine the frequency of HIV-related ocular involvement and to describe the characteristics of involvement in a special clinic in Tehran. METHODS: In this cross sectional study, 141 patients (125 male and 16 female, 282 eyes) of HIV-infected patients with various stages of HIV infection that were referred to Center of behavioral diseases were evaluated during a period of 7 months. Every patient had a complete profile including demographic data, method of HIV transmission, recent CD4 T cell lymphocyte count, serological studies for common sexual or blood-born viruses and toxoplasmosis, history of antiretroviral therapy, and associated systemic disease. RESULTS: A total of 141 patients were evaluated. HIV-related ocular involvement was detected in 15 patients (10.6%), including 3 mycobacterium tuberculosis-related choroiditis, 2 cytomegalovirus retinitis, 2 retinal toxoplas- mosis, 2 herpes simplex virus-related lesions, 1 HIV- associated retinopathy, 1 herpes zoster ophthalmicus, 1 undetermined vitritis, and 3 cases of cranial nerve involvement including 2 cases of gaze palsy and 1 case of papilitis. In our study, mean CD4 T cell lymphocyte count was fewer in patients with ocular involvement than in patients without ocular involvement (204.7±123.8 vs 403.7±339.7, P=0.029), but there was no difference in other possible associated factors between two groups. CONCLUSION: Mycobacterium tuberculosis-related choroiditis and neurophthalmic lesions are the most common HIV-related ocular involvements in Tehran that is different from those of recent publications in developed countries.

Practical method to calculate post-LASIK corneal power: the Actual Ka+p method

AIM: To evaluate the accuracy of a practical method (the Actual Ka+p method) of corneal power measurement for post-LASIK eyes undergoing cataract surgery. METHODS: Ten eyes of 7 patients (4 male, 3 female, average age 50.10±4.01 years, with -11.01±3.55D mean refraction before LASIK), underwent post-LASIK phaco+IOL cataract surgery. We used the posterior corneal curvature as measured by the Pentacam in a method we named Actual Ka+p to calculate the post-LASIK corneal power for IOL calculation. The refractive outcomes after cataract surgery were evaluated. The Actual Ka+p was compared with the back- calculated corneal power (BCK), which was thought to be the benchmark of true corneal power. The corneal power estimated by other published methods, including Maloney, Shammas, Koch-Maloney, Savini, and McCulley, together with the true net power and equivalent K reading (EKR) as found by the Pentacam were also compared with the BCK. RESULTS: All eyes achieved satisfied refractive status after cataract surgery. The difference between the postoperative refraction and the target refraction was 0.04±0.40D, range from -0.63D and +0.85D. Among all the methods we studied, although the Bonferroni multiple comparison tests did not detect significant differences between any two of them, the Actual Ka+p yielded the highest agreement with the BCK, with 80% of the eyes falling within ±0.5D and 100% within ±1.0D from the BCK values. CONCLUSION: The Actual Ka+p method can provide encour- aging results in post-LASIK eyes undergoing cataract surgery.

Management of morderate-to-severe Marcus-Gunn syndrome by anastomosis of levator and frontal muscles

Nan Xiang,Wei-Kun Hu,Bin Li and Rong Liu

AIM: To study the effect of clinical management of moderate-to-severe Marcus-Gunn syndrome (MGS) by anastomosis of levator and frontal muscles. METHODS: The medical records of 13 patients with moderate-to-severe MGS who underwent surgeries in our institute between 2000 and 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. They underwent unilateral anastomosis of levator and frontal muscles under local anesthesia. RESULTS: Postoperative follow-up periods ranged from 6 to 36 months, with an average of 12 months. All eyelids (100%) showed complete resolution of jaw-winking, ten eyelids (76.9%) had good correction of ptosis, with equal plapebral apertures and symmetrical contours, three (23.1%) showed residual mild ptosis (<2mm). CONCLUSION: For moderate-to-severe MGS, unilateral ana- stomosis of levator and frontal muscles provides satisfied correction of jaw-winking and ptosis.

Prevention of exposure keratopathy in intensive care unit

Hua Shan and Du Min

AIM: To compare the efficacy for preventing exposure keratopathy of three forms of eye care (artificial tear, moist chamber and polyethylene covers) for intensive care patients. METHODS: Eighty-four patients in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) were randomized to three treatment groups, including artificial tears group, moist chambers group and polyethylene film group. Patients of artificial tear group received two drops of carboxymethylcellulose drops to each eye every 2 hours. The moist chambers and the polyethylene were changed every 12 hours or as needed if they became unclean or torn. The corneal fluorescein stains were performed daily. RESULTS: No of 28 patients (0%) in the polyethylene group and one of the 27 patients (3.70%) in the moist chamber group had exposure keratopathy, compared to 8 of the 29 patients (27.59%) in the artificial tear group. There were statistical significance between the artificial tear group and the moist chamber group (P=0.02), and the artificial tear group and the polyethylene group (P =0.003). The time on eye care every day of the artificial tear group, the moist chamber group and the polyethylene group was 26.69±2.39 minutes, 35.33±2.63 minutes and 7.48±0.87 minutes, respectively. The eye care of the polyethylene group were statistically more time-save than that of the artificial tear group (P<0.001) and the moist chamber group (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Polyethylene covers are more effective and more time-saving in reducing the incidence of corneal damage in intensive care patients

Alteration of anterior chamber in 81 glaucomatous eyes using Pentacam Scheimpflug system

Xuan Zou,Xuan-Chu Duan and Qian Zhong

AIM: To study the effects of gender, eye side and age on anterior chamber measurements; To compare the anterior chamber parameters between glaucoma and normal subjects. METHODS: A total of 169 patients (299 eyes), of which 122 normal subjects (218 eyes), 24 cases (39 eyes) with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and 22 cases (42 eyes) with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) visiting our hospital from Apr. 2008 to Oct. 2008 were enrolled. The parameters measured by Pentacam between different sexes, eye sides, ages and different groups were compared. RESULTS: The mean central anterior chamber depth (CACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV) and anterior chamber angle (ACA) measurements of normal eyes were 2.82±0.43mm, 159.74±43.64mm3 and 35.47±7.92°. There were no significant differences between different eye sides. There was a negative correlation between age and anterior chamber parameters (all P <0.001); The mean CACD, ACV and ACA were 1.87±0.29mm, 82.00±24.17mm3 and 21.94±7.11° in PACG group, and 2.67±0.34mm, 147.24±43.40mm3 and 31.19±6.34° in POAG group. The differences between PACG and age-matched normal subjects were significant (all P <0.05), but there was no significant difference between POAG and age-matched normal subjects (P >0.05). CONCLUSION: CACD, ACV and ACA decrease mildly with age. Anterior chamber parameters of PACG are smaller than that of normal eyes, but there is no difference between POAG and normal eyes.

Effectiveness of amniotic membrane transplantation combined with mitomycin C in the treatment of pterygium: a meta-analysis

Yin-Wei Song,Ai-Hua Yu and Xiao-Jun Cai

AIM: To evaluate the recurrence rate and safety of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) augmented with mitomycin C (MMC) compared with amniotic membrane transplantation alone during the pterygium excision. METHODS: We took a meta-analysis on this program. Pertinent studies were selected through extensive searches of the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CBMdisc, CNKI. Pooled estimates were carried out in RevMan software v.4.2. RESULTS: Six trials reported postoperative recurrence rate of pterygium, included 882 eyes, three trials reported the complications. The results of meta-analysis showed that recurrence rate of AMT plus MMC group was 5.41%, AMT alone group was 16.89%, RR was 0.32, 95%CI ranged from 0.19 to 0.56, Z was 4.06, P <0.001. Two trials reported early complication as punctata keratitis, the incidence rate of AMT plus MMC group and AMT alone group were 17.14% and 0.00%, RR was 12.11, 95%CI ranged from 1.62 to 90.76. CONCLUSION: Amniotic membrane transplantation with MMC was associated with lower recurrence rate compared with amniotic membrane transplantation alone in pterygium excision，whether accompanied a higher risk with adverse events need more investigation.

Cost-effectiveness of autologous retinal pigment epithelium and choroid translocation in neovascular AMD

Aljoscha S Neubauer,Sandra Liakopoulos,Jan C van Meurs and Bernd Kirchhof

AIM: To assess the cost-effectiveness of autologous retinal pigment epithelium and choroid translocation (PATCH) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Visual acuity and complication rates of published patient series were used to determine the incremental utility of treatment for the patient. The utility data applied assume that the better eye was affected. Comparator was a meta-analysis of recent control groups, in which patients received best supportive care. To assess cost-effectiveness, costs per quality adjusted life years (QALYs) and costs of avoiding low vision ("legal blindness", i.e. ≤20/200) were calculated. Costs were based on a German sick fund perspective and in a scenario on US costs. Robustness of the model was investigated by univariate and probabilistic multivariate sensitivity analysis (PSA). RESULTS: Cost-utility analysis showed surgery to be the dominant ("cost-saving") strategy for Germany and for the US in both, cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis (costs per QALY). In the sensitivity analysis the intervention remained dominant or cost-effective in all scenarios investigated. Clinical outcomes and duration of modeling were the most influential factors in the sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSION: Therapy of neovascular AMD by PATCH is a cost-effective treatment option for selected patients, who are not well suitable for other current treatment options.

Corneal changes in type II diabetes mellitus in Malaysia

Choo MM,Prakash K,Samsudin A,Soong T,Ramli N and Kadir AJ

AIM: To compare corneal endothelial structure and central corneal thickness (CCT) between type II diabetics and non-diabetic control patients. To look for correlations between diabetic status and corneal findings. METHODS: Hospital-based, observational study. 200 eyes (from 100 type II diabetic patients and 100 controls) were included. Specular microscopy and pachymetry were used to measure endothelial cell density, size, coefficient of variation in cell area, hexagonality as well as corneal thickness. Independent t-tests were used to compare variables between diabetics and controls. Pearson correlation tests were used to evaluate correlations between corneal findings and diabetic status such as duration of diabetes, haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level and severity of diabetic retinopathy. RESULTS: Endothelial cell density in the diabetic group (2541.6±516.4 cells/mm2) was significantly lower than that in the control group (2660.1±515.5 cells/mm2, P <0.05). The average size of endothelial cells, standard deviation (SD) of cell size and coefficient of variation (CV) of cell area were all significantly higher in diabetics. Hexagonality was significantly lower in diabetics (41.1%±19.6%) compared to non- diabetics (45.2%±20.6%). CCT was higher in diabetics but not significant (P >0.05). Duration of diabetes, HbA1c level and severity of diabetic retinopathy were not significantly correlated with corneal endothelial findings. CONCLUSION: Type II diabetes causes a significant alteration in the state of the cornea including reduction in endothelial cell density and increased pleomorphism and polymegathism. Central corneal thickness is unaffected.

Evaluation of efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A injection in patients requiring temporary tarsorrhaphy to improve corneal epithelial defects

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A (Dysport, (Ipsen Biopharm Ltd, Wrexham, UK)) injection in patients requiring temporary tarsorrhaphy to improve corneal epithelial defects. METHODS: Thirty patients were enrolled into the prospective study between March 2007 and September 2009. Doses of 15 and 30U of Dysport were injected into the levator palpebrae superioris muscle through the eyelid. The patients were followed daily until completion of ptosis and then 1-2 weekly until complete resolution of levator function and improvement of corneal condition. RESULTS: Ptosis took 2.64±1.85 days to be completed (range 1-9 days) and lasted for 12±2.19 weeks. For patients with seventh nerve palsy, 30U Dysport was appropriate to produce sufficient ptosis whereas in other patients 15U of toxin was sufficient. In 83.3% of patients ptosis was sufficient for complete recovery of corneal epithelium and 16.7% required a second procedure (Amniotic membrane transplantation, conjunctival flap). There was a direct correlation between age and duration of ptosis. In patients with seventh nerve palsy, the amount of resultant ptosis was significantly lower than that of other patients. The only adverse effects of injection were superior rectus underaction (33.3%) and diplopia (16.7%) which resolved in all patients without any intervention. CONCLUSION: Dysport injection is a safe and effective substitute for surgical tasorrhaphy with fewer complications.

Sutureless large-incision manual cataract extraction using the kongsap technique: outcome of a prospective study

Pipat Kongsap

AIM: To report the short- and medium-term outcomes of sutureless large-incision manual cataract extraction using the Kongsap (SLIMCE-K) technique. METHODS: This prospective study included 73 eyes of 73 patients who underwent cataract surgery performed by using the SLIMCE-K technique. The postoperative visual acuity, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and endothelial cell loss were evaluated. A follow-up visit, at least 6 months after the surgery, was included in the study. RESULTS: All patients had improved visual acuity after surgery. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 6/18 or better in 55 eyes (75.3%) at 1 week postoperatively and in 64 eyes (87.6%) at 6 weeks postoperatively (P=0.09). The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 6/18 or better in 67 eyes (91.8%) at 1 week postoperatively and in 70 eyes (95.9%) at 6 weeks postoperatively. The results remained stable at 3 months and 6 months postoperatively. No significant intraoperative complications were encountered. The endothelial cell loss was 4.8% at the 3-month follow-up examination. CONCLUSION: When performed by an experienced surgeon, SLIMCE-K is a safe and effective procedure that can be performed independent of phacoemulsification machines. It can be used in any nuclear grading of cataract hardness that is common in developing countries.

Detection of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine enzyme in recurrent pterygium raising a question on its role on recurrence

Omar M S Ismaeel,Hasnan Jaafar and Mohtar Ibrahim

AIM: To detect the presence of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine enzyme (8-OHdG) in recurrent pterygium and its role on recurrence. METHODS: Ninty-two samples were collected of which 55 from primary pterygium, 12 from recurrent and 25 from normal conjunctiva. A cross sectional study was embarked to detect the presence of the 8-OHdG enzyme in primary, recurrent pterygium and the normal conjunctival tissue by immunohistochemistry test. RESULTS: The immunohistochemistry test showed positive results: 35 in primary, 2 in recurrent pterygia and 4 in normal conjunctiva, respectively. Significant association between primary pterygium and 8-OHdG enzyme (63.6% of samples are positive) and no significant relation was detected with recurrent pterygium (16.7% of samples are positive). CONCLUSION: 8-OHdG enzyme is associated with primary pterygium. It is also present in normal conjunctival tissue. For the first time it is detected in recurrent pterygia. This may raise question whether 8-OHdG enzyme has a role in recurrence of pterygium.

Anterior segment complications after phacoemu-lsification combined vitrectomy and foldable intraocular lens implantation

Qin-Xiang Zheng,Rong-Han Wu,Yuan-Ping Zhang,Ming Xu and Wen-Sheng Li

AIM: To evaluate the anterior segment complications of phacovitrectomy and foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in eyes with significant cataract and co-existing vitreoretinal diseases. METHODS: This retrospective study was consisted of 285 eyes of 238 patients with various vitreoretinal abnormalities and visually significant cataracts. Vitreoretinal surgery was combined with phacoemulsification and foldable IOL implantation. Main outcome measures were visual acuity, the preoperative data, and the anterior segment complications at postoperative 6 to 72 months. RESULTS: The most common indications for surgery were non-diabetic vitreous hemorrhage, proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Preoperative vision ranged from 20/30 to light perception and postoperative vision ranged from 20/20 to no light perception. Postoperatively, in 245 eyes (85.9%), visual acuity improved by 3 lines or more on the Snellen chart. In 24 eyes (8.4%), vision remained within 3 lines of preoperative levels and in 16 eyes (5.6%), vision had decreased at the last follow-up. The most common anterior segment pathological change was PCO in 50 eyes (17.5%), the second was corneal edema in 32 eyes (11.2%) and the third was elevated IOP in 31 eyes (10.8%). CONCLUSION: The combined vitreoretinal surgery and phacoemulsification with foldable IOL implantation is safe and effective.

Clinical research of intraoperative image-guidance in endoscopic nasocular operation

Xiao-Yan Dou,Jiang Guo,Yong-Tian Lu and Jing Sima

AIM: To evaluate the availability and our experience of intraoperative image-guidance in endoscopic nasocular operation. METHODS: Seven cases of endoscopic nasal surgery with intraoperative image-guidance were retropectively reviewed, including 3 cases of optic nerve injury; 3 cases of foreign object of optic behind the eyeball; 1 case of retrobulbar tumor (angeioma). RESULTS: The preoperative preparatory time would take 15 minutes, including coordination, head holder localization, conventional instrument registration. In our cases, the localization accuracy between 3-D image landmarks of navigation system and actual anatomical landmarks was less than 1.3mm. The optic nerve and other anatomical points could be orientated accurately in intraoperative procedures. No complication occurred. CONCLUSION: Nasal endoscope combined with image- guidance systems provides accurate anatomical localization of anterior skull base with enlarged operation field. It is possible for surgeons to observe important anatomical structures during endoscopic surgery. It could increase the effectiveness and decrease surgical complications, especially in complicated cases.

Therapeutic efficacy of intracameral amphotericin B injection for 60 patients with keratomycosis

Yi Shao,Yao Yu,Chong-Gang Pei,Ye-Hui Tan,Qiong Zhou,Jing-Lin Yi and Gui-Ping Gao

? AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of intracameral amphotericin B (ICAMB) injection in the treatment of keratomycosis. ? METHODS: The study design was a prospective controlled clinical trial. A total of 60 eyes of 60 patients were divided into two groups, 30 in the ICAMB injection group (group A) and 30 in the control group-topical application amphotericin B (group B). Serial measurements of the size of the keratomycosis-namely, two maximum linear dimensions perpendicular to each other, and the area and perimeter was done at start of therapy and follow up on day 3, 7, and 21. Rate of healing of the keratomycosis were measured as percentage decrease from the baseline parameter at each subsequent follow up. The data were analyzed by the non-parametric Wilcoxon rank sum test. ? RESULTS: The mean time to disappearance of hypopyon was 9.6±9.2 (range:1-26) days in group A and 26.8±20.8 (range:14-62) days in group B (P=0.03). The median percentage decrease in the size of the keratomycosis was significantly greater than that in the cord serum group at day 21(P＜0.05) when measured in terms of the area and perimeter. A greater number of patients showed complete re-epithelialization in group A (n=27) than in group B (n=14) (P＜0.05). None of the patients reported any side effects or discomfort with either treatment. ? CONCLUSION: ICAMB injection leads to faster healing of the keratomycosis refractory to all medical management and reducing time to disapperence of hypopyon compared to topical application amphotericin B.

Effect of intravitreal bevacizumab injection before vitrectomy on proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Cai-Rui Li,Shu-Guang Sun and Wei Hong

AIM: To evaluate the effect of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection 1 week before pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) patients. METHODS: A retrospective research was done on 46 PDR patients who were divided into PPV group (n=28) and IVB group (n =18, PPV with preoperative IVB). Bevacizumab was injected 1 week before PPV. Main outcome measures were visual acuity, incidence of iatrogenic retinal breaks, intraoperative and postoperative bleeding. RESULTS: At 1 month after surgery, visual acuity in PPV (82.1%) and IVB group (88.9%) improved significantly (P＜0.01) and the difference between the two groups was not significant (P＞0.05). Iatrogenic retinal breaks were reported in 18 cases (64.3%) in PPV group and 4 cases (22.2%) in IVB group (P＜0.05). Intraoperative bleeding was encountered in all cases in PPV group and 7 cases (39%) in IVB group (P＜0.01). Postoperative bleeding was reported in 9 cases (32.1%) in PPV group and none in IVB group (P＜0.01). CONCLUSION: IVB injection before PPV is helpful in reducing iatrogenic retinal breaks, intraoperative and postoperative bleeding in PDR patients.

Efficacy and tolerability of one-site versus two-site phacotrabeculectomy: a meta-analysis

He-Nan Liu,Xun Li,Qing-Zhu Nie and Xiao-Long Chen

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of one-site versus two-site phacotrabeculectomy in the treatment of patients with coexisting cataract and glaucoma. METHODS: A comprehensive literature meta-analysis was performed according to the Cochrane Collaboration methodology to identify controlled clinical trials comparing one-site with two-site phacotrabeculectomy. The studies meeting the predefined criteria were reviewed systematically by meta-analysis. Efficacy estimates were measured by standardised mean difference (SMD) for the percentage intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction from baseline to end point, odds ratio (OR) for the percentage having a best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 0.5 or better after surgery and relative risk (RR) for complete success rates. Tolerability estimates were measured by RR for adverse events. All of outcomes were reported with 95% confidence interval (CI). Data were synthesised by Stata 10.1 for Windows. RESULTS: Two-site phacotrabeculectomy was associated with numerically greater, and significant efficacy than one-site in lowering IOP (SMD, -0.19; 95% CI, -0.33 to -0.04; P=0.01). Numerically greater, but nonsignificant proportions of two-site patients than one-site patients had a BCVA of 0.5 or better (OR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.30 to 1.39; P=0.26).Numerically greater, but nonsignificant proportions of two-site patients than one-site patients achieved the target IOP without anti-glaucoma medication at the end point (RR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.04; P=0.22). Furthermore, there was nonsignificant difference in adverse events between two surgical procedures. CONCLUSION: The efficacy of two-site phacotrabecu- lectomy appears to be superior to one-site phacotrabecul- ectomy. One-site and two-site phacotrabeculectomy are similarly tolerable in postoperative adverse events.

Application of sodium hyaluronate to the operation of suturing the corneal perforation

Tao Jiang,Jing Jiang,Yang Zhou,Gui-Qiu Zhao,Shan-Shan Yang,Hui Li and Li Shen

AIM: To evaluate the effect of the application of sodium hyaluronate on the operation of suturing the corneal perforation. METHODS: Sodium hyaluronate was used in the operation of suturing the corneal perforation in 76 patients to form the anterior chamber, protect eye tissues and separate the anterior iris synechia. RESULTS: In the procedure of operation, the anterior chamber was stable, the prolapsed iris was easily restored, the corneal wound was easily sutured and there was no damage to the lens. Postoperatively, the corneal wound was closed well, the anterior chamber formed and there was no anterior iris synechia. Fifty-four cases had round pupils and the pupils of 22 cases were not round with defect of iris. CONCLUSION: Sodium hyaluronate in the operation of suturing the corneal perforation can help form the anterior chamber, protect the eye tissues and make the suturing corneal wound easier. It can reduce the rate of complication and promote the wound healing.

Hyphema due to blunt injury: a review of 118 patients

V Ulagantheran,M S Ahmad Fauzi and S C Reddy

AIM: To determine the causes, associated ocular findings and visual acuity on presentation, complications and visual outcome following treatment in patients of hyphema due to blunt injury METHODS: A retrospective study was performed in 118 patients with hyphema due to blunt injury admitted in University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The gender, age, race, cause of blunt injury resulting in hyphema, eye involved, vision at admission, other associated ophthalmological findings, complications and visual outcome were noted from the case records of patients. The data were analyzed using SPSS programme. RESULTS: Males were more predominantly affected (93.2%). Two-thirds of patients (67.8%) were aged below 30 years. Sports related injury (38.1%) was the most common cause for hyphema. Hyphema disappeared within 5 days in 66.9% of patients. Iris injuries were very commonly associated in the form of mydriasis, sphincter tear and iridodialysis. Associated vitreous haemorrhage was noted in 11.9% of patients. During the hospital stay, secondary haemorrhage was observed in 3.4% of patients. The best corrected vision of 6/18 or better was noted in 85.4% of patients at the last follow-up. The follow-up of these subjects was very poor and thus the incidence of secondary glaucoma could not be established. Moderate blood staining of cornea occurred in 0.8% of patients. CONCLUSION: Sports related injury is the most common cause of hyphema in Malaysia. Good visual recovery, without serious complications, is possible with appropriate and in-time treatment in hyphema patients due to blunt injury.

Ocular manifestations of Alport syndrome

AIM： To analyze the clinical manifestation of Alport syndrome, especially the ocular features. METHODS: The physical, ophthalmologic and audiologic examination results of thirty-two patients with Alport syndrome were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: Thirty (93.7%) patients had some family history. All patients had renal disease: eighteen (56.3%) patients with chronic renal failure, four (12.5%) patients with renal insufficiency, and the other ten (31.3%) patients with hematuria. Twenty (62.5%) patients had sensorineural deafness. Thirteen (40.6%) patients had ocular deformity, five (15.7%) patients had typical ocular changes: three patients with anterior lenticonus, and two patients with macular flecks. CONCLUSION: Ocular anomalies are not requisite for the diagnosis of Alport syndrome. But its typical ocular features should be recognized by the ophthalmologists which supports the diagnosis.

Damage patterns of retinal nerve fiber layer in acute and chronic intraocular pressure elevation in primary angle closure glaucoma

Xing Liu,Mei Li,Yi-Min Zhong,Hui Xiao,Jing-Jing Huang and Xiang-Yun Kong

AIM: To observe the differences of damage patterns of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) between acute and chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation in primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG) using optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: Twenty-four patients (48 eyes) with unilateral acute PACG (APACG) attack in the 6 months after admission and 36 patients (64 eyes) with chronic PACG (CPACG) were included in this prospective study. For all cases, IOP has been controlled under 21mmHg after treatment. Using stratus OCT, the RNFL thickness was assessed in eyes with PACG within 3 days, 2 weeks, 1, 3 and 6 months after IOP was controlled. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to examine the changes of RNFL thickness at different time after IOP being controlled in both acute attack eyes and unaffected fellow eyes of APACG and eyes with CPACG. RESULTS: The mean RNFL thickness for the APACG- attacked eyes increased significantly within 3 days (121.49±23.84)μm after acute onset and then became thinner along with time [(107.22±24.72)μm at 2 weeks,(93.58±18.37)μm at 1 month, (84.10±19.89)μm at 3 months and (78.98±19.17)μm at 6 months]. In APACG-attacked eyes, there were significant differences of average RNFL thickness at 5 different times after IOP was controlled (P＜0.001). In the APACG unaffected fellow eyes and CPACG eyes, there were no significant differences in mean RNFL thickness at 5 different times(F=0.450, P=0.104 in APACG unaffected fellow eyes and F=1.558, P=0.200 in CPACG eyes). There was significant difference for interaction between time periods and groups (F=1.912, P=0.003). CONCLUSION: RNFL damage patterns are different under different IOP elevated courses. In APACG, RNFL was found to be swollen and thickening right after acute attack and then becomes thinning and atrophy along with the time, while RNFL was found to be diffused thinness in CPACG.

Effects of glycemic control on refraction in diabetic patients

Hai-Yan Li,Guo-Chun Luo,Jiang Guo and Zhen Liang

AIM: To evaluate the effects of glycemic control on refraction in diabetic patients. METHODS: Twenty newly diagnosed diabetic patients were included in this study. The random blood glucose, HbA1c levels, fasting C-peptide and postprandial 2h C-peptide were measured before treatment. The patients with random blood glucose higher than 12.0mmol/L and HbA1c level higher than 10.0% were selected. Refraction, intraocular pressure, radius of the anterior corneal curvature, depth of the anterior chamber, lens thickness, vitreous length, and axial length were measured on admission and at the end of week 1, 2, 3 and 4 during glycemic control. RESULTS: A transient hyperopic change occurred in all the patients receiving glycemic control. The maximum hyperopic change was 1.60D (range 0.50±3.20D). Recovery of the previous refraction occurred between two and four weeks after insulin treatment. There was a positive correlation between the maximum hyperopic changes and the HbA1c levels on admission (r=0.84, P<0.05). There was a positive correlation between the maximum hyperopic changes and the daily rate of blood glucose reduction over the first 7 days of the treatment (r=0.53, P<0.05). During transient hyperopia, no significant changes were observed in the intraocular pre- ssure, radius of the anterior corneal curvature, depth of the anterior chamber, lens thickness, vitreous length and axial length. CONCLUSION: Transient hyperopic changes occur after glycemic control in diabetic patients with severe hyperglycemia. The degrees of transient hyperopia are highly dependent on HbA1c levels before treatment and the rate of reduction of the blood glucose level.

Macular atrophy after combined intravitreal triamcinolone and photodynamic therapy to treat choroidal neovascularization

José M Ruiz-Moreno,Javier A Montero,Pedro Amat and Francisco Lugo

AIM: To report the appearance of choriocapillaris atrophy after combined high dose intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) to treat choroidal neovascularization (CNV) associated with age related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: The present study was retrospective about non-randomized interventional case series. Fifty-one consecutive eyes with subfoveal (all types) CNV associated with AMD were treated by PDT and intravitreal (19.4±2.1)mg per 0.1mL TA at the Alicante Institute of Ophthalmology. The appearance of macular choriocapillaris and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy was considered at two years follow-up. Thirty consecutive eyes treated by PDT alone, matched for age, sex, and type and size of CNV were considered as control group. RESULTS: Twenty-one of 47 eyes in the study group (45%) and 7 of 30 eyes in the control group (23%) developed macular RPE and choriocapillaris atrophy in the treated area at month 24 (P=0.04, Chi-square test). The greatest diameter of the atrophic areas averaged (5044±1666)μm in the study group vs (4345±1550)μm in the control group. Mean final best corrected visual acuity (logarithm of minimal angle of resolution) was (0.87±0.33) in the cases with RPE atrophy vs (0.66±0.26) in the cases with no RPE atrophy in the study group (P=0.11, Mann-Whitney U test). CONCLUSION: The association of high doses of intravitreal TA and PDT may increase the risk for RPE and choriocapillaris atrophy.

Cell culture isolation can miss the laboratory diagnosis of HSV ocular infection

Regis P Kowalski,Paul P Thompson and Tara H Cronin

AIM: We compared polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to cell culture isolation for the laboratory diagnosis of ocular herpes simplex virus (HSV) disease. METHODS: Laboratory and medical records of consecutive patients were reviewed for results of 1) HSV PCR testing, 2) HSV cell culture isolation, and 3) clinical diagnosis. PCR results were statistically compared to cell culture isolation and patients initially diagnosed for ocular HSV infection. RESULTS: Of 581 cases submitted for laboratory testing, 520 were PCR negative, cell culture negative (89.6%); 0 were PCR negative, cell culture positive (0%); 27 were PCR positive, cell culture negative (4.6%); and 34 were PCR positive, cell culture positive (5.8%). PCR tested more positive than cell culture isolation (McNemar's,P=0.0001). Of 47 HSV PCR positive cases with complete medical records, 19 were cell culture negative for HSV and 28 were cell culture positive for HSV. Fourteen of 19 cell culture negative cases (74%) (Without PCR, 5 cases of HSV would be missed) and 25 of the 28 cell culture positive cases (89%) (Laboratory testing was necessary for diagnosing 3 cases) were clinically diagnosed with HSV at the initial examination. CONCLUSION: PCR was a more definitive test for diagnosing HSV ocular infection than cell culture isolation. Cell culture isolation alone can miss an atypical presentation of HSV ocular infection.

Treatment review of sight threatening circumscribed choroidal haemangioma

James FT Li Yim,Teresa Sandinha,Jan M Kerr,Diana Ritchie and Ewan G Kemp

AIM: To describe our clinical experience in treating circumscribed choroidal haemangioma (CCH) in a tertiary referral centre over a fifteen year period prior to photodynamic therapy. METHODS: The departmental database and photographic records of a tertiary referral center were used to identify patients who were treated for CCH between 1992 and 2007. Their case records were reviewed. RESULTS: Visual acuity improved (>2 Snellen lines) in eleven patients (69%) remained stable in one patient (6%) and deteriorated in four patients (25%). Six of the seven treated with brachytherapy and three of the four treated with transpupillary thermotherapy achieved better visual acuity after treatment. 86% of patients treated within six months of onset of symptoms and 50% of patients treated after six months of onset of symptoms noted an improvement in visual acuity. Only one patient in our series had a final VA of 6/60 or worse. Mean follow-up was thirty-five months. CONCLUSION: Visual outcome is better when treatment is performed within 6 months of symptoms. The majority of patients achieved an improvement in visual acuity without any adverse effect following treatment.

LASIK surgery in patients with residual refractive errors after radial keratotomy

Abolghasem Rastegar

AIM: To study the results and complications of LASIK surgery after radial keratotomy. METHODS: This descriptive study was carried out in Yazd LASIK Center, Yazd, Iran. Cases included all patients who had been operated between April 2003 and September 2006. Data were collected via a special questionnaire and analyzed by SPSS software and paired t-test. RESULTS: Samples included 33 eyes of 23 patients of whom 11 (47.8%) were women and 12 (52.2%) were men. Their age ranged from 28 to 49 years old and the mean age was 31.6 years old. Two cases (6.1%) had openings of the previous radial keratotomy incisions during flap lifting and one case (3%) had moderate non-infectious keratitis. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) was -2.17D±0.94SD, while the postoperative SE was -0.17D±0.19SD, the difference of which was significant (P =0.0001). Mean preoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 0.07±0.02SD (logMAR) and the postoperative was 0.880.16SD (log MAR), the difference of which was also significant (P=0.0001). The mean best spectacle corrected visual acuity prior to the operation was 0.930.08SD (log MAR) and 0.920.08SD (logMAR) after the operation, the difference of which was not significant (P=0.268). CONCLUSION: LASIK surgery could improve residual myopia after the radial keratotomy without major complications during or post operation, but necessity of the second procedure must be pondering and require careful case selection and assessment.

Traumatic optic neuropathy: a review of 24 patients

Kok Foo Lee,Nor Idahriani Muhd Nor,Azhany Yaakub and Wan Hazabbah Wan Hitam

AIM: To evaluate the clinical presentations of traumatic optic neuropathy and to assess the visual outcome of three groups of patients managed differently (conservative, intravenous corticosteroids only and combination of intravenous and oral corticosteroids) at an academic tertiary care referral centre. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted involving 24 consecutive patients (27 eyes) with traumatic optic neuropathy attending Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from January 2007 till December 2009. RESULTS: Twenty-four patients (27 eyes) were included. All cases involved were males. Mean age was 33 years old. Motor vehicle accident was the major cause (83.3%). Both eyes were equally involved. Most of the eyes had poor vision on presentation (HM-NPL, 81.5%) with associated periorbital haematoma (22 eyes) and subconjunctival haemorrhage (20 eyes). Majority of patients (19 patients, 79.2%) presented with more than one bony fracture of skull or orbit and 5 patients (20.8%) had no fractures. None of the patients had evidence of optic nerve compression on CT scans or MRI done. Eleven patients (45.8%) had been treated with intravenous and oral corticosteroids. The other 7 patients (29.2%) were treated conservatively and the third group (6 patients, 25.0%) was on intravenous corticosteroids only. Eleven of 12 eyes (91.7%) treated with intravenous and oral corticosteroids had shown 1 line improvement of visual acuity. Those eyes treated conservatively (77.8%) had shown 1 line improvement of visual acuity. As for patients treated with intravenous corticosteroids only, four patients remained NPL, one patient had mild visual improvement and the other one's vision remained the same. The visual improvement in patients treated with conservative management was not significant (P=0.386). Patients treated with intravenous corticosteroids alone have shown no visual improvement statistically(P<0.05). Patients treated with intravenous followed by oral corticosteroids had significant visual improvement (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in visual outcome between patients treated with corticosteroids and patients treated conservatively (P=0.368). No patient underwent surgical decompression of the optic nerve. In this series, the follow up ranges from 6 months to 3 years. CONCLUSION: Most of the traumatic optic neuropathy patients presented with periorbital haematoma, subconjunctival haemorrhage and orbital wall fractures. Patients treated with intravenous followed by oral corticosteroids have better visual outcome compared to conservative management.

Clinical presentation of retinoblastoma in Malaysia: a review of 64 patients

S C Reddy and S Anusya

AIM: To analyze the demography, presenting clinical features, spread of the disease of retinoblastoma in patients who were treated in two tertiary hospitals in Malaysia. · METHODS: In this retrospective study, information of gender, age, race, presenting clinical features, findings of CT scan orbits and brain, lumbar puncture and bone marrow aspiration results were collected from the medical records of retinoblastoma patients diagnosed in Hospital of Universiti Sains Malaysia and General Hospital of Kuala Lumpur over a period of ten years. The data were collected in the same type of proforma from both hospitals. · RESULTS: A total of 64 patients were treated in both hospitals together, of whom boys and girls were almost equally affected. The mean age of children at presentation was 24.2 (range 3-84) months, 53 (82.8%) children were under 36 months old. The disease was unilateral in 39 (60.9%) patients. The most common presenting signs were leukocoria in 46 (71.8%), followed by proptosis in 21 (32.8%) patients. Routine screening of the siblings of affected children revealed retinoblastoma in 2 patients. There was intracranial extension in 8 (12.5%) and metastasis in bone marrow in 6 (9.3%) patients. · CONCLUSION: Leukocoria is the most common presentation of retinoblastoma in Malaysia. However, the disease was intraocular in 40 (62.5%) and extraocular (orbital involvement, intracranial and distant metastasis) in 24 (37.5%) patients.

Surgical outcome of 21 patients with congenital upper eyelid coloboma

AIM: To evaluate the surgical outcome of congenital upper eyelid coloboma repair. · METHODS: All patients underwent complete ophthalmic and general examination before going to surgery, and then examination under anesthesia was performed to assess the site and size of eyelid defect, conjunctival involvement. The status of cornea and ocular motility with forced duction test was also being noted. The surgical procedure was performed according to the size of defect. · RESULTS: Out of 21 cases of congenital upper eyelid coloboma, 18 occurred in isolation with upper eyelid medial defect, 13 were bilateral and 5 were unilateral. Others were associated with Goldenhar syndrome and CHARGE syndrome with bilateral upper lid medial defects. All patients were presented for surgical corrections during age of 2.5-4.0 years except one that presented at 25 years of age. Cosmetically surgical results were acceptable, except one that was already presented with opaque corneal. · CONCLUSION: In this study, overall surgical results were satisfactory except one that was presented late with compromised cornea.

Corneal topographic changes in healthy siblings of patients with keratoconus

AIM: To describe the involvement in relatives of keratoconus (KCN) patients with corneal topography map. · METHODS: A total of 150 siblings of 300 eyes of 75 KCN patients referred to corneal clinic were studied and experienced complete slit-lamp, refraction examinations and topographic cornea maps provided by videophotoker- atography. ANOVA, Fisher exact and Chi-square tests performed to compare of results. · RESULTS: Of 150 siblings, 56% were female and 44% were male with average age of 21 (range 15-39) years. KCN and suspect KCN diagnosed in 12.3% and 6.6% respectively. The central keratometry (CK) was 46.5±4.51 dioptr (D) in KCN and 45.66±1.52D in suspect KCN. Inferior-superior value (I-S) was 3.51±2.5D in KCN and 1.56±1.22D in suspect KCN. In KCN condition the oval pattern was 67.6% (n = 25) and Round pattern detected 32.4% (n =12). In suspect KCN these patterns detected 90% and 10% respectively. Refractive errors in KCN were -7.5 to +1.25 dioptr (-1.25±1.83), in suspect KCN 0.45 to -4.2 dioptr (-0.68±0.76) and in healthy group 2.75 to -7.5 dioptr (-0.6±1.12). Astigmatism was mild in 22.7%, moderate and sever astigmatism in 18.3% in KCN and suspect KCN · CONCLUSION: Increasing KCN condition in healthy siblings of KCN patients shows require to screening plan to early diagnose and cautionly treatment of contact lens in these individuals.

Corneal lymphangiogenesis correlates closely with hemangiogenesis after keratoplasty

Shi-Qi Ling,Can Liu,Wei-Hua Li,Jian-Gang Xu and Wen-Hui Kuang

AIM: To examine the relationship between corneal lymphangiogenesis and hemangiogenesis after keratoplasty. · METHODS: Nineteen human corneas were obtained from 19 patients undergoing a second corneal transplantation in Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in 2005. Blood and lymphatic vessels in human transplanted corneas were identified by lymphatic vessel endothelial receptor (LYVE-1) and platelet endothelial cell adhesion modecule-1 (PECAM-1) immunohi- stochemistry, and double enzyme-histochemistry; then the association of corneal blood vessel counting (BVC) with lymphatic vessel counting (LVC) was examined. · RESULTS: Corneal hemangiogenesis was present in 12 cases (63%), and lymphangiogenesis occurred in 5 cases (26%) human transplanted corneas. In addition, corneal lymphangiogenesis was only present in vascularized corneas. LVC was strongly and positively correlated with BVC(r=0.725, P <0.01). · CONCLUSION: Corneal lymphangiogenesis develops after keratoplasty and strongly associates with hemangiogenesis.

Risk factor analysis of 167 patients with high myopia

Ya Mo,Ming-Fang Wang and Lu-Lu Zhou

AIM: To analyze the risk factors of age, sex, course, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), diopter and fundus features of high myopes with progressive high myopia. · METHODS: A total of 167 patients with high myopes were categorized into four groups: group 1, age 10-29 years; group 2, age 30-49 years; group 3, age 50-69 years and group 4, age 70-89 years. The refractive errors of all patients were measured without cycloplegia with an autorefractometer. Data of the spherical equivalent (SE) of the refractive errors in diopters (D) and fundus examined by direct ophthalmoscope were used in statistical analysis. · RESULTS: The number of female was statistically larger than that of male (P＜0.01), also the disease course was correlated to the age. The visual acuity of high myopes significantly decreased as they grew older including the higher incidence of lacquer cracker, submacular hemorrhage, Fuchs spots, chorioretinal atrophy. · CONCLUSION: Female maybe a risk factor of high myopia, advanced age is an important factor of visual acuity decreased. High myopes ought to be treated early to delay the progress of myopia and development of macular degeneration.

Objective evaluation of the changes in the crystalline lens during accommodation in young and presbyopic populations using Pentacam HR system

Yao Ni,Xia-Lin Liu,Ming-Xing Wu,Ying Lin,Yu-Ying Sun,Chang He and Yi-Zhi Liu

AIM: To quantify the changes in the lens profile with accommodation in different age groups. METHODS: The Pentacam HR system was used to obtain the images of the anterior eye segment from 23 young and 15 presbyopic emmetropic subjects in unaccommodated (with an accommodation stimulus of 0.0D) and accommodated (with an accommodation stimulus of 5.0D for the young group and 1.0D for the presbyopic group) states. The phakic crystalline lens shape, including curvature of crystalline lens and central lens thickness (CLT), and the measurements of anterior segment length (ASL), central anterior chamber depth (CACD) were investigated. The anterior chamber volume (ACV) was also measured. RESULTS: The reduction of CACD and ACV were significant in both groups after accommodation stimulus. From the profile of anterior eye segment, a significant decrease in anterior crystalline lens radii of curvature (-2.52mm) and a mean increase in CLT (0.222mm) and ASL (0.108mm) were found in the young group with an accommodation stimulus of 5.0D. However, no statistically significant changes of CLT, ASL, or crystalline lens radii of curvature were found in the presbyopic group. CONCLUSION: Our data showed that the shallowing of anterior chamber during accommodation was caused by the forward bulging of the anterior lens surface, rather than by anterior shifting of lens position in either young or presbyopic subjects.

Proteomic analysis of human serum from diabetic retinopathy

Yin-Ping Liu,Shui-Wang Hu,Zhen-Feng Wu,Li-Xin Mei,Ping Lang and Xiao-He Lu

AIM: To establish and compare serum proteomic of diabetic retinopathy(DR) patients in various phases and discuss pathogenesis of DR so as to find out possible serum specific molecular markers for early diagnosis of DR. METHODS: Thirty-two subjects were divided into four groups: one group of eight type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients without apparent DR (No-DR, NDR), one group of eight T2DM patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy(NPDR), one group of eight T2DM patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy(PDR) and one group of eight healthy volunteer participants. Two dimensional fluorescence difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) was applied to establish differential protein expression profiles in four groups. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-TOF MS) was applied to identify mass spectrometry of differential proteins and analyze follow-up bioinformatics. RESULTS: 2D-DIGE maps of serum protein were satisfactory obtained from NDR, NPDR, PDR and normal control groups. Twenty-six different proteins spots were screened(the volume ratio was ＞1.5 based on DeCyder software analysis). Twenty-four of them were verified and two of them were not. Fifteen proteins were verified. Most of them were high-abundant proteins in serum. The four relatively low-abundant ones were beta 2-glycoprotein I (β2-GPI), alpha2-HS-glycoprotein(AHSG), alpha1-acid glycoprotein(α1-AGP) and apolipoprotein A-1(apo A-1). β2-GPI expression was gradually increased in the development of DR but unrelated to the severity of DR. The volume ratio of β2-GPI is 1.54, 2.43, and 2.84 in NDR, NPDR and PDR group respectively compared with normal control group. CONCLUSION: Serum proteomic analysis of 2D-DIGE combined with MALDI-TOF-TOF MS is feasible to be applied in the study of DR. β2-GPI probably takes part in the process of DR occurrence and development and it could be a candidate biomarker on DR diagnosis in early phase.

Blue-on-yellow perimetry and corneal thickness in patients with ocular hypertension

Yi-Sheng Zhong,Li-Ping Chen and Yu Cheng

AIM: To evaluate the frequency of blue-on-yellow perimetry (B/YP) deficits in ocular hypertension (OHT) patients and to correlate these findings with central corneal thickness (CCT), and to investigate the influence of age, refraction and gender on the B/YP results in OHT patients. METHODS: The B/YP and CCT were checked respectively in 72 OHT patients with normal white-on-white perimetry(W/WP) and normal optic nerve head. The B/YP was tested by Octopus 101 automated perimetry using G2 strategy, while the CCT was checked with DGH-550 ultrasound pachymeter. All patients were chosen randomly one eye for statistical analysis, a binary regression model was used to determine the independent contribution of variables included in the model, and the differences of the intraocular pressure (IOP), CCT, age, refraction and gender between the normal B/YP group and abnormal B/YP group were compared. RESULTS: Forty-nine out of 72 patients with OHT showed normal B/YP results, whereas 23 of 72 patients(31.9%) demonstrated abnormal B/YP results. CCT showed a correlation with the B/YP results (B=-0.038, SE=0.019, P=0.044), whereas none of the IOP, age, refraction and gender was found to be correlated with the B/YP results. The mean CCT in OHT patients with abnormal B/YP group was lower than that with normal B/YP group(t =2.066, P=0.043).There was a significant positive correlation between IOP and CCT (R2=0.513, P= 0.000). CONCLUSION: The mean CCT in OHT patients with abnormal B/YP results was lower than that with normal B/YP results. There was a significant positive correlation between IOP and CCT in OHT patients. The age, refraction and gender didn't influence the B/YP results in OHT patients.

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in patients with congenital nystagmus

AIM: To study macular features in patients with congenital nystagmus and to assess the utility of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in nystagmus. METHODS: The macular areas of 51 outpatients with congenital nystagmus were examined using SD-OCT. Morphological changes in the retinal layers of the macular area were analysed. RESULTS: Macular images were successfully obtained with SD-OCT from 50 (98%) patients. Patients with ocular albinism mainly have macular hypoplasia, abnormal foveal depression, and increased foveal thickness with persistence of an inner nuclear layer, an inner plexiform layer, a ganglion cell layer and a nerve fiber layer. Macular morphology similar to albinism was observed in three patients with idiopathic macular hypoplasia. The OCT findings of cone dystrophy included unclear, disrupted or invisible photoreceptor outer segment/inner segment in the fovea; fusion, thickening and uneven reflection of the outer segment/inner segment with external limiting membrane. Some patients with congenital idiopathic nystagmus showed normal macular morphology and structure, and others showed indistinct macular external limiting membrane reflection. CONCLUSION: SD-OCT is an effective and reliable method to detect the macular morphology of congenital nystagmus patients. This technique has diagnostic value in particular for patients with macular hypoplasia and cone cell dystrophy with no distinct abnormality on fundoscopy.

Analysis of risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity

Wen-Lin Li,Li He,Xi-Hua Liu,Yu-Mei Wang and Jian-Qing Liu

AIM: To analyze the incidence and risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 568 premature infants from September 2005 to December 2010 with birth weight(BW) equal to or less than 2 500g or a gestational age(GA) at birth of 34 weeks or less. All of the members were examined by indirect binocular ophthalmoscopy. RESULTS: ROP occurred with an incidence rate of 10.7% among 568 premature infants, and stages 3 and above ROP occurred with an incidence rate of 2.5%. This study showed the infants were more prone to develop ROP with short geststional age, low BW, long time of oxygen inhalation, and severe infants diseases. Twins had a significantly higher rate of ROP(18.3%) than singleton babies(9.8%), ROP were severer in twins than singleton babies . CONCLUSION: Short GA, low BW, long time of oxygen inhalation, severe infants diseases, and non-singleton babies were the most significant risk factors associated with ROP.

One-year experience in the retinopathy of prematurity: frequency and risk factors, short-term results and follow-up

AIM: As a result of the increase in premature births and the advances in neonatal intensive care, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) remains one of the most important causes of childhood blindness worldwide. The main factors in the development of ROP are gestational age, birth weight and oxygen therapy. ROP continues to gain importance due to the increasing survival rates of more immature babies. METHODS: Between January 2007 and October 2008, 203 premature infants treated at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NNICU) were prospectively enrolled and the relationship between known risk factors and the occurance of ROP was studied. RESULTS: ROP in various stages developed in 86 cases (42.4%). Statistically significant correlations were found between the development of ROP and birth weight (P<0.0001) gestational age (P<0.0001), oxygen treatment and its duration (P<0.0001 and P=0.002), mechanical ventilation (MV) and its duration (P=0,0001 and P=0.0001), apnea(P=0.001), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (P=0.046), sepsis (P=0.0001), use of erythropoietin (EPO) (P=0.003), the number of blood transfusions and frequency (P=0.0001 and P=0.0001), surfactant application (P=0.0001), the presence of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) (P=0.001) or bronchopu- lmonary dysplasia (BPD) (P=0.0001). No significant correlations were found between the occurance of ROP and maternal pre-eclampsia (P=0.293), multiple pregnancy (P=0.218), or hyperbilirubinemia (P=0.494). Severity of ROP was related significantly with birth weight (P=0.0001), but no significant correlation between severity of ROP and gestational age was present. CONCLUSION: Early description and reduction of the risk factors related with the occurance of ROP with the help of routine screening programs may warrant the prevention of visual loss, however early ophthalmic diagnosis and treatment are still mandatory to provide better visual rehabilitation.

Retinal manifestations of patients with human immun- odeficiency virus, a multiethnics study in Malaysia

Loo A.V.P,Sujaya S,Peyman M,Florence S and Subrayan V

AIM: To investigate the fundus findings of patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in correlation to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART) and CD4 count. METHODS: Two hundred and two patients of the three major races (Chinese, Malay and Indian) in Malaysia were recruited in this population-based cross-sectional study. This consisted of confirmed HIV sero-positive patients with HAART treatment (n=95) or without HAART therapy (n=107) from December 2007 to March 2008. They were further classified into the HIV infected group, AIDS related complex (ARC) group and AIDS group. Each group was then subdivided according to their CD4 count. Clinical fundus findings were recorded. RESULTS: Sixty six patients (32.7%) showed presence of fundus manifestation, majority of which was HIV microangiopathy (89%) and the rest being Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis (11%). The most common fundus lesion was cotton wool spot (34%). There was a higher incidence of fundus manifestation in the non HAART group than the HAART group (P=0.04) and in patients with CD4 count less than 200 cells/ml in both groups (P=0.01). The HAART therapy had remarkably reduced the percentage of fundus manifestation by 20% but CD4 count remains the marker for fundus manifestations. There were no significant differences noted in the retinal manifestation among the different races. (ANOVA, P=0.25). CONCLUSION: The fundus manifestations were higher in patients with CD4<200 cells/ml and in the non HAART group. Hence the HAART therapy is capable of reducing the incidence of fundus manifestations, however the CD4 count determines the occurrence of fundus manifestations.

Changes in endothelial cell density following penetrating keratoplasty and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty

Banu Torun Acar,Ece Turan Vural and Suphi Acar

AIM: To compare the corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) of clear grafts after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK). METHODS: The study included 44 and 54 patients treated with PK and DALK, respectively, between March 2006 and April 2010. Corneal ECD was examined using specular microscopy at postoperative 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months, and the values were compared. RESULTS: Corneal ECD reduction in the PK group was 7.4%, 15.2%, 23.5%, and 28.9% at 3, 6, 12 and 18 months respectively after surgery, compared with 4.2 % in the first month (P<0.01). These figures were 3.0%, 6.7%, 7.2%, and 7.7% at 3, 6, 12 and 18 months respectively, compared with 2.2 % in the first month in the DALK group (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared with DALK,PK significantly reduced ECD of the clear grafts. These results suggest that survival of endothelial cells in grafts is better after DALK than after PK.

Trends in the indications for penetrating keratoplasty in Shandong, 2005-2010

Jun-Yi Wang,Li-Xin Xie,Xiu-Sheng Song and Jing Zhao

AIM: To identify the current indications and the trend shifts for penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) in Shandong. METHODS: The medical charts of all patients who underwent PKP at Shandong Eye Institute from June 1, 2005 to May 31, 2010 were analysed retrospectively. RESULTS: A total of 875 patients (875 eyes) received PKP in this 5-year period, accounting for 61.6% of all corneal transplantation surgeries. The leading indications for PKP were infectious keratitis (37.1%), HSK (19.1%), keratoconus (11.2%), bullous keratopathy (8.5%), regrafting (6.7%) and corneal scarring (4.8%). The percentage of PKP for keratoconus declined year by year, whereas the percentage of bullous keratopathy had a mild annual increase. Fungal infections accounted for 65.2% of the infectious keratitis cases, remaining the leading cause of corneal infection. In addition, 54.1% of bullous keratopathy cases were associated with cataract surgery. The leading initial diagnoses associated with regrafting were infectious keratitis (38.9%), HSK (18.6%) and corneal burn (16.9%). The major causes of regrafting included graft endothelial dysfunction (39.0%), graft ulcer (28.8%) and primary disease recurrence (15.3%). CONCLUSION: Infectious keratitis remained the leading indication for PKP in Shandong, and fungal infections were still the major cause of corneal infections. There was an increasing trend in the percentage of PKP cases indicated for bullous keratopathy but a decline in the same for keratoconus. Even with a decline in the overall proportion among all corneal transplantation surgeries, PKP is still the major corneal transplant choice in Shandong.

Aerocyst urethral catheter insertion compared to expansion sponges application in external dacryocystorhinostomy

AIM: To evaluate the clinical effect and complications of two different filling materials (aerocyst urethral catheter and expansion sponges) applying in external dacryocystorhin- ostomy (EXT-DCR) and compare their advantages and disadvantages. METHODS: A retrospective study was made in the period from April, 1 2000 to April, 1 2005. Totally 180 patients (240 eyes) underwent the EX-DCR using different filling materials and divided into three groups randomly: negative control groups (group 1), expansion sponges group (group 2) and aerocyst urethral catheter group (group 3). The gender, etiology, clinical findings, surgical technique, filling materials, the condition of ocular surface and complications were analyzed. Filling materials were removed during day 7. Postoperative success was determined by lacrimal patency to irrigation, a positive dye test, hemorrhage and errhysis conditions after extubation and subjective resolution of epiphora and liquor puris. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 5.14±1.69 years, the success rate were 73.7％ (group 1), 86.5％(group 2), 98.7％ (group 3) in three groups. There was significant statistical difference among three groups in the surgical success rate and the operative complications (including hemorrhage, errhysis, periorbital ecchymosis after extubation)(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: EXT-DCR with aerocyst urethral cathete intraoperatively have higher success rate，fewer operative complications and a high patient satisfaction ,and can be used to simplify and speed up traditional EXT-DCR.

Corneal astigmatism correction with scleral flaps in trans-scleral suture-fixed posterior chamber lens implantation: a preliminary clinical observation

Li-Wei Ma,Dwight Xuan,Xiao-Yan Li and Jin-Song Zhang

AIM: To study the impact of scleral flap position, under which the posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC-IOL) were sulcus-fixed by trans-scleral suture, on cornea astigmatism. METHODS: Twenty-six aphakic or cataract eyes were comprised in this prospective noncomparative case series study. Eleven eyes had traumatic cataract removed without sufficient capsular support, 3 had blunt trauma with subluxated traumatic cataract, 8 had undergone vitreoretinal surgery and 4 had congenital cataract removed. The average age was 54 years (range 21-74 years), with 17 men and 7 women. The foldable PC-IOL was fixed in sulcus by trans-scleral suture. The incision for IOL implantation was made 1mm posterior to limbus along the steepest meridian of cornea, while scleral flaps to bury the knots of trans-scleral suture were made along the flattest meridian. All the surgeries were performed by a single doctor (Ma L), and the follow up was at least 13 months (range 13-28 months). The preoperative, 3 months and 1 year postoperative corneal curvature along the steepest and flattest cornea meridian and overall cornea astigmatism were compared. RESULTS: The curvature along the steepest meridian changed from 44.25±2.22D preoperatively to 44.08±2.16D at 3 months postoperatively, and 43.65±5.23D at 1 year postoperatively (P>0.05); the curvature along the flattest meridian changed from 41.24±2.21D preoperatively to 43.15±3.94D at 3 months postoperatively, and 42.85±5.17D at 1 year postoperatively (P<0.05); and the surgery induced astigmatism (SIA) on cornea was calculated by vector analysis, which was 2.42±2.13D at 3 months postoperatively, and 2.18±3.42D at 1 year postoperatively, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The scleral flap made along the flattest meridian, under which the posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PCIOL) were sulcus-fixed by trans-scleral suture, can steepen the cornea in varying degrees, thus reducing preexisting corneal astigmatism.

Idiopathic phacodonesis in senile cataract patients in Qinghai, China

AIM: To investigate the frequency of idiopathic phacodonesis (IP) in senile cataract subjects and the short-term clinical outcomes following cataract surgery. METHODS：This institutional case-control study included 1301 consecutive low-income cataract subjects from June to November 2009. Anterior segment were carefully evaluated with dilated pupil under slit-lamp. IP were screened and graded by a criteria set by the authors. Risk factors, surgical outcomes, and operative complications were analyzed. RESULTS：A total of 42 subjects (3.2%) with IP were diagnosed and classified as grade 1 (36 subjects), grade 2 (5 subjects) and grade 3 (1 subject). Harder lenses and intumescent cataracts were observed in the IP group than the control group (P<0.05). Logistics regression test also indicated the main risk factor was the hardness of the lens. The incidence of zonular dialysis during surgery was 23.8% (10 eyes), which was significantly higher than the controls (0.7%,P<0.001). Visual outcomes of the two groups were not statistically or clinically significant. CONCLUSION: Hard nucleus and intumescent cataract are related to IP in senile cataract subjects in Qinghai, China. With more care being taken, grade 1 and some of the grade 2 IP subjects achieved similar surgical outcomes as compared to controls.

Cataract surgery in aged patients: phacoemul-sification or small-incision extracapsular cataract surgery

Tao Jiang,Jing Jiang,Yang Zhou,Gui-Qiu Zhao,Hui Li and Shan-Yao Zhao

AIM: To evaluate the effects and safety of phacoemu- lsification (Phaco) or small-incision extracapsular cataract surgery (SICS) and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation for aged patients. METHODS: Totally 137 aged patients (149 eyes) underwent cataract operation in the case of stable systemic condition, the blood pressure less than 160/95mmHg, blood glucose less than 8mmol/L, and under the help of electrocardiogram surveillance by anesthesiologists during the operation. 106 aged patients (114 eyes) underwent Phaco while 31 aged patients (35 eyes) underwent SICS. The postoperative visual acuity, corneal endothelial cell loss, surgery time and major complications were observed and analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: The best-corrected visual acuity(BCVA) of ≥0.6 was achieved in 135 eyes (92.6%) at 1 month postoperatively (χ2=259.730, P＜0.001). For aged patients, both Phaco and SICS could significantly improve visual acuity with no significant difference (χ2=4.535,P＞0.05). Postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss was 18.6%, in PHACO group, the rate was 18.5%; in SICS group, the rate was 19.0%, the difference of which was no significant (χ2=0.102, P>0.05). The surgery time was different in two groups. No severe complications occurred. CONCLUSION: Both Phaco and SICS combined with IOL implantation for aged patients are effective and safe. Before surgery, detailed physical examination should be performed. When the systemic condition is stable, cataract surgery for aged patients is safe.

Awareness of eye complications and prevalence of retinopathy in the first visit to eye clinic among type 2 diabetic patients

I Tajunisah,PS Wong,LT Tan,P Rokiah and SC Reddy

AIM: To assess the awareness of eye complications and the prevalence of retinopathy, in the first visit to eye clinic, among type 2 diabetic patients attending a tertiary medical centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. METHODS: An investigator-administered questionnaire was given to 137 patients with diabetes undergoing first time eye screening in the eye clinic. This was followed by a detailed fundus examination by a senior ophthalmologist to assess for presence of retinopathy. RESULTS: Almost 86% of respondents were aware of diabetic eye complications, especially in patients who had achieved tertiary educational level (96.3%). The majority of the patients (78.8%) were referred by their physicians and only 20.4% came on their own initiative. Many of the patients (43.8%) did not know how frequent they should go for an eye check-up and 72.3% did not know what treatments were available. Lack of understanding on diabetic eye diseases (68.6%) was the main barrier for most patients for not coming for eye screening earlier. Despite a high level of awareness, only 21.9% had recorded HbA1c level of <6.5% while 31.4% were under the erroneous assumption of having a good blood sugar control. A total of 29.2% had diabetic retinopathy in their first visit eye testing. CONCLUSION: In the present study, 29.2% of type 2 diabetic patients had retinopathy in their first time eye testing. Although the awareness of diabetic eye complications was high among first time eye screening patients, the appropriate eye care-seeking behavior was comparatively less and should be rectified to prevent the rise of this sight threatening eye disease.

Rigid contact lens fitting based on keratometry readings in keratoconus patients: predicting formula

AIM: To find a simple mathematical correlation between the lens base curve (BC) and keratometry findings (krf). METHODS: This retrospective study included 400 keratoconic eyes (350 patients) previously fit with rigid contact lenses at an academic eye center over a five year period. The patients were classified into five groups based on the keratometry findings (krf<7, krf:7-8, krf>8, krf-krs (difference between two keratometry; flat and steep)= 0.3-0.6, krf-krs >0.6mm as groups 1 to 5, respectively. Multivariate linear regression and Munro's correlation coefficient were employed to defer the formulas. RESULTS: A linear correlation could be found in all groups except for patients in group 3. For group 1, BC=0.211×krf+ 5.904. For group 2, BC=0.456×krf+4.160. For group 4,BC= 0.321×krf+5.219. For group 5, BC=0.337×krf+ 5.090. CONCLUSION: The development of new formulas for RGP fitting enables ophthalmologists to work with confidence and prevents unnecessary and frequent lens trials. The customary lens fitting methods are needed to be replaced by new formulas, which help to save time and costs.

Immediate intraocular pressure rise after intravitreal injection of ranibizumab and two doses of triamcinolone acetonide

Ali Osman Saatci,Ferit Hakan Oner and Gul Arikan

AIM: To evaluate prospectively immediate intraocular pressure (IOP) changes after the intravitreal injection of ranibizumab, 2 and 4mg triamcinolone acetonide. METHODS: Patients who underwent intravitreal injection of 0.1mL (4mg) triamcinolone acetonide (TA, Group T4), 0.05mL (2mg) TA (Group T2) and 0.05mL (0.5mg) ranibizumab (Group R) comprised the study population. Overall, 229 eyes of 205 patients were injected. Fifty-four eyes (23.6%) were in Group T4, 69 eyes (30.1%) in Group T2 and 106 eyes (46.3%) in Group R. If IOP was less than 26mmHg immediately after the injection no further measurement was performed. If IOP was ≥26mmHg, IOP was remeasured till the reading was below 26mmHg at 5, 15 and 30 minutes. RESULTS: Immediately after the injection, the IOP of 28 eyes (51.9%) in Group T4, 22 eyes (31.9%) in Group T2 and 51 eyes (48.1%) in Group R were over 25mmHg. At 30 minutes, IOP of one eye (1.9%) in group T4, two eyes (2.9%) in group T2 and two eyes (1.9 %) in Group R were over 25mmHg. Immediate post-injection IOP was significantly higher in Group T4 and Group R when compared to Group T2 (P<0.001 and P<0.001, respectively). IOP was significantly higher in eyes without vitreous reflux when compared to those with vitreous reflux in all groups (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: IOP may remarkably increase immediately after the intravitreal injection of 2 or 4mg triamcinolone acetonide, and 0.5mg ranibizumab. Absence of vitreous reflux is the most important predicting factor for immediate IOP rise after the injection.

Osteopontin expression in vitreous and proliferative retinal membranes of patients with proliferative vitreous retinopathy

Xiao-Yi Liu,Lei Li,Jia-Qi Yao,Xi Chen and Qing-Huai Liu

AIM: To analyze osteopontin (OPN) expression in vitreous and proliferative retinal membranes of patients with proliferative vitreous retinopathy (PVR). METHODS: A total of 54 vitreous fluid samples were obtained between 2009 and 2010, which contained 45 with PVR (group A) and 9 without PVR (group B). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was applied to quantify the OPN concentrations in vitreous fluid. Four samples of proliferative retinal membrane were also obtained at the time of vitrectomy, and their contents of OPN were measured by Real-time RT-PCR. RESULTS: The OPN levels in the vitreous fluid were 778.48±62.06ng/mL in group A and 452.99±32.52ng/mL in group B. The vitreous OPN levels in group A were significantly higher than those in group B and to rise by time in the early stages of PVR. The average OPN levels in the proliferative retinal membranes (F=0.14) were also higher than those in the retinal pigment cells (F=0) using Real-time RT-PCR. CONCLUSION: The high vitreous and proliferative retinal membrane OPN levels in PVR suggest that OPN might promote the development of PVR. The vitreous OPN concentrations are rising by the time in the early phases of PVR.

Pathogen characteristics and its sensitivity against antimicrobial agents in fatal bacterial granuloma after eyelid trauma in vitro

AIM: To understand the pathogen characteristics and its sensitivity against antimicrobial agents in fatal bacterial granuloma after eyelid trauma (FBGT) in vitro, and to provide laboratory evidence for diagnosis. METHODS: The FBGT pathogens were isolaated and cultured with reformed rabbit-brain anaerobic enriched broth (RRAB), and identified by ATB/API 20A system. The minimum inhibiting concentration (MIC) was determined by anaerobic broth dilution method. RESULTS: A total of 22 strains of pathogen were separated from 21 patients with FBGT and identified as Propionibacterium acnes (PA) by ATB/API 20A system. The MIC of ciprofloxacin for 22 PA strains was 0.0625-0.5mg/L, the MIC of penicillin, ampicillin, ampicillin/sulbactam, cefoperazone, lincomycin, and imipenem/cilastatin were 0.125-0.5mg/L, the MIC of ticarcillin/clavulanic acid was 0.250-1.000 mg/L ,and the MIC of metronidazole was 64-256mg/L. The pathogen of FBGT was strictly anaerobic PA, which growed slowly and better in nutritious RRAB broth. All PA were resistant to metronidazole, but susceptive to other routine antimicrobial agents, such as penicillin, ampicillin and lincomycin. CONCLUSSION: FBGT should not be treated with metronidazole. Clinicians should choose combined use of drugs or operation to treat FBGT according to patients’ individual condition and the results of drug sensitivity test.

Validation of PCR for the detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from corneal samples

Maria E. Hillenbrand,Paul P. Thompson,Robert M. Q. Shanks and Regis P. Kowalski

AIM: To determine a species-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay to detect Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA), a secondary DNA target for PA that may provide a universal target for other bacterial pathogens, and validate both assays for diagnostic testing. METHODS: PCR detection was established against the ecfX PA gene and the 16S rRNA gene using known PA keratitis isolates. The outcome parameters for both assays were “limit of detection” (LOD), amplification efficiency (AE), and PAGE amplified product analysis. Both assays were validated against 20 true-positive clinical samples positive for PA DNA and 20 true-negative samples containing no PA DNA. Descriptive statistics and PAGE analysis were used as outcome parameters. RESULTS: AE of the ecfX assay was 96.6%, and LOD was 33.6 copies of target DNA per microliter. AE of the 16S rRNA assay was 103.4%, and LOD was 8.12 copies per microliter. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and efficiency for the ecfX and 16S rRNA assays were [75%, 95%, 94%, 79%, and 85%], and [70%, 100%, 100%, 77%, and 85%], respectively. Both PCR assays were validated, followed by confirmation of DNA patterns from PAGE analysis. CONCLUSION: The PCR methodology described here may be a useful adjunct to standard methods in the diagnosis of PA keratitis.

Correlation of leaking microaneurysms with retinal thickening in diabetic retinopathy

AIM: To investigate the contribution of fluorescein angiographic leaking microaneurysms (leak-MA) versus non-leaking microaneurysms (non-leak-MA) to retinal thickening in diabetic retinopathy. METHODS: A consecutive series of 38 eyes from 24 patients with diabetic retinopathy was included. Leak-MA and non-leak-MA in each eye were selected in pairs at corresponding topographic location. Leaking was defined by late phase fluorescein angiograms compared to early phase. Retinal thickness was measured with Heidelberg Spectralis OCT topographically aligned on early phase angiograms at the MA site and within a 1 mm circle. RESULTS: In all eyes, significant retinal thickening at the site of leaking compared to non-leaking microaneurysms was observed (356±69μm vs 318±56μm, P <0.001), showing a mean increase in thickness in the areas of leak-MA vs non-leak-MA of 38±39μm (95% confidence interval 25-51μm, P<0.001). All 1mm area measurements also showed significant (P<0.001) thickening of the leak-MA with average thickness of leak-MA vs non-leak-MA as 351±67μm vs 319±59μm; minimum thickness 311±62μm vs 284±60μm; maximum thickness 389±78μm vs 352±66μm; and retina volume 26.4±6.0mm vs 23.6±3.7mm3, respectively. CONCLUSION: Leaking of microaneurysms on fluorescein angiography appears to cause focal thickening of retina, which can be measured with high-resolution OCT. Therefore, targeting leaking microaneursyms in diabetic retinopathy has the potential to reduce retinal thickening.

Non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy in Malaysia: a 5 years review

Abdulrahman Bawazir,Reza Gharebaghi,Adil Hussein and Wan Hazabbah Wan Hitam

AIM: To evaluate the clinical presentations and visual outcomes of non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION). METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted involving 18 consecutive patients (20 eyes) with NAION attending Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia from January 2005 until December 2009. RESULTS: Most patients were Malay (94.4%), and followed by Chinese (5.6 %). The female-to-male ratio was 3.5:1. The age of patients ranged from 36 to 85 years (mean, 57.1 years). The main risk factors in systemic diseases were hypertension (55.5%), diabetes mellitus (44.4%), and ischaemic heart disease (11.1%). Most patients (77.8%) presented with acute loss of vision while gradual onset was in 22.3% of cases. Majority had visual acuity worse than 1/60 (80%). The most common fundoscopic findings were peripapillary splinter haemorrhage (90%), sectorial swollen optic disc (60%) and hyperemic disc (60%). During follow up, 20% of the patients showed stabilization in visual acuity, and 80% showed worsening of vision. CONCLUSION: Majority of patients with NAION presented with acute poor vision involving middle-aged and elderly individuals. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were among the main risk factors involved. NAION can lead to permanent visual loss despite treatment.

TGFBI gene mutation analysis in a Chinese pedigree of Avellino corneal dystrophy

AIM: To analyze phenotype and genotype of a Chinese pedigree with Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD). METHODS: Complete ophthalmic examinations were per- formed on all the family members. Exons of TGFBI were amplified by polymerase chain reaction, sequenced, and compared with a reference database. RESULTS: A single heterozygous G>A(R124H) point mutation was identified in exon 4 of TGFBI in three affected members and two unaffected children who were offsprings of the affected members, but not in the other family members. CONCLUSION: Mutation R124H in TGFBI was identified in this pedigree and appeared to be the disease causing mutation. Atypical phenotype and low penetrance was observed in this pedigree.

Novel sutureless transplantation for primary pterygium associated with cysts

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel sutureless AMT (amniotic membrane transplantation) or CAT (conjunctivolimbal autograft transplantation) using fibrin glue for reconstructing corneoconjunctival surfaces for primary pterygium associated with cysts. METHODS: A prospective descriptive study was made of the period 1 January 2006-1 May 2009. Nine patients with primary pterygium associated with cysts underwent pterygium and cyst excision followed by sutureless AMT or CAT using fibrin glue. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 8.00±0.67 months, all eyes maintained a smooth and stable corneal epithelial surface without recurrent erosion or persistent epithelial defect. The limbal donor site showed the presence of mild depressions without the formation of pseudopterygium. All eyes have good tear secretion function, tear film stability and ocular motility. CONCLUSION: Sutureless transplantation using fibrin glue is safe and effective for restoring a stable corneoconjunctival epithelium in primary pterygium associated with cysts.

Comparison of the retinal modulation transfer function between amblyopes successfully corrected and normal subjects

Xiao-Ming Huang,Xue-Gu Xu and Guo-Xing Xu

AIM：To analyze the retinal modulation transfer function between amblyopes whose visual acuity was corrected to 5.0 and normal subjects at the same age. METHODS： RM-800 used to detect contrast sensitivity was adopted to measure MTF of 96 amblyopes (96 eyes) whose visual acuity was corrected to 5.0 and 80 normal controls (80 eyes) at the same age under six interference fringes (IVA=0.06, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8). RESULTS： The functional values of amblyopes were significantly lower than those of normal subjects in every fringe (P<0.01), especially in medium and high frequency. CONCLUSION：For amblyopes, MTF was still abnormal after stopping the treatments.

Comparison of age-related changes between corneal and ocular aberration in young and mid-age myopic patients

Feng-Ju Zhang,Zheng Zhou,Fang-Lei Yu,Zhi-Li Lu,Ting Li and Meng-Meng Wang

AIM: To study the dynamic character of aberration between the cornea and the ocular with aging, and to evaluate the symmetry of the aberrations between right and left eye in order to supply the data for clinic to do the refractive surgery reasonably. METHODS: This is a comparative case series study. 82 normal cases (164 eyes) including 37 females (74 eyes) and 45 males (90 eyes) were recruited through the routine examinations、Topolyzer and wavefront analysis. The average age was 25.9±5.0 years old (range 18 to 49 years old), and the mean spherical equivalent (SE) is -3.82±2.21D (range -1.00 to -6.00D). The changes of aberrations regarding age, the relationship between anterior corneal and total aberrations were analyzed，as well as the symmetry between right and left eyes by using Zernike terms. RESULTS: The Z 3 1, RMS3 of corneal aberrations, Z 3 1, Z 4 0 , RMS3 and RMS4 of ocular aberrations had a positive correlation with age. The zernike terms both in corneal and whole eye were significantly correlated between right and left eyes. CONCLUSION: The corneal horizontal coma, ocular horizontal coma and ocular spherical aberrations become to increase at the age of more than 40 years old. The dynamic change of aberration with aging, balance between corneal and ocular, and the symmetric character between left eye and right eye should be designed carefully in the treatment nomogram before the refractive surgery.

Confocal microscopic evaluation of cornea after AquaLase liquefaction cataract extraction

Jiang-Yue Zhao,Ming-Wu Wang,Qi Sun and Jin-Song Zhang

AIM: The most recent and innovative AquaLase liquefaction technology has offered an alternative to lens extraction. Many studies have investigated its functions and advantages. This article focuses on evaluating the in vivo microscopic cornea changes after AquaLase liquefaction by using a laser confocal microscope. METHODS: In this perspective, randomized case study, 37 eyes of 35 patients submitted to cataract surgery were chosen to undergo AquaLase liquefaction cataract extraction. Each patient was assessed before the operation, on the 1st, 7th, and 30th postoperative days, and 6 months after the cataract extraction. The morphologies and quantitative comparisons of corneal cells and corneal nerves layer by layer were evaluated in vivo with the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph III-Rostock Cornea Module (HRT-III RCM) confocal microscope. ANOVA and Post-Hoc Bonferroni test were carried out to compare the results pre- and post-operation. RESULTS: ANOVA results indicated no post-operation changes for epithelium and anterior stroma cells. Irregular segments of sub-basal nerve fiber were most pronounced seven days post-operation. In the mid and posterior stroma, keratocytes were obvious compared with the preoperative condition. Corneal endothelium cells became obviously swollen in cytoplasm and nucleus. The mid and posterior stroma cell density decreased from the 1st to 7th postoperative days (P<0.05). The corneal endothelium cell density decreased (P<0.05) and did not revert to the preoperative level after six months (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Slight microstructural abnormalities were identified in the corneal recovery process after AquaLase liquefaction. AquaLase liquefaction cataract extraction is safe for cornea.

Head trauma can cause transient elevation of intraocular pressure in patients with open angle glaucoma

Hong Wei and George L. Spaeth

AIM: To describe a newly-recognized entity, illustrated by five cases of glaucoma in whom trauma to the head, but not the eye, resulted in marked, transient elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). METHODS: Retrospective case series. Chart review. RESULTS: All five cases had a diagnosis of primary open-angle glaucoma prior to the experience of trauma to the head. All cases had an unusual elevation of IOP (around 70 percent) for days to weeks following the trauma, after which the IOP fell to pre-accident levels. No cause other than the trauma could be determined. CONCLUSION: The relationship between head trauma and elevation of IOP appears real.

Application of Lutein and Zeaxanthin in nonproliferative diabetic retin

Bo-Jie Hu,Ya-Nan Hu,Song Lin,Wen-Jiang Ma and Xiao-Rong Li

AIM: To compare serum Lutein and Zeaxanthin (L/Z) concentrations between patients with nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NDR) and normal subjects, and to explore the effect of L/Z supplementation on serum L/Z level and visual function in NDR patients METHODS: Subjects were divided into three groups: 30 NDR patients supplied with Lutein 6mg/d and Zeaxanthin 0.5mg/d for three months (DR Group), 30 NDR patients without L/Z supplementation (DR Control Group) and 30 normal subjects (Control Group). Serum L/Z concentrations were measured by liquid high-resolution chromatography (HPLC). Visual acuity was recorded at baseline, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months post initial supplementation. Serum L/Z concentration were measured at baseline, 1 month and 2 months post initial supplementation. Contrast sensitivity (CS) and fovea thickness were recorded at baseline and 3 months post initial supplementation. RESULTS: Mean serum lutein concentrations in DR group were 0.0686±0.0296μg/mL and zeaxanthin concentration was 0.0137±0.0059μg/mL. The L/Z level of DR group was significantly lower compared to the control group( lutein: 0.2302±0.1308μg/mL，zeaxanthin: 0.0456±0.0266μg/m，P = 0.000). The concentration of lutein and zeaxanthin in the DR control group at base line was 0.0714±0.0357μg/mL and 0.0119±0.0072μg/mL, respectively. There was no significant change of L/Z concentration in the DR control group during the study. Serum L/Z concentrations of DR group increased significantly after supplementation（F=109.124，P=0.000；F=219.207，P=0.000）.Visual acuity improved significantly after medication. Compared with pre-medication, the average CS values of 1.5cpd, 3cpd and 6cpd after three months increased significantly (P=0.030,0.013,0.008) and the foveal thickness decreased. (P=0.05) CONCLUSION: Serum L/Z concentrations in DR patients are significantly lower than those in normal subjects, and L/Z intake can improve the visual acuity, CS and macular edema in DR patients, suggesting that L/Z supplementation might be targeted as potential potential therapeutic agents in treating NDR.

Vitrectomy for vitreous amyloidosis

Jiang You

AIM: To study the clinical features of vitreous amyloidosis and the effect of vitrectomy for it. METHODS: We treated 6 eyes (4 Patients) with vitreous amyloidosis from 2008 to 2009, and followed up for 18-30 months after vitrectomy. RESULTS: The visual acuity ranged from counting fingers to 3/50 before surgery and 15/50-40/50 after vitrectomy. No severe complication was observed. CONCLUSION: Vitrectomy is an effective and safe treatment for eyes with vitreous amyloidosis. A long period of follow-up after surgery should be performed.

Clinicopathological survey of 23 patients with lacrimal fossa lesions in Hong Kong

Danny Siu-Chun Ng,Edwin Chan, Kin Yau and Clement Wai-Nang Chan

AIM: To survey the clinicopathological correlations of lacrimal fossa lesions in the Hong Kong population. METHODS: A total of 23 patients with lacrimal fossa lesions were identified radiologically. The mean age at the time of diagnosis was 52 year-old. The medical records of patients diagnosed with lacrimal fossa lesions and subsequently underwent radiological investigations were collected and reviewed retrospectively throughout a six years period from 2000 to 2006 from three regional hospitals (Tung Wah Eastern Hospital, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital and Queen Mary Hospital) belonging to the Hong Kong Mega Cluster. Patient demographics, presenting signs and symptoms, imaging modalities, pathological reports and subsequent management were recorded. RESULTS: The most common initial presenting symptom was upper lid swelling (83%) followed by proptosis (13%). 19 patients (83%) had benign lacrimal fossa lesion and 4 patients (17%) had malignancy. Three of the malignancies were lymphomas and one was adenoid cystic carcinoma. CONCLUSION: Age is an important factor in considering the differential diagnosis of lacrimal fossa lesion. Lymphoproliferative diseases have the highest incidence in patients over 60 years of age while inflammatory lesions are more common in younger patients in Hong Kong.

Clinic study on silicone hydrogel contact lenses used as bandage contact lenses after LASEK surgery

Xiao-Mei Qu,Jin -Hui Dai,Zhen -Ying Jiang and Yi- Feng Qian

AIM: To compare the clinical performance of two types of silicon hydrogel contact lenses used as bandage lenses after LASEK surgery. METHODS: A prospective, double-masked study was conducted on 42 eyes of 21 patients who received binocular LASEK surgeries. The interocular difference in spherical equivalent power was less than -1.50D. Patients were randomly assigned to wear Galyfilcon A (Lens A) bandage contact lens in one eye and Balafilcon A (Lens B) in the fellow eye after the surgery. The responses to a subjective questionnaire on comfort of wearing, corneal epithelial status, conjunctival hyperemia, limbal neovascularization, lens fitting and contact lens debris were assessed 1 and 5 days postoperatively. Corneal endothelium was assessed before and 5 days after the surgery upon bandage lens removal. RESULTS: There was no difference between the two groups in terms of conjunctival hyperemia, limbal neovascularization, contact lens fitting, corneal epithelial status, corneal endothelium cell density (CD) and endothelium cell size (CS) at any postoperative visit. Complaints of discomfort, including foreign body sensation, pain and intolerance were statistically more among Lens B wearers at any postoperative visit (P<0.05). Lens B appeared to attract much more debris than Lens A at the 5-day post-operative follow-up visit (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The two types of silicon hydrogel lenses investigated in this study demonstrated similar clinical performance in terms of corneal responses and lens fitting. However, Lens A showed a better performance in terms of comfort of wearing and deposit resistance.

Effects of propofol versus urapidil on perioperative hemodynamics and intraocular pressure during anesthesia and extubation in ophthalmic patients

Yong-Chong Cheng,Yang Li,Chang-Tai Xu,Li-Xian Xu and Bo-Rong Pan

AIM: To compare the effect of propofol versus urapidil on hemodynamics and intraocular pressure during anesthesia and extubation for ophthalmic patients. METHODS: Eighty-two surgical patients (Class: ASA I-Ⅱ) were randomly assigned to propofol (n=41) and urapidil groups (n=41). Their gender, age, body mass, operation time and dosage of anesthetics had no significant difference between the two groups (P>0.05). The patients of propofol and urapidil groups were given propofol (1.5mg/kg) and urapidil (2.5mg/kg) respectively; and two drugs were all diluted with normal saline to 8mL. Then the drugs were given to patients by slow intravenous injection. After treatment, the patients were conducted immediate suction, tracheal extubation, and then patients wore oxygen masks for 10 minutes. By double-blind methods, before the induction medication, at the suction, and 5, 10 minutes after the extubation, we recorded the systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), pH, PaO2, PaCO2, SaO2 and intraocular pressure (IOP) respectively. The complete recovery time of the patients with restlessness (on the command they could open eyes and shaking hands) was also recorded during the extubation. The data were analyzed by using a professional SPSS 15.0 statistical software. RESULTS: The incidence of cough, restlessness and glossocoma was significantly lower in the propofol group than that in the urapidil group after extubation (P<0.05). There were no episodes of hypotension, laryngospasm, or severe respiratory depression. There was no statistical difference in recovery time between two groups (P>0.05). In propofol group, the BP and HR during extubation and thereafter had no significant difference compared with those before induction, while they were significantly lower than those before giving propofol (P<0.05), and had significant difference compared with those in urapidil group (P<0.05). Compared to preinduction, the BP of urapidil group showed no obvious increase during aspiration and extubation. The HR of urapidil group had little changes after being given urapidil, and it was obviously increased compared with that before induction. The stimulation of aspiration and extubation caused less cough and agitation in propofol group than that in urapidil group (P<0.05). The IOP of propofol group showed no obvious increase during extubation compared with that in preinduction, while in the urpidil group, extubation caused IOP significantly increased (P<0.05). The changes in these indicators between the two groups had no significant difference (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared to urapidil, propofol is superior for preventing the cardiovascular and stress responses and IOP increases during emergence and extubation for the ophthalmic patients. Moreover, it has no effects on patient's recovery.

Distance vision after bilateral implantation of AcrySof toric intraocular lenses: a randomized, controlled, prospective trial

Jin-Song Zhang,Jiang-Yue Zhao,Qi Sun and Li-Wei Ma

AIM: To evaluate the distance vision of Chinese patients with cataracts and corneal astigmatism after implantation of bilateral AcrySof toric intraocular lens (IOL) versus bilateral AcrySof spherical IOL. METHODS: This study randomized 60 patients into equal groups to receive toric IOL or spherical IOL. IOL powers targeting emmetropia were selected for 93% of toric IOL patients and for 90% of spherical IOL patients. Assessments included monocular and binocular distance vision, with and without best correction. Patients also completed surveys about their distance vision. RESULTS: Preoperatively, the two study groups were similar in age, in distance visual acuity, and in the magnitude of corneal astigmatism. At 6 months postoperative, binocular uncorrected distance vision was 0.06±0.14 logMAR in the AcrySof toric IOL group, significantly better than the 0.14±0.11 logMAR in the spherical IOL group (P<0.05). For eyes with emmetropia as a target, the equivalent of 20/20 uncorrected vision was more likely (P<0.001) in the toric IOL group (36% of eyes) than in the spherical IOL group (4% of eyes). No patients in the emmetropia/toric IOL group used distance glasses, as compared to 52% of patients in the emmetropia/spherical IOL group. All patients were satisfied or highly satisfied. Quality of distance vision was rated higher by toric IOL patients than by spherical IOL patients (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Bilateral AcrySof toric IOL is superior to bilateral spherical IOL in providing uncorrected distance vision to cataract patients with corneal astigmatism.

Minimally invasive botulinum toxin type A injection from the ocular surface to extraocular muscles

Xiao-Mei Wan,Rui-Xue Chu and Hua-Qing Gong

AIM: To investigate a new, safe and effective injection method for strabismus patients. Botulinum toxin type A (BTXA) was injected by pulling the extraocular muscles with a minimally-invasive technique into the ocular surface, and it was ensured that the extraocular muscles was maintained in the suspended state. METHODS: A total of 32 patients with different types of strabismus were treated at our institution from February to October 2010. A small conjunctival incision (≤2mm) was made under a microscope. The extraocular muscles were pulled out with a hook to ensure an elevated position compared with the wall of eyeball. The muscle fiber was clearly seen through the conjunctiva and BTXA was injected at a small angle under the microscope. The deviation angles before and after the injection were recorded. All patients were followed up at 5 and 30 days after the operation. Recovery was defined as abolition of diplopia in straight-ahead gaze and anteroinferior gaze and the symptoms of giddiness disappeared thoroughly. Eyeball position was essentially normal. Improvement was defined as basic disappearance of diplopia in straight-ahead gaze and anteroinferior gaze; restriction of action of paralytic muscle improved. If most of the symptoms and signs still existed and disturbed normal work and life, the treatment was determined to be invalid. The injection dose for patients of 5 to 10 prism diopter (PD), 11 to 20PD, and ≥21PD was 1u, 3u and 4u to 5u, respectively. RESULTS: Of the 32 treated patients, 11(34.4%) were cured, and 18(56.3%) were improved at 5 days after the operation; 12(40%) were cured, and 15(46.9%) were improved at 30 days. Five patients (15.6%) who had unsatisfactory response after BTXA injection at 30 days received repeated injections or underwent strabismus surgery. Ptosis was present in 2.5% of the injected eyes. No retrobulbar hemorrhage or ocular perforation was found in any eye. CONCLUSION: It is safe and efficient to inject BTXA by pulling extraocular muscles with a minimally-invasive technique under the microscope to make the muscles separated from the wall of eyeball.

Risk factors associated with retinal neovasculari-zation of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Ze-Long Zhong,Mei Han and Song Chen

AIM: To evaluate the risk factors associated with retinal neovascularization of diabetic retinopathy in northern Chinese Han patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: The clinical characteristics of 200 patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and 100 age-matched healthy individuals were compared. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed in the patients with PDR. RESULTS: Fasting blood glucose (FBG), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), uric acid (UA), white blood cell count (WBC), absolute neutrophil count, hematocrit (HCT) and mean platelet volume (MPV) and mean platelet volume (MPV) were all significantly higher in patients with PDR than in the control group (P<0.05). The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that risk factors independently associated with retinal neovascularization of DR were duration of diabetes mellitus (OR=1.112; P =0.000), BUN (OR=1.277; P=0.000), smoking (OR=3.967; P=0.000) and MPV(OR=2.472; P=0.000). On the other hand, panretinal photocoagulation was associated with reduced risk of retinal neovascularization (OR=0.983; P=0.000). CONCLUSION: Preventing and controlling T2DM in terms of risk factors, including duration of diabetes, BUN, smoking and MPV, might offer novel approaches to prevent or delay the onset of retinal neovascularization in patients with PDR.

Radiofrequency ablation technique eradicating palpebral margin neoplasm

Tian-Yu Jiang,Xing-Lin Wang,Wei Suo,Qing-Hua He and Hong-Yu Xiao

AIM: To report the study on radiofrequency ablation technique for eradication of palpebral margin neoplasm and its clinical effects. METHODS: One hundred and six cases with the palpebral margin neoplasm were performed surgical removal with radiofrequency ablation technique. The 1-2 months postoperative follow-up was investigated and the lost cases were excluded from statistics. The continuing follow-up lasted about 6-16months. RESULTS: One hundred cases underwent one treatment and 6 cases underwent two treatments. Six cases were missed. All the cases followed up healed well without pigmentation or scar left, nor eyelash loss or palpebral margin deformation. No case was recurrent. CONCLUSION: Radiofrequency ablation has significant efficiency in eradicating the palpebral margin neoplasm.

Effect of latanoprost/timolol and dorzolamide/tiomolol on intraocular pressure after phacoemulsification surgery

AIM: To evalaute the effect of fixed-combination latanoprost 0.005%/timolol maleate 0.5% and dorzolamide hydrochloride 2%/timolol maleate 0.5% on postoperative intraocular pressure after phacoemulsification cataract surgery. METHODS: This study is a prospective, randomized, double-masked and placebo-controlled. The study included 90 eyes of 90 patients which were scheduled to have phacoemulsification surgery. Patients were randomly assigned preoperatively to 1 of 3 groups (30 eyes of 30 patients). Two hour before surgery, the patients received one drop latanoprost/timolol (group 1), dorzolamide/timolol (group 2) and placebo (group 3, control group). The IOPs were measured at preoperative and postoperative 4, 8, and 24 hours. RESULTS: The preoperative mean intraocular pressure was not statistically significant between both drug groups and control group. In group 1 and 2, the postoperative mean IOP [group1: (14.03±3.15)mmHg and group 2: (14.16±4.43)mmHg] at 24 hours were significantly lower than the control group [(16.93±3.70)mmHg, (P<0.05)]. In addition, the postoperative mean IOP of group 1 [(14.90±3.69)mmHg] at 8 hours was significantly lower than the control group [(17.70±3.89)mmHg, (P<0.05)], but there was no significant difference between group 2 [(16.16±5.23)mmHg] and control group at 8 hours (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: When compared with placebo, the use of preoperative fixed combination of latanoprost/ timolol and dorzolamide/timolol is an effective method for preventing intraocular pressure elevation in 24 hours after phacoemulsification surgery, but did not completely prevent IOP spikes.

Adhesion of cavernous hemangioma in the orbit revealed by CT and MRI: analysis of 97 cases

Yan-Ming Tian,Li-Hua Xiao and Xiao-Wei Gao

AIM: To assess features of cavernous hemangioma (CH) in the orbit revealed by CT and MRI and summarize prediction of preoperative CT and MRI for the adhesion degree of CH in the orbit. METHODS: A total of 97 patients with pathologically confirmed CH in the orbit were examined with axial and coronal CT scan, and axial, coronal, sagittal, and enhanced fat suppression MRI scan. CT and MRI findings and intraoperative adhesion degrees were retrospectively analyzed. RESULTS: There were 47 patients with slight adhesion, for whom CT and MRI showed round masses with well defined margins in the extraocular muscles; 14 patients with mild adhesion, for whom CT and MRI revealed irregular masses with unclear boundary between CH and the optic nerve in coronal images, and emissary veins in the posterior region of masses in contrast-enhanced images; 36 patients with severe adhesion, for whom CT and MRI exhibited an irregular or ovoid mass filling the orbital apex, or showed distorted and even spiky margins in the posterior region of masses in contrast enhanced images at the presence of a transparent triangle between the mass and the orbital apex. CONCLUSION: Preoperative CT and MRI aid in accurate diagnosis, selection of the surgical approach, and assessment of the adhesion degree and surgical risks for CH.

Ocular toxoplasmosis in Iran: 40 cases analysis

AIM: To report ocular symptoms, funduscopic findings and demographic distribution of ocular toxoplasmosis in Iran METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 40 patients with ocular toxoplasmosis (24 female, 16 male) were enrolled. The distribution of symptoms and funduscopic findings were studied. RESULTS: The patients' age was in the range of 13-52 with the most common age of 19 years old. Twenty-four patients were female (60.0%). The most common presenting sign was visual loss. There was anterior chamber (AC) inflammation in 23 patients (57.5%). Vitritis was presented in 36 patients (90.0%). In 35 patients (87.5%), the retinal lesion was central. In patients with peripheral lesion, 3 patients (60.0%) had flashing vs 12.5% chance of flashing in all patients. Older patients had larger lesion (P=0.04). CONCLUSION: Ocular toxoplasmosis substantially varies among patients with different age, gender, status of immunity, site of lesion and other undetermined factors. One of ocular symptoms, flashing, may necessitate a more precise peripheral fundus examination.

Epidemiological characteristics and risk factors of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus in Shandong Peninsula of China

Zhao-Dong Du,Li-Ting Hu,Gui-Qiu Zhao,Yan Ma,Zhan-Yu Zhou and Tao Jiang

AIM: To determine the epidemiological characteristics and estimate the risk factors of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Shandong Peninsula of China. METHODS: The cases of T2DM admitted to Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Qingdao University, Shandong Province, China, from January 2006 to December 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. The epidemiological characteristics of DR were estimated. The cases were divided into two groups according to degrees of retinopathy: non-DR group and DR group. Logistic regression analysis was used to study the related risk factors of DR. RESULTS: The prevalence of DR in patients with T2DM was 25.08% (834/3326). There was significant difference between the average age for men (59.08±15.43 years) and for women (62.92±18.19 years,P=0.0021). The majority of DR occurred in women (female: male ratio=1.76:1,P<0.0001). The incidence rate of DR in urban (489/834) was higher than that in rural area (345/834, P<0.0001). In 834 DR patients, the mean duration of T2DM was 8.90±4.15 years (range: 0-16 years); 440 people (52.76%) had received varying degrees of health education about prevention and primary care of DM; and 473 people (56.71%) suffered from other DM complications confirmed at the same time. In addition, the incidence rate of monocular (551/3326) and binocular retinopathy (283/3326) were statistically different (P<0.0001). Factors associated (P<0.05) with the presence of DR included old age, lower health educational level, intraocular surgery history, longer duration of T2DM, accompanying with other DM complications, no standard treatment procedure, lower body mass index (BMI) and higher fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), urine albumin (UA), total cholesterol (TC), low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). The risk factors (P<0.05) independently associated with the presence of DR were: longer duration of T2DM, lower health educational level, higher FPG, higher UA, lower BMI and higher TC. CONCLUSION: DR is highly prevalent in the patients with T2DM in Shandong Peninsula of China. Besides blood glucose, many factors are associated with the present and development of DR.

Visual outcome of manual small-incision cataract surgery: comparison of modified Blumenthal and Ruit techniques

Pipat Kongsap

AIM: To compare the efficacy and visual results of the modified Blumenthal and Ruit techniques for manual small-incision cataract surgery (MSICS). METHODS: This was a prospective, non-randomized comparison of 129 patients with senile cataracts scheduled to undergo routine cataract surgery via either a superior scleral tunnel incision, i.e., the Blumenthal technique (group 1, n=64) or a temporal scleral tunnel incision, i.e., the Ruit technique (group 2, n=65). MSICS and intraocular lens implantation were performed through an unsutured 6.5- to 7.0-mm scleral tunnel incision. Uncorrected and corrected visual acuity, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and surgically induced astigmatism calculated by simple subtraction were compared. Patients were examined at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery. RESULTS: Both groups achieved good visual outcome with minor complications. Three months after surgery, the corrected visual acuity was 0.73 in the Blumenthal group and 0.69 in the Ruit group (P=0.29). The average (SD) postoperative astigmatism was 0.87 (0.62) diopter (D) for the Blumenthal group and 0.86 (0.62) D for the Ruit group. The mean (SD) surgically induced astigmatism was 0.55 (0.45) D and 0.50 (0.44) D for the Blumenthal and Ruit groups, respectively (P=0.52). Common complications were minimal hyphema and corneal edema. There was no statistically significant difference in the complication rate between the groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: In MSICS, both the Blumenthal and Ruit techniques achieved good visual outcomes, with low complication rates.

Challenges in the management of paediatric cataract in a developing country

Ifeoma R Ezegwui,Ada E Aghaji,Nkechi J Uche and Ernest N Onwasigwe

AIM: To review the management of cataract in children in a tertiary hospital in a developing country, and to highlight the challenges therein. METHODS: The hospital records of children aged 15 years or less that had cataract surgery at University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu from 2005 to 2008 were reviewed retrospectively. Information was obtained on bio-data, pre- and post-operative visual acuity (VA), biometry, and type of surgery, use of intraocular lens (IOL) and presence of co-morbidity. SPSS was used for data entry and analysis. RESULTS: The hospital records of 21 children (26 eyes) were analyzed. There were 12 males (57.1%) and 9 females (42.9%). Pre-operative VA could not be assessed in 11 eyes (42.3%), 14 eyes (53.9%) had VA <3/60 and 1 eye (3.8%) had VA 6/60. Biometry was done in only 5 eyes (19.2%). All eyes had standard extracapsular cataract extraction without primary posterior capsulectomy; 12 eyes (46.2%) had posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) implant while 13 eyes (50.0%) had no IOL. After 12 weeks of follow up, vision assessment was available in only 15 eyes. With best correction, VA of 6/18 or better was achieved in only 5 eyes (33.3%). CONCLUSION: Inadequate facilities and inadequate follow up after surgery are some of the challenges in managing paediatric cataract in the developing countries. If these challenges are not addressed, cataract will remain a major cause of childhood blindness and low vision in Africa for many years. There should be collaboration between Paediatric Ophthalmology Centres in industrialized and developing countries to enhance skill transfer. Governmental and International Non-governmental Organizations can go a long way to facilitate this exchange.

Correlation of serum insulin like growth factor-I with retinopathy in Malaysian pregnant diabetics

S Adzura,M Muhaya,M Normalina,A M Zaleha,W P Sharifa Ezat and I Tajunisah

AIM: To study the association of serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) with diabetic retinopathy. METHODS: Serum IGF-1 levels were measured in 25 pregnant diabetic patients and 25 pregnant non-diabetic patients who were matched for age, ethnicity, parity and period of gestation. Fundus examination was performed in both groups at 28, 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. RESULTS: The serum IGF-I level was significantly elevated in pregnant diabetics compared to pregnant non-diabetics (366±199μg/L vs 184±89μg/L, (P=0.0001) at 24 weeks, 535±251μg/L vs 356±89μg/L, (P=0.007) at 32 weeks and 404±166μg/L vs 264±113μg/L, (P=0.003) at 36 weeks of gestation). The pregnant diabetics with established diabetes had significantly higher IGF-1 level than gestational diabetes at 28, 32 and 36 weeks of gestation. The serum IGF-I level in pregnant diabetics with retinopathy was significantly higher than that in those without retinopathy at all periods of gestation. CONCLUSION: Increased serum IGF-1 in pregnancy may increase the risks for retinopathy.

Laser treatment in 341 patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration

Leyla Atmaca,Aysun İdil and Pelin Atmaca-Sönmez

AIM: To document the prognosis of laser treatment in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Efficacy of the intervention was evaluated using a before-after method. RESULTS: A total of 392 eyes of 341 patients with exudative AMD were examined. 77.6% had choroideal neovascularisation (CNV). Before the use of indocyanine green (ICG) angiography, occult CNV was detected in only 1.8% of the eyes, but after the use of ICG angiography, this increased to 19.5% (P<0.001). Of the 349 eyes which were followed up, visual acuity had remained stable in 68.2%. There was a statistically significant relationship between the localization of lesion and visual acuity changes on pre- and post-laser treatment (P<0.001). Also there was a statistically significant relationship between the localization of lesion and recurrence (P<0.05). The recurrence was less in subfoveal lesions than that in juxtafoveal and extrafoveal lesions. CONCLUSION: ICG angiography is highly important in the treatment of occult CNV.

Changes of corneal central thickness of aphakia following congenital cataract surgery under the first six months of life

Wei Xiao,Xiao-Fang Liang and Jia-Jun Sun

AIM: To observe the central corneal thickness (CCT) changes in infants and young children who had been undergone bilateral congenital cataract surgery, and to compare the changes with normal control group which was selected from healthy population. METHODS: A cross section case-control study contained 28 cases (56 eyes) of bilateral aphakia (aphakic group) due to congenital cataract surgery combining with posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis and with anterior vitrectomy during 2-6 months after birth. Fourteen children (28 eyes) of age-sex matched with the aphalic group were selected as normal control group. CCT and intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured postoperatively and the results were compared between groups. RESULTS: The mean CCT was 653.5±82.4μm in the aphakic group and 579.6±39.2μm in the control group, with a significant difference (P=0.000). The mean value of IOP in aphakic group (22.0±1.6mmHg) was greater than that of control group (16.9±2.1mmHg), P=0.023. There was a negative correlation between age and CCT in normal control group (r=-0.531, P=0.026), and there was no correlation in bilateral aphakia group (r=-0.324, P=0.165) CONCLUSION: Aphakic children due to congenital cataract surgery have a greater CCT than normal children. It is necessary to consider CCT in evaluating IOP for children after congenital cataract surgery.

Surgical treatment for 42 patients with traumatic annular ciliochoroidal detachment

Jian-Gang Yang,Guo-Min Yao,Shao-Peng Li,Xiao-Hua Wang and Bai-Chao Ren

AIM: To analyze the clinical features of traumatic annular ciliochoroidal detachment (CCD) with ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) images, to investigate the surgical outcomes of ciliary body suturing and the prognostic factors. METHODS: Forty-two patients with traumatic annular CCD who had undergone ciliary body suturing were enrolled for complete ocular examinations, including visual acuity (VA), slitlamp microscopy, tonometer, indirect ophthalscopy and UBM. Comparisons of clinical features were performed among baseline and follow-ups, and the morphologic alterations on UBM images were analyzed between pre- and post-surgery. RESULTS: The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was 5.54mmHg, and the median VA was 0.1 in traumatic eyes at baseline. The pre-surgical morphological features on UBM images consisted of supraciliochoroidal effusion (33.33%), multilayer splits (40.48%) and CCD with cyclodialysis cleft (26.19%). After surgery, the median VA was 0.4 at the final follow-up. IOPs were significantly increased, which the mean final IOP was to 10.36mmHg (P<0.01). UBM images displayed complete reattachment in 40.48% of patients, partial reattachment in 50.00% of patients and 360-degree detachment in 9.52% of patients. Analyzing the prognostic factors, the significant factors were duration, VA at baseline, ocular laterality (P<0.01), gender, age and the presence of hypotonous maculopathy (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Ciliary body suturing is the optimized procedure for traumatic annular CCD. UBM is a useful equipment for diagnosis and monitoring post-surgical morphological changes. The periodical detection of IOP and UBM is necessary for the observation of surgical outcomes.

Comparison of visual acuity outcomes between ranibizumab and bevacizumab treatment in neovascular age-related macular degeneration

Xue-Feng Feng,Ian J Constable,Ian L McAllister and Timothy Isaacs

AIM: To compare visual acuity (VA) outcomes between intravitreal injection of bevacizumab and ranibizumab in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: We conducted a consecutive, retrospective case series study in patients with newly diagnosed all type choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to AMD who received an intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (1.25mg) or ranibizumab (0.3mg) at Lions Eye Institute, Western Australia from Mar. 2006 to May 2008. All patients received injection at baseline with additional monthly injections given at the discretion of the treating physician. Main outcome measures were changes in VA. RESULTS: There were 371 consecutive patients received injection at least in one eye with at least 6 months of follow up (median of 12.0 months). Bevacizumab treatment prevented 221 out of 278 (79.5%) patients from losing < 15 letters in VA compared with 79 out of 93 (84.9%) of ranibizumab treated patients (P=0.25). While 68 (24.5%) of bevacizumab treated patients gained ≥15 letters of VA compared with 24 (25.8%) of ranibizumab treated patients (P=0.79). 75.3% and 66.2% patients benefited from ranibizumab and bevacizumab respectively with final VA better than 6/60 (P=0.10). Multivariate analysis showed that pre-treatment VA was negatively associated with benefit outcome. Assignment of injection was not associated with VA outcome of benefit after adjusting the covariate (P=0.857). CONCLUSION: There are no difference in treatment efficacy in terms of VA between bevacizumab and ranibizumab in routine clinical condition.

Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab alone or with triamcinolone acetonide for treatment of macular edema caused by central retinal vein occlusion

AIM: To compare the efficacy and safety of intravitreal bevacizumab alone versus bevacizumab combined with triamcinolone acetonide in eyes with macular edema caused by central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) in Chinese patients. METHODS: Seventy-five eyes of 75 patients were enrolled in this prospective, randomized, consecutive study. Thirty-six patients in group 1 were treated with an intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (1.25mg/0.05mL), and 39 patients in group 2 were treated with intravitreal bevacizumab (1.25mg/0.05mL) combined with triamcinolone acetonide (2mg/0.05mL). The main outcomes of the mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured. RESULTS: In group 1, the mean BCVA improved from 37.78±6.14 (baseline) to 48.06±3.86, 46.48±4.77 and 44.18±5.78 at four, six and twelve weeks post-injection, respectively (P<0.01, P=0.03, P=0.04). In group 2, the mean BCVA improved from 35.92±6.20 (baseline) to 50.69±4.22, 48.76±5.59 and 45.70±6.56 at the same time points (P<0.01 each). However, there was no significant differences in the mean BCVA (F=0.043, P=0.836) and CRT (F=0.374, P=0.544) between these two groups. During the follow-up, five patients in group 1 and six patients in group 2 with high IOP were controlled with anti-glaucoma drugs. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab alone or combined with triamcinolone acetonide has a short beneficial effect in Chinese patients with macular edema caused by CRVO, but there is no significant difference between the two groups.

Endotamponades in pars plana vitrectomy for metallic intraocular foreign body associated with endophthalmitis

Rui Wang,Xing-Li Wang,Yi Wang,Shao-Jun Chen,Xiao-Yong Huang,Nan Wu and Xi Ying

AIM: To study the criterion-reference of endotamponades in pars plana vitrectomy for metallic intraocular foreign body (MIOFD) associated with endophthalmitis. METHODS: Thirty-six patients of MIOFD with endophthalmitis accorded with exclusion and inclusion criteria were retrospectively analyzed. A detailed analysis of the patients’ natural factors, preoperative examinations, intraoperative endotamponades choice, postoperative complications and therapeutic effects was performed. RESULTS: BSS was used in 4 eyes without obvious retinal damage. There was no postoperative complication and the visual acuity (VA) was improved. Sixteen eyes that had mild retinal damage filled with C3F8 gas. The postoperative VA improved in 10 eyes (62.5%), 4 eyes (25.0%) remained unchanged and 2 eyes (12.5%) decreased. Only 2 cases occurred postoperative retinal detachment in gas group. Another 16 eyes with serious retinal damage were treated with silicone oil. Postoperative VA of 9 eyes (56.3%) improved, 3 eyes (18.8%) remained unchanged and 4 eyes (25.0%) decreased. The silicone oil group had higher incidence of postoperative complications, but the incidence of secondary treatment had no significant different between silicone oil and gas group. CONCLUSION: An appropriate choice of endotamponades in vitrectomy surgery for MIOFB with endophthalmitis is important for prognosis.

Laboratory diagnosis of infectious endophthalmitis

Wen-Jiang Ma,Hong Zhang and Shao-Zhen Zhao

AIM: To analyze the lab diagnosis and etiology of infectious endophthalmitis. METHODS: The medical and microbial records of 36 patients diagnosed with infectious endophthalmitis and 8 patients diagnosed with intraocular lens (IOL)-related inflammation between Nov. 1999 and Dec. 2009 were retrospectively reviewed for lab diagnosis and etiology. RESULTS: The inflammatory cell counts in all aqueous humor specimens from infectious endophthalmitis patients were more than in all aqueous humor specimens from patients with IOL-related inflammation. Sixteen of the 36 aqueous humor samples (44.4%) and 11 of the 24 vitreous humor samples (45.8%) from infectious endophthalmitis patients showed positive results in smears; while 17 aqueous humor samples (47.2%) and 15 vitreous humor samples (62.5%) from infectious endophthalmitis patients showed positive results in culture. CONCLUSION: The inflammatory cell count may be an important index for infectious endophthalmitis; while, smears can show etiological information earlier.

Effect of simulated dynamic intraocular pressure on retinal thickness measured by optical coherence tomography after cataract surgery

Ding Chen,Jun Zhu,Jin Li,Xi-Xia Ding,Fan Lu and Yun-E Zhao

AIM: To investigate the effect of simulated dynamic intraocular pressure (SDIOP) during uncomplicated phacoemulsification on postoperative macular and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness. METHODS: Macular and RNFL thicknesses in one eye of patients (n=30) undergoing uncomplicated phacoemulsification were measured by optical coherence tomography preoperatively and 1 week postoperatively. The best-corrected visual acuity, SDIOP, irrigation time (IT), effective phacoemulsification time, entire surgical duration, blood pressure, and heart rate were recorded. RESULTS: The mean SDIOP and IT was (74.9 ± 27.4)cmH2O and (178.4 ± 21.6) seconds respectively. We divided our patients into two groups based upon IT with greater than 90cmH2O (P_>90IT). In Group A (n=14), the P_>90IT was greater than the mean P_>90IT, and in Group B (n=16), the P_>90IT was less than the mean P_>90IT. For all patients there was a significant increase in macular thickness one week after cataract surgery (P=0.001). While the RNFL thickness tended to increase, the change was not significant. The postoperative macular thickness of Group A, (277.8 ± 13.7)μm, was significantly thicker than that of Group B, (267.9 ± 15.0)μm (P=0.004). The postoperative peripapillary RNFL thickness of Group A, (96.8 ± 10.8) μm, was not significantly different from Group B. For Group A, the change in macular thickness was positively correlated with P_>90IT (R2=0.524, P=0.02). There was no statistical difference in postoperative visual acuity between Groups A and B. CONCLUSION: After uncomplicated phacoemulsification, increased macular thickness is associated with the IT under high SDIOP. The effect of high SDIOP is limited to the sub-clinical level.

Fundus changes in pregnancy induced hypertension

AIM: To determine the prevalence of retinal changes in pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) and any association between the retinal changes and blood pressure, proteinuria, and severity of the disease. METHODS: All the patients admitted with diagnosis of PIH were included in this study. Age, race, gravida, gestation period, blood pressure, and proteinuria were noted from the case records. After taking history for any eye symptoms, fundus examination was done after dilating the pupils with direct ophthalmoscope in the ward itself. All the findings were noted on a data sheet, and were analyzed using SPSS programme. RESULTS: A total of 78 patients of PIH were examined. Majority (75.6%) were Malays. The mean age of patients was 30.2 years (range 21-45 years). The gestation period ranged from 25 weeks to 41 weeks; 34 (43.5%) were primi gravida. Thirty (38.4%) patients had mild preeclampsia, 46 (59%) had severe preeclampsia and 2 (2.5%) had eclampsia. Retinal changes (hypertensive retinopathy) were noted in 46 (59%) patients --- grade I in 41 (52.6%) and grade II in 5 (6.4%). Haemorrhages or exudates or retinal detachment were not seen in any patient. There was statistically significant positive association of retinal changes and blood pressure (P =0.001), proteinuria (P =0.018) and severity of the PIH (P =0.024). CONCLUSION: Retinal changes (grade I and II hypertensive retinopathy) were seen in 59% of patients with PIH and they were significantly associated with blood pressure, proteinuria and severity of the disease. Fundus examination helps in assessing the severity of PIH.

Effect of corneal graft diameter on therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty for fungal keratitis

AIM: To evaluate the effect of corneal graft diameter on therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) for fungal keratitis. METHODS: A total of 116 patients (116 eyes) suffered from fungal keratitis underwent PKP at the Affiliated Hospital of Medical College Qingdao University from May 2006 to May 2010. They were divided into two groups according to the corneal graft diameter. 64 eyes’ corneal graft diameter was 8.00mm or larger and 52 eyes’ graft diameter was smaller than 8.00mm. The follow-up time was 2 years. The postoperative visual acuity and complications were documented and compared. RESULTS: Sixty-two (96.88%) eyes and fifty (96.15%) eyes preserved eyeballs respectively in two groups. There was no statistical difference in postoperative visual acuity (P=0.961), corneal graft clear rate (P=0.132) or the incidence of recurred fungal infection (P=0.770) between two groups. But there was a higher incidence of graft rejection (P=0.020) and secondary glaucoma (P=0.039) in group with corneal graft diameter 8.00mm or larger. CONCLUSION: PKP is an effective treatment approach for fungal keratitis. There is a higher incidence of complications in large-diameter PKP for fungal keratitis. Effective, preventive and therapeutic measures can improve the prognosis.

New mucosal flap modification for endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy in Asians

Qing-Shan Ji,Jing-Xiang Zhong,Yun-Hai Tu and Wen-Can Wu

AIM: To describe a simple modification of fashioning the mucosal flap for endonasal endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EES-DCR) in Asians and investigate its efficacy. METHODS: A total of 120 patients with unilateral primary chronic dacryocystitis (PCD) were randomized into two groups: the new shaped nasal mucosal flap group (group A) and the removed nasal mucosal flap group (group B). All patients underwent standard EES-DCR. Patients in group A were performed a new shaped nasal mucosal flap covering the bared bone around the opened sac and those in group B was removed the nasal mucosal flap uncovering the bared bone. Patients were followed up for one year. The occurrence of granulation tissue, the proliferation of scar tissue and success rate of EES-DCR was compared. RESULTS: In the present study, complete postoperative data were acquired from 54 patients in group A and from 57 patients in group B. During process of review, the occurrence of granulation tissue was at the ostium margins account for 15% (8/54) in group A and 39% (22/57) in group B (P<0.05). At the one-year review, scar tissue was present in 5 patients in group A compared with 18 in group B (P<0.05). The success rate of EES-DCR was 98% (53/54) in group A and 84% (48/57) in group B (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The simple modification of fashioning nasal mucosal flap can effectively cover the bared bone around the opened sac and reduce formation of granulation tissue, lessen the risk of scar tissue formation and closure of ostium, thus improve the success rate of EES-DCR in Asians.

Effects of major ozonated autohemotherapy in the treatment of dry age related macular degeneration: a randomized controlled clinical study

Emma Borrell,Angelica Diadori,Alessandro Zalaffi and Velio Bocci

AIM: To evaluate the effect of systemic ozonated major autohaemotherapy (O₃-AHT) in patients affected by dry age related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: This study was a randomized, controlled clinical study. One hundred and forty patients with the diagnosis of AMD in both eyes, with the study eye presenting dry AMD and soft drusen, were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to either receive 27 major ozonated autohemotherapy treatments during 12-month period, or a standardized multi-vitamin therapy. Primary outcome was the change in best corrected visual acuity (mean logMar change) between the baseline and 6 and 12 months, end point of the study. In addition, to investigate the safety of prolonged ozonated autohaemotherapy, we measured the routine haematochemical parameters and biochemical oxidative stress values at baseline and after 12 months treatment time. RESULTS: The mean baseline best corrected visual acuity in study eyes was 0.36 in the treatment group and 0.38 in the control group (difference not statistically significant). At the primary endpoint, 6 months post-baseline, the mean logMAR change in the treated group improved by 0.1 and the values of the control group at the same time impaired by 0.2 respect to the baseline. Four percent and twenty-five percent of eyes in the group treated with O3-AHT gained 1 or more lines after 6 and 12 months respectively compared to 0% in the eyes which received no treatment (P<0.05 at 12 months). None of the treated patients experienced a loss in visual acuity in their study eye at 6 and 12 months, compared to 16% and 40 % of patients in the control group who lost 2 lines or more at 6 months and 12 months respectively (P<0.05 treated vs control group)). Major ozonated autohemotherapy was shown to be safe and well- tolerated by the patients. Moreover, the haematochemical parameters showed a decrease in the Reactive Oxygen Metabolites (300±10.1 UCARR at 12 months compared to a baseline value of 380±10.4 UCARR, P<0.05) and an increase in Biological Antioxidant Potential plasma values (2100±34.8 micromoles/ C vitamin after 12 months compared to the baseline value of 1610±36.2, P<0.05) in the treated patients when compared to the control group. This data suggests that major ozonated autohaemotherapy may exert a role in reducing oxidative stress by endogenously stimulating the production of antioxidant molecules. CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggests that major ozonated autohaemotherapy could be a safe and effective therapeutic option for high-risk patients with dry AMD, and that a series of such treatments could improve the natural course of AMD.

Short-term effect of topical brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination on ocular surface of glaucoma patients

AIM: To evaluate the short-term effect of the fixed combination of brinzolamide-timolol on the ocular surface in glaucoma patients. METHODS: This is a prospective study of 23 eyes of 23 patients with newly diagnosed glaucoma. Schirmer I test, tear break-up time (BUT) measurement, conjunctival impression cytology and central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements were performed in one of the eyes of each patients before and 4 weeks after brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination therapy. All patients were asked to answer the OSDI questionnaire form about the ocular surface symptoms at baseline and at 1 week and 4 weeks follow-up visits. RESULTS: After brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination theraphy Schirmer I, BUT and CCT values decreased but the only statistically significant decrease was seen in BUT test (P=0.03). OSDI scores increased during the follow-up but this increase was not statistically significant (P=0.22, P=0.42 respectively). Impression cytology findings ranged from 0.78±0.42 to 0.95±0.36 according to the Nelson classification. There was no statistically significant difference between baseline and 4 weeks follow up in impression cytology grades (P=0.15). CONCLUSION: The results of our study indicate that short-term use of brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination theraphy does not have a profound effect on ocular surface except BUT values.

Complications of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide for macular edema and predictive factors for intraocular pressure elevation

Kenan Sonmez and Faruk Ozturk

AIM: To investigate the complications of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) for the treatment of macular edema, and to determine the risk factors for intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation. METHODS: Charts of patients with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), diabetic retinopathy and uveitis who had received IVTA injections were reviewed to document its complications. IOP elevation was defined as a pressure of ≥24mmHg at some point during follow-up. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to characterize baseline risk factors for this elevation. RESULTS: The study included 111 eyes of 65 female and 46 male patients with a mean follow-up of (11.6±5.1) months. Of the 111 eyes, 52 (46.8%) had macular edema secondary to BRVO, 44 (39.6%) had clinically significant diabetic macular edema (CSDME) and 15 (13.5%) had non-infectious uveitis with macular edema. IOP was recorded ≥ 24mmHg in 38 eyes (34.2%) during the follow-up. Higher baseline IOP (P=0.022), younger age (P=0.003), and male gender (P=0.014) were significant risk factors for IOP elevation after IVTA injection. Eyes with prior vitrectomy were less likely to have IOP elevation (P=0.054). Two eyes (5.2% of eyes with increased IOP) underwent trabeculectomy, and 9 eyes (16.3% of the phakic eyes) necessitated cataract surgery. Other complications included branch vein occlusion (1.8%), sterile endophthalmitis (0.9%) and pseudohypopyon (0.9%). CONCLUSION: IVTA has side effects with IOP elevation and cataract formation being the two most common. A subset of patients is more prone to developing increased IOP following IVTA, namely, younger male patients with higher baseline IOP.

Angiogenesis-related cytokines in serum of proliferative diabetic retinopathy patients before and after vitrectomy

Shuang Li,Xun-An Fu,Xiao-Fang Zhou,You-Yan Chen and Wei-Qun Chen

AIM: To evaluate serum concentrations of angiogenesis-related cytokines in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) before and after vitrectomy. METHODS: Serum samples were collected from 30 PDR patients with varying severity before and after vitrectomy. Serum concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and interferon-inducible protein-10 (IP-10) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). RESULTS: Serum concentrations of VEGF, PEDF, IL-8 and IP-10 were significantly higher in PDR patients than that in controls, respectively (P<0.05). VEGF concentration decreased significantly in postoperative samples than that in preoperative samples (P<0.05). The concentrations of PEDF, IL-8 and IP-10 did not exhibit significant changes after vitrectomy. CONCLUSION: Elevated cytokines levels in serum may be diagnostically useful in PDR. Angiogenesis-related cytokines play important roles in the development of PDR, and would instruct the risk assessment of pathogenetic condition in PDR patients.

Comparison of aerobic conjunctival bacterial flora in pregnant, reproductive-aged and postmenopausal women

AIM: To evaluate the effect of hormonal status on aerobic conjunctival flora in women. METHODS: One hundred fifty-eight women [reproductive-aged (n=55), pregnant (n=51), and postmenopausal (n=52)] who admitted to outpatient clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Denizli State Hospital were enrolled. Age, body-mass index (BMI), obstetric history, cigarette smoking, drug usage, presence of systemic disease, and intraocular pressure (IOP) were recorded for each patient. The samples were taken from the lower fornix with two culture swabs and directly incubated in culture containing 5% sheep blood, eosin-methylene blue and chocolate agar. The other swab specimen was Gram stained. All growths and microscopic results were analyzed. RESULTS: The coagulase-negative Staphylococcus was the predominant organism isolated in the conjunctival samples in both three groups. The aerobic microorganism growth rate for all isolated aerobic organisms revealed no significant change in the three groups (P >0.05). The conjunctival culture positivity rates were similar in the three groups (49% in reproductive-aged, 57% in pregnant and 58% in postmenopausal women) (P >0.05). Age, IOP, BMI, gravidity, parity, cigarette smoking, drug usage, and presence of systemic diseases did not have an effect on culture positivity in three groups. CONCLUSION: Results of this study showed that conjunctival aerobic flora and bacterial colonization did not differ between reproductive-aged, pregnant and postmenopausal women.

Comparison of contrast sensitivity and visual acuity between deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty and penetrating keratoplasty in patients with keratoconus

AIM: To evaluate postoperative visual acuity and contrast sensitivity results following deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in patients with keratoconus (KC). METHODS: All the patients’ records with KC who had PK or DALK surgery between May 2010 and May 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Sixty patients who underwent successful corneal transplantation for KC: 30 eyes underwent DALK and 30 eyes underwent PK were included in this study. Preoperative and postoperative mean logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), logMAR best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) and intraocular pressure (IOP) were evaluated. Contrast sensitivity tests (CS) were done preoperative and 2 months after all sutures had removed. All surgeries were performed under regional anesthesia (retrobulbar anesthesia) by 1 surgeon (B.K.) who was experienced in penetrating and lamellar keratoplasty techniques. RESULTS: The mean age of the DALK group was 29.67±4.95 (range 18-40) years and the PK group was 28.7±3.53 (range 18-39) years. Preoperatively there was no significant difference in the logMAR UCVA, logMAR BSCVA and IOP between the DALK (1.281±0.56; 0.97±0.85; 12.07±2.12mmHg) and PK (1.34±0.21; 0.98±0.21; 13±2.12mmHg) groups. One-year after surgery there was no significant difference in the mean logMAR UCVA and IOP between the DALK (0.46±0.37; 11.73±2.1mmHg) and PK (0.38±0.21; 12±2.12mmHg) groups. The mean contrast sensitivity was evaluated by CC-100 Topcon LCD at 1.5, 2.52, 4.23, 7.10 and 11.91 cycles per degree (cs/deg) spatial frequencies before and 2 months after the all sutures had removed. CONCLUSION: All patients with keratoconus in both DALK and PK groups performed good visual function postoperatively. The mean contrast sensitivity increased considerably at all spatial frequencies compared with preoperative levels in the DALK and PK groups. The mean post-operative evaluation of contrast sensitivity measurements was not significantly different between the two groups.

Evaluation of the new OxyPlate^TMAnaerobic System for the isolation of ocular anaerobic bacteria

Emily K. Deschler,Paul P. Thompson and Regis Paul Kowalski

AIM: Anaerobic bacteria can cause ocular infections. We tested the OxyPlate^TM Anaerobic System (OXY) to isolate pertinent anaerobic bacteria that can cause ocular disease.METHODS: OXY, which does not require direct anaerobic conditions (i.e. bags, jars), was compared to conventional isolation of incubating culture media in anaerobic bags. Standard colonies counts were performed on anaerobic ocular bacterial isolates under aerobic and anaerobic conditions (anaerobic bags) using agar media: 1) OXY (aerobic only), 2) 5% sheep blood (SB), 3) Chocolate, and 4) Schaedler. The bacteria tested were de-identified ocular isolates cultured from endophthalmitis and dacryocystitis that include 10 Propionibacterium acnes and 3 Actinomyces species. The colony counts for each bacteria isolate, on each culturing condition, were ranked from largest to smallest, and non-parametrically compared to determine the best culturing condition.RESULTS: All anaerobic conditions were positive for all of the anaerobic isolates. SB and Schaedler’s agar under aerobic conditions did not support the growth of anaerobic bacteria. Sparse growth was noted on chocolate agar with Propionibacterium acnes. As an anaerobic system, SB in an anaerobic bag isolated higher colony counts than OXY (P=0.0028) and chocolate agar (P=0.0028).CONCLUSION: Although OXY did not test to be more efficient than other anaerobic systems, it appears to be a reasonable alternative for isolating anaerobic bacteria from ocular sites. The use of an agar medium in a specially designed plate, without the requirement of an anaerobic bag, rendered OXY as an advantage over other anaerobic systems.

Ferrara ring segments implantation for treating keratoconus

AIM: To investigate the efficacy of Ferrara rings (FR) implantation in the treatment of keratoconus.METHODS: It was a retrospective case series descriptive study. The sample was comprised of 50 patients 79 eyes diagnosed with progressive keratoconus. This included 24 (48%) males and 26 (52%) females between the age of 13 and 44 years. All participants underwent surgical implantation of FR in the period between January 2009 and September 2010 at Jordan University Hospital. Thorough ophthalmologic examinations were applied to measure vital variables for each pathological condition before and after surgery.RESULTS:Findings indicated an overall significant postoperative improvement in both uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) throughout follow up visits. Moreover, results illustrated a significant decrease in spherical equivalent (SE) and keratometric readings (lower, higher and the average).CONCLUSION: Surgical intervention strategies are being frequently developed to meet the needs of patients with keratoconus. The implantation of Ferrara rings has proven to be a safe and feasible alternative procedure for the treatment of mild-moderate keratoconus especially for patients with contact lenses intolerance. We have found that this procedure has improved visual outcomes in all eyes studied. Nevertheless, further research is needed to investigate long term outcomes.

Non-buckled vitrectomy for retinal detachment with inferior breaks and proliferative vitreoretinophathy

Yan Sheng,Wen Sun,Bin Mo,Ya-Jie Yu,Yang-Shun Gu and Wu Liu

AIM: To investigate the efficacy of non-buckled vitrectomy with classical endotamponade agents in the treatment of primary retinal detachment (RD) complicated by inferior breaks and proliferative vitreoretinophathy (PVR).METHODS: A retrospective, consecutive and case series study of 40 patients with inferior break RD and PVR ≥C1 was conducted. All patients underwent a standard 3-port 20-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with gas or silicone oil tamponade without supplementary scleral buckling. The vitreous and all proliferative membrane were completely removed, and retinectomy was performed when necessary. The mean follow-up was 12.5 months. The primary and final anatomic success rate, visual acuity and complications were recorded and analyzed.RESULTS: Primary anatomic success rate was achieved in 35 of 40 eyes (87.5%) and the final anatomic success rate was 100%. The most common cause of redetachment was recurrent PVR. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at final follow-up was improved in 34 eyes (85%), remained stable in 1 eye (2.5%), and worsened in 5 eyes (12.5%). The mean visual acuity at final follow-up was improved significantly (P=0.000).CONCLUSION: This retrospective study provides evidence that vitrectomy without scleral buckling seemed to be an effective treatment for inferior break RD with PVR. With complete removal of vitreous and proliferative membranes and timing of retinectomy, the inferior breaks which complicated with PVR could be closed successfully without additional scleral buckling.

Effect of low molecular weight heparin (enoxaparin) on congenital cataract surgery

AIM: To assess the efficacy of intracameral enoxaparin (a low-molecular-weight heparin) infusion, in variable doses on postoperative inflammatory response in congenital cataract surgery.METHODS: It is aprospective, randomized controlled trial. Eighty eyes of 53 children with congenital cataract were enrolled in this study. Every eye had primary posterior capsulorrhexis and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation after lens aspiration. The eyes were divided into 4 equal groups. In group 1 balanced salt solution (BSS) without enoxaparin was used as an irrigation solution. Whereas in group 2, 3 and 4, 40mg, 20mg and 10mg enoxaparin in 500mL BSS was used respectively. The inflammatory response in the anterior chamber was compared among the groups with slit-lamp biomicroscopy.RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was (17.75±3.95) months in group 1, (18.00±5.15) months in group 2, (19.20±5.47) months in group 3 and (18.65±5.16) months in group 4. Mean number of inflammatory cells in the anterior chamber in group 1 was significantly higher than that of group 2, 3, 4 (P<0.001). There was fibrin formation in the anterior chambers of 3 eyes in group 1 and one eye in group 4. There was synechiae formation in 3 eyes of group 1 and one eye of group 4. There was no significant difference among the groups by means of fibrin or synechiae formation (P>0.05). There were IOL precipitates in 4 eyes of group 1 and 2 eyes of group 4. IOL precipitate formation was significantly higher in group 1 than that of group 2 and 3 in which there was no IOL precipitate (P=0.048). There was IOL subluxation in only one eye of group 1, 3 and 4 while no subluxation was observed in group 2 (P>0.05). There was no statistically significant difference detected about IOL subluxation occurance in all 4 groups (P>0.05).CONCLUSION: Complications of cataract surgery in congenital cataract patients associated with postoperative inflammatory response found to be decreased with the use of enoxaparin in intraocular infusion solutions. Furthermore according to our results the anti-inflammatory effect of enoxaparin was dose dependant.

Clinical presentation of a mixed 23-gauge infusion and 20-gauge pars plana technique for active silicone oil removal

Jian-Qin Lei,An-Ming Xie and Qiang Shi

AIM: To present with a clinical case series of a mixed 23-gauge infusion and 20-gauge pars plana technique for 5,700-centipoise silicone oil removal (SOR), and to discuss its efficacy and safety.METHODS: This is a retrospective, non-randomized controlled study. We performed SOR with 23-gauge infusion and 20-gauge active suction technique on 29 patients 29 eyes from April to October, 2011 (mixed group). During the surgeries, a 23-gauge sclerotomy was made for infusion and a 20-gauge sclerotomy was used for active silicone oil suction. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT) was applied for 23-gauge sclerotomy analysis 1 day post-operation. Traditional 20-gauge SOR was performed on another consecutive 29 patients 29 eyes, the control group (20G group).RESULTS: There were 2 eyes (6.9%) in mixed group and 5 eyes (17.2%) in 20G group which had recurrent retinal detachment after surgery. Hopytony (IOP≤6mmHg) occurred in 8 eyes (27.6%) of mixed group and in 10 eyes (34.5%) of 20G group post-operation, but all of them recovered to the normal level finally. There were no statistical significant differences. Final visual acuity was significantly increased after surgery in both groups. Anterior segment OCT images were acquired from 13 eyes of mixed group, and all of them had a proper wound apposition. But local ciliary detachment was found in 9 eyes (69%). It was hard to define the OCT image of the sclerotomies and ciliary body because of the serious conjunctival hemorrhages and chemosis in 20G group.CONCLUSION: This mixed technique is a convenient and effective way to remove high viscosity silicone oil. Compared with traditional 20-gauge SOR, it does not increase the risk of post-operative complications and has less conjunctival reactions.. Transient postoperative hypotony is common for this procedure and subclinical ciliochoroidal detachment is a probable cause.

Effects of body mass index on intraocular pressure and ocular pulse amplitude

Remzi Karadag,Zeynel Arslanyilmaz,Bahri Aydin and Ibrahim F. Hepsen

AIM: To investigate the effects of body mass index (BMI) on intraocular pressure (IOP) and ocular pulse amplitude (OPA).METHODS: Totally 140 healthy individuals without any systemic diseases were included in the study. BMI (kg/m²) was calculated for every individual. IOP and OPA were measured with Pascal Dynamic contour tonometer (DCT). Blood pressure was also measured along with the DCT. The patients were divided into three groups according to BMI as: Group1, BMI<25; Group2, 25≤BMI<30; Group3, BMI≥30. Mean values of IOP, OPA, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were used in statistical analysis.RESULTS: In Group1, the means of IOP, OPA, were 16.8±2.3mmHg, 2.7±0.7mmHg respectively; and SBP, DBP were 120.0±6.1mmHg, and 77.4±5.6mmHg respectively. In group2, the mean IOP, OPA, SBP, and DBP were found to be 16.6±2.1mmHg, 2.4±0.7mmHg, 121.7±5.3mmHg, and 79.5±4.9mmHg respectively. In group3, the mean IOP, OPA, SBP, and DBP were found to be 17.3±1.7mmHg, 2.1±0.7mmHg, 122.4±5.7mmHg, and 79.7±5.2mmHg respectively. There were no statistically significant difference between groups in terms of IOP, SBP and DBP, while OPA values were significantly lower in group3 (P=0.001).CONCLUSION: Decreased OPA values in individuals with higher BMI may indicate that subjects with higher BMI have lower choroidal perfusion and lower ocular blood flow.

Magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging and diffusion tensor tractography of human visual pathway

Yan Zhang,Si-Hai Wan,Gui-Jun Wu and Xue-Lin Zhang

AIM: To investigate the visual pathway in normal subjects and patients with lesion involved by diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and diffusion tensor tractography (DTT). METHODS: Thirty normal volunteers, 3 subjects with orbital tumors involved the optic nerve (ON) and 33 subjects with occipital lobe tumors involved the optic radiation (OR) (10 gliomas, 6 meningiomas and 17 cerebral metastases) undertook routine cranium magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), DTI and DTT. Visual pathway fibers were analyzed by DTI and DTT images. Test fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) values in different part of the visual pathway. RESULTS: The whole visual pathway but optic chiasm manifested as hyperintensity in FA maps and homogenous green signal in the direction encoded color maps. The optic chiasm did not display clearly. There was no significant difference between the bilateral FA values and MD values of normal visual pathway but optic chiasm, which the FA values tested were much too low(all P＞0.05). The ONs of subjects with orbital tumors were compressed and displaced. Only one subject had lower FA values and higher MD values. OR of 9 gliomas subjects were infiltrated, with displacement in 2 and disruption in 7 subjects. All OR in 6 meniongiomas subjects were displaced. OR in 17 cerebral metastases subjects all developed displacement while 7 of them had disruption also. CONCLUSION: MR-DTI is highly sensitive in manifesting visual pathway. Visual pathway can be analyzed quantitatively in FA and MD values. DTT supplies accurate three dimensional conformations of visual pathway. But optic chiasm’s manifestation still needs to improve.

Outcomes and possible risk factors associated with axis alignment and rotational stability after implantation of the Toric implantable collamer lens for high myopic astigmatism

AIM: To assess the visual outcomes and possible risk factors associated with axis alignment and rotational stability after implantation of Toric implantable collamer lens (TICL) for the correction of high myopic astigmatism. METHODS: In this prospective, nonrandomized clinical study, 54 consecutive eyes of 29 patients with high myopic astigmatism received TICL implantation. To evaluate postoperative axis deviation from the intended axis, a digital anterior segment photograph was taken. The ultrasound biomicroscopy(UBM) was used to observe footplate-position. RESULTS: After mean follow-up of 8.6 months, mean manifest refractive cylinder (MRC) decreased 79.3% from (-1.88±1.49)D preoperatively to (0.39±0.61)D postoperatively. MRC within 1.00 D occurred in 68.5% (37/54) of eyes, whereas 48.1% (26/54) had MRC within 0.50 D. Mean manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) changed from (-12.08±4.22)D preoperatively to (-0.41±0.61)D postoperatively. Uncorrected binocular vision of 20/20 or better occurred in 72.2% (39/54) of patients compared with binocular best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/20 or better in 44.4% (24/54) preoperatively. The mean difference between intended and achieved TICL axes was (6.96±8.37)°. Footplates of TICLs were in the ciliary sulcus in 22 eyes (46.3%), below the ciliary sulcus in 32 eyes (53.7%). The angle of TICL rotation had significant correlation with the footplates-position (t=2.127; P=0.045) and the postoperative TICL vaulting (r=-0.516; P=0.000). CONCLUSION: The results of our study further support the safety, efficacy and predictability of TICL for the correct high myopic astigmatism. The footplate-position of TICL and vault value should be taken into consideration as two possible risks factors for TICL rotation.

Clinical effect of improved viscocanalostomy for the treatment of primary congenital glaucoma

Yong Yu,Zhi-Li Liu,Lei Cao and Qing-Zhu Nie

AIM: To evaluate the clinical effect of improved viscocanalostomy in patients with primary congenital glaucoma. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of improved viscocanalostomy was performed on 51 eyes of 42 patients with primary congenital glaucoma. The outcome evaluation included postoperative intraocular pressure(IOP), corneal diameter, cup/disc ratio and complications. All patients were followed up at week 1, month 1, 3, 6 and 12. RESULTS: The results revealed that postoperative IOP was decreased from (38.57±13.61)mmHg to (10.53±3.91)mmHg, (14.89±5.26)mmHg, (15.42±5.11)mmHg, (13.82±3.46)mmHg, (13.16±5.29)mmHg at follow-up time of 1 week, 1, 3, 6, 12 months (P<0.001). The postoperative corneal diameter was decreased significantly (P=0.002); The mean cup/dish ratio wasn’t significantly different (P=0.148) before and after the surgery, the cup/dish ratio of successful surgery was evidently decreased (preoperative 0.7±0.2, postoperative 0.6±0.3, P=0.007), but the complications like as unformed anterior chamber were not observed. The mean follow-up period was 12 months. CONCLUSION: Improved viscocanalostomy improves the clinical effects of the patients with primary congenital glaucoma, such as higher success rates, lower postoperative mean IOP and fewer complications.

Outcomes of 957 preterm neonatal fundus examinations in a Guangzhou NICU through 2008 to 2011

Rui-Hong Ju,Xiao-Yun Ke,Jia-Qing Zhang and Min Fu

AIM: To take fundus examination in the preterm neonates to observe the common diseases and report the outcomes in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in Guangzhou between May 2008 and May 2011. METHODS: Fundus examinations were performed with Retcam Ⅱ in 957 prematures. RESULTS: There were 957 prematures in this study, including 666 males and 291 females, 2 triple births, 152 twins and 803 singletons. During the three years, 86 infants with any stage retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) (9.0%), 123 infants with retinal hemorrhage(12.9%), 10 infants with neonatal fundual jaundice(1.0%) and 3 babies with congenital choroidal coloboma (0.3%) were found. CONCLUSION: Early detection and prompt treatment of ocular disorders in neonates is important to avoid lifelong visual impairment. Examination of the eyes should be performed in the newborn period and at all well-child visits.

Refractive accuracy after intraocular lens implantation in pediatric cataract

Tan Long,Yu-Sen Huang and Li-Xin Xie

AIM: To analyze the factors that influence the prediction error (PE) after intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in pediatric cataract. METHODS: The medical records of cataract patients of no more than 14 years old who had primary IOL implantation were reviewed from 2006 to 2010. The PE, absolute value of PE (APE), and predictability between in different axial length, mean corneal curvature, corneal astigmatism, and age at the surgery were analyzed. RESULTS: Seventy-five children (119 eyes) were included, with a mean age of (5.09±2.54) years. At the follow-up of (1.19±0.69) months, the mean postoperative PE was (-0.22±1.12) D, and APE was (0.87±0.73)D. The PE in eyes with an axial length ＞20mm but ≤22mm were significantly under-corrected than that in eyes with longer axis, and the APE in eyes with an axial length ≤20mm was more obvious compared with the others. The correlations between PE and axial length, as well as corneal astigmatism, and between APE and axial length were significant. The predictability was significantly poorer in the eyes with an axial length ≤20mm than the others. CONCLUSION: The axial length is closely related with the PE after IOL implantation in pediatric cataract patients, especially when it is ≤20mm, PE is more significant. The formula that is more suitable to very short axial length should be explored.

Comparison of the SchirmerⅠtest with and without topical anesthesia for diagnosing dry eye

Na Li,Xin-Guo Deng and Mei-Feng He

AIM: To determine the value of Schirmer Ⅰtest (SⅠt) without anesthesia and with topical anesthesia for diagnosing dry eye (DE). METHODS: Totally 220 eyes in 110 patients, male (44) and female (66), (39.56±12.67) years old diagnosed with DE were examined. SⅠt without anesthesia was performed firstly, and 15 minutes later, it was applied again in the same person after topical anesthesia with 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride eye drops. The wetting strips counted <10mm per 5 minutes were defined positive, while ≤5mm per 5 minutes were defined strong positive. RESULTS: The wetting length in SⅠt after topical anesthesia was significantly lower than that in SⅠt without anesthesia (P<0.001). The positive rate and strong positive rate of SⅠt after topical anesthesia were significantly higher than that of SⅠt without anesthesia (P<0.001). The positive rate and strong positive rate of SⅠt without anesthesia and the strong positive rate of SⅠt after topical anesthesia in patients with aqueous-deficiency dry eye (ADDE) were significantly higher than those in total patients whereas those in patients with evaporative dry eye (EDE) were significantly lower than those in total patients (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: SⅠt after topical anesthesia with 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride eye drops is more objective and reliable than that without anesthesia in reflecting the status of DE, and its diagnostic value in patients with ADDE was even higher, making itself a meaningful evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of DE.

Efficacy and necessity of prophylactic vitrectomy for acute retinal necrosis syndrome

Yong-Heng Luo,Xuan-Chu Duan,Bai-Hua Chen,Luo-Sheng Tang and Xiao-Jian Guo

AIM: To compare the efficacy of prophylactic vitrectomy for acute retinal necrosis syndrome(ARN) with routine treatment in Chinese patients, thereby investigate the necessity of prophylactic vitrectomy for ARN. METHODS: Thirty patients (37 eyes) were retrospectively included in this study. The eyes were divided into 2 groups by treatment, including routine treatment, which consisted of antiviral medication and vitrectomy after retinal detachment (RD) (n=21), and prophylactic vitrectomy, which consisted of antiviral medication and vitrectomy for the prevention of RD performed during the active in?ammatory phase (n=16). The extent of necrosis was determined by fundus photographs at the time of presentation (for eyes with mild vitreous opacity) or the drawings in the operation records. Necrosis of the 37 eyes was divided into 3 grades, including peripheral, middle-peripheral and extensive. The follow-up period ranged from 8 to 57 months. Differences in visual acuity and necrosis between groups were identified using independent samples t-test. RESULTS: Necrosis was more extensive in the routine treatment group than in the prophylactic vitrectomy group (P<0.05). In the routine treatment group, conservative treatment improved necrosis and prevented RD in 6 eyes (29%). Seven eyes (33%) obtained anatomical success, but retinal redetachment occurred in 8 eyes (57%). There were also 5 eyes (24%) developed ocular hypotony or atrophy. Ten eyes (48%) achieved equal or increased visual acuity. In the prophylactic vitrectomy group, RD occurred in 2 eyes (13%). Twelve eyes (75%) were completely anatomically successful, and 10 eyes underwent silicone oil removal. Only one eye (6%) became ocular hypotony. Fourteen eyes (88%) achieved equal or increased visual acuity. The prophylactic vitrectomy group achieved better vision trends than the routine treatment group (P<0.05). Eyes with peripheral necrosis had better visual outcomes than those with mid-peripheral (P<0.05) or extensive (P<0.05) necrosis. However, there was no significant difference between eyes with mid-peripheral and extensive necrosis (P=0.3008) CONCLUSION: Prophylactic vitrectomy can prevent RD and improve the prognosis of ARN, making it an option for cases with rapidly progressing necrosis despite antiviral treatment and cases with moderate to extensive necrosis and severe vitreous opacity.

Reconstruction of complex orbital fracture with titanium implants

Wen-Shu Yi,Xue-Liang Xu,Jian-Rong Ma and Xin-Rong Ou

AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of complex orbital fracture reconstruction with titanium implants. METHODS: A retrospective review of 46 patients treated with complex orbital fractures reconstruction using titanium implants from January 2005 to December 2008 was conducted. The following data were recorded: age, gender, mechanism of injury, preoperative and postoperative orbital CT, visual acuity, diplopia, ocular motility and Hertel exophthalmometer. RESULTS: The most common cause was motor vehicle accident (47.8%), followed by industrial injury (30.4%). All patients had improved appearance after operation and CT scan at one week after operation showed the fracture defects of orbit and neighboring areas had been reconstructed. Forty-six cases had various degrees of enophthalmos before operation. Among them, 32 cases were completely corrected, 11 cases improved obviously and 3 cases had no improvement after operation. Thirty-six patients with visual acuity ≥20/60 revealed diplopia of various degrees, including 26 patients had diplopia in right ahead and/or reading positions. At the sixth month after operation, diplopia disappeared in five patients, 7 patients still had diplopia in right ahead and/or reading positions, 14 patients had diplopia in positions rather than right ahead and reading positions (<20°) and ten patients had diplopia only at peripheral gazing (>20°). All patients had various degrees of ocular motility disorders before operation. At the sixth month after operation, eyeball movement disorder disappeared in 9 patients, 31 patients showed improvement and 6 patients had no improvement. Complications of implant infection, rejection and displacement were not reported after operation. CONCLUSION: The application of titanium implants in the repair of complex orbital fractures greatly improves the appearance and functional results, which is a favorable material for plastic surgery of complex orbital fracture.

Oxidative stress-elevated high gamma glutamyl transferase levels, and aging, intake of tropical food plants, migration and visual disability in Central Africans

AIM: To investigate the independent pathogenic role of high serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels, sociodemographic data, dietary and environmental risk factors for visual disability (VD). METHODS: This was a case-control study, run in 200 black Congolese patients managed in Saint Joseph Hospital Ophthalmology Division from Kinshasa town. Logistic regression model was used to identify determinants of VD (n=58) among sex, age, cigarette smoking, alcohol abuse, rural-urban migration, education levels, aging ≥60 years, intake of red Beans, Safou fruit and Taro leaves, lipid profile, residence, socioeconomic status, and GGT. RESULTS: After adjusting for confounding factors, we identified migration (OR=3.7 95% CI: 1.2-11.3; P=0.023), low education level (OR=3.1 95% CI 1.1-8.5; P=0.026), no intake of Safou fruit (OR=34.2 95% CI 11.5-102; P<0.0001), age ≥ 60 years (OR=2.5 95% CI 1.01-6.5; P=0.049), and serum GGT ≥10 U/L (OR=3.6 95% CI 1.3-9.6; P=0.012) as the significant and independent determinants of VD. CONCLUSION: VD appears as a major public health problem in Central Africa to be prevented or delayed by control of migration, lifestyle changes, antioxidant supplements, appropriate diet, nutrition education, and blocking of oxidative stress.

Risk factors for clinically significant macular edema in a multi-ethnics population with type 2 diabetes

Ong Ming Jew,Mohammadreza Peyman,Tan Chen Chen and Subrayan Visvaraja

AIM: To determine the risk factors of clinically significant macular edema (CSME) in patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) in a multi-ethnics Malaysian population. METHODS: We performed a case control study in which 150 patients with bilateral NPDR and CSME in either eye were compared to 150 patients with bilateral NPDR and no CSME in both eyes. CSME and NPDR were graded according to Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study criteria. Student’s t-test, odds ratio and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed to analyze the duration of diabetes, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure(BP), total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), triglycerides (TG), fasting blood glucose (FBG), HbA1c, full blood count, serum creatinine and proteinuria between the two groups. RESULTS: Both groups were matched in terms of age, gender and ethnicity. Duration of diabetes, total serum cholesterol, serum LDL, FBG, HbA1c and serum creatinine were significantly higher in the CSME group (P<0.05). The hemoglobin, packed cell volume were significantly lower in the CSME group (p<0.05). There was no significant difference for serum HDL, TG, BMI, systolic and diastolic BP. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that total serum cholesterol and HbA1c had significantly high odds of developing CSME. CONCLUSION: HbA1c and total cholesterol are the two most important risk factors associated with CSME in patients with NPDR.

Corneal white-to-white distance and mesopic pupil diameter

Hasan Basri Cakmak,Nurullah Cagil,Huseyin Simavli and Sabri Raza

AIM: To study the relationship between corneal white-to-white (WTW) distance and mesopic pupil diameter. METHODS: This study is composed of 30 cases that underwent photorefractive keratotomy (PRK). Pupil size measurements were performed with Schwind ORK wavefront analyzer in mesopic conditions. WTW distance was measured with a measuring caliper. Also, A-scan ultrasound examination was performed in all patients. The relationship among the mesopic pupil diameter and age, sex, axial length, lens thickness, anterior chamber depth(ACD), horizontal WTW distance, vertical WTW distance, spherical equivalent, and average keratometry were analyzed with univariate and multivariate regression analysis. RESULTS: Mean pupil diameter was (6.39±0.80)mm (range: 3.70mm-7.73mm). Horizontal WTW distance measurements were between 11.00mm and 12.50mm and mean horizontal WTW distance was (11.79±0.43)mm. On the other hand, vertical WTW distances ranged between 10.00mm and 13.00mm, and their mean was (11.42±0.72)mm. Bivariate correlation between pupil diameter and other variables showed that the axial length, ACD, spherical equivalent, and horizontal WTW distance had a moderate correlation with mesopic pupil diameter. Multiple regression analysis revealed that spherical equivalent and horizontal WTW distances were significantly associated with mesopic pupil diameter (R=0.598, R²=0.358 P=0.02). CONCLUSION: This study shows that mesopic pupil diameter is closely related to horizontal WTW distance. These two factors must be taken in consideration together in preoperative ablation zone planning.

Characteristics and clinical presentations of pediatric retinoblastoma in North-western Iran

Reza Nabie,Nazli Taheri,Ali Mahdavi Fard and Rohollah Fadaei Fouladi

AIM: To report the characteristics and clinical presentations of retinoblastoma in a series of pediatric patients from Iran. METHODS: In this retrospective study, profiles of pediatric patients with retinoblastoma archived in a referral eye hospital in north-west of Iran during 7 years (n=40 patients with 57 eyes) were reviewed. Demographics, as well as the laterality, clinical manifestations and the types of treatment were the major endpoints. The Student’s t test, Mann-Whitney U-test, Chi-square or Fishers’ Exact test was used for analysis where appropriate. RESULTS: There were 23 cases (57.7%) with unilateral and 17 cases (42.5%) with bilateral involvement. The male to female ratio was 1 to 1.4 with a mean admitting age of 24.0±11.3 (range: 5-62) months. The mean diagnosis delay was 7.4±9.6 months (range: 10 days to 13 months). The most common presenting sign was leukocoria (97.5%) followed by proptosis (7.5%), strabismus (7.5%), hyphema (5%), orbital cellulitis (5%) and glaucoma (2.5%). Enucleation was performed in 95.7% of the cases with unilateral involvement and at least one eye of the patients with bilateral disease. A second enucleation was performed in other 3 patients (17.6%) of the latter group. CONCLUSION: This is the first study evaluating a series of Iranian children with retinoblastoma.

Treatment of moderate to severe keratoconus with 6-mm Intacs SK

AIM: To evaluate the effect of Intacs SK corneal ring segment implant for treatment of patients with moderate to severe keratoconus, who have clear central cornea and cannot tolerate contact lens. METHODS: In this prospective, non-comparative, interventional case series study performed in Dena Hospital, Shiraz, Iran, thirty-seven eyes of thirty-six patients with moderate to severe keratoconus, clear central cornea, and contact lens intolerance were enrolled and underwent Intacs SK corneal ring segment implantation. Preoperatively, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCDVA), best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCDVA), central corneal thickness(CCT) and average keratometry (Av-K) were measured and compared with post-operative results at one week, one month, three months, and six months. RESULTS: Mean preoperative UCDVA and BCDVA were (1.32±0.31)logMAR and (1.07±0.27)logMAR, respectively. Av-K was (52.13±0.39)D, and the CCT was (432±39.5)μm. Post-operative examinations showed a clinically significant improvement in both UCDVA and BCDVA (P<0.001). There was also a significant effect based on the time of assessment on both UCDVA and BCDVA and both parameters had a continuous improvement during the follow-up period. Three months after operation there was a statistical significant reduction of Av-K (P=0.0001), but there were no significant changes in CCT (P=0.149). CONCLUSION: Intacs SK corneal ring segment implants seem to be a safe and effective treatment option for patients who have keratoconus, clear central cornea, and contact lens intolerance.

Relations between lymphangiogenesis and the size of pterygium

Lin Liu,Shi-Qi Ling,Qiao-Li Li,Tao Wang,Hui Ye,Jie-Zhen Yang and Xiu-Hua Jia

AIM: To examine the relations between lymphangiogenesis and the size of pterygium. METHODS: Tissues from 88 primary and 34 recurrent pterygia were evaluated, and those from 7 nasal epibulbar conjunctiva segments were used as controls. Pterygium slices from each patient were stained with LYVE-1 monoclonal antibodies to identify lymphatic microvessel for calculating lymph-vascular area (LVA), lymph-microvascular density (LMD) and lymph-vascular luminal diameter (LVL). Also, the relations between lymphangiogenesis (measuring by LVA, LMD and LVL) and the size of pterygium (extension, width and area) were explored. RESULTS: There were a few LYVE-1(+) lymphatic vessels in normal epibulbar conjunctiva segments. However, the number of lymphatic vessels slightly increased in primary pterygia and dramatically increased in recurrent pterygia. LVA, LMD and LVL significantly increased in recurrent pterygia in comparison with primary pterygia (all P<0.05). Both LMD and LVA were correlated with the width and area of pterygia (both P< 0.05), and LVA was also correlated with the extension of pterygia(P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Lymphangiogenesis is correlated with the size of pterygium. The outgrowth of lymphatic vessels might contribute to the development of pterygia.

Cigarette smoking, body mass index associated with the risks of age-related cataract in male patients in northeast China

Zhi-Quan Lu,Wen-Hui Sun,Jia Yan,Teng-Xuan Jiang,Shu-Na Zhai and Yan Li

AIM: To determine the association between cigarettes smoking, body mass index (BMI) and the risk of age-related cataract (ARC) in middle-aged and elderly men in Northeast China. METHODS: A hospital-based case control study was conducted. Cases (n =362) were men who had surgically treated ARC, 45-85 years old; controls frequency-matched (n =362) were men who had been admitted to the same hospital as cases for other diseases not related with eye diseases. Cases and controls were matched with 1:1. The cases and controls were interviewed during their hospital stay, using a structured interviewer-administrated questionnaire that included information on sociodemographic characteristics, socioeconomic, lifestyle habits (tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption, etc.), anthropometric measures, personal medical history, and family history of ARC in first-degree relatives, and simultaneously BMI was calculated. The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of ARC were estimated using multiple logistic regression models. RESULTS: After adjusting for age and multiple potential confounders, higher BMI was associated with an increased risk of ARC. Cigarette smoking, years smoking or moderate cigarette smoking (1-29 cigarettes per day) had no relation with the risk of ARC (P >0.05), although patients smoking ≥30 cigarettes per day had an elevated risk of ARC as compared with the non-smokers (OR =1.55, 95% CI; 1.16-2.85, P =0.026). Higher BMI was associated with an increased risk of ARC. Both overweight and obesity was associated with an obviously increased risk for surgically ARC (OR=1.55, 95% CI: 1.02-1.98, P=0.015 and OR=1.71, 95% CI: 1.32-2.39, P=0.013 respectively) compared to normal BMI. Then participants were grouped into quartiles of BMI (Q1 to Q4), compared to controls in the lowest quartile, the OR for cases in the highest quartile of BMI was 1.54 (OR=1.54, 95% CI: 1.08-2.46, P=0.022). The results of univariate analysis showed cigarette smoking was not associated with ARC formation for men with lower or normal BMI (P >0.05). Compared to the non-smokers, for men of overweight or obesity, cigarette smoking was associated with a significantly increased risk for surgically ARC (OR=2.00, 95% CI: 1.49-6.65, P =0.003 and OR =1.66, 95% CI: 1.63-13.21, P =0.002 respectively). Similarly, smokers in the highest quartile of BMI had approximately 1.5 times the risk of ARC as non-smokers in the lowest quartile (OR=1.46, 95% CI: 1.06-5.29, P <0.001). Followed multivariate models revealed that the association had never changed. CONCLUSION: Current cigarette smoking is positively related to ARC only among those who smoking 30 or more cigarettes per day. For men who are both overweight and obesity, cigarette smoking is associated with a significantly increased risk for ARC.

Visual and optical performance of eyes with different corneal spherical aberration implanted with aspheric intraocular lens

Xian-Hui Gong,Qin-Xiang Zheng,Na Wang,Ding Chen,Juan Zhao,Jin Li and Yun-E Zhao

AIM: To compare the visual and optical performance of eyes with different corneal spherical aberration (SA) implanted with spherical aberration-free intraocular lens (IOLs). METHODS: Thirty-six patients with different corneal SA had phacoemulsification with implantation of spherical aberration-free IOLs. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the value of preoperative corneal SA. Eyes with corneal SA <0.10μm were assigned to group A, those with 0.10 ≤corneal SA <0.20μm to Group B, and those with 0.20≤ corneal SA <0.35μm to Group C. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), contrast sensitivity, corneal SA, total ocular aberrations, and depth of focus were recorded 3 months postoperatively. Distance-corrected near and intermediate visual acuity was studied to measure depth of focus. RESULTS: BCVA and contrast sensitivity were similar between groups. There were no significant differences in distance-corrected near or intermediate visual acuity. Corneal SA was similar before and 3 months after surgery in the 3 groups. With a 5.0mm pupil diameter, root mean square values for total ocular higher-order aberrations (HOAs) were lower in groups A and B than in group C. Total ocular SA was lower in group A than in groups B and C. SA was also lower in group B than in group C. Coma and trefoil were similar between the groups. CONCLUSION: Implantation of spherical aberration-free IOLs in eyes with different corneal SA results in similar visual performance at BCVA, contrast sensitivity and depth of focus.

Repeatability and agreement of CCT measurement in myopia using entacam and ultrasound pachymetry

Yong-Heng Luo,Qian Zhong,Ping-Bo Ouyang,Xiao-Jian Guo and Xuan-Chu Duan

AIM: To evaluate the repeatability of central corneal thickness (CCT) measurement by entacam, and agreement of CCT measured by Pentacam and ultrasound pachymetry (USP) in Chinese myopia. Thereby investigate the possibility of Pentacam as a substitute for USP in CCT measurement before refractive surgery. The effects of corneal curvature measured by Pentacam on CCT were also evaluated. METHODS: One hundred and forty-eight right eyes of 148 individual with myopia were included in this study. Three successive Pentacam CCT measurements followed by 10 successive ultrasound pachymetry were carried out in the 148 eyes. Mean of CCT taken by each device was calculated for comparison. According to the CCT measured by USP, all the 148 eyes were divided into 3 groups: <520μm, 520-560μm, >560μm. For all eyes and each group the CCT obtained by Pentacam and USP were compared. Anterior corneal curvature of the 148 eyes was also adopted for correlation analysis with CCT obtained by ultrasound pachymetry. In addition, CCT measurement using 60 random selected Scheimpflug images was performed by 3 skilled investigators at different time, and this was repeated for 3 times by a forth investigator to assess repeatability of Pentacam CCT measurement using Scheimpflug images. RESULTS: Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis revealed high intraobserver repeatability (ICC=0.994, F=158.60, P<0.001) for CCT measurement by Pentacam. The interobserver (ICC=0.998, F=494.73, P<0.001) and intraobserver (ICC=0.997, F=383.98, P<0.001) repeatability for Pentacam CCT measurements using Scheimpflug images were also excellent. There was high positive correlation between the CCT values measured by Pentacam and ultrasound pachymetry (r=0.963, P<0.001). Bland-altman plots showed that the Pentacam underestimate the CCT by 8.02μm compared with ultrasouond pachymetry. The differences between Pentacam and USP increased as the CCT readings by USP increased (Pentacam vs USP: slope=-0.04, P<0.05). The 95% upper and lower limits of agreement between CCT values obtained from the two devices were +9.33μm and -25.37μm. No significant association could be found between CCT and anterior corneal curvature. CONCLUSION: Inter- and intraobserver variability for CCT measurements by Pentacam was considerably below clinically significant levels. CCT of myopia obtained by Scheimpflug camera, Pentacam, were highly correlated to that by ultrasound pachymetry. However, the values obtained are not directly interchangeable between Pentacam and ultrasound pachymetry as the 95% limits of agreement are relatively wide. Pentacam can be a useful instrument for measuring CCT in candidates to refractive surgery in clinic.

Transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy mode using SCHWIND-ESIRIS excimer laser: initial clinical results

Dong-Mei Wang,Yi Du,Guang-Sheng Chen,Liu-Song Tang and Jian-Feng He

AIM: To evaluate postoperative pain, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), and cornea haze value after transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (T-PRK) performed with aspherical ablation profile using SCHWIND ESIRIS excimer laser. METHODS: Retrospective case series. Fifty-nice eyes (32 patients) with myopia associated with or without astigmatism underwent phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) followed by photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) which performed by Optimized Refractive Keratecomy (ORK)-CAM software based on aspherical ablation profile using SCHWIND ESIRIS excimer laser. Postoperative pain scale was measured on a questionnaire through five levels. Haze was graded by five grades, and UCVA, manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) were analyzed. RESULTS: Mean pain level was (1.37±0.613) (range: 1 to 3), the mean time picking out the soft contact lens was (6.22±1.73) days, at 3 months, UCVA was 1.0 for 40 eyes (67.8%), 0.5 for all eyes (100.0%). The UCVA was significantly less than the preoperative best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) (t=-2.84, P=0.006), haze value was (0.27±0.25), no patients had a haze grade up to 2. Mean MRSE was (0.76±0.96) diopter(D) by 3 months. CONCLUSION: The outcomes from this study show that using the SCHWIND ESIRIS aspherical ablation profile for transepithelial PRK has a good visual result. The primary advantage is related to a spherical ablation profile, automatically considers the ablation volume of the stroma and the accurate and smooth removal of the epithelium with PTK. Additional studies are needed to determine long-term outcomes.

Comparisons of morphologic characteristics between thin-flap LASIK and SBK

Yi Sun,Ying-Ping Deng,Lin Wang,Yong-Zhi Huang and Le-Mei Qiu

AIM: To compare the morphologic characteristics between thin-flap laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and Sub-Bowman keratomileusis (SBK), and to evaluate the uniformity of flap and to explore the correlative factors of corneal flap thickness. METHODS: A prospective, randomized, comparative clinical study was performed in Department of Ophthalmology, West Hospital of China, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. Totally 59 patients 114 eyes underwent LASIK or SBK to correct myopia, 29 patients 57 eyes underwent SBK, 30 patients 57 eyes underwent LASIK. Anterior optical coherence tomography(OCT) was used to measure corneal flap thickness in all the patients 1 week after surgeries, 16 positions were set to be measured in each eye. Comparisons of flap thickness in each group and between 2 groups were evaluated. Correlative factors of flap thickness were evaluated. RESULTS: Coefficient of variation（CV, s/x ×%）in SBK group were lesser than that in LASIK group, t test showed there was significant statistical difference between 2 groups(P=0.000). Comparisons of the difference of 2 paired positions(temporal-nasal; superior-inferior) showed there were no significant differences in each group, but between 2 groups , there were statistical significance of value of difference (D-value) of superior and inferior positions between SBK and LASIK group(P=0.036). Linear regression analysis of correlative factors of flap thickness showed there were no statistic significances related to central corneal thickness(CCT)(P=0.060, t=1.921) and corneal curvature(P=0.083, t=1.766). CONCLUSION: SBK is better than LASIK in creating much uniform corneal flap. There was no evidence showing correlations between flap thickness and CCT or corneal curvature.

Comparative study of bacterial status from conjunctival sac of the elder Qiang minority and Han people with dry eye in Sichuan, China

AIM: To compare the status of bacteria in the conjunctival sac from the elder Qiang minority and Han people with dry eyes in Sichuan, China. METHODS: Total of 54 elder Qiang people with dry eyes (108 eyes) were examined by cluster sampling. In the similar habitation region of Han people, 80 (160 dry eyes) Han people were analyzed as the control group. The bacteria was separated from the inferior palpebral conjunctiva, then inoculated on blood plate for 48 hours and identified. RESULTS: Totally 24 strains of bacteria were cultured in either Qiang minority or Han c populations with 3 strains of them existed in both ethnic groups. The commonest bacteria in conjunctival sac in two ethnic groups were non-pathogenic bacterium. The composition of Corynebacterium in Han people (54.1%) was significantly higher than that in Qiang minority (27.4%) (χ2=11.6721, P=0.0006). The percentage of Sphingomonas Paucimobilis in Qiang people was higher than that in Han people (χ2=18.6442, P= 0.0000). However, there was no significant difference between Qiang minority and Han people either in bacterial positive rate in conjunctival sac, or the composition of bacteria species and strains, or the composition of staphylococcus epidemids between two ethnic populations. CONCLUSION: There was no significant difference of bacterial positive rate in conjunctival sac from the elder of Qiang minority and Han people with dry eye, but the species of bacteria were different.

Comparison of choroidal thickness measured by two methods

Wei Chen,Zhi-Tao Wang and Hong Zhang

AIM: To examine the profile of the choroidal thickness (CT) in healthy myopia subjects and emmetropic participants by Heidelberg Eye explore software and Image J software so as to compare the agreement and reproducibility of the two methods. METHODS: Thirty-six study participants (36 eyes) were enrolled in this research. The fovea and parafoveal region (the region of 6mm diameter of the fovea as center) of the images were selected by spectral domain optic coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The choroidal thickness was measured manually by the Heidelberg Eye explore software (version 5.3.3.0, Heidelberg Engineering) with a vertical line and the Image J software with a line vertical to the retinal pigment epithelial layer. The agreement and reproducibility of the two methods were described by the Bland-Altmann analysis. RESULTS: As compared with Heidelberg Eye explore software (39.9186), the repeatability coefficient is lower calculated by Image J software (27.3525). The Bland-Altmann analysis showed that the limits of 95% CI of agreement analysis is -18.437-63.949μm and the upper limits of the precision of the 95% CI of agreement is between 16.102 and 111.796μm and the lower limits is range from -66.29-21.41μm, which reflected a great variations of the difference. CONCLUSION: The repeatability and agreement of measurement implied by Image J software was better than the Heidelberg Eye explore software. The Image J software should be used for measuring the choroidal thickness in future study in China.

Comparison of central macular thickness between two spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in elderly non-mydriatic eyes

Xiao-Gang Wang,Qing Peng and Qiang Wu

AIM: To compare central macular thickness (CMT) measurements obtained by two spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) exams, and to evaluate measurement reproducibility and agreement between these two exams, and to investigate the relationship between CMT and possible influencing factors such as age, sex, eye (OD/OS), and operators in elderly non-mydriatic eyes. METHODS: Seventy-two normal subjects were included. Every subject underwent CMT measurement twice using one of two SD-OCT (OSE-2000, Moptim, Shenzhen, China & 3-D OCT-1000, Topcon, Tokyo, Japan) instruments respectively where we randomly chose one eye in each patient for the test; these exams were performed by two operators over an hour period with a brief rest between sessions. Comparison of the OSE-2000 and 3-D OCT-1000 CMT measurements was based on paired-t test. The mean difference between the CMT measurements was calculated. General linear model analyzed the relationships among eye (OD/OS), operator, sex, and CMT values using age as co-variant. All tests were considered statistically significant at P<0.05. The main outcome measures included CMT. RESULTS: When evaluated with general linear model analysis, CMT measurements were found to have high reproducibility across the two instruments between the two operators for the OSE-2000 single line scan and 3-D OCT-1000 macular scans (P=0.731; P=0.443). There was statistically significant difference in CMT values between the two instruments (P<0.001) and the mean difference was -46.83μm at 95% confidence limits (-49.15,-44.51). Age was positively correlated with CMT (beta coefficient = 0.516, P=0.001; beta coefficient = 0.453, P=0.009) and sex was correlated with CMT from the OSE-2000 (P=0.021) but not with the 3-D OCT-1000 (P=0.056). According to the actual thickness measurements, the CMT of the male was thicker than the female’s but there was no statistical difference. There was interaction between sex and eye in OSE-2000 and not in 3-D OCT-1000 (P=0.02; P=0.374). No significant correlation was found between CMT and the influencing factor of eye in both of the instruments (P=0.884; P=0.492). CONCLUSION: Reproducibility of CMT measurement using the two SD-OCTs is excellent in normal eyes according to the operator factor analysis. OSE-2000 has a different posterior retinal boundary of CMT measurement, which results in the CMT value differences, compared with the 3-D OCT-1000. Age is positively correlated with CMT measurement while sex is correlated with CMT in the OSE-2000 but not in the 3-D OCT-1000 and eye (OD/OS) had no correlation with CMT values. Mydriatic drops may not be necessary for CMT measurement using high scan rate SD-OCT in normal eyes in dark room.

AcrySof phakic angle-supported intraocular lens for the correction of high to extremely high myopia: one-year follow-up results

Rui-Bo Yang and Shao-Zhen Zhao

AIM: To assess the safety, efficacy and predictability of the AcrySof phakic angle-supported intraocular lens (IOL) (Alcon Inc., U.S.A.) for correction of high-to-extremely high myopia in adults. METHODS: In this prospective study performed in Tianjin Medical University Eye Center & College of Optometry, Tianjin, China, 25 eyes of 13 patients were implanted with AcrySof phakic angle-supported IOLs and followed for 1 year postoperatively. Preoperative manifest refractive sphere was (-12.08±2.44) diopters (D) and cylinder was (-1.35±0.62)D. Visual acuity, predictability and stability of manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), adverse events, and endothelial cell density were analyzed during 1-year of follow-up. RESULTS: After 1 year of follow-up, no eyes lost≥1 line (best spectacle-corrected visual acuity)BSCVA; an uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/20 or better was achieved in 60% of eyes; 100% had an UCVA of 20/40 or better; a BSCVA of 20/30 or better was achieved by 100% of eyes; 84% had a BSCVA of 20/20 or better. The overall mean percentage change in endothelial cell density 1 year after surgery was (-0.27±3.60)%. Two eyes (8%) had increased intraocular pressure (IOP) on the day of surgery. No pupil ovalization, pupillary block, or retinal detachment events were observed. CONCLUSION: After 1 year of follow-up, the implantation of AcrySof phakic angle-supported IOL is proved to be safe, effective and predictable with minimal complications in patients with high-to-extremely high myopia. Due to the limitation of visiting time, long-term of clinical investigation is necessary to verify the safety and efficacy of this IOL.

Data analysis of low dose multislice helical CT scan in orbital trauma

Ji-Wei Wang,Chong Tang and Bo-Rong Pan

AIM: To explore the optimal low dose of MSCT in orbital trauma examination. METHODS: Sixty transverse images of the fracture layer were selected. Low-dose images acquired at 30, 70, 100, 140, 170, and 200 milliampere (mA) were simulated by adding noise to the image space using software. After assessing the images according to the conditions of image quality and fracture, we found the optimal tube current that met diagnostic requirements and then applied it to clinical use. The CT Dose Index volume (CTDIvol), dose length product (DLP) and effective dose (ED) were recorded. The image quality was classified as good, fairly good, ordinary, poor, or very poor according to image level, noise, anatomic structure and whether the diagnostic requirements were met or not. The rank-sum test was used to perform statistical analysis on the ranked data. The Chi-square test was used for the numerical data. RESULTS: Under the scan conditions of a conventional dose of 300 mA, 60 cases of orbital fracture, 38 cases of orbital emphysema, 25 cases of ocular damage, and 3 cases of intraorbital foreign body were demonstrated in the images of the 60 orbital trauma patients. Among the low dose simulated images, the image quality difference of the different doses was of statistical significance (χ2 =15.678, P=0.016). When the dose was lowered to 70 mA, the above mentioned clinical signs were still clear and diagnostic, however the image quality assessment results indicated that 2 cases were good, 16 cases were fairly good, and 42 cases were ordinary, poor or very poor. When the simulated dose tube current was 100mA, the image quality assessment results were 18 cases good, 34 cases fairly good, and 8 cases ordinary, poor and very poor; compared with the conventional dose, there was no statistical significance (P >0.05). When using a 100 mA tube current to examine 40 cases of orbital trauma patients in the clinic, the acquired image quality was 10 cases good, 26 cases fairly good and 4 cases ordinary, without any cases of poor or very poor. The CTDIvol, DLP and ED were 20.72mGy, 124.97 mGy?cm and 0.26mSv, respectively, while the CTDIvol, DLP and ED were 62.53mGy, 375.18 mGy?GTtl and 0.86mSv, respectively, when using a conventional dose of 300 mA. Compared with the tube current of 100 mA for scanning, the ED declined 70%. CONCLUSION: When conducting an MSCT scan for orbital trauma, the acquired images using the 100 mA tube current can meet the clinical diagnostic requirements, and the radiation dose to the patients can be decreased.

Analysis of the relationship between postoperative ophthalmic complications and dialysis time of pre-kidney transplantation

AIM: To determine the influence of the dialysis time before kidney transplantation on postoperative ophthalmic complications. METHODS: One hundred and eighty three patients who were given the follow-up after kidney transplantation were selected, including 124 males and 59 females. The dialysis time before kidney transplantation was (2.9±2.1) years. Among them, there were 93 cases having cadaveric renal transplantation and 90 cases having living relative renal transplantation. The conditions of ophthalmic complications in all the patients after kidney transplantation were investigated and the incidence rate on ophthalmic complications having different dialysis time before kidney transplantation was given Chi-square test and Chi-square linear trend test. RESULTS: Among 183 patients with kidney transplantation, 95 patients (51.9%) had at least one ophthalmic complication and the rest 88 patients (48.1%) had no significant abnormality at the eye region. The most common ophthalmic complications were pinguecula/conjunctival degeneration (31 cases), the following was caligo lentis (24 cases). The main manifestations were grayish white granule and plaque turbidity occurred in posterior capsule at the posterior pole of crystaline lens. The angulus iridocornealis of 5 patients (5.3%) with cataract and glaucoma were all open-angle through the detection by gonioscope. Through visual field examination, there were 2 patients with paracentral scotoma, 2 patients with arcuate scotoma and one case with nasal step. CONCLUSION: The experiments verify that the incidence of glaucomawas relates to the dialysis time before kidney transplantation, and the incidence rate might be higher if the dialysis time is longer.

Effect of silicone oil removal on central corneal thickness

Gul Arikan,Zeynep Ozbek,F Hakan Oner,Ismet Durak and A Osman Saatci

AIM: To evaluate the effect of silicone oil removal(SOR) on central corneal thickness(CCT) in aphakic and pseudophakic eyes prospectively. METHODS: Patients who underwent SOR surgery between June 2005 - August 2007 were included in this study. Silicon oil was actively removed behind the posterior capsule through the pars plana sclerotomy site (posterior approach) in pseudophakic eyes and through the pupil and the corneal tunnel incision (anterior approach) in aphakic eyes with the 18-gauge cannula. CCT was assessed with Orbscan II corneal topography system preoperatively and at one month and three months postoperatively. A total of 34 eyes of 34 patients (26 males, 8 females) comprised the study group. Mean age was (55.6±12.3) years (Range: 25-80 years). Twenty-six eyes (76.5%) were pseudophakic and 8 (23.5%) aphakic. Mean time between silicone oil injection and removal was (15.1±13.6) months (Range: 5-54 months). At baseline, CCT was 576.4±46.0μm in pseudophakic eyes and 611.6±36.2μm in aphakic eyes. RESULTS: At the first postoperative month CCT was (573.3±40.1)μm and (630.9±72.9)μm in pseudophakic and aphakic eyes respectively. At the third postoperative month, CCT was (582.7±49.5)μm and (614.5±82.4)μm in pseudophakic and aphakic eyes respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in CCT measurements one month and 3 months after SOR when compared to preoperative values in both aphakic and pseudophakic eyes (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Active SOR either by anterior or posterior approach did not affect the CCT.

Low-fluence photodynamic therapy combinations in the treatment of exudative age-related macular degeneration

Taylan Ozturk,Hakan Oner,Ali Osman Saatci and Suleyman Kaynak

AIM: To compare the efficacy of low-fluence photodynamic therapy (PDT) combinations in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Forty-five previously untreated eyes of 45 patients with exudative AMD whose best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was ≥0.3 (Snellen) were enrolled. 15 patients in Group I underwent low-fluence PDT (25J/cm2-300mW/cm2-83sec) and intravitreal pegaptanib combination, 15 patients in Group II underwent PDT (50J/cm2-600mW/cm2-83sec) and intravitreal pegaptanib combination while, 15 patients in Group III underwent intravitreal pegaptanib monotherapy. Complete ophthalmologic examinations were performed in pre and post treatment visits, and the results were statistically analised. A clinical activity score (CAS) was calculated by using changes in lesion size, amount of hemorrhage, staining pattern in FA and OCT measurement of intra/subretinal fluid. ≤ 3 logMAR lines of decrease in BCVA and decrease in CAS were considered as successful treatment. RESULTS: The mean age of 19 female (42.2%) and 26 male (57.8%) patients was 72.82±8.02 years. Mean follow-up was 13.93±5.87 months. Lesion type was occult in 28 eyes (62.2%). Treatment success rates according to BCVA assessments were 86.7%, 80%, 60% and mean BCVA decrease were 0.3, 1.0, 2.2 logMAR lines in Group I, II and III, respectively (P>0.05). According to the changes in central macular thickness and CAS, no difference was found among the study groups (P=0.850 and P=0.811, respectively). Patients treated with combination regimens had lower intravitreal injection frequencies (P=0.015). CONCLUSION: Combination regimen with intravitreal pegaptanib and low-fluence PDT seems to be safe and effective in stabilizing the clinical activity and BCVA in exudative AMD.

Outcome of trabeculectomy in hospital Melaka, Malaysia

AIM: To study the success and outcome of trabeculectomy in Hospital Melaka. METHODS: Medical records of all patients who underwent trabeculectomy between January 1, 2007 and October 31, 2010 whom were followed up for at least 6 months postoperatively in Hospital Melaka were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: A total number of 117 eyes of 91 patients with the age range between 12 to 84 years underwent primary trabeculectomy (n=20, 17.1%), combine trabeculectomy with cataract surgery (n=90, 76.9%), repeat trabeculectomy (n=5, 4.3%), and combine repeat trabeculectomy with cataract surgery (n=2, 1.7%). The disease spectrum includes primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) (54 patients, 59.3%), priamry angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) (14 patients, 15.4%), secondary glaucomas (19 patients, 20.9%) and juvenile glaucomas (4 patients, 4.4%). Preoperative mean intraocular pressure (IOP) was (24.69±8.67)mmHg as compared to postoperative mean IOP of (15.81±6.66)mmHg, (15.07±4.72)mmHg and (15.68 ±3.65)mmHg at 6-month, 12-month and 24-month respectively. Eighty-two point one percent of eyes (n=96) achieved complete success (CS), 12.8% (n=15) with qualified success (QS) and only 5.1% (n=6) failed at 6 month with two of them warrant other filtering surgery. At twelve months, trabeculectomy with CS was 71.6% (n=63), QS in 22.7% (n=20) and failure in 5.7% (n=5). Sixty-seven point five percent (n=27) attained CS, 20.0% (n=8) with QS while 12.5% (n=5) failed at 24 month postoperative. CONCLUSION: As the understanding of the lower the IOP, the better the patients retaining the visual function, trabeculectomy is significantly a choice of treatment in uncontrolled glaucoma. This study concluded that trabeculectomy performed in Hospital Melaka has produced significant success as compared to other studies.

Hyaluronidase in sub-Tenon's anesthesia for phacoemulsification, a double-blind randomized clinical trial

AIM: To investigate the effect of hyaluronidase use on the quality of sub-Tenon's anaesthesia for phacoemulsification. METHODS: This was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial which was conducted at Nikookari Eye Hospital for 5 months. Forty-two eyes of candidates for phacoemulsification under sub-Tenon's anaesthesia were randomly allocated to two equal groups and received either 2 mL of lidocaine 2% solution with (LH), or without (L) addition of hyaluronidase (150IU/mL). Akinesia was assessed 15 minutes after sub-Tenon’s injection. Patients and surgeon’s satisfaction, as well as the postoperative pain (the visual analogue scale, VAS) were investigated after operation. The contingency tables (including the Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests, when appropriate) and parametric analysis (the independent samples t test) were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Complete akinesia (33.3% vs 4.8%, P=0.04), as well as the patients (85.7% vs 57.1%, P=0.04) and surgeon’s satisfaction (87.5% vs 52.4%, P=0.02) were significantly more frequent in LH than in L group. The mean VAS was significantly lower in the same group (1.90±1.45 vs 3.00±1.55, P=0.04). CONCLUSION: Addition of hyaluronidase to lidocaine solution for sub-Tenon's anesthesia significantly improves the ocular akinesia, enhances the intra-operative patients and surgeons' satisfaction, and attenuates the postoperative pain.

Sensory-neural hearing loss in pseudoexfoliation syndrome

Vafa Samarai,Reza Samarei,Negar Haghighi and Elnaz Jalili

AIM: To evaluate relationship between ocular pseudoexfoliation syndrome(PXF) and sensory-neural hearing loss (SNHL). METHODS: This prospective case-control study was designed on patients who referred to a general ophthalmic clinic at Imam Khomeini Medical Center, Urmia, Iran (March 2010 through November 2010). On routine ophthalmic examination, patients diagnosed with ocular PXF were referred to the ENT department and, selected cases (after evaluating inclusion and exclusion criteria) were referred to Audiometric Department. Pure tone hearing threshold level(HTL) was measured at 1, 2, 3 kHz for each ear and was compared with International Standard (ISO 7029) median age associated hearing loss at 1, 2, 3 kHz (AAHL). RESULTS : Overall 21 of 50 patients (42.0%) had a higher HTL than the ISO 7029 median AAHL at 1, 2 and 3kHz, which included 14 ears of 9 patients in the male group and 21 ears of 12 patients in the female group. Approximately 12.0% of patients had glaucoma at the same time, however; no significant correlation was found in SNHL prevalence and severity between PXF patient and patients with simultaneous glaucoma. SNHL was more common in patients with ocular PXF compared to their age- sex matched controls (P <0.05). CONCLUSION: Most of patients with ocular PXF had SNHL compared to their age-sex matched controls, which could be due to PXF fibrils in the inner ear. These findings suggest PXF could be a systemic disease.

Clinical features of ankylosing spondylitis associated with acute anterior uveitis in Chinese patients

Shu-Xing Ji,Xiao-Lei Yin,Rong-Di Yuan,Zheng Zheng,Yan Huo and Huan Zou

AIM: To characterize the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of uveitis associated with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) in Chinese patients. METHODS: Two hundred and three patients with uveitis associated with AS followed-up in the Third Military Medical University Daping Hospital between 2005 and 2010 were retrospectively evaluated in this study. Complete ophthalmological examinations were evaluated at baseline and during the follow-up period. The gender, age, follow-up time, mean frequency of uveitis onset, and accompanying eye examination findings, history, demographical parameters were reviewed. All the patients presented complete clinical and radiologic (sacroiliac, lumbar, dorsal and cervical spine, knee, ankle, shoulder, hip, elbow) evaluation. HLA-B27 typing was also searched. RESULTS: There were 203 patients diagnosed with AS associated uveitis. All showed sacroiliac X-ray changes indicative of AS. There were 184 male and 19 female patients. The average age of patients was 35±12 (range 18–50). Mean follow-up period was 2.4 years (1-5 years). Acute anterior uveitis was the most common type of uveitis in both genders. 121 eyes presented unilateral involvement (55.2%), and 92 eyes presented bilateral involvement (45.3%) with onset alternately. 22 eyes occurred hypopyon, 16 eyes were found anterior vitreous cells, 7 eyes were noted reactive macular edema or exudation, 29 eyes presented posterior synechiae of iris, and 14 eyes presented cataract, 9 eyes presented secondary glaucoma, 2 eyes presented bend corneal degeneration and 1 eyes presented atrophy of eyeball. At the final visit, uveitis was well controlled in most patients. CONCLUSION: AS associated with uveitis in Chinese patients mainly manifests as acute anterior uveitis. A combination of corticosteroids with other mydriasis agents is effective for most AS associated with uveitis patients. In general, the prognosis is good in these cases.

Implantation of Iakymenko keratoprosthesis in patients with severe ocular injury

AIM: To present the results of implantation of Iakymenko keratoprosthesis in five patients with vascularized corneal leukoma caused by severe ocular injury. METHODS: Iakymenko keratoprosthesis was implanted into 5 eyes of 5 patients: 4 patients were suffered from chemical burns and 1 patient from explosive injury. The preoperative visual acuity ranged from light perception to hand motion. The implantation surgery was composed of two-stage procedures. The follow-up period was from 9 months to 11 years. The outcome measures were visual acuity, retention, and complications of the keratoprosthesis. RESULTS: Vision improvements were achieved in most patients. All keratoprosthesis were retained within the follow-up period. Corneal melting occurred in one patient and fibrous closure in another patient, both of which were successfully treated. Retinal detachment occurred in one patient after surgery. CONCLUSION: Iakymenko keratoprosthesis seems to be a promising alternative for the patients with severe corneal injury, but further investigation is needed to evaluate the role of Iakymenko keratoprosthesis.

Characteristics of the macula in amblyopic eyes by optical coherence tomography

AIM: To test the hypothesis that amblyopic neuroretina may have an altered thickness when compared to the normal. METHODS: Twenty-five amblyopic, young patients between the ages of 7 and 11 years old were studied. The interested neuroretina areas are defined into 10 sub-regions according to superior-inferior, nasal-temoral, and peri-para axis, which cross the fovela structure. The thicknesses of ten, defined macular regions were separately measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and analyzed by t-test. RESULTS: The average thickness of neuroretina in the exact foveola of the amblyopic eyes is larger than that of normal eyes (P<0.05), but the other nine regions have no significant difference. Interestingly, in both the normal and amblyopic eyes, the temporal area looks thinner than other quadrants (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Thickness alteration may be associated with amblyopic disorders in young patients. Studying a larger volume of subjects of similar age is required to confirm this observation.

A survey of high risk factors affecting retinopathy in full-term infants in China

Li-Na Chen,Xiao-Ping He and Li-Ping Huang

AIM: To investigate the possible relationship between the influencing factors occurring before and during birth in full-term infants and the outcome of retinopathy. METHODS: Totally 816 full-term infants admitted in the neonate intensive unit of Boai Hospital of Zhongshan between 1 May, 2008 and 30 June, 2011 were included in the study. Fundus examination was performed and evaluated individually on them at the age of 48 hours after delivery, 2 weeks and 1 month. Some possible risk factors happening prenatally or during delivery such as pregnant related hypertension, placenta previa, placental abruption etc, as well as some neonatal risk factors such as neonatal asphyxia, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), low birth weight etc, were recorded and evacuated. Then the effect of the risk factors of full-term infants on retinopathy was studied. RESULTS: The incidence of retinal hemorrhage of full-term infants with prenatal pregnant related hypertension (PRH) of the mother (43.6%) was significantly higher than that of full-term infants without (8.0%). (P<0.001). The incidence of retinal hemorrhage of full-term infants with neonatal asphyxia and /or hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)(29.3%) was significantly higher than that of those without (15.7%), but correlation was not found between the severity of retina hemorrhage and the degree of hypoxic disease. A pale color of optic disc was associated with a low birth weight of full-term infant. Full-term infants with birth weigh less than 2500g had a significant higher incidence of retinopathy than those with birth weight equal or more than 2500g ( P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The main influencing factors which lead to retinopathy of high risk full-term infants are prenatal factors such as PRH, and some neonatal risk factors such as asphyxia, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, and low birth weight.

A technique for periorbital syringomas: intralesional radiofrequency ablation

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of intralesional radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of periorbital syringomas. METHODS: We tried the intralesional radiofrequency ablation for 64 patients with periorbital syringomas from 2007 to 2011. The operation was performed under 2.5 loupe magnifications. The handpiece was assembled with a needle electrode and connected to the radiofrequency ablation apparatus. The electrode was then inserted into the target lesions in dermis and delivering injury to the base of these tumors. Results were assessed clinically by comparing pre- and post-treatment photographs and patient satisfaction rates. RESULTS: Clinical improvement increased with each subsequent treatment session. The percent of patients whose clinic improvement grade were≥3 after each session was respectively 71.9%(Session1), 83.3%(Session2), and 100%(Session3). The statistical results indicated the concordance of the clinical assessment and the satisfaction level of patients (kappa=0.78 of the session1; kappa=0.82 of the session2). The majority of patients had good or excellent cosmetic results. Postoperatively, there were no permanent side effects or recurrences. CONCLUSION: As a new technique of minimally invasion, the intralesional radiofrequency ablation was found to be an effective, inexpensive, highly precise and safe way of treating periorbital syringomas.

Corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in Chinese patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

Meng Wang,Wei Sun,Liang Ying and Xiao-Guang Dong

AIM: To evaluate the corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in Chinese patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX). METHODS: Medical records of 16 patients (20 eyes) with PEX who presented to our institution between July 2008 and June 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Thirteen eyes had combined glaucoma. The information of five apparently normal fellow eyes in these patients was also recorded. Left eyes of 20 patients with bilateral senile cataracts but no other eye disease were included as controls. Specular microscopy was performed in all eyes to analyze for corneal endothelial cell density and morphology. Cell density, coefficient of variation in cell size, and percentage of hexagonal cells in corneal endothelium were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean corneal endothelial cell density in the PEX eyes was 2298±239 cells/mm², significantly lower than that in the cataract eyes (2652±18 cells/mm², P=0.026), but there were no significant differences in coefficient of variation of cell size and frequency of hexagonality between these two groups. No significant differences in the three parameters were found between the apparently normal fellow eyes and the PEX eyes or the cataract eyes, or between the PEX eyes with and without glaucoma. CONCLUSION: Corneal endothelial cell density may decrease in Chinese patients with PEX. The development of glaucoma in PEX eyes does not seem to be related with the change in corneal endothelial cell density or morphology.

Corneal collagen crosslinking for corneal ectasia of post-LASIK: one-year results

Gang Li,Zheng-Jun Fan and Xiu-Jun Peng

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) to prevent the progression of post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) corneal ectasia. METHODS: In a prospective, nonrandomized, single-centre study, CXL was performed in 20 eyes of 11 patients who had LASIK for myopic astigmatism and subsequently developed keratectasia.The procedure included instillation of 0.1% riboflavin-20% dextrane solution 30 minutes before UVA irradiation and every 5 minutes for an additional 30 minutes during irradiation. The eyes were evaluated preoperatively and at 1-, 3-, 6-, and 12-month intervals. The complete ophthalmologic examination comprised uncorrected visual acuity, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, endothelial cell count, ultrasound pachymetry, corneal topography, and in vivo confocal microscopy. RESULTS: CXL appeared to stabilise or partially reverse the progression of post-LASIK corneal ectasia without apparent complication in our cohort. UCVA and BCVA improvements were statistically significant(P＜0.05) beyond 12 months after surgery (improvement of 0.07 and 0.13 logMAR at 1 year, respectively). Mean baseline flattest meridian keratometry and mean steepest meridian keratometry reduction (improvement of 2.00 and 1.50 diopters(D), respectively) were statistically significant (P＜0.05) at 12 months postoperatively. At 1 year after CXL, mean endothelial cell count did not deteriorate. Mean thinnest cornea pachymetry increased significantly. CONCLUSION: The results of the study showed a long-term stability of post-LASIK corneal ectasia after crosslinking without relevant side effects. It seems to be a safe and promising procedure to stop the progression of post-LASIK keratectasia, thereby avoiding or delaying keratoplasty.

Analysis of the optical quality by determining the modulation transfer function for anterior corneal surface in myopes

Yan-Zhen Zheng,Yan-Peng Chen,Yan Qiu,Guo-Guang Zhai and Yao-Yu Li

AIM: To describe the characteristics of modulation transfer function (MTF) of anterior corneal surface, and obtain the the normal reference range of MTF at different spatial frequencies and optical zones of the anterior corneal surface in myopes. METHODS: Four hundred eyes from 200 patients were examined under SIRIUS corneal topography system. Phoenis analysis software was applied to simulate the MTF curves of anterior corneal surface at vertical and horizontal meridians at the 3, 4, 5 , 6, 7mm optical zones of cornea .The MTF values at spatial frequencies of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60 cycles/degree (c/d) were selected. RESULTS: The MTF curve of anterior corneal surface decreased rapidly from low to intermediate frequency (0-15cpd) at various optical zones of cornea, the value decreased to 0 slowly at higher frequency (>15cpd). With the increase of the optical zones of cornea, MTF curve decreased gradually. 3) In the range of 3 mm- 6 mm optical zones of the cornea, the MTF values measured at horizontal meridian were greater than the corresponding values at horizontal meridian of each spatial frequency, the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). At 7 mm optical zones of cornea, the MTF values measured at horizontal meridian were less than the corresponding values at vertical meridian at 10-60 spatial frequencies(cpd), and the difference was statistically significant in 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 cpd (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: MTF can be used to describe the imaging quality of optical systems at anterior corneal surface objectively in detail.

Different expression pattern of serum soluble intercellular adhesion molecules-1 and neutrophilic expression of CD18 in patients with diabetic retinopathy

Hua Ai and Hu-Ping Song

AIM: To investigate the levels of serum soluble intercellular adhesion molecules-1(sICAM-1) and neutrophilic expression of CD18 in patients with various stages of diabetic retinopathy and to determine their different expression pattern in the development of diabetic retinopathy(DR). METHODS: Levels of serum sICAM-1 and CD18 on the surface of neutrophile were measured in 41 DR patients, they were classified in three subgroups according to the stage of retinopathy as determined by fund’s ophthalmoscopy; 10 control subjects were also studied. sICAM-1 were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and CD18 by flow cytometry. RESULTS: The neutrophilic CD18 expression and serum sICAM-1 level were all significantly elevated in all diabetic subgroups compared to control subjects (P<0.01). The differences of CD18 and sICAM-1 among the diabetic subgroups were significant in CD18 but not in sICAM-1. The progression of retinopathy was associated with an increase both in CD18 and in sICAM-1 levels by simple correlation analysis (β=0.74, P<0.001; β=0.38, P<0.01, respectively). But stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that only CD18 was independent determinant of retinopathy (β=1.04, P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Our results confirm the contribution of endothelial and neutrophilic activation in the development of DR as indicated by increased levels of CD18 and sICAM-1. However, a direct implication of CD18 and ICAM-1 in the progression of DR can be supported only in the CD18 but not ICAM-1. CD18 and ICAM-1 may play different role in the development of diabetic retinopathy.

Space-occupying lesions of the lacrimal gland at one tertiary eye center in China: a retrospective clinical study of 95 patients

Xiang-Ning Wang,Jiang Qian,Yi-Fei Yuan,Rui Zhang and Yan-Qing Zhang

AIM: To investigate the treatment status and prognosis of space-occupying lacrimal gland lesions at one tertiary eye center in China. METHODS: A retrospective clinical study was performed on 95 patients with space-occupying lesions of the lacrimal gland surgically treated at the Eye & ENT Hospital of Fudan University from 2003 to 2007. The reviewed clinical data included age, gender, side of the lesion, duration of signs and symptoms, histopathological diagnosis, treatment modality, recurrence (local, regional, and distant metastasis) and survival. RESULTS: Of the 95 cases (99 eyes), pleomorphic adenomas were the most common lesions (43 cases), followed by lymphoid disorders (14), inflammatory pseudotumors (11), carcinoma ex-pleomorphic adenomas (11), and adenoid cystic carcinomas (ACC, 6). There were 8 patients with relapsed pleomorphic adenomas. Five of these 8 cases had malignant pathological changes. All patients with ACC had metastasis and three of them died during their follow-up. CONCLUSION: Our study indicated that the most common lacrimal gland lesions were pleomorphic adenomas. Multiple recurrence and surgical procedures may increase the risk of tumor progression. ACC had a high incidence of tumor metastasis and a poor prognosis.

Transcranial surgery through pterional approach for removal of cranio-orbital tumors by an interdisciplinary team of nurosurgeons and ophthalmologists

Yan Liu,Jiang-Rong Ma and Xue-Liang Xu

AIM: To investigate the specialty of transcranial surgery through pterional approach for removal of cranio-orbital tumors, introduce the ophthalmological experiences of entering the orbit to reduce the incidence rate of associated complications of this operation. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of a series of 37 cases involving patients who underwent transcranial surgery through pterional approach for treatment of cranio-orbital tumors in our department in the past 8 years. Pterion approach craniotomy was performed to all patients. After removing tumors in the skull by the neurosurgeon, ophthalmologist removed tumors in orbit. We took measures below to decrease complications, including grounding optic canal through an abrasive drilling when necessary, hanging various extraocular muscles to be exposed for protection, refrigerating by refrigeration heads to remove tumors, at last sewing up orbit septum after surgery. ? RESULTS: Tumors were removed completely in 32 cases, and incomplete in 5 cases due to extensive invasion into the cavernous sinus or sphenoid sinus. Of all the cases, benign tumors were demonstrated in 28 cases (75.6%, 28/37) and malignant in 9(24.3%, 9/37). The most common lesion type was meningioma in 11 cases (29.7%, 11/37). Extraocular muscles (EOM) impairment, occurring in 21 cases (56.7%, 21/37), was the most frequent postoperative complication. The most serious consequence was vision loss occurred in 4 cases (10.8%, 4/37). Other complications, such as 11 cases of transient blepharoptosis 29.7%(11/37), 5 cases of mydriasis in 13.5% (5/7); 2 cases of cerebrospinal rhinorrhea in 5.4% (2/37). CONCLUSION: Cranio-orbital tumors can be removed completely using transcranial approach, and the pterional approach offers excellent exposure. Cooperation of interdisciplinary team of neurosurgeons and ophthalmologists conduces to full use of respective professional advantages. The experience of ophthalmic operation technology can decrease occurrence of ocular complications after surgery.

Is laser photocoagulation still effective in diabetic macular edema? Assessment with optical coherence tomography in Nepal

AIM: To find out the outcome of laser photocoagulation in clinically significant macular edema (CSME) by optical coherence tomography (OCT) METHODS: It was a prospective, non-controlled, case series study enrolling 81 eyes of 64 patients with CSME between August 2008 and January 2010. All patients received modified grid photocoagulation with frequency doubled Nd: YAG laser. Each patient was evaluated in terms of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and regression or progression of maculopathy after laser therapy at 1, 3 and 6 months. Spearman’s correlation test was used to show the correlation between BCVA and total macular volume (TMV). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to compare among groups and independent t-test was used to compare in each group. RESULTS: There is high correlation between BCVA and TMV (P≤0.001). BCVA improved in 50.6 %, remained static in 39.5% and deteriorated in 9.9% patients after 6 month of treatment. The Baseline TMV (mean and SD) were 9.26±1.83, 10.4±2.38), 11.5±3.05), 8.89±0.75 and 9.47±1.98mm3 for different OCT patterns, ST (sponge like thickening), CMO (cystoid macular edema), SFD (subfoveal detachment), VMIA (Vitreo macular interface abnormality) and average TMV respectively (P=0.04). After 6 months of laser treatment, the mean TMV decreased from 9.47±1.98mm³ to 8.77±1.31mm³ (P=0.01). In ST there was significant decrease in TMV, P=0.01, Further within these groups at 6 months, they were significantly different, P=0.01. CONCLUSION: OCT showed the different morphological variant of CSME while the response of treatment is different. TMV decreased the most and hence showed the improvement in vision after 6 months of laser treatment. In the era of Anti vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs), efficacy of laser seems to be in shadow but it is still first line of treatment in developing nation like Nepal where antiVEGFs may not be easily available and affordable.

Ocular higher-order aberrations and mesopic pupil size in individuals screened for refractive surgery

AIM: To study the distribution of ocular higher-order aberrations(HOAs) and mesopic pupil size in individuals screened for refractive surgery. METHODS: Ocular HOAs and mesopic pupil size were studied in 2 458 eyes of 1 240 patients with myopia, myopic astigmatism and compound myopic astigmatism and 215 eyes of 110 patients with hyperopia, hyperopic astigmatism and compound hyperopic astigmatism using the Zywave aberrometer (Busch& Lomb). All patients had correctable refractive errors without a history of refractive surgery or underlying diseases. Root-mean-square values of HOAs, total spherical aberration, total coma and mesopic pupil size were analyzed. Ocular HOAs were measured across a ≥ 6.0 mm pupil, and pupil size measurements were performed under the mesopic condition. RESULTS: The mean values of HOAs, total spherical aberration and total coma in the myopic group were 0.369μm, ±0.233, 0.133± 0.112μm and 0.330±0.188μm, respectively. In the hyperopic group the mean values of HOAs, total spherical aberration and total coma were 0.418μm ±0.214, 0.202±0.209μm and 0.343±0.201μm, respectively. Hyperopes showed greater total HOAs (P<0.01) and total spherical aberration (P<0.01) compared to myopes. In age-matched analysis, only the amount of total spherical aberration was higher in the hyperopic group (P=0.05). Mesopic pupil size in the myopic group was larger (P≤0.05). CONCLUSION: The results suggested that significant levels of HOAs were found in both groups which are important for planning refractive surgeries on Iranians. There were significantly higher levels of total spherical aberration in hyperopes compared to myopes. Mesopic pupil size was larger in myopic group.

Primary 23-gauge vitreoretinal surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Ates Yanyali,Gokhan Celik,Alper Dincyildiz,Fatih Horozoglu and Ahmet F. Nohutcu

AIM: To report the effectiveness and safety of primary 23-Gauge (G) vitreoretinal surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). METHODS: In this retrospective study, 49 eyes of 49 consecutive patients who underwent primary 23-G transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy (TSV) for RRD between January 2007 and July 2009 at our institution were evaluated. RESULTS: Mean follow-up time was 8.9±7.7 months (1-28 months). Retinal reattachment was achieved with a single operation in 47(95.9%) of 49 eyes. In two eyes (4.1%), retinal redetachment due to new breaks was successfully treated with reoperation using the 23-G TSV system. Mean logMAR visual acuity was 2.01±0.47 preoperatively and 1.3±0.5 postoperatively (P<0.001, Paired t-test). Mean preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) was 14.1±2.8mmHg. Mean postoperative IOP was 12.3±3.6mmHg at 1 day, 13.1±2.1mmHg at 1 week, 14.3±2.2mmHg at 1 month. Iatrogenic peripheral retinal break was observed in 1 eye (2.0%) intraoperatively. No sutures were required to close the scleral or conjunctival openings, and no eyes required convertion of surgery to 20-G vitrectomy. CONCLUSION: Primary 23-G TSV system was observed to be effective and safe in the treatment of RRD.

Role of Mediterranean diet, tropical vegetables rich in antioxidants, and sunlight exposure in blindness, cataract and glaucoma among African type 2 diabetics

AIM: To assess whether regular Mediterranean diet and regular intake of vegetables may reduce the risk of blindness, cataract, and glaucoma in these type 2 diabetics. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was carried out among known black diabetics admitted at the diabetic clinics of Kinshasa, between October 2008 and March 2009. The Mediterranean-style dietary score (MSDPS) was used to characterize a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern in the study population using the Harvard semi quantitative FFQ adapted for Africa. RESULTS: Five hundred Type 2 diabetic patients were included in this study (48% of males; 40% aged ≥60 years). There was a significant association between blindness, cataract and aging; between blindness (P<0.05), cataract (P<0.05), glaucoma (P<0.05), and physical inactivity; between blindness (P<0.05), cataract (P<0.0001), glaucoma (P<0.01) and high SES, and a very significant association between blindness (P<0.0001), cataract (P<0.0001), glaucoma (P<0.0001) and exposure to sunlight. There was also a significant association between blindness, glaucoma, and male sex. Regular intake of Mediterranean diet, Brassica Rapa, beans, Abelmoschus, Musa acuminata reduced significantly the risk of blindness, cataract and glaucoma. CONCLUSION: Regular intake of Mediterranean diet, Brassica Rapa, beans, Abelmoschus, and Musa acuminata may significantly reduce the risk of blindness or its major causes among type 2 diabetes mellitus in Africa.

Outcomes of revision external dacryocystorhinostomy and nasal intubation by bicanalicular silicone tubing under endonasal endoscopic guidance

AIM: To evaluate the long-term treatment outcomes in patients who underwent revision of external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) and nasal intubation by bicanalicular silicone tubing (BSTI) under endonasal endoscopic guidance. METHODS: Data from 28 patients with recurrent dacryocystitis were retrospectively reviewed. Revision external DCR and bicanalicular nasal intubation by silicone tubing under endonasal endoscopic guidance was performed in 28 eyes of 28 patients. The patients were evaluated with respect to the reason of recurrence, time to recurrence, time to revision, duration of follow-up and surgical success. RESULTS: Endoscopic endonasal examination detected an osteotomy-side obstruction by the excessive granulation tissue in 24 patients (86%), nasal septal deviation in three patients (10%) and nasal polyp in one patient (4%). Recurrence occurred after a mean duration of 5.3±3.7 months following the first operation. The mean time between the first DCR operation and the revision DCR was 11.5 ± 9.3 months. After a mean follow-up of 14.9±7.8 months, the rate of anatomic success alone was 85% (24/28); the rate of subjective success was 78% (22/28). CONCLUSION: Revision external DCR and bicanalicular nasal intubation by silicone tubing under endonasal endoscopic guidance can be recommended in patients with recurrent dacryocystitis as a surgical approach that achieves satisfactory objective and subjective success rates.

Corneal flap morphological analysis using anterior segment optical coherence tomography in laser in situ keratomileusis with femtosecond lasers versus mechanical microkeratome

AIM: To assess and compare the flap morphology using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in laser in situ keratomileusis(LASIK) with Femto LDV femtosecond lasers versus Hansatome mechanical Microkeratome. METHODS: AS-OCT (Visante) was used to compare 1 month postoperatively the morphology of the flaps created with Femto LDV femtosecond lasers or Hansatome Microkeratome. The intended ?ap thickness was 110μm and 160μm respectively. The thickness of twenty-five points across each flap, which were 0mm, 1.5mm, 2.5mm, and 3.5mm to the corneal vertex on the horizontal, vertical, 45° and 135° meridian respectively, was evaluated. RESULTS: One month postoperative, the central flap thickness in the Femto LDV group was 107.43±4.70μm, while 125.90±17.50μm in the Hansatome group. The difference between the actual and the expected ?ap thickness was 5.61±3.84μm and 31.52±12.27μm, respectively. The Hansatome group had presented a statistically signi?cant result (P﹤0.001). Flap morphology showed a more regular planar shape in the Femto LDV group and a meniscus shape in the Hansatome group. CONCLUSION: AS-OCT is a direct and fast procedure to assess the flap morphology. The morphology by AS-OCT showed that the flaps created with Femto LDV femtosecond laser were more accurate and regular than the flaps created with Hansatome microkeratome.

Clinical analysis of tear film after lamellar keratoplasty

Wan-Rong Huang,Qiu-Lian Chen,Jin-Hong Cai and Yue Zhang

AIM: To study the tear film stability after lamellar keratoplasty. METHODS: Five female and eight male patients with lamellar keratoconus, aged from 18 to 32, were involved. After lamellar keratoplasty, SchirmerⅠtest(SⅠt), tear break-up time(BUT) test, fluorescein staining test were used to judge the effect of the surgery at different time point. RESULTS: The SⅠt were greatly increased in 7 days post operation (11.86±2.28 -25.14±1.97, 19.86±1.61) (P<0.05), there is no significant difference between 2nd month, 3rd month post-operative and pre-operation (11.86±2.28 - 14.57±1.48, 8.14±0.86) (P>0.05). The mean break-up time decreased in 7 days post operation (5.00±1.31 - 2.71±0.18, 2.57±0.20, 2.71±0.36, 2.43±0.20)(P<0.05). The mean scores of fluorescence increased post-operatively (0.14±0.14 - 8.00±0.00, 8.00±0.00, 8.00±0.00, 7.57±0.20) (P <0.01). CONCLUSION: Lamellar keratoplaty influence the tear film stability, artificial tears and improving corneal epithelium cured medicine should be used after surgery.

Clinical evaluation of two multifocal intraocular lens implantation patterns

Hao-Tian Lin,Wei-Rong Chen,Zhao-Feng Ding,Wan Chen and Chang-Rui Wu

AIM: To evaluate the visual outcomes and patient satisfaction of two multifocal intraocular lens implantation patterns, with the decision between the two patterns being guided by the patients’ choice of visual zones that best suited their lifestyle, or lifestyle zones. METHODS: This is a prospective non-randomized comparative study. The lifestyle zones of 32 consecutive age-related cataract patients (64 eyes) were investigated individually to guide the surgical decision between two multifocal intraocular lens implantation patterns. The first group (MIX) received a combined implantation of a ReZoom NXG1 lens in the dominant eye and a Tecnis ZM900 lens in the other eye. The second group (MATCH) received bilateral ReZoom NXG1 lenses. One year postoperatively, the patients were assessed for binocular uncorrected visual acuity, reading visual acuity, reading speed and depth of focus under different luminance and were surveyed for visual disturbances, satisfaction and complete spectacle independence. RESULTS: According to the determination of lifestyle zones, 18 and 14 patients were included in the MIX and MATCH groups, respectively. One year postoperatively, each of the patients exhibited positive visual outcomes and lifestyle satisfaction, although there were still some differences between the two groups. Generally, patients in the MATCH group had better distance visual acuity than those in the MIX group. In contrast, patients in the MIX group had better near visual acuity, better reading acuity and better reading speed than those in the MATCH group. Between the two groups, there was no clear difference in intermediate visual acuity, and the depths of focus between the two groups were approximately equal. The results of the mean NEI-RQL-42 questionnaire score, overall satisfaction, and complete spectacle independence did not differ between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Different multifocal intraocular lenses implantation patterns can have differing advantages and disadvantages; however, the best results with respect to visual outcome and patient satisfaction can be achieved by taking individual lifestyle zones into account.

Study on the surface properties of surface modified silicone intraocular lenses

Gui-Qin Wang,Han-Qing Gu and Xiu-Jun Peng

AIM: To prepare a new-type soft intraocular lens (IOL) that silicone intraocular lenses (IOLs) were modified by surface modification technique to assess IOLs biocompatibility. METHODS: With the technique of ion beam combined with low temperature and low pressure plasma, the surface characteristics of the IOLs including physical and optical properties were determined by the instruments of IOLs resolution, UV/VIS scanning spectrophotometer, contact angle measurement system, electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). RESULTS: The color of titanium (Ti) modified IOLs was light yellow and that of titanium nitride (TiN) modified IOLs was light brown. The absorptive degree of ultraviolet rays and the hydrophilicity of the surfaces of modified IOLs were increased, and appeared suitable chemical compositions. The resolution of unmodified and modified IOLs reached normal standard. The surfaces of unmodified and Ti-modified IOLs appeared uniform. The surfaces of TiN-modified IOLs presented fine porcelain structure. CONCLUSION: The optical properties of all IOLs and the surface morphology of the modified IOLs were not affected by modification processes. The surface properties of the modified IOLs were improved.

Clinical observation of removal of the necrotic corneal tissue combined with conjunctival flap covering surgery under the guidance of the AS-OCT in treatment of fungal keratitis

Guang-Hua Sun,Su-Xia Li,Hua Gao,Wen-Bo Zhang,Mei-Ai Zhang and Wei-Yun Shi

AIM: To study the clinical observation of removal of the necrotic corneal tissue combined with conjunctival flap covering surgery under the guidance of the AS-OCT in treatment of fungal keratitis. METHODS：A retrospective study was done to 10 patients (10 eyes) who had accepted removal of the necrotic corneal tissue combined with conjunctival flap covering surgery for fungal keratitis,the diagnosis by corneal scraping and smear examination or confocal microscopy check hyphae.Local and systemic antifungal therapy more than one week for all patients, corneal ulcer enlarge or no shrink.Slit lamp microscope examination the diameter of corneal ulcer about 2mm-4mm.Anterior segment optical coherence tomography（AS-OCT）examine the depth of corneal ulcer between 1/3-1/2,infiltrate corneal stroma about 20um-80um,the diameter of corneal ulcer about 3mm-6mm.Type-B ultrasonic exclusion endophthalmitis. Complete removal lesions until transparent of stroma, make conjunctival flap equal or greater than ulcer 1mm nearby conjunctiva. Continued antifungal therapy. The vision, fungal recurrence, conjunctival flap rollback or desquamate were analysed. RESULTS：Ten patients had success done this surgery, the corneal ulcer was not enlarge and healing afteroperation.7 cases were bridging conjunctival flap and 3cases were single conjunctival flap. Preoperation vision above 0.1 had 8 cases,7 cases had vision above 0.1 one week after surgery, while 1 cases vision droped from 0.3 to 0.05.There was not recurrent for fungal,2 cases conjunctival flap rollback:1 case was bridging and 1case was single flap, no conjunctival flap desquamate. CONCLUSION：It is safe and effective to perform removal of the necrotic corneal tissue combined with conjunctival flap covering surgery under the guidance of the AS-OCT in treatment of fungal keratitis which werenot sensitive or aggravate for antifungal drugs.

Risk factors related to chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Yu-Min Li,Wei Fang,Xiao-Hong Jin,Jiu-Ke Li,Jing Zhai and Li-Guo Feng

AIM: To evaluate the clinical factors related to chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). METHODS: A retrospective case-control study. A total of 103 consecutive patients (103 eyes) with primary RRD were studied to evaluate the clinical factors related to chronic RRD. RESULTS: Chi-square test was used to sift out the following associated factors with chronic RRD: younger patients (P=0.0028), better preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, P=0.0316), atrophic retinal break (P<0.0001), inferior retinal break (P<0.0001), smaller break (P=0.0005); then the independent risk factors related to chronic RRD was determined by stepwise logistic regression analysis as following: atrophic retinal break (odds ratio (OR)=7.997, P=0.007), inferior retinal break (OR=14.127, P<0.0001) and better preoperative BCVA (OR=1.636 P<0.0722) . CONCLUSION: Atrophic retinal break, inferior retinal break and better preoperative BCVA are the independent risk factors related to chronic RRD.

Analysis of changes in crystalline lens thickness and its refractive power after laser in situ keratomileusis

Liang Wang,Hai-Ke Guo,Jing Zeng and Hai-Ying Jin

AIM: To evaluate changes in the anterior chamber depth (ACD), crystalline lens thickness (LT) and its refractive power after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: In all cases, the preoperative and postoperative central ACD which were measured with Pentacam, Orbscan, IOL-Master and A-scan ultrasonography, central corneal true net power which was measured with the Pentacam, Orbscan and IOL-Master, axial length (AL) which was measured with IOL-Master and LT which was measured with the A-scan ultrasonography were compared using the paired sample t test. Ocular refractive errors and lens refractive power at corneal plane were calculated and their correlations were also evaluated before and after LASIK. RESULTS: At 1 week after LASIK, LT and crystalline lens refractive power at corneal plane (Dlens) which were associated with the IOL-Master and Pentacam increased significantly (P≤0.005), ACD decreased significantly (P≤0.001), but no significant increase was observed in the Dlens which was associated with the Orbscan (P=0.261). Significant correlations between the changes in the ocular refractive errors and Dlens which were associated with the Pentacam were observed at 1 week and 6 months after LASIK (P=0.028; P=0.001). CONCLUSION: LT increased significantly after LASIK, and this might partially lead to ACD decrease, Dlens increase and a small quantity of myopic regression.

Assessment of intraocular pressure measured by Reichert Ocular Response Analyzer, Goldmann Applanation Tonometry, and Dynamic Contour Tonometry in healthy individuals

Ping-Bo Ouyang,Cong-Yi Li,Xiao-Hua Zhu and Xuan-Chu Duan

AIM: To investigate the accuracy of intraocular pressure (IOP) as measured by a Reichert Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA), as well as the relationship between central corneal thickness (CCT) and IOP as measured by ORA, Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT), and dynamic contour tonometry (DCT). METHODS: A total of 158 healthy individuals (296 eyes) were chosen randomly for measurement of IOP. After CCT was measured using A-ultrasound (A-US), IOP was measured by ORA, GAT, and DCT devices in a randomized order. The IOP values acquired using each of the three tonometries were compared, and the relationship between CCT and IOP values were analyzed separately. Two IOP values, Goldmann-correlated IOP value (IOPg) and corneal-compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc), were got using ORA. Three groups were defined according to CCT: 1) thin cornea (CCT<520μm); 2) normal-thickness cornea (CCT: 520–580μm); and 3) thick cornea (CCT>580μm) groups. RESULTS: In normal subjects, IOP measurements were 14.95±2.99mmHg with ORA (IOPg), 15.21±2.77mmHg with ORA (IOPcc), 15.22±2.77mmHg with GAT, and 15.49±2.56mmHg with DCT. Mean differences were 0.01±2.29mmHg between IOPcc and GAT (P>0.05) and 0.28±2.20mmHg between IOPcc and DCT (P>0.05). There was a greater correlation between IOPcc and DCT (r=0.946, P=0.000) than that between IOPcc and GAT (r=0.845, P=0.000). DCT had a significant correlation with GAT (r=0.854, P=0.000). GAT was moderately correlated with CCT (r=0.296, P<0.001), while IOPcc showed a weak but significant correlation with CCT (r=?0.155, P=0.007). There was a strong negative correlation between CCT and the difference between IOPcc and GAT(r=-0.803，P=0.000), with every 10μm increase in CCT resulting in an increase in this difference of 0.35mmHg. The thick cornea group (CCT>580μm) showed the least significant correlation between IOPcc and GAT (r=0.859, P=0.000); while the thin cornea group (CCT＜520μm) had the most significant correlation between IOPcc and GAT (r=0.926, P=0.000). The correlated differences between IOPcc and DCT were not significant in any of the three groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Measurement of IOP by ORA has high repeatability and is largely consistent with GAT measurements. Moreover, the ORA measurements are affected only to a small extent by CCT, and are likely to be much closer to the real IOP value than GAT.

Long-term success of ahmed glaucoma valve in refractory glaucoma

Mahmut Kaya, Zeynep Ozbek, Aylın Yaman and Ismet Durak

AIM: To evaluate the long-term results and complications of ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in refractory glaucoma. METHODS: A retrospective review of 13 patients (13 eyes) with refractory glaucoma who underwent AGV implantation and had a minimum follow-up of 18 months was performed. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement before surgery and at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year after surgery and yearly afterwards. Complications and the number of antiglaucoma medications needed were recorded. RESULTS: Mean age was 27.3±16.0 years. All eyes (100%) had at least one prior incisional surgery. Mean follow-up was 61.3±30.8 months. IOP was reduced from a mean of 35.0 ±7.0mmHg to 18.2±7.9mmHg at 12 months and to 17.0±4.1mmHg at 96 months (P<0.05) with a lower number of medications from baseline, 76.9% patients required additional procedures to achieve the success criteria set by previously published series. The most common complications were encapculated cyst formation in eight eyes (61.5 %) and tube exposure in four eyes (30.8%). CONCLUSION: Encapsulated cyst formation was the most common complication which hindered succesful IOP control after AGV implant insertion for refractory glaucoma. Despite cyst excision with anti-fibrotic agents, successful IOP reduction was not achieved in 76.9% of the patients without antiglaucoma medication.

Ocular alignment and results of strabismus surgery in neurologically impaired children

AIM: To evaluate ocular alignment and surgical results of strabismus surgery in neurologically impaired children. METHODS: Files of 33 neurologically impaired squint children were evaluated. Twelve patients had cerebral palsy(CP), 4 had CP with mental retardation, therest had mental-motor retardation of unknown cause. Cycloplegic refractions, type and angle of strabismus, surgeries performed were recorded. RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 34.0±16.5 months. Twenty-three patients had esodeviation, the remaining had exodeviation. In 19 patients, angle of deviations measured at different visits were highly variable. Twelve patients with stable angle of deviations or with unstable but high angle deviations had horizontal muscle surgery. Mean horizontal deviation decreased from 43.75±10,69 D to 12.83±8.38 D with surgery. CONCLUSION: In neurologically impaired strabismic children, surgery is effective in patients with stable deviations or unstable but high angle deviations. Decision for surgery should be made after a long follow up period.

Clinical outcomes after intrastromal corneal ring segments reoperation in keratoconus patients

2013/12/22 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the clinical outcomes after Ferrara intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS) reoperation in patients with keratoconus.RESULTS: The mean follow-up time after the reoperation was 30.5±9.7 months. The mean UCVA improved from 20/300 to 20/80 (P=0.005); the mean BCVA improved from 20/160 to 20/50 (P=0.0002), the mean keratometry reduced from 49.33±4.19D to 46.16±3.90D (P=0.0001), the mean pachymetry at the thinnest point increased from 450±42.9mm to 469±40.8mm (P=0.0001). The asphericity increased from -0.84±0.74 to -0.35±0.81 (P=0.15) and the spherical equivalent reduced from -4.64±4.87D to -3.04±3.45D (P=0.137). The changes in the asphericity and spherical equivalent were not statistically significant.CONCLUSION: Ferrara ICRS implantation showed to be a reversible and readjustable surgical procedure for keratoconus treatment. Good outcomes can be obtained even after removal, addition, reposition or exchange of ICRS.

Comparative study measuring the dilatory effect of a mydriatic device (Mydriasert^?) versus topical drops

2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the mydriatic efficacy of an ophthalmic insert (Mydriasert, MY) versus phenylephrine and tropicamide (PT) eye drops.METHODS:Two controlled, prospective, randomized, single-blind studies were performed. In the first study, a total of 80 eyes from 40 outpatient-clinic patients were analyzed. PT drops were applied to the right eye, and a MY device was inserted in the left eye for 30min. Time until maximal pupil dilation for each eye was then assessed. In the second study, 80 eyes from 80 patients undergoing cataract surgery were analyzed. Pupil dilation was achieved using either PT drops three-times for one hour prior to surgery (40 patients), or a MY device was inserted one hour prior to surgery (40 patients).RESULTS: In the first study, MY achieved superior mydriasis compared to PT eye drops at 90min (9.04±1.33mm vs 8.78±1.37mm, P=0.012). However MY took longer than PT drops to achieve maximal dilation, and mydriasis was inferior in eyes with MY compared to PT drops at 30min (7.21±1.73mm vs 8.22±1.43mm, P<0.001), the two groups only becoming similar by 60min (8.85±1.44mm vs 8.71±1.27mm, P=0.236). In the second study, both MY and PT achieved similar levels of mydriasis at the beginning of surgery (8.75±0.76mm with MY vs 8.77±0.63mm with PT), and also at the end of surgery (7.96±1.06mm with MY vs 8.32±0.72mm with PT), with no significant difference between groups (P=0.08). MY was well tolerated and cardiovascular effects were not influenced by dilation method.CONLUSION: MY could be a safe and efficacious alternative for mydriasis. The mydriatic effect of MY is as good as conventional PT eye drops after 60min, and is superior after 90min. MY also maintains good pupil dilation during cataract surgery.

Relationship between dietary macronutrient intake and the risk of age-related cataract in middle-aged and elderly patients in northeast China

2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the association between dietary macronutrient intake and the risk of age-related cataract (ARC) in middle-aged and elderly men.METHODS:A hospital-based case-control study was conducted from December 2009 to November 2011. Cases (n=360) were patients with cataract aged 45-85 years old, and controls (n=360) were patients who had been admitted to the same hospital for diseases not related with cataract. All subjects were interviewed using a structured interviewer-administrated questionnaire that included information on socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle habits and detailed medical history, simultaneously, the dietary intakes of nutrients were collected via a valid semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) of three types of ARC were estimated using multiple logistic regression models.RESULTS: After adjusting for multiple potential confounders, total dietary intake of carbohydrate was positively associated with cortical cataract, compared to controls in the lowest quartile, and the OR for cases in the highest quartile of intake was 2.471 (95%CI:1.348-6.043, P=0.027). Higher dietary intakes of protein were protective for posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC) (OR=0.528, 95%CI:0.148-0.869, P=0.023). Dietary fat intake was not associated with any type of cataract, however, participants in the highest quartile of polyunsaturated fatty acids intake had 2.7 times the risk of nuclear cataract as did those in the lowest quartile (OR=2.742, 95%CI:1.790-4.200, P=0.033).CONCLUSION: A high intake of carbohydrate and polyunsaturated fatty acid may increase the odds of cortical and nuclear cataract, respectively, whereas high intake of protein, especially animal protein, may protect against PSC cataract. It is possible that dietary changes of target population may reduce the risk of ARC.

A randomized controlled trial of omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye syndrome

Rahul Bhargava,Prachi Kumar,Manjushrii Kumar,Namrata Mehra and Anurag Mishra — 2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the role of dietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye syndrome.METHODS: A prospective, interventional, placebo controlled, double blind randomized trial was done at two referral eye centers. Two hundred and sixty-four eyes of patients with dry eye were randomized to receive one capsule (500mg) two times a day containing 325mg EPA and 175mg DHA for 3 months (omega-3 group). The omega-3 group was compared to a group of patients (n=254) who received a placebo (placebo group). There were 4 patient visits (at baseline, 1 month, 2 months and 3 months). On each visit, recording of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), slit lamp examination and questionnaire based symptom evaluation and scoring was done. A symptomatic score of 0-6 was mild, 6.1-12 moderate and 12.1-18 severe dry eye. Response to intervention was monitored by routine tear function tests like Schirmer I test, tear film break-up time (TBUT), Rose Bengal staining and most notably, conjunctival impression cytology.RESULTS: Sixty-five percent of patients in the omega-3 group and 33% of patients in placebo group had significant improvement in symptoms at 3 months (P=0.005). There was a significant change in both Schirmer’s test value and TBUT values in the omega-3 group (P<0.001), both comparisons. However, there was a larger drift in TBUT values in omega-3 than the placebo group, in comparison to Schirmer’s test values. The mean TBUT score was 2.54±2.34 in the omega-3 group and 0.13±0.16 in placebo group, respectively. The mean reduction in symptom score in omega-3 group was 2.02±0.96 as compared to 0.48±0.22 in placebo group (P<0.001). Despite a slight increase mean score, the Schirmer scores did not correlate well with symptomatic improvement.CONCLUSION: Omega-3 fatty acids have a definite role for dry eye syndrome. The benefit seems to be more marked in conditions such as blepharitis and meibomian gland disease. The role of omega fatty acids in tear production and secretion needs further evaluation.

Pathological, immunohistochemical and microbiologicalal analysis of lacrimal sac biopsies in patients with chronic dacrocystitis

2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM:To analyze cases of obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct which creates a fertile environment for secondary bacterial infection and can result in dacryocystitis,which is a constant threat to cornea and orbital soft tissue and a potential source of endophthalmitis following intraocular surgery. The majority of obstructions of the lacrimal excretory outflow system are acquired ones occurring in adulthood and involving the distal parts of the system. Acquired obstruction may be primary/idiopathic or secondary to a wide variety of infectious, inflammatory, traumatic, mechanical, toxic or neoplastic causes mimicking idiopathic inflammation. These cases are treated by dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR).METHODS:The present study was conducted to determine the histopathologic, immunohistochemical and current microbiologic characteristics of lacrimal sac specimens in patients undergoing external dacryocystorhinostomy.RESULTS:Non-specific lacrimal sac pathology was present in all 33 cases and 81.8% of the cases showed moderate chronic inflammation with a chronic inflammatory score (CIS) ranging between 4 and 6, whereas 12.12% showed severe inflammatory changes with a CIS of 7. Mild degree of inflammation was seen in 6.06% with a CIS of 3. The total prevalence of gram-positive, gram-negative, and culture-negative samples were 59.4%, 37.5%, and 3% respectively.CONCLUSION:Non-specific chronic inflammation with fibrosis is indeed the most commonly reported histopathological finding in lacrimal sac wall biopsy specimens.

Apoptosis in the iris and trabecular meshwork of medically treated and untreated primary open angle glaucoma patients

2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the trabecular meshwork (TM) and iris apoptosis of treated and untreated primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients.METHODS: Eight treatment-naive, newly diagnosed (group 1) and 11 medicaly treated (group 2) patients with POAG were included in the study. Each patient underwent a limbus-based trabeculectomy. The TM and peripheral iris specimens were dissected out and were snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at –80℃ until they were assayed. Apoptosis in each group was assesed by TUNEL method.RESULTS:The mean patient age was 60.6±5.8 years (53-68 years) vs 58.9±8.9 years (47-70 years) in group 1 and group 2 (P=0.859). The mean treatment time in group 2 was 22.2±7.3 months (12-34 months). Apoptotic indexes in TM and iris were significantly higher in POAG patients using medication (group 2) compared to treatment-naive POAG patients (group 1) (P=0.004, 0.015; respectively).CONCLUSION: Long term administration of topical antiglaucoma medications causes additional toxic effects on TM.

Posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens implantation for high myopia

Yan Ju,Xiao-Wei Gao and Bing Ren — 2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the efficacy, safety and stability of posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens implantation for the correction of high myopia.METHODS: Retrospective case review of 82 eyes (43 patients) undergoing implantable Collamer lens (ICL) placement by a single surgeon (Xiao-Wei Gao) to correct preoperative mean spherical equivalents between -9.00 diopter (D) and -23.00D. Main outcome measures included uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), refraction, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), endothelial cell density (ECD), intraocular pressure (IOP), lens transparency, postoperative uveitis. Visante anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) was used to measure anterior chamber depth (ACD) and the position of ICL.RESULTS:Mean follow-up was 6.54±3.26 months (range 3-12 months). Predictability of the manifest spherical equivalent (SE) refraction to within ±1.00D was achieved in 88% of eyes and ±0.50D in 72.5% of eyes. The mean postoperative manifest SE refraction was -1.85±0.72D, with 96.34% of eyes maintaining or gaining ≥1 line(s) of BSCVA. The mean 3-month postoperative ECD decreased but had no statistically difference compared with the preoperative ECD. Of the 7 eyes (8.54%) with a mild transient increase in intraocular pressure (up to 30mmHg), none required a second surgical procedure or prolonged topical medication. There was no loss of lens transparency. Pigmented precipitates were observed in 5 eyes (6.09%). The mean preoperative ACD measured with AS-OCT was 3.28±0.14mm, three months after surgery, the mean ACD was 2.45±0.22mm. Anterior chamber depth showed a statistically significant reduction. One eye (1.22%) had ICL spontaneous rotation, 81 eyes (98.78%) of the lens remained correctly centered.CONCLUSION: The implantation of ICL is an effective surgical option for the management of high myopia. But its long time effect and safety still need more time to prove.

Importance of 3-D image reconstruction of spectral-domain OCT on outcome of grid laser photocoagulation for diffuse diabetic macular edema

Avinoam Ophir,Rana Hanna and Michael R. Martinez — 2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM:To present the outcome of modified grid laser photocoagulation (GLP) in diffuse diabetic macular edema (DDME) in eyes without extrafoveal and/or vitreofoveal traction. METHODS:Inclusion criteria for the retrospective study were DDME eyes of patients with type II diabetes mellitus that had ≥4 months of follow-up following GLP. Only one eye per patient was analyzed. Using 3-D spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (3-D SD-OCT), eyes that had either extrafoveal or vitreofoveal traction, or had been previously treated by an intravitreal medication(s) were excluded. Treated DDME eyes were divided into 4 groups:A) “Classic” DDME that involved the central macula; B) edema did not involve the macular center; C) eyes associated with central epiretinal membrane (ERM); D) DDME that was associated with macular capillary dropout ≥2 disc-diameter (DD). RESULTS:GLP outcome in 35 DDME eyes after 4-24 (mean, 13.1±6.9) months was as follows:Group A) 18 eyes with “classic” DDME. Following one or 2 (mean, 1.2) GLP treatments, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved by 1-2 Snellen lines in 44.4% (8/18) of eyes, and worsened by 1 line in 11.1% (2/18). Central macular thickness (CMT) improved by 7%-49% (mean, 26.6%) in 77.8% (14/18) of eyes. Causes of CMT worsening (n=4) were commonly explainable, predominantly (n=3) associated with emergence of extrafoveal traction, 5-9 months post-GLP. Group B) GLP(s) in DDME that did not involve the macular center (n=6) resulted in improved BCVA by 1-2 lines in 2 eyes. However, the central macula became involved in the edema process after the GLP in 3 (50%) eyes, associated with an emergence of extrafoveal traction in one of these eyes 4 months following the GLP. Group C) GLP failed in all 5 eyes associated with central ERM. Group D) GLP was of partial benefit in 2 of 6 treated eyes with macular capillary dropout ≥2DD. CONCLUSION:Eyes with DDME that involved the macular center were found to achieve favourable outcomes after GLP(s) during mid-term follow-up, unless complicated pre-GLP or post-GLP by vitreoretinal interface abnormalities, often extrafoveal traction or ERM, or by capillary dropout ≥2DD. Prospective studies with larger cohorts are required.

A new specialized visual acuity chart for amblyopic children aged 3-5 years old:development and its clinical applications

Yang-Qing Huang,He Huang and Rong-Zhi Huang — 2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM: To introduce a new specialized visual acuity chart for amblyopic children aged 3-5 years old and its clinical applications.METHODS:The new visual acuity chart and notations were designed based on Weber-Fechner law. The optotypes were red against a white background and were specially shaped four basic geometric symbols:circle, square, triangle，and cross. A regular geometric progression of the optotype sizes and distribution was employed to arrange in 14 lines. The progression rate of the optotype size between two lines was 1.2589 and the testing distance was 3m. Visual acuity score could be recorded as logMAR notation or decimal notation. Age-stratified diagnostic criteria for amblyopia established by consensus statement on diagnosis of amblyopia (2011) among members of the Strabismus and Pediatric Ophthalmology Group, Ophthalmology Society, Chinese Medical Association (SPOGOSCMA) were illustrated in the new visual acuity chart.RESULTS: When assessing visual acuity in children aged 3-5 years old, this new visual acuity chart that consists of four symmetrical shapes (triangle, square, cross, and circle) overcame an inability to recognize the letters of the alphabet and difficulties in designating the direction of black abstract symbols such as the tumbling ‘E’ or Landolt ‘C’, which the subjects were prone to lose interest in. The visual acuity score may be recorded in different notations:decimal acuity and logMAR. These two notations can be easily converted each other in the new eye chart. The measurements of this new chart not only showed a significant correlation and a good consistency with the international standard logarithmic visual acuity chart (r=0.932, P<0.01), but also indicated a high test-retest reliability (89% of retest scores were within 0.1logMAR units of the initial test score).CONCLUSION: The results of this study support the validity and reliability of distance visual acuity measurements using the new eye chart in children aged 3 to 5 years over a wide range of visual acuities, and the new eye chart is great for early detection of amblyopia. It can be applied in various clinical settings.

Effect of 1% brinzolamide and 0.5% timolol fixed combination on intraocular pressure after cataract surgery with phacoemulsification

2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination on intraocular pressure (IOP) after cataract surgery.METHODS:The study included 92 eyes of 87 patients who underwent cataract surgery and intraocular lens implantation. Patients scheduled for phacoemulsification were assigned to 1 of 2 groups. The treatment group received 1 drop of brinzolamide-timolol fixed combination immediately after surgery, and the control group received no treatment. The IOP was measured preoperatively and at 2h and 24h postoperatively.RESULTS: The mean IOP change was lower in the treatment group than in the control group at 2h postoperatively. The difference between the mean IOP values of the two groups at 2h postoperatively was found to be statistically significant. Twenty-four hours after the surgery, the mean IOP change was still higher in the control group when compared to the treatment group.CONCLUSION: The fixed combination brinzolamide-timolol can effectively reduce IOP after cataract surgery.

Epidemiological and clinical features of paediatric open globe injuries in southwestern Turkey

2013/12/22 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the epidemiologic, anatomic, and clinical features of open globe injuries in children.METHODS: The medical files of patients under the age of 16 who had been operated for an open globe injury at Akdeniz University Hospital’s Department of Ophthalmology were retrospectively evaluated.RESULTS: A total of 90 patients were evaluated in this study. Among these patients, 26 (28.9%) were female and 64 (71.1%) were male. The mean age of the patients was 7.7±4.2 years. The male/female ratio was observed to increase with increasing age (P=0.006, r=7.48). Injuries were most likely to occur in spring and autumn (P=0.028). The time interval between the injury and the surgical repair was 9.36±27.4h. Forty (44.4%) of the injuries occurred in the home, 27 (30%) occurred in the yard, and 21 (23.3%) happened while playing in the street. The most common causes of injury were sharp metal objects (P<0.001). Injury to the cornea occurred in 47 (52.2%) of the patients (P<0.001). The most common complication to occur was cataract formation. Additional operations were necessary for 37 (41.1%) of the patients. The final visual acuity was correlated with both the initial visual acuity of the wounded eye prior to surgery and the length of the wound (P<0.001, r=0.502 and P<0.001, r=-0.442, respectively).CONCLUSION:Open globe injuries that are suffered in childhood generally occur either at home, in the yard, or on the street, with sharp metal objects being the most common cause of injury. The initial visual acuity and the length of the wound are the most important determinants of the final visual acuity.

Temporal pattern of resolution/recurrence of choroidal neovascularization during bevacizumab therapy for wet age-related macular degeneration

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To characterize temporal pattern of resolution and recurrence of naive choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) treated with intravitreal bevacizumab on as needed regimen, and to analyze baseline risk factors for CNV resolution or recurrence.METHODS:Ninety-one eyes of 80 patients with newly diagnosed wet AMD were retrospectively studied. All eyes were treated with a round of three monthly intravitreal bevacizumab injections, followed by one additional ‘bonus’ injection after resolution of CNV activity. During follow-up, eyes were monitored with fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). In case of recurrences of CNV activity, eyes were retreated with other rounds of bevacizumab injections following the same treatment protocol.RESULTS:Over a median follow-up of 532d, the median resolution time of CNV activity in the first, second, and third treatment round was 98d, 126d, and 111d, respectively. The median recurrence time for the three rounds was 154d, 126d, and 151d, respectively. No significant difference in resolution time (P=0.09) or in recurrence time (P=0.11) was detected among treatment rounds. Age (P=0.0082) and lens status (P=0.035) were found to be associated with CNV resolution; for every 1-year increase in age there was 4% greater chance of CNV resolution; Phakic eyes demonstrated a 33% better chance to experience CNV resolution than pseudophakic eyes. For CNV recurrence, lens status (P=0.0009) and gender (P=0.0446) were found to be predictive; pseudophakic eyes had a 3.69-fold greater risk to experience recurrence of CNV activity compared to phakic eyes; males had a 2.19-fold greater risk to experience recurrence of CNV activity than females. No significant BCVA changes among three treatment rounds were noted (P=0.56).CONCLUSION:Resolution time and recurrence time of CNV activity were not significantly different among treatment rounds, suggesting absence of tachyphylaxis to bevacizumab. A cautious decision should be made upon discontinuing treatment in wet AMD eyes of younger or pseudophakic patients, which showed slower response to bevacizumab. In addition, wet AMD eyes of male or pseudophakic patients should be evaluated more carefully after stopping the treatment, because they may have early reactivation of the CNV. BCVA was preserved by bevacizumab treatment despite multiple recurrences.

Anisometropia magnitude and visual deficits in previously untreated anisometropic amblyopia

Bin-Bin Chen,Feng-Wei Song,Zhao-Hui Sun and Yi Yang — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To assess the quantitative association between anisometropia magnitude and the losses of resolution and contrast sensitivity; and to exemplify how the function of fusion and stereopsis vary with anisometropia magnitude (AM) in previously untreated anisometropic amblyopes.METHODS:A total of 57 patients with previously untreated anisometropic amblyopia without strabismus (range:8-35 years), were measured refractive error, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fusion and stereopsis, and 48 patients have completed contrast sensitivity function test. AM was determined by dioptric vector addition model, and the amblyopia depth was determined by the difference of BCVA in logMAR units between the amblyopic and fellow eyes.RESULTS: AM was significantly correlated with both amblyopia depth (Pearson R=0.728, P<0.001) and the inter-ocular difference of the area under the log contrast sensitivity function (AULCSF) (R=0.505, P<0.001). Depth of amblyopia and the inter-ocular difference of AULCSF was also significantly correlated (R=0.761, P<0.001). The more severity of amblyopia, the poorer levels of contrast sensitivity. Most pure anisometropes with AM was less than 3.0D retain fusion and some stereopsis, but when AM were more than 3.0D, especially for the anisometropes whose AM was more than 6.0D, fusion and stereopsis function were seriously impaired.CONCLUSION: In the patients with previously untreated anisometropia amblyopia, higher degree of anisometropia is significantly associated with deeper amblyopia, worse contrast sensitivity, fusion and stereopsis functions.

Comparison of Ziemer FEMTO LDV “Classic” and “Crystal Line” femtosecond laser flap quality by Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography

Jing Zhang,Yue-Hua Zhou,Lei Tian and Chang-Bin Zhai — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the regularity and accuracy of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) flaps created by the Ziemer FEMTO LDV “Classic” (Ziemer “Classic”) and Ziemer FEMTO LDV Crystal Line femtosecond laser (Ziemer Crystal Line).METHODS:Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (RTVue OCT) was used tomeasure the morphology of 200 LASIK flaps of 100 consecutive patients created with the Ziemer Classic (100 flaps) or the Ziemer Crystal Line (100 flaps) at one week postoperatively. Flap thickness was evaluated at 36 specified measurement points on each flap. For all procedures with both lasers, the nominal flap thickness was 110μm.RESULTS:The mean flap thickness of the Ziemer Crystal Line group(102.49±2.68μm) was thinner than that of the Ziemer Classic group (107.65±5.09μm) (P<0.01). Average thickness of all flaps was uniform within 4μm at all measurement points. The flaps in the Ziemer Crystal Line group were more regular than those in the Ziemer Classic group when measured from the center to the periphery. The maximum deviation from the nominal 110μm of 36 measurements was 8μm in the Ziemer Classic group, while in the Ziemer Crystal Line group it was 9μm. Within the 3 600 measurements on the 100 eyes, differences greater than 20μm were observed 0.14% in the Ziemer Classic group, and 0.04% in the Ziemer Crystal Line group.CONCLUSION:The flaps created with the Ziemer FEMTO LDV Crystal Linefemtosecond laser are more uniform and thinner than those created by the Ziemer FEMTO LDV Classic femtosecond laser.

Non-cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction in adults:comparison of the double-pass system, retinoscopy, subjective refraction and a table-mounted autorefractor

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the accuracy of spherical equivalent (SE) estimates of a double-pass system and to compare it with retinoscopy, subjective refraction and a table-mounted autorefractor.METHODS: Non-cycloplegic refraction was performed on 125 eyes of 65 healthy adults (age 23.5±3.0 years) from October 2010 to January 2011 using retinoscopy, subjective refraction, autorefraction (Auto kerato-refractometerTOPCON KR-8100, Japan) and a double-pass system (Optical Quality Analysis System, OQAS, Visiometrics S.L., Spain). Nine consecutive measurements with the double-pass system were performed on a subgroup of 22 eyes to assess repeatability. To evaluate the trueness of the OQAS instrument, the SE laboratory bias between the double-pass system and the other techniques was calculated.RESULTS:The SE mean coefficient of repeatability obtained was 0.22D. Significant correlations could be established between the OQAS and the SE obtained with retinoscopy (r=0.956, P<0.001), subjective refraction (r=0.955, P<0.001) and autorefraction (r=0.957, P<0.001). The differences in SE between the double-pass system and the other techniques were significant (P<0.001), but lacked clinical relevance except for retinoscopy; Retinoscopy gave more hyperopic values than the double-pass system -0.51±0.50D as well as the subjective refraction -0.23±0.50D; More myopic values were achieved by means of autorefraction 0.24±0.49D.CONCLUSION: The double-pass system provides accurate and reliable estimates of the SE that can be used for clinical studies. This technique can determine the correct focus position to assess the ocular optical quality. However, it has a relatively small measuring range in comparison with autorefractors (-8.00 to +5.00D), and requires prior information on the refractive state of the patient.

Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness distribution in Chinese with myopia measured by 3D-optical coherence tomography

Jing-Jing Zhao,Wen-Juan Zhuang,Xue-Qiu Yang,Shan-Shan Li and Wei Xiang — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To assess the effect of myopia on the thickness of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) measured by 3D optical coherence tomography (3D-OCT) in a group of nonglaucomatous Chinese subjects.METHODS:Two hundred and fifty-eight eyes of 258 healthy Chinese myopic individuals were recruited and four groups were classified according to their spherical equivalent (SE):low myopia (n=42, -0.5Dn=120, -3.0D≤SE<-6.0D), high myopia (n=58, -6.0D≤SE<-8.0D) and extreme high myopia (n=38, SE≥-8.0D). The RNFL thickness profile including superior, nasal, inferior and temporal quadrant and each of the 12 clock-hour thicknesses were measured by 3D-OCT. The RNFL thicknesses among four sample groups were performed by one-way analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) and least significant difference test (LSD test). Correlations between RNFL thickness and axial length/spherical equivalent were performed by linear regression analysis.RESULTS: The overall RNFL parameters shown significant differences between groups excluding 7, 9, 10, 11 o’clock hour thickness. The RNFL thickness of superior, nasal, inferior, average and 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12 o’clock sectors were decreased with the increasing axial length and higher degree of myopia. In contrast, as axial length and the degree of myopia increased, the temporal and 8, 9 o’clock sectors thicknesses were increased. A considerable proportion of myopic eyes were classified as outside the normal limits. Six o’clock was the most notable of the total, which 43.4% were outside the normal limits.CONCLUSION:On the measurement of RNFL, the characteristics of RNFL with the change of the degree of myopia were observed. As the degree of myopia increases, the RNFL thickness measured by 3D-OCT including the average and superior, nasal, inferior sectors decreases. And due to the change of RNFL thickness, it should be considered when using OCT to access for the damage of glaucoma especially people with myopia.

Bacterial flora of conjunctiva after death

Sagili Chandrasekhara Reddy and George Paul — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the frequency of bacterial flora of conjunctiva after death (cadaver eyes) which will give information about the bacterial contamination of donor eyes, and the in-vitro sensitivity of isolated bacteria to the commonly used antibiotics in ophthalmic practice.METHODS: Conjunctival swabs were taken from the cadavers (motor vehicle accident deaths and patients who died in the hospital), within 6h after death, and sent for culture and sensitivity test. Conjunctival swabs, taken from the healthy conjunctiva of patients admitted for cataract surgery, were sent for culture and sensitivity as controls (eyes in those of living status). The bacterial isolates were tested against the commonly used antibiotics (chloramphenicol, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin) in ophthalmology practice.RESULTS: Bacteria were isolated in 41 out of 100 conjunctival swabs (41%), taken from 50 cadavers (study group). Coagulase negative staphylococcus was the most common bacteria isolated (15%), followed by pseudomonas aeruginosa (5%). Gentamicin was effective against majority of the bacterial isolates (82%). Bacteria were isolated from 7 out of 100 conjunctival swabs taken as control group (eyes in living state). Coagulase negative staphylococcus was the most common organism (5%) isolated in control group; the others were staphylococcus aureus (1%) and beta hemolyticus streptococci (1%).CONCLUSION: Bacteria were isolated from 41% of the cadaver eyes. High percentage sensitivity of the bacterial isolates to gentamicin (82%) supports the practice of thorough irrigation of the eyes with gentamicin solution before starting the procedure of enucleation followed by immersion of the enucleated eyeballs in gentamycin solution, to prevent the bacterial contamination.

Comparison of IOPen rebound tonometer with Goldmann applanation tonometer at different IOP levels

FereydounFarrahi,Farideh Sharifipour,Mohammad Malekahmadi and Bahman Cheraghian — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the accuracy of IOPen rebound tonometer with Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT) in individuals with low, normal and high intraocular pressure (IOP) and to evaluate the effect of central corneal thickness (CCT) on IOP measurements.METHODS:This cross-sectional study consisted of 159 participants. IOP of one eye of each subject was measured consecutively with IOPen and GAT. Then CCT was measured using an ultrasonic pachymeter. Based on GAT IOP readings, participants were divided into low, normal and high IOP groups. Correlation between tonometers and CCT was calculated by spearman’s correlation coefficient. Agreement between tonometers was evaluated using Bland-Altman method.RESULTS: Non-significant underestimation of IOP by IOPen was observed in low IOP group (Mean difference:0.20mmHg; P=0.454) and also in normal IOP group (Mean difference:0.56mmHg; P=0.065). However, IOPen significantly overestimated IOP in high IOP group (Mean difference:1.06mmHg; P=0.038). The 95% limits of agreement (LoA) width between IOPen and GAT IOPs were 7.84, 8.57 and 14.27mmHg in low, normal and high IOP groups, respectively. Low IOP group had thinner corneas compared to high IOP group (P=0.034). IOP measurements taken by IOPen were not influenced by CCT (P=0.099) while poor correlation between CCT and GAT was found (R=0.17, P=0.032). Using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, cutoff value of 18.75mmHg was determined for IOPen with sensitivity of 98.1 and specificity of 97.2%.CONCLUSION:Accuracy of IOPen is comparable to GAT in patients with low or normal IOP but IOPen overestimates IOP at high IOP levels. CCT does not affect IOP readings with IOPen.

Comparative study of visual acuity and aberrations after intralase femtosecond LASIK:small corneal flap versus big corneal flap

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To study the effect of different flap sizes on visual acuity, refractive outcomes, and aberrations after femtosecond laser for laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).METHODS: In each of the forty patients enrolled, 1 eye was randomly assigned to receive treatment with a 8.1mm diameter corneal flap, defined as the small flap, while the other eye was treated with a 8.6mm diameter corneal flap, defined as the big flap. Refractive errors, visual acuity, and higher-order aberrations were compared between the two groups at week 1, month 1 and 3 postoperatively.RESULTS: The postoperative refractive errors and visual acuity all conformed to the intended goal. Postoperative higher-order aberrations were increased, especially in spherical aberration (Z12) and vertical coma (Z7). There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of postoperative refractive errors, visual acuity, root mean square of total HOAs (HO-RMS), trefoil 30° (Z6), vertical coma (Z7), horizontal coma (Z8), trefoil 0° (Z9), and spherical aberration (Z12) at any point during the postoperative follow-up.CONCLUSION: Both the small and big flaps are safe and effective procedures to correct myopia, provided the exposure stroma meets the excimer laser ablations. The personalized size corneal flap is feasible, as we can design the size of corneal flap based on the principle that the corneal flap diameter should be equal to or greater than the sum of the maximum ablation diameter and apparatus error.

Comparative study of modified and conventional secondary hydroxyapatite orbital implantations

Yong Zhao,Mao-Nian Zhang,Yun-Xian Gao,Xiao-Wei Gao and Bing Ren — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical effects of the modified and conventional secondary hydroxyapatite orbital implantations.METHODS:A total of 40 patients who had received eye enucleation were equally randomized into the modified and conventional groups. Twenty patients were treated by conventional method. The four rectus muscles were separated, and then an orbital implant wrapped with xenogenous sclera was implanted. Twenty patients were treated by modified method. An implant unwrapped with xenogenous sclera was directly implanted into the muscle pyramid. The operating time, costs, clinical effects, and complications of the two groups were compared.RESULTS:The average operating time of the modified group was 20.5±5.6min, whereas that of the conventional group was 56.8±14.6min (P<0.01). The average cost of the modified group was 7 800±340RMB (1 274±55.6USD), whereas that of the conventional group was 9 800±660RMB (1 601±107.8USD) (P<0.01). The two groups did not show significant difference in orbital implant mobility or postoperative complications.CONCLUSION:The modified secondary hydroxyapatite orbital implantation has advantages in operating time, surgery cost, and complication reducing. It is worthy for wide clinical application and further study.

Long-term results of clear lens extraction combined with piggyback intraocular lens implantation to correct high hyperopia

Xia Hua,Xiao-Yong Yuan,Hui Song and Xin Tang — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the refractive outcome of clear lensectomy combined with piggyback intraocular lens implantation in highly hyperopic patients.METHODS: This case review included 19 eyes of 10 patients with high hyperopia and axial length less than 21mm. Intraocular lens power was calculated for emmetropia using the Holladay II formula in 17 eyes, and SRK/T formula in 2 eyes following clear lens extraction and piggyback intraocular lens implantation. Patients were examined periodically over 24 months for visual acuity and spherical equivalent (SE).RESULTS: The mean postoperative SE at 24 months was 0.20±1.39D (range, -3.00 to 2.50D), better than preoperative 9.81±2.62D (range, +6.00 to +14.50D) (P<0.001). Five eyes had SE within ±0.5D of emmetropia and 11 eyes within ±1.00D at postoperative 24 months. The mean postoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) at 24 months was 0.60±0.36, significantly improved compared to preoperative 1.39±0.33 (P<0.001). The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at 24 months was 0.49±0.35, not statistically different compared to preoperative 0.38±0.30 (P=0.34). Twelve eyes maintained and 1 gained 1 or more Snellen line of BCVA, 4 eyes lost 1 line, and 2 eyes lost 2 lines at 24 postoperative months. Twelve eyes best-corrected near visual acuity (BCNVA) achieved J1 at postoperative 24 months compared to preoperative 7 eyes and the other 7 eyes better than J3.CONCLUSION: Clear lens extraction combined piggyback intraocular lens implantation appears to be an effective procedure to correct high hyperopia but mild overcorrection and intralenticular opacification may require secondary procedure.

One-stitch anastomosis through the skin with bicanalicular intubation:a modified approach for repair of bicanalicular laceration

Hai Tao,Peng Wang,Cui Han,Jian Zhang,Fang Bai and Zhao-Yan He — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of one-stitch anastomosis through the skin with bicanalicular silicone tube intubation in repairing of bicanalicular laceration.METHODS:The clinical data of 15 consecutive patients with both superior and inferior canalicular laceration in one eye who underwent surgical repair using one-stitch anastomosis through the skin and bicanalicular stent were retrospective studied. All the operations were performed under surgical microscope, 5-0 silk sutures were used and were with bicanalicular silicone tube (diameter was 8mm) intubation, for one lacerated canaliculi one-stitch anastomosis through the skin. The stents were left in place for 3 months postoperatively and then removed. The follow-up period was 3 - 36 months (average 14 months).RESULTS:In 15 patients, 13 patients were cured entirely, 1 patient was meliorated, 1 patient with no effects. All patients had got good recovery of eyelid laceration with no traumatic deformity in eyelid and canthus. Complication was seen in one case, for not followed the doctor’s guidance to come back to hospital to had the suture removed on the 7^th day after operation, when he came at the 15^th day, the inferior canalicular wall and eyelid skin were corroded by the suture caused 2mm wound, and the inside silicone tube was exposed, a promptly repair with 10-0 nylon suture was done, the wound healed in a week. There were no early tube protrusions and punctal slits in the patients.CONCLUSION:One-stitch anastomosis through the skin with bicanalicular silicone tube intubation is a good method in repair of bicanalicular laceration in one eye, the cut ends can be anastomosed directly, and with excellent cosmetic results, it is acceptable for the patients. For there is no suture remained in the wound permanently, so there is no suture-related granuloma which may cause obstruction or stenosis of canaliculi. It is simple, economical, effective and safe.

Characteristics of pupillo-accommodative functions according to time of onset, gender and age in tonic pupil

Kyung-Min Koh and Ungsoo Samuel Kim — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the characteristics of pupillo-accommodative functions in patients with idiopathic tonic pupil according to the time of onset, gender, and age.METHODS:Totally, 15 males and 19 females were divided into 2 groups depending on the time of disease onset:group Ⅰ (onset <2 months, n=20) and group Ⅱ (onset >2 months, n=14). A supersensivity test was conducted by applying diluted pilocarpine 0.125% to the eye and accommodative functions were evaluated using the near-point of accommodation (NPA) as the cutoff point, at which the patient experienced blurred vision. Pupil size and the ratio of decrease in the affected pupilafter instillation of 0.125% pilocarpine were investigated.RESULTS:There was no significant difference between the 2 groups regarding the various pupillary reflex results, including data on the affected pupil size before and after 0.125% pilocarpine, anisocoria, and ratio of pupil decrease. No significant difference in NPA was found between the 2 groups. However, female patients were noted to have greater anisocoria and a faster constriction ratio than those of the male patients (P=0.02 and P=0.04). On subgroup analysis, female patients from group Ⅱ had larger affected-pupil sizes before 0.125% pilocarpine instillation and longer NPAs than those of the male patients.CONCLUSION: No relationship was found between time of onset and dysfunction of pupillo-accommodative functions. Pupillo-accommodative functions and age were not related, except for the NPA.

Peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer thickness measurement with SD-OCT in normal and glaucomatous eyes:distribution and correlation with age

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To determine peripapillary retinal fiber layer thickness (RNFL) measured with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in normal and glaucomatous eyes in a large sample of exclusively white population and compare results with other similarly constructed studies.METHODS:Average, maximum, minimum and per quadrant RNFL thickness were measured in normal and glaucomatous Greek patients with a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO)/SD-OCT device. The effect of age in normal RNFL thickness was also determined.RESULTS: A total of 278 normal (278 patients) and 67 glaucomatous (67 patients) eyes were included in the study. Average RNFL thickness was 114.8±13.3μm in normal and 92.1±18.5μm in glaucomatous eyes (P<0.001). In normal discs, superior quadrant was the thickest, followed by the inferior, nasal and temporal. Decline of normal RNFL thickness with age was statistically significant for average RNFL thickness (1.92μm per decade of life) and for the superior and inferior quadrants of the disc.CONCLUSION:SD-OCT peripapillary RNFL measurements can be used to distinguish between normal and glaucomatous eyes and establish normative databases, since normal disc measurements differ between different ethnic groups and between different SD-OCT devices.

Comparison of the effects of first and second generation silicone hydrogel contact lens wear on tear film osmolarity Running title:Tear film osmolarity and silicone hydrogel contact lens wear

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the effects of first and second generation silicone hydrogel (SiH) contact lens wear on tear film osmolarity.METHODS:The healthy subjects who have never used contact lenses before were enrolled in the study. Tear film osmolarity values of 16 eyes (group 1) who wore first generation SiH contact lenses were compared with those of 18 eyes (group 2) who wore second generation SiH contact lenses after three months follow-up.RESULTS: Before contact lens wear, tear film osmolarity of groups 1 and 2 were 305.02±49.08 milliosmole (mOsm) and 284.66±30.18mOsm, respectively. After three months of contact lens wear, osmolarity values were found 317.74±60.23mOsm in group 1 and 298.40±37.77mOsm in group 2. Although osmolarity values for both groups of SiH contact lens wear after three months periods were slightly higher than before the contact lens wear, the difference was not statistically significant.CONCLUSION: Contact lens wear may cause evaporation from the tear film and can increase tear film osmolarity leading to symptoms of dry eye disease. In the current study, there is a tendency to increase tear film osmolarity for both groups of SiH contact lens wear, but the difference is not statistically significant.

The outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy without endotamponade for tractional retinal detachment secondary to proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Rao Muhammad Rashad Qamar,Muhammad Imran Saleem and Muhammad Farhan Saleem — 2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) without the use of an ocular tamponade in patients having tractional retinal detachment (TRD) secondary to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).METHODS: It was an interventional study conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, B.V. Hospital, Bahawalpur, Pakistan, from July 2011 to July 2012. A total of 75 patients (84 eyes) having TRD secondary to PDR were treated by PPV without using an ocular tamponade. All patients included in the study had a tractional retinal detachment secondary to proliferative diabetic retinopathy but didn’t have or develop retinal breaks before or during the study period. The surgical procedure included a PPV combined with the removal of the tractional retinal membranes and the application of endolaser photocoagulation to the retina. The mean follow-up period was 12 months.RESULTS:Successful retinal reattachement was observed in 78 of the operated eyes (92.8%). In these patients, the retina remained attached till the end of the one year follow-up period. Improvement in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was seen in 63 eyes (75%). The visual acuity remained unchanged in 9 eyes (10.7%). Mean improvement in BCVA was 2.00+1.24 at baseline to 1.24+1.22 (P<0.05) at the end of the follow-up period.CONCLUSION: In the absence of the retinal breaks, a TRD secondary to PDR can be successfully treated by pars plana vitrectomy without the use of an ocular tamponade.

Plasma coenzyme Q10 levels in type 2 diabetic patients with retinopathy

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the relationship between proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDRP) and plasma coenzyme Q10(CoQ10) concentration.METHODS: Patients with type 2 diabetes and PDRP were determined to be the case group (n=50). The control group was consist of healthy individuals (n=50). Plasma CoQ10 and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured in both groups.RESULTS: Ubiquinone-10 (Coenzyme Q10) levels in PDRP and control subjects are 3.81±1.19μmol/L and 1.91±0.62μmol/L, respectively. Plasma MDA levels in PDRP and control subjects were 8.16±2μmol/L and 3.44±2.08μmol/L, respectively. Ratio of Ubiquinol-10/ubiquinone-10 in PDRP and control subjects were 0.26±0.16 and 1.41±0.68, respectively.CONCLUSION:The ratio of ubiquinol-10/ubiquinone-10 is found lower in patients with PDRP. High levels of plasma ubiquinol-10/ubiquinone-10 ratio indicate the protective effect on diabetic retinopathy.

Assessment of the anterior chamber parameters after laser iridotomy in primary angle close suspect using Pentacam and gonioscopy

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the changes in the anterior segment parameters of the subjects with primary angle closure suspect (PACS) before and after laser iridotomy (LI) using the Pentacam and gonioscopy.METHODS: Forty-eight eyes of 48 PACS were included. Anterior chamber angle (ACA), central anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV) and central corneal thickness (CCT) were recorded from the Pentacam before and one month after LI. ACA was graded according to Shaffer classification using the Goldmann gonioscopy.RESULTS: ACA increased significantly from 25.59±4.41 to 26.46±4.33 degrees (P=0.009) and ACV changed from 85.97±16.07mm³ to 99.25±15.83mm³ (P=0.000). The changes in ACD, CCT and intraocular pressure were non-significant (P>0.05). Gonioscopy showed significant widening of the Shaffer angle in 4 quadrants (P<0.001).CONCLUSION:Pentacam can serve as the objective instrument in assessing the efficacy of LI.

Fundus autofluorescence imaging of patients with idiopathic macular hole

2013/10/21 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the role of fundus autofluorescence (FAF) both in the diagnosis and the preoperative and postoperative evaluation of patients with idiopathic macular hole (MH).METHODS: Forty eyes of 40 patients diagnosed as idiopathic MH between May 2010 and May 2011 were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent full ophthalmologic examinations and imagings including fluorescein angiography, fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and optical coherence tomography. Thirty of these patients underwent MH surgery. FAF findings were associated with duration of symptoms, visual acuity at presentation, stage of MH, and postoperative anatomical correction.RESULTS:The mean duration of patients’ symptoms was 3.8±2.0 (1-9) months. The MH was stage 2 in 4 (10%), stage 3 in 24 (60%) and stage 4 in 12 (30%) eyes. The median preoperative best corrected visual acuity was 20/200 (between 20/800 and 20/100). Twenty-eight of cases (70%) showed a stellate appearance with dark radiating striae. Having a visual acuity ≥20/200 was significantly more common in eyes with stellate appearance (P<0.001). The mean duration of symptoms was significantly shorter in eyes with stellate appearance (2.75±0.8 vs 6.33±1.61 months) (P<0.001). The frequency of stage 4 MH was significantly higher in eyes with non-stellate appearance (P<0.001). Anatomical correction of MH was achieved in 91.3% (21/23) of eyes with stellate appearance and 71.4% (5/7) of eyes without this appearance (P=0.225).CONCLUSION: Stellate appearance in FAF is associated with earlier stages of macular hole, better visual acuity at presentation, shorter duration of symptoms, thus more favorable prognosis.

Clinicopathologic features and prognostic factors of malignant eyelid tumors

2013/8/22 11:25:06
AIM:To investigate the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with malignant eyelid tumors.METHODS: This was a retrospective, non-randomized, clinical reviews. Between January, 2002 and December, 2011, 75 cases with histologically confirmed malignant eyelid tumors were evaluated. Patients’ charts were reviewed for clinical information, treatment procedure, and disease course. Survival analysis in terms of recurrence-free survival was performed using age, sex, location of tumor and histopathological type. The follow-up ranged from 1 to 78 months (mean=21 months).RESULTS: The 75 eyelid tumors included 35 basal cell carcinoma (BCC, 46.7%), 22 sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC, 29.3%), 7 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, 9.3%), 10 malignant melanoma (MM, 13.3%), and 1 Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC, 1.3%). Recurrence developed in 17 cases (22.7%). The recurrence rate of BCC (4/35, 11.4%) was significant lower than MM (6/10, 60.0%, P<0.001). The mean interval of recurrence was 21 months (range 3-62) for all eyelid tumors. Tumor located at canthus had higher recurrence rate (50%) compared with those located at eyelid (19%, P<0.05). Histological type was independent variable for recurrence by Cox regression analysis.CONCLUSION: It is important to achieve a negative tumor margin in canthus located malignant eyelid tumor. Clinicians should have a high level of suspicion for recurrence according to histological type when treating patients with eyelid tumor.

Comparison of trabeculectomy and trabeculectomy with amniotic membrane transplantation in the same patient with bilateral glaucoma

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To observe effects of trabeculectomy with amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) in controlling postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with medically uncontrolled glaucoma.METHODS:This study included adult patients with requiring bilateral glaucoma surgery. Each patient underwent trabeculectomy (Non-AMT group) in one eye and with AMT (AMT group) in the other eye according to randomized principle. Success was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP)<21mmHg without any anti-glaucoma medications at 24 months follow-up. The two groups were compared in terms of IOP, complications and success rate.RESULTS: Thirty-four eyes of 17 patients were investigated in this study. There was no statistically signifcant difference in pre-operative IOP between the two groups. The mean IOP was lower in AMT group compared with Non-AMT group on follow up months 12, 18, and 24.Postoperative complications were more frequent in Non-AMT group (35.3%, 6/17) compared with AMT group (5.9%, 1/17). The success rate of surgery was 88.2% (15/17) in Non-AMT group and 100% (17/17) in AMT group.CONCLUSION: Trabeculectomy with AMT is an effective procedure to reduce IOP and complications, thereby improving surgical success rates.

Comparison on conjunctival sac bacterial flora of the seniors with dry eye in Ganzi autonomous prefecture

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the bacterial flora in palpebral conjunctiva of xerophthalmia seniors of Tibetan, Yi and Han, and analyze the differences and similarities of the bacteria.METHODS:The test subjects were selected from 2 Tibetan, 2 Yi and 3 Han populated places, respectively. Total 222 seniors (444 eyes) with dry eye were examined. Secretion was collected from the palpebral conjunctiva of the subjects and then inoculated onto a blood agar plate. After 48h of incubation, the bacteria were examined for the differences and similarities between different ethnics.RESULTS: There was no significant difference (P>0.05) of Gram stain characterization, dominant bacteria and number of the bacterial species present in oxrophthalmia patients among Tibetan, Yi and Han nationalities. The bacteria presented in all groups include staphylococcus epidermidis, corynebacterium, micrococcus luteu, intracellular bacteria sphingomonas, pseudomonas aeruginosa. The bacteria detected from the two of three ethnic groups were staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcus haemolyticus, escherichia coli, kytococcus sedentarius, streptococcus angina, micrococcus lylae, and staphylococcus heads. The incidence rate of bacteria-associated dry eye in Tibetan population was significantly lower than that of Han and Yi population.CONCLUSION:There is no significant difference in the bacteria flora of palpebral conjunctiva observed among dry eye elder populations of Tibetan, Yi and Han people. All of staphylococcus epidermidis, corynebacterium, micrococcus luteu, intracellular bacteria sphingomonas, pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococcus aureus, staphylococcus haemolyticus, escherichia coli, kytococcus sedentarius, streptococcus angina, micrococcus lylae and staphylococcus heads are common bacteria flora of the three nationalities inhibiting in this area.

Chinese family with atypical granular corneal dystrophy type I caused by the typical R555W mutation in TGFBI

Su-Juan Zhao,Ya-Nan Zhu,Xing-Chao Shentu and Qi Miao — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the clinical features and genetic defects in four generations of a Chinese family affected with atypical granular corneal dystrophy type I (GCD type I).METHODS: Family history and clinical data were recorded. Genomic DNA samples were obtained from peripheral blood leukocytes of all participated. Exons of the transforming growth factor-β-induced(TGFBI) gene were directly sequenced after being amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and multi-point linkage analysis using microsatellite makers flanking the gene was applied to identify the disease-causing mutation.RESULTS: Clinical features were quite variable in patients, some patients only had opacities in the epithelium, and others revealed multiple bilateral circular, discrete, crumb-like opacities mainly in the epithelium, with several in different depths of corneal stroma, and the performance was different bilaterally, even in the same patient. Directly nucleotide sequencing revealed a heterozygous p.R555W mutation in the coding sequence of the TGFBI gene in all affected individuals of the family, but was not found in all unaffected. The maximum logarithm of odds (LOD) score obtained by multi-point analysis was detected at marker locus D5S393 (LOD=2.740; α=1.000).CONCLUSION: Our case presented with clinical futures and the pathogenic mutations in TGFBI gene, the phenotype of the pedigree was quite different from typical GCD type I, so we suggested that this phenotype was a variant of GCD type I. These findings expand the knowledge about GCD type I, and demonstrate that molecular genetic analysis is important to make an accurate diagnosis of patients with variable corneal dystrophies in clinic.

Simple keratectomy and corneal tattooing for limbal dermoids:results of a 3-year study

Dong Min Cha,Kyung-Hoon Shin,Keun Ho Kim and Ji-Won Kwon — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and report the efficacy of combined surgical excision and corneal tattooing in patients with limbal dermoids.METHODS: In a retrospective interventional case series, 9 eyes of 8 patients were treated with combined surgery of simple keratectomy and corneal tattooing for limbal dermoids. Medical records, including best-corrected visual acuity, anterior segment photography, demographic, clinical data, and follow-up information were reviewed.RESULTS: The mean follow up period in this study was 50±15(range 36-77) months. There was no evidence of infection or recurrent limbal dermoids in any of the eyes during the follow-up period. All patients achieved good cosmetic outcomes with no complications.CONCLUSION: Simple keratectomy and corneal tattooing of limbal dermoids could be an alternative option for surgery, especially when a donor cornea is not available.

Corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in low and moderate myopic Chinese eyes

Samaneh Delshad and Jane Mei Chun — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To describe and compare the corneal endothelial cell density and morphology in young, low and moderate myopic Chinese adults in Malaysian Chinese population.METHODS: Non-contact specular microscopy (Topcon SP3000P, Tokyo, Japan) was performed in low (n=78; 21.22±1.51 years) and moderate (n=78; 21.82±1.40 years) myopic subjects. The mean of three consecutive measurements of endothelial cell density (MCD), coefficient of variation (CV) in the cell size, and hexagonal appearance of the cell were obtained.RESULTS: In low myopic eyes the MCD was 3 063.0±176.2/mm², the mean CV was 33.4±4.0% and the mean hexagonal appearance of the cell was 57.9±2.7%. In moderate myopic eyes the MCD was 2961.6±159.0/mm², the mean CV was 33.9±3.6% and mean hexagonal appearance of the cell was 56.2±4.7%. There were statistically significant differences in MCD (P<0.000) and hexagonal appearance of the cell (P<0.005) between low and moderate myopic eyes.CONCLUSION:The corneal endothelial cell layer in more myopic eyes tends to have less MCD and cell hexagonality compared to lower myopic eyes. Nevertheless, there is no significant difference in CV between low and moderate myopic eyes.

Effect of topical 0.05% cyclosporine A on corneal endothelium in patients with dry eye disease

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the effect of topical 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA) on corneal endothelium in patients with dry eye disease.METHODS: Observational, prospective, case series study. Fifty-five eyes of 29 consecutive patients (9 males and 20 females; median age:66.8 years, interquartile range:61-73.2 years) with moderate-severe dry eye disease were evaluated. All patients were treated with topical 0.05% CsA ophthalmic emulsion twice a day in addition to lubricant eyedrops 5 times a day. The follow-up period was 12 months. Before treatment and at 3 and 12 months post-treatment central corneal specular microscopy was performed. The endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation of cell size (CoV), and percentage of hexagonal cells (Hex %) were analyzed.RESULTS: The median ECDs pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post-treatment were 2 352.5/mm² (interquartile range, 2 178-2 548.5), 2364/mm² (interquartile range, 2 174.25-2 657.5), and 2366 cells/mm² (interquartile range, 2 174.75-2 539.75), respectively (P=0.927, one way ANOVA). The median CoVs pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post-treatment were 34.5 (interquartile range, 30-37), 35 (interquartile range, 30-38), and 34 (interquartile range, 30.75-38.25), respectively (P=0.7193, one way ANOVA). The median Hex % values pre-treatment and at 3 and 12 months post-treatment were 53 (interquartile range, 47-58), 54 (interquartile range, 45.75-59), and 50.5 (interquartile range, 45.75-58), respectively (P=0.824, one way ANOVA).CONCLUSION: Treatment of patients with dry eye disease for 12 months with topical 0.05% CsA does not seem to cause substantial changes on corneal endothelium.

Spontaneous regression of retinopathy of prematurity:incidence and predictive factors

Rui-Hong Ju,Jia-Qing Zhang,Xiao-Yun Ke,Xiao-He Lu,Li-Fang Liang and Wu-Jun Wang — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the incidence of spontaneous regression of changes in the retina and vitreous in active stage of retinopathy of prematurity(ROP) and identify the possible relative factors during the regression.METHODS: This was a retrospective, hospital-based study. The study consisted of 39 premature infants with mild ROP showed spontaneous regression (Group A) and 17 with severe ROP who had been treated before naturally involuting (Group B) from August 2008 through May 2011. Data on gender, single or multiple pregnancy, gestational age, birth weight, weight gain from birth to the sixth week of life, use of oxygen in mechanical ventilation, total duration of oxygen inhalation, surfactant given or not, need for and times of blood transfusion, 1,5,10-min Apgar score, presence of bacterial or fungal or combined infection, hyaline membrane disease (HMD), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), duration of stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and duration of ROP were recorded.RESULTS: The incidence of spontaneous regression of ROP with stage 1 was 86.7%, and with stage 2, stage 3 was 57.1%, 5.9%, respectively. With changes in zone Ⅲ regression was detected 100%, in zoneⅡ 46.2% and in zoneⅠ 0%. The mean duration of ROP in spontaneous regression group was 5.65±3.14 weeks, lower than that of the treated ROP group (7.34±4.33 weeks), but this difference was not statistically significant (P=0.201). GA, 1min Apgar score, 5min Apgar score, duration of NICU stay, postnatal age of initial screening and oxygen therapy longer than 10 days were significant predictive factors for the spontaneous regression of ROP (P＜0.05). Retinal hemorrhage was the only independent predictive factor the spontaneous regression of ROP (OR 0.030, 95%CI 0.001-0.775, P=0.035).CONCLUSION:This study showed most stage 1 and 2 ROP and changes in zone Ⅲ can spontaneously regression in the end. Retinal hemorrhage is weakly inversely associated with the spontaneous regression.

Extraocular retinoblastoma in Indian children:clinical, imaging and histopathological features

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To study eyes with extraocular dissemination (EORB), with the following aims:first to establish the mean lag period and to understand various reasons for delayed presentation, second to study their imaging profiles and third to analyze histopathological features of eyes enucleated after neoadjuvant chemotherapy.METHODS: Prospective study of clinical and imaging features of EORBs (stage Ⅲ and Ⅳ International Retinoblastoma Staging System) presenting to a tertiary eye care centre. Histopathological features of eyes enucleated after receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy were analyzed. A pictorial illustration of the varied imaging profile of EORB was also presented.RESULTS: Over a period of one year, 97 eyes were diagnosed with retinoblastoma; 32 children (36 eyes) (37.1%) had EORB. Mean age 3.6±1.9 years, 71.9% males, 71.9% unilateral, 3.1% with positive family history and 40.6% with metastasis. On imaging, there was extrascleral involvement in 22.2%, involvement of orbital part of optic nerve in 33.3%, involvement of central nervous system in 27.8% and orbital wall involvement in 2.9% eyes. On histopathological analysis of eyes enucleated after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, 25.0% had no residual viable tumour tissue and rest all tumours were poorly differentiated.CONCLUSION:There are very few human malignancies where definitive treatment is started without any confirmed histopathological diagnosis and imaging plays an important role in diagnosis and appropriate staging of the disease. Chemotherapy has a variable effect on EORB, 75.0% of eyes with EORB had residual viable tumour tissue when enucleated after receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Improvement of visual acuity in children with anisometropic amblyopia treated with rotated prisms combined with near activity

Chao-Chyun Lin and Po-Liang Chen — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of a new modality for improving visual acuity (VA) in pediatric patients with anisometropic amblyopia.METHODS: Retrospective and interventional case series. Medical records of 360 children with anisometropic amblyopia treated with a modality that included rotated prisms, lenses, and near activities from January 2008 to January 2012 were analyzed. Characteristics such as improvement of VA and contrast sensitivity in amblyopic eyes and resolution of amblyopia (VA≤0.1logMAR or a difference of ≤2 lines in logMAR between the eyes) were assessed.RESULTS: Among the patients, the mean VA of the amblyopic eyes improved from 0.48logMAR (SD=0.16) to 0.12logMAR (SD=0.16) and the mean VA improvement was 0.36logMAR (SD=0.10, P<0.001). Resolution of amblyopia was achieved in 233 of 360 patients (64.72%). The mean time for resolution of amblyopia was 8.05 weeks (SD=4.83) or 14.14 sessions (SD=8.76). Among the study group, refraction error did not change significantly after treatment (P=0.437). We found that better baseline VA may be related to success and shorten the time to amblyopic resolution.CONCLUSION: VA and contrast sensitivity improved with rotated prisms, correcting lenses, and near activities in children with anisometropic amblyopia. The VA improvement by this modality was comparable to other methods. However, the time to resolution of amblyopia was shorter with this method than with other modalities. Rotated prisms combined with near acuity could provide an alternative treatment in children with anisometropic amblyopia who can’t tolerant traditional therapy method like patching.

Effectivity of intraoperative adjustable suture technique in horizontal strabismus

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the long-term effectivity of intraoperative adjustable suture technique with traditional non-adjustable strabismus surgery.METHODS:Two hundred and thirty-three patients, who underwent strabismus surgery either with traditional procedures or one-stage intraoperative adjustable suture technique, were included in our long-term follow-up study. One hundred and eighteen patients were evaluated in traditional surgery group (TSG) and 115 who underwent adjustable suture were in the one-stage intraoperative adjustable surgery group (ASG). In this group 9 patients had paralytic strabismus and 16 had reoperations, 2 patients had restrictive strabismus related to thyroid eye disease. The mean follow up in the TSG was 26.2 months and it was 24.8 months in the ASG group.RESULTS:In patients with exotropia (XT) the mean correction of deviation for near fixation in ASG (32.4±13.2PD) and in TSG (26.4±8.2PD) were similar (P=0.112). The correction for distant fixation in ASG (33.2±11.4PD) and TSG (30.9±7.2PD) were not significantly different (P=0.321). In patients with esotropia (ET) even the mean correction of deviation for both near (31±12PD) and distant (30.6±12.8PD) fixations were higher in ASG than in TSG, for both near (28.27±14.2PD) and distant (28.9±12.9PD) fixations, the differences were not significant (P=0.346, 0.824 respectively). The overall success rate of XT patient was 78.9% in TSG and 78.78% in ASG, the difference was not significant (P=0.629). The success rates were 78.75% in TSG and 75.51% in ASG in ET patient, which was also not significantly different (P=0.821).CONCLUSION:Although patients in ASG had more complex deviation such as paralysis, reoperations and restrictive strabismus, success rates of this tecnique was as high as TSG which did not contain complicated deviation. One-stage intraoperative adjustable suture technique is a safe and effective method for cooperative patient who has complex deviation.

Visual performance after conventional LASIK and wavefront-guided LASIK with iris-registration:results at 1 year

Jing Zhang,Yue-Hua Zhou,Rui Li and Lei Tian — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare visual performance of wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with iris-registration (Wg-LASIK group) and conventional LASIK (LASIK group) one year after surgery and analyze the correlation between wavefront aberrations and visual performance.METHODS: Eight hundred and fifty-two myopic eyes of 430 patients were enrolled in this prospective study and divided into two groups:Wg-LASIK group (436 eyes) and LASIK group (416 eyes). A Wavescan Wavefront aberrometer was used to analyze Zernike coefficients and the root-mean-square (RMS) of higher order aberrations, and Optec 6500 visual function instrument was used to measure contrast sensitivity (CS) before and 3, 6, 12 months after surgery.RESULTS:The mean spherical equivalent (SE) in Wg-LASIK group was significantly better than those in LASIK group one year after surgery (P=0.024). Wg-LASIK eyes showed better CS values than LASIK eyes at all spatial frequencies with and without glare after surgery (P all<0.01). Moreover, the increase of higher RMS (RMSh), coma, RMS3, RMS4, RMS5 in Wg-LASIK group were significantly lower than those in LASIK group 1 year after surgery (P all<0.05). The increase of coma, spherical aberration (SA), RMS3 and RMS4 in Wg-LASIK and coma and RMS3 in LASIK group were negatively correlated with reduction of contrast sensitivity 1 year after surgery.

Change in subfoveal choroidal thickness after argon laser panretinal photocoagulation

Ga Eun Cho,Hee Yun Cho and Yun Taek Kim — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate changes in subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and macular thickness as measured by enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) after argon laser panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) in patients with severe diabetic retinopathy.METHODS:This prospective, comparative case series included 21 patients (28 eyes) with severe diabetic retinopathy. All patients underwent three sessions of PRP. The SFCT and macular thickness were measured using EDI-OCT at baseline and one week after completion of 3 sessions of PRP.RESULTS:SFCT before PRP was (318.1±96.5)μm and increased to (349.9±108.3)μm (P=0.001) after PRP. Macular thickness significantly increased at one week after PRP (from 273.1±23.9μm at baseline vs 295.8±25.3μm at one week; P<0.001). No significant relationship between the changes in macular thickness and SFCT was observed (r=-0.13, P=0.52).CONCLUSION: PRP induced increases in both SFCT and macular thickness. Changes in SFCT did not correlate with changes in macular thickness.

Comparison of anterior segment measurements using rotating Scheimpflug imaging and partial coherence interferometry

2013/8/22 0:00:00
METHODS:As part of the first phase of Shahroud Eye Cohort Study with 5 190 subjects of 40 to 64 years of age, CCT and ACD were measured using Scheimpflug imaging with the Pentacam (Oculus, Inc., Lynnwood, WA, USA) and partial coherence interferometry with the Allegro BioGraph (Wavelight, Erlangen, Germany).RESULTS:After applying exclusion criteria, we had data of 4 387 subjects with a mean age of 50.7±6.2 years. Mean CCT with Pentacam and BioGraph were 528.6±33.2μm and 525.6±32μm respectively; the difference was statistically significant (P<0.001), but the correlation was high (R=0.920). Mean ACD measurements using Pentacam and BioGraph were 2.68±0.35mm and 2.62±0.33mm respectively; the inter-device difference was significant (P<0.001) with high correlation (R=0.944). The 95% limits of agreements between devices were -22.65μm to 28.61μm and -0.16mm to 0.29mm for CCT and ACD measurements, respectively.CONCLUSION:For both CCT and ACD, the BioGraph gave significantly lower values than the Pentacam (P<0.05). Despite the high inter-device correlation, the 95% limits of agreements were wide, and this may limit their interchangeability in measuring the CCT and ACD.

Ultrasound biomicroscopic evaluation of anterior segment cysts as a risk factor for ocular hypertension and closure angle glaucoma

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the relationship between the ultrasound biomicroscopic (UBM) features of anterior-segment cysts (ASCs) and increased intraocular pressure (IOP) as a risk factor for closed-angle glaucoma (CAG).METHODS:Totally 24 eyes with recently diagnosed ASCs were divided into two groups . First group with ASC and ocular normotension (n=13), second group with ASC and ocular hypertension (n=11). An ophthalmologic examination, including tonometry, slit-lamp biomicroscopy (SLBM), gonioscopy, fundoscopy, pentacam, and UBM, was performed. The features of the ASCs were compared with the IOP.RESULTS:ASCs were accurately diagnosed and delineated in 24 eyes using UBM. IOP was elevated in those ASCs with a secondary aetiology (P=0.027), iridociliary location (P=0.006), deformed shape (P=0.013), increased size (P=0.001) and elongated pupillary aperture (P=0.009). However, the count (P=0.343) of ASCs, anterior chamber depth (ACD; P=0.22) and axial lenght (AL; P=0.31) were not associated with ocular hypertension. Correlations were found between the IOP and ASC size (r=-0.712; P=0.003), anterior chamber angle (ACA; r=-0.985; P<0.001), angle opening area (AOA; r=0.885; P<0.001), angulation of iris (r=-0.776, P<0.001), and affected iris quadrant (r =-0.655, P=0.002).CONCLUSION:Ocular hypertension in some eyes with ASC might be associated with various mechanisms, including secondary aetiology, iridociliary location, deformed shape, increased size and elongated pupill, which can be determined by UBM.

Measurements of anterior segment parameters using three different non-contact optical devices in keratoconus patients

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the measurements of anterior segment parameters using three different non-contact optical devices in keratoconus patients.METHODS:A hundred and one eyes of 55 keratoconus patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 26.2±8.9 years. The inclusion criteria were keratoconus stage I to III according to the Amsler-Krumeich keratoconus classification. All the measurements were done by the same operator, under the mesopic light condition and repeated with three different optical methods; Visante , Orbscan and Pentacam. The evaluated anterior segment parameters were anterior chamber depth (ACD), central and thinnest corneal thickness (CCT and TCT) and pupil diameter (PD).RESULTS: The mean CCT measured by Visante, Orbscan and Pentacam were as follows:462.0±48.1μm, 463.9±60.9μm, 476.5±45.3μm, respectively (P=0.873). The mean ACD values were 3.34±0.33mm, 3.26±0.33mm, 3.49±0.40mm, respectively (P=0.118). The mean PD measurements were 5.11±1.14mm, 4.80±0.85mm, 3.80±1.38mm, respectively (P<0.001). The mean TCT measurements of Visante, Orbscan and Pentacam were 437.9±48.2μm, 447.6±60.6μm and 459.9±44.0μm, respectively (P=0.214). The Visante and Orbscan measured CCT similarly, while Pentacam measured CCT thicker than the other two. The Visante measured TCT thinner than the other two devices. In ACD measurements, Orbscan was the one giving the lowest values. PD was measured differently by the devices.CONCLUSION: Although TCT, CCT and ACD measurements acquired by Visante, Orbscan and Pentacam in keratoconus patients are similar, PD measurements show large differences among the devices.

Vitreo-retinal interface changes on optical coherence tomography in the fellow eyes of patients with macular hole

Ajit Babu Majji,Jay Kumar Chhablani and Bupesh Bagga — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To study the vitreo-retinal interface and macular changes on optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the fellow eyes of patients with macular hole.METHODS: Patients with idiopathic macular hole in one or both eyes presented to our institute between January 2003 and December 2009 were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic details, best-corrected visual acuity and vitreo-retinal interface, and macular changes of the fellow eye on OCT were studied.RESULTS: Seventy patients underwent OCT of both eyes during the study period. The average age group was 61.96 years and 35 (50%) were females. Among the fellow eyes, normal foveal contour was noted in 36 (51.4%) eyes and 34 (48.6%) eyes were observed to have vitreo-retinal interface changes. Of them, 13 (18.6%) eyes had some stage of full thickness macular hole and 21 (30.0%) eyes had interface changes. There was no statistical correlation between involved eye lesions (P=0.64) or visual acuity (P=0.55) as predictors of development of either fellow eye lesions or poor visual acuity.CONCLUSION:There is a significant chance of having vitreo-retinal interface findings in the fellow eyes of patients presenting with macular hole. OCT should be considered in both eyes of patients with macular hole to detect early changes in the fellow eyes, which may require an early intervention.

Changes of total antioxidant capacity and total oxidant status of aqueous humor in diabetes patients and correlations with diabetic retinopathy

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM:To measure changes of total oxidant status (TOS) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of aqueous humor (AH) in diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients, and to determine if there were any differences in TOS and TAC of AH in diabetic patients without retinopathy compared with non-diabetic patients. METHODS:One hundred and three eyes of 103 patients who were enrolled for cataract surgery were included in this study. Patients were grouped according to presence of diabetes and stage of DR. Prior to cataract surgery, 0.1mL to 0.2mL of AH was aspirated and analyzed for TAC and TOS level using a colorimetric method. RESULTS:TOS levels were highest among proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) patients and lowest in patients with only cataracts. Results were statistically significant between all groups (P<0.05). Whereas result between diabetic without retinopathy patients and non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) patients was not statistically significant (P=0.757). TAC levels were highest in patients with only cataract and lowest among PDR patients and results were statistically significant between all groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION:Aqueous humor TAC levels are low in diabetic patients and reduced further in DR patients, TOS levels are increased in diabetic patients and this is exacerbated in DR patients.

Effects of phacoemulsification surgery on ocular hemodynamics

2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the possible effects of phacoemulsification cataract surgery on ocular hemodynamics.METHODS:In this prospective study, intraocular pressure (IOP), pulsatile ocular blood flow (POBF), and ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) were measured pre-operatively (baseline) and at 1 week and 3 weeks postoperation in 52 eyes of 26 patients (mean age 63.15±10.25 years) scheduled for unilateral phacoemulsification cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation. In all of the eyes, a blood flow analyzer (Paradigm DICON; Paradigm Medical Industries Inc.; USA) was used to obtain measurements of IOP, POBF, and OPA. The data obtained from operated eyes were compared statistically to untreated fellow phakic eyes of the patients.RESULTS: For operated eyes, the mean baseline IOP, POBF, and OPA values were 15.9±4.64mmHg, 17.41±4.84μL/s, and 2.91±1.12mmHg, respectively. The IOP, POBF, and OPA values were 17.19±4.34mmHg, 17.56±6.46μL/s, and 3.12±1.1mmHg, respectively, in the nonoperated control eyes. Statistically significant differences from baseline measurements were not observed 1 week and 3 weeks postoperation for the operated or nonoperated eyes. There were also no statistically significant differences in any measurements between the operated and nonoperated eyes in all the examination periods (P>0.05 for all).CONCLUSION: Uncomplicated phacoemulsification surgery does not affect ocular hemodynamics in normotensive eyes with cataracts.

Ethambutol induced toxic optic neuropathy in HIV positive patients

Hamzah Mustak,Graeme Rogers and Colin Cook — 2013/8/22 0:00:00
AIM:To determine whether HIV and the use of antiretroviral therapy is a risk factor for the development of ethambutol toxic optic neuropathy. To describe the clinical course of ethambutol toxic optic neuropathy in patients with HIV and to identify prognostic factors.METHODS: The case notes of 14 consecutive patients referred to the neuro-ophthalmology clinic were reviewed. Data regarding HIV status, antiretroviral therapy, visual function, ethambutol therapy dosage, and ethambutol therapy duration were collected and analysed.RESULTS: Eleven of the 14 patients were HIV positive. Ten of the HIV positive patients were receiving antiretroviral therapy. The mean dose of ethambutol was 17.25mg/kg/day. No statistically significant difference in mean dose, duration of therapy, age or CD4 count was found between those who showed visual improvement and those who did not. Delay in presentation of more than one month post symptom onset was correlated with poor visual outcome (P=0.001).CONCLUSION:HIV and, perhaps more importantly, the potential mitochondrial toxic effects of Nucleoside analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) may be a risk factor for the development of toxic optic neuropathy from ethambutol therapy via a multiple hit effect. Delay in presentation results in poor visual outcome. Regular monitoring is recommended for HIV positive patients receiving antiretrovirals and requiring ethambutol therapy in order to avoid permanent visual loss.

Relationship between higher-order aberrations and myopia progression in schoolchildren:a retrospective study

2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the relationship between higher-order aberration (HOA) and myopic progression in school children.METHODS:Between April 23, 2011 and August 29, 2011 in the children’s myopia outpatient clinic of the West China Hospital of Sichuan University, 148 eyes of 74 schoolchildren were reviewed. HOAs for a 6-mm pupil were measured with an aberrometer. Myopic progression rate was defined according to the change in spherical equivalent refraction (SER) divided by the time span (years). Subjects with myopic progression rate of ≥0.50 diopters (D) were classified as the ‘fast’ group and the subjects with myopic progression rate of <0.50D were classified as the ‘slow’ group. A retrospective study was conducted to compare HOA between the two groups, using root mean square (RMS) values and Zernike coefficients.RESULTS: The RMS values of HOA (t=2.316, P=0.02), HOA without Z4⁰ (t=2.224, P=0.03), third-order aberrations (t’=2.62, P=0.01), and coma (t’=2.49, P=0.01) were significantly higher in the fast group than those in the slow group. The individual Zernike coefficients of Z3^-1(t=-2.072, P=0.04) and Z5¹ (Z =-2.627, P=0.01) displayed statistically significant differences between the two groups. Significant correlations were found between the RMS values of HOA (r=0.193, P=0.019), RMS values of HOA without Z4⁰(r=0.23, P =0.005), RMS values of coma (r=0.235, P=0.004), RMS values of third-order aberrations (r=0.243, P =0.003), and the progression rate.CONCLUSION:Our results provide evidence of a relationship between HOA and myopic progression. In a future prospective longitudinal study, we aim to verify whether HOA is a risk factor for myopic progression.

Visual outcome and optical quality after bilateral implantation of aspheric diffractive multifocal, aspheric monofocal and spherical monofocal intraocular lenses:a prospective comparison

Pan-Pan Ye,Xia Li and Ke Yao — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the visual function after bilateral implantation of aspheric diffractive multifocal Tecnis ZMA00, aspheric monofocal ZA9003 versus spherical monofocal Akreos Adapt intraocular lenses (IOLs).METHODS:Tecnis ZMA00, Tecnis ZA9003 or Akreos Adapt IOLs were bilaterally implanted in 180 eyes from 90 patients. The following parameters were assessed 3 months postoperatively:monocular and binocular uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and distance-corrected visual acuity (DCVA) for distance, intermediate and near, spherical aberration (SA), contrast and glare sensitivity, near point refractive power, uncorrected and best-corrected near stereoscopic acuity (NSA). Patient satisfaction was assessed by a questionnaire.RESULTS:Three months postoperatively, the monocular and binocular UCVA and DCVA at near of Tecnis ZMA00 were significantly better than other two groups. The mean SA for 5.0mm optical zone in Tecnis ZMA00 and Tecnis ZA9003 was significantly lower than that in Akreos Adapt. Mean contrast sensitivity and glare sensitivity were better for Tecnis ZA9003 group than for other two groups. Patients with Tecnis ZMA00 had higher monocular and binocular near point refractive power and uncorrected NSA than monofocal groups. The patients in Tecnis ZMA00 had higher mean values for halo compared with other two groups.CONCLUSION:Tecnis ZMA00 provided better near VA and uncorrected NSA and higher near point refractive power than monofocal IOLs and patients were spectacle independent. The IOLs with Tecnis aspheric design improved contrast and glare sensitivity. Patients with Tecnis ZMA00 reported more disturbances on visual phenomena of halo.

Characteristics of ocular abnormalities in gout patients

Jing Lin,Gui-Qiu Zhao,Cheng-Ye Che,Shan-Shan Yang,Qian Wang and Chang-Gui Li — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To characterize the clinical features of ocular surface in gout patients in coastal area of Shandong Province in China.METHODS:A total of 380 consecutive gout patients were examined from January 2011 to May 2011. According to the course of gout, patients were divided into group A (<5 years), B (5-10 years) and C (>10 years). Group D (control group) was consist of 50 healthy subjects. Eyelids, lateral canthus, medial canthus, palpebral conjunctiva, sclera and cornea, anterior chamber, lens, anterior vitreous were examined by slit lamp to find whether there were deposition of uric acid crystals, ocular vascular tortuosity, redness and subconjunctival hemorrhage. The ophthalmic exams of visual acuity, intraocular pressure, fundus were used to assess any gout-related eye disease.RESULTS:Uric acid crystals were found in 3 patients and the positions of the deposite were in corneal stroma, corneal epithelium and superficial stroma, and sclera respectively. The incidence was 0.79%. Dilatated and tortuous blood vessels in conjunctiva and sclera surface were found in 38 (23.8%), 40 (44.0%), 58 (45.0%), 9 (18.0%) patients in groups A, B, C and D, respectively. The differences between group B and D, group C and D were statistically significant (P<0.01, P<0.01). Transparent vesicles with metal-like reflected light in subconjunctiva were seen in 26 (16.2 %), 29 (31.9%), 41 (31.8%), 2 (4.00%) patients in groups A, B, C and D, respectively. The differences between A and D, B and D, C and D were statistically significant (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.01). Subconjunctival hemorrhage was found in all groups, the difference among the four groups showed no statistically significance.CONCLUSION:Gout can cause ocular surface abnormalities, such as tophi deposition, subconjunctival transparent vesicles and hemorrhage, and vascular changes. These features have important clinical significance in early detection of the gout and prevention of eye injury.

Comparison of TGF-β1 in tears and corneal haze following Epi-LASIK with and without mitomycin C

Jing Chen,Yi Chen and Su-Ning Han — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To compare transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) levels in tears and the degree of corneal haze formation following epithelial laser in situ keratomileusis (Epi-LASIK) with and without the use of mitomycin C (MMC) and to investigate the effect of MMC on corneal wound healing.METHODS:Thirty-two patients (64 eyes) with high myopia underwent Epi-LASIK surgery, and MMC was randomly used in one eye in each patient. The epithelialization process was observed, and the TGF-β1 level in tears was measured at 1 day, 3, and 7 days postoperatively for comparison with baseline. Corneal haze was graded at 1 month, 3, and 6 months after surgery.RESULTS:Mean preoperative spherical equivalent refraction was -8.24±2.18D (range -6.00 to -10.50D) in the MMC group and -7.82±1.55D (range -6.00 to -9.75D) in the non-MMC group. There was no significant difference between the two groups (P=0.38). Mean epithelialization time was (5.02±0.68) days in the MMC group and (4.86±0.57) days in the non-MMC group (P=0.31). Tear fluid TGF-β1 levels were similar before surgery (P=0.34), but were significantly higher in the non-MMC group at 1 day, 3, and 7 days postoperatively (P=0.004, 0.008, and 0.012, respectively). Corneal haze scores 1 month after surgery were significantly higher in the non-MMC group (P=0.03), and similar at 3 and 6 months after surgery (P=0.28 and 0.62, respectively).CONCLUSION:MMC did not delay epithelialization. In early postoperative period, lower TGF-β1 levels in tears and a lower grade of corneal haze were observed in the MMC group. Our findings suggest that the ability of MMC to inhibit Epi-LASIK-induced haze might be mediated through TGF-β1 suppression.

Ahmed valve implantation for neovascular glaucoma after 23-gauge vitrectomy in eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Yu Cheng,Xiao-Hong Liu,Xi Shen and Yi-Sheng Zhong — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To report on the outcome of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation for the management of neovascular glaucoma (NVG) after 23-gauge vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR).METHODS: Twelve medically uncontrolled NVG with earlier 23-gauge vitrectomy for PDR underwent AGV implantation. The control of intraocular pressure (IOP), preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity, the development of intraoperative and postoperative complications were evaluated during the follow-up.RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 15.4±4.3 months (9-23 months). Mean preoperative IOP was 49.4±5.1mmHg and mean postoperative IOP at the last visit was 17.5±1.6mmHg. The control of IOP was achieved at the final follow-up visits in all patients, however, 8 of 12 patients still needed anti-glaucoma medication (mean number of medications, 0.8±0.7). The visual acuity improved in nine eyes, and the visual acuity unchanged in three eyes at the final follow-up visits. The complications that occurred were minor hyphema in three eyes, choroid detachment in two eyes, and the minor hyphema and choroid detachments were reabsorbed without any surgical intervention.CONCLUSION: AGV implantation is a safe and effective procedure that enables successful IOP control and vision preservation in the NVG patients with the history of earlier 23-gauge vitrectomy for PDR.

Unrecognized and unregistered blindness in people 70 or older in Jing’an district, Shanghai, China

Liang-Cheng Wu,Xing-Huai Sun,Xing-Tao Zhou and Cheng-Hai Wen — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of a registration system for the blind people and to monitor the blindness due to uncorrected refractive error and cataract in Jing’an district, Shanghai, China.#$NLMETHODS: Five hundred and ten blind people, based on visual acuity screening in a population aged 70 or older were enrolled into the study. Four hundred and forty subjects were interviewed. The following data were collected on each patient:demographic data, number of hospital visits for eye related problems, distance visual acuity, visual fields, ophthalmic diagnoses, education and registration status. If the eligible subject was not registered as blind, the reason for non-registration was recorded.#$NLRESULTS: Ten point nine one percent blindness was due to cataract, 27.5% due to uncorrected refractive error, and only 61.59% met the eligible blindness criteria (uncorrected refractive error and cataract are not considered as eligible blindness). The first four leading causes of eligible blindness were age related macular degeneration (25.09%), myopic macular degeneration (21.40%), glaucoma (18.82%) and corneal disease (8.12%). Only 68.27% eligible blind people were registered. The patients with macular degeneration and glaucoma tended not to register. Blind people with an above primary school education were 2.59 times more likely to be registered than those who were illiterate or had only a primary school education (OR=2.59, 95%CI:1.49-4.48, P<0.01). Patients who had 4 or more visits to the hospital requesting eye care services in a year were 2.2 times more likely to be registered than those with less than 4 visits to the hospital (OR=2.54, 95%CI:1.47-4.38, P<0.001). The first two leading reasons of misregistration were unknowing the registration system (48%) and unwilling to register (21%). #$NLCONCLUSION: Under-registration of the eligible blind people exists in the registry system. Education and the number of hospital visits for eye care services were factors associated with registration levels. Uncorrected refractive error and cataract are important causes of blindness.

Factors affecting visual outcome of myopic choroidal neovascularization treated with verteporfin photodynamic therapy

Colin S. Tan,Milton C. Chew,Kai-Hung Lim and Tock-Han Lim — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the visual outcomes of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to pathological myopia and the impact of novel risk factors affecting the final visual outcome.METHODS:Interventional case series of 18 consecutive patients with pathological myopia treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT). Inclusion criteria were spherical equivalent -6D or worse or features of pathological myopia on retinal examination. The main outcome measure was final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).RESULTS:Of 18 eyes, 13 (72.2%) avoided moderate visual loss (≥3 lines of LogMAR BCVA) and 5 eyes (27.8%) improved by at least 1 line after 1 year. Patients with LogMAR BCVA ≤0.3 (Snellen equivalent 20/40) at one year were younger than those with BCVA >0.3 (mean age 39.0 vs 61.6 years, P=0.001). A higher proportion of eyes with greatest linear dimension (GLD) of ≤1000μm avoided moderate visual loss (100% vs 50%, P=0.026). Among patients who were treated within 2 weeks of visual symptoms, 88.9% avoided the loss of 3 or more lines compared to 55.6% for those who presented later. The mean improvement in LogMAR BCVA of those with GLD ≤1000μm was +0.12 compared to a loss of 0.55 LogMAR units for those with GLD >1000μm (P=0.02). Visual outcomes were not associated with gender or refractive error.CONCLUSION: Good visual outcome in myopic CNV is associated with younger age, smaller lesion size and earlier initiation of treatment. These factors are relevant for ophthalmologists considering treatment options for myopic CNV.

Factors influencing stereoacuity levels after surgery to correct unilateral developmental cataracts in children

Soo-Jung Lee and Wan-Soo Kim — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:Toevaluate factors influencing stereoacuity after surgery to correct unilateral developmental pediatric cataracts.METHODS:We retrospectively surveyed110 patients who had undergone removal of unilateral acquired developmental cataracts and primary posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation between February 1992 and December 2009. In all patients, stereoacuity was assessed using the Titmus test at the last follow-up period of minimum 2 years after surgery. Patients were divided into two groups according to the extent of stereoacuity:group 1 (n=42) had stereoacuity values≤100sec/arc and group 2 (n=68) values >100sec/arc. The values of ten parameters associated with stereoacuity were measured in each group:Cataract types, preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of the affected eyes, preoperative inter-ocular difference of BCVA, age at cataract surgery, operative method, secondary cataract, postoperative strabismus, postoperative BCVA of the affected eyes, postoperative inter-ocular difference of BCVA, and anisometropia.RESULTS:The extent of stereoacuity was significantly associated with both operative method and secondary cataract (P=0.000 and P=0.016, respectively). All patients in whom the posterior capsule was preserved, had poor stereoacuity >100sec/arc. Significant correlations with the extent of stereoacuity were found with postoperative strabismus (P=0.048), postoperative BCVA of the affected eyes (P=0.002), anisometropia (P=0.034).CONCLUSION:Postoperative stereoacuity was better in patients who underwent either optic capture or anterior vitrectomy after posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis, and who didn’t develop secondary cataracts or strabismus postoperatively. Furthermore, postoperative BCVA of the affected eyes, and anisometropia influenced the stereoacuity of the patients surgically treated for unilateral developmental pediatric cataracts.

Vitrectomy, lensectomy and silicone oil tamponade in the management of retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment

Jun-Min Gui,Li Jia,Lei Liu and Jian-Di Liu — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To report the results of combined vitrectomy, lensectomy and silicone oil (SO) tamponade in treating primary rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) associated with choroidal detachment (CD).METHODS:A retrospective, consecutive and case series study of 21 subjects with concurrent RRD associated with CD was conducted. All subjects underwent a standard three-port 20G pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with lensectomy and silicone oil tamponade. Mean follow-up time was 8 months (rang from 4 to 19 months). The primary and final anatomic success rate, visual acuity and final intraocular pressure(IOP) were recorded and analyzed.RESULTS:Of 21 subjects, 8 were women and 13 were men. Age at presentation ranged from 22 to 75 years (mean 57.4 years). The presenting vision ranged from light perception to 0.15. The initial IOP ranged from 3mmHg to 12mmHg (mean 6.2mmHg). All eyes were phakic except one pseudophakic. No intraocular lens was implanted during the primary surgical intervention. Fifteen of 21 (71.4%) eyes had retina reattached after one operation. Six eyes had recurrent inferior retinal detachment due to proliferation. Five of them were successfully reattached after one or more additional operations. Mean IOP at final follow-up was 15.2mmHg (range from 8mmHg to 20mmHg). One case declined for further operation. The final reattachment rate was 95.2%. Visual acuity improved in 19 (90.5%) eyes, was unchanged in 1 (4.8%) eye and decreased in 1 (4.8%) eye.CONCLUSION:Combination of vitrectomy, lensectomy and silicone tamponade is an effective method in treating RRD associated with CD, reducing the incidence of postoperative hypotony.

Angiographic characteristics of central serous chorioretinopathy in an Egyptian population

Maha M Shahin — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To describe and analyze the demographic characteristics and to determine the angiographic features of acute central serous chorioretinopathy(CSCR) in an Egyptian population.METHODS: A series of consecutive patients presenting with acute idiopathic CSCR to Mansoura Ophthalmology Center Mansoura University who underwent fluorescein angiography (FA) within a 3-year-period (between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2009) was retrospectively studied. Patient demographics and angiographic features were studied. Results were compared to those of other Western and Asian populations.RESULTS:Fluorescein angiograms of 86 patients were analyzed. 91% were males. The age range of patients was 24 - 49 years, with a mean age of (38±6) years. The right eye was the presenting eye in 47% of patients. Eighty-seven percent of eyes showed delayed choroidal filling. Thirty-five percent of patients had more than one point of leakage. The macula was the most common site of fluorescein leakage seen in 79% of patients. Peripheral leakage was seen in 14% of patients while peripapillary leakage was seen in 12% of patients. The inkblot leakage pattern was found in 53% of patients. The presenting eye had RPE atrophic changes in 84% of cases. The other eye was assessed in 44 patients (51%). Fifty-five percent of them had signs of RPE atrophic changes.CONCLUSION:In the Egyptian population, CSCR is seen at younger age with higher male-to-female ratio and more frequent smokestack leaks than other populations. Despite younger age group, this series of patient showed higher frequency of bilateral and multifocal disease compared to other studies. Roles of psychological stress and choroidal ischemia in pathogenesis of CSCR need further evaluation.

Association of serum lipid levels with diabetic retinopathy

2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the association between serum lipids and diabetic retinopathy (DR).METHODS:Sixty-one diabetic patients without retinopathy(NDR), 55 diabetic patients with non-proliferative retinopathy(NPDR) and 75 diabetic patients with proliferative retinopathy (PDR) according to ETDRS grading scale were enrolled in this study. Total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) and triglyceride values were compared between the groups.RESULTS: The groups were well-balanced in terms of age and gender (P=0.071, P=0.265 respectively). The mean HbA1c values were significantly lower in NDR group than the NPDR and PDR groups (P=0.004, P=0.009 respectively). Mean total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL and VLDL levels were not significantly different between the groups (P=0.693, P=0.774, P=0.644, P=0.910 and P=0.967 respectively, one way ANOVA). Mean total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, HDL and VLDL levels were not significantly different between the patients with ME and patients without ME (P=0.622, P=0.113, P=0.955, P=0.735 and P=0.490 respectively, t-test). The mean blood glucose significantly correlated with total cholesterol (r=0.173, P=0.017) and LDL (r=0.190, P=0.008). The mean HbA1c significantly correlated with total cholesterol (r=0.158, P=0.030) and triglyceride (r=0.148, P=0.042).CONCLUSION: Serum lipid levels were not significantly associated with the severity of DR or existence of ME despite the significant correlation between the mean blood glucose, HbA1c and total cholesterol.

Comparison of visual acuity, refractive results and complications of femtosecond laser with mechanical microkeratome in LASIK

Cemile Banu Cosar,Tansu Gonen,Murat Moray and Asim Bozkurt Sener — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the outcomes of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) performed with a femtosecond laser (Femtec, Technolas Perfect Vision GmbH, Germany) versus a mechanical microkeratome (Hansatome, Bausch and Lomb, USA) for the correction of myopia and astigmatism.METHODS: In this retrospective study, patients who had undergone LASIK using the 80-kHz Femtec femtosecond laser were compared to age- and refraction-matched patients in whom the Hansatome microkeratome was used. Refractive and visual results 1 month and 3 months postoperatively, and complication rates were compared between the two groups.RESULTS:A total of 280 eyes were analyzed (140 in each group).At 3 months postoperatively in the Femtec vs Hansatome group, spherical equivalent refraction was within ±1.00D of emmetropia in 140 vs 138 eyes (P=0.498), the cylinder was within ±0.50D in 137 vs 139 eyes (P=0.622), and the UDVA was 20/20 or better in 136 vs 137 eyes (P=0.724), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the complication rates between the two groups (P=0.099).CONCLUSION:LASIK performed both with Femtec femtosecond laser and Hansatome microkeratome achieved satisfactory refractive and visual results at 3 months postoperatively, without significant differences in efficacy, safety, and complication rates between the two procedures.

Photorefractive keratectomy in the correction of astigmatism using Schwind Amaris 750s laser

2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the results of three photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) procedures in the treatment of astigmatism.METHODS:In thisretrospective comparative case series, 89 eyes of 50 patients who underwent PRK treatment for astigmatism were enrolled. The patients were divided into 3 groups based on the PRK procedure:Group 1:PRK without mitomycin-C (MMC) application, Group 2:PRK with MMC application, and Group 3:Trans-Photorefractive Keratectomy(T-PRK). The efficacy, safety, predictability, and complications of treatment were assessed at 1, 3 and 6 months after the treatment.RESULTS: At postoperative 6 months, the percentage of postoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/20 or better was 55.6% (20 eyes) in group 1, 75% (15 eyes) in group 2, and 75.8% (25 eyes) in group 3 (P=0.144).The percentage of postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of unchanged or gained ≥1 lines was 80.6% (29 eyes) in group 1, 70% (14 eyes) in group 2, and 90.9% (30 eyes) in group 3 (P=0.151). The percentage of postoperative BCVA of lost ≥2 lines was 11.1% (4 eyes) in group 1, 20% (4 eyes) in group 2, and 6.1% (2 eyes) in group 3. The mean manifest refractivespherical equivalent (MRSE) and mean cylindrical refraction were not significantly different among the each groups (P>0.05). At postoperative 6 months, the percentage of MRSE of within ±0.50 D was 100% (36 eyes) in Group 1, 100% (20 eyes) in Group 2, and 93.9% (31 eyes) in Group 3. At the each follow-up period, there was no significant difference in number of eyes with haze and mean haze score(P>0.05).CONCLUSION:The study showed that PRK without MMC, PRK with MMC and T-PRK appears to have similar effectiveness, safety and predictability in the treatment of astigmatism. The incidence of haze was also similar between the three groups.

Laser in situ keratomileusis in adult patients with anisometropic amblyopia

2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the increase in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in adults with anisometropic amblyopia.METHODS:The medical records of consecutive patients diagnosed with anisometropic amblyopia at the time of refractive evaluation who underwent LASIK were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with at least a two-line difference of visual acuity (VA) between the eyes with a spherical refractive error difference of at least 3.00 diopters (D) or an astigmatic difference of at least 2.00D were included. Patients with any other possible reason for amblyopia other than anisometropia or those who had undergone previous amblyopia treatment were excluded. Amblyopic eyes with myopia or myopic astigmatism were considered as group 1, hypermetropia or hypermetropic astigmatism constituted group 2, and mixed astigmatism patients comprised group 3. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), subjective manifest refraction, and CDVA were analyzed at 1 week and 1 month, 3, and 6 months.RESULTS:The study included 57 eyes of 57 patients. There were 33 eyes in group 1, 12 eyes in group 2, and 12 eyes in group 3. The preoperative mean values for spherical equivalent of subjective manifest refraction (SE) in groups 1, 2, and 3 were (-4.66±1.97)D, (4.40±1.00)D, and (0.15±1.05)D, respectively. Mean CDVA improved 0.1 log units (1 line LogMAR) at 6 months (P<0.05). Sixteen eyes (28%) exhibited an improvement in CDVA in week 1. Fourteen eyes (25%) experienced two or more lines of CDVA improvement at month 6. There were no statistically significant differences among the groups in terms of CDVA (P>0.05). Moreover, age, the amount of preoperative refractive error, and the levels of preoperative corrected and UDVA had no effect on postoperative CDVA improvement (P>0.05).CONCLUSION:Correction of refractive errors with LASIK produced significant CDVA improvement in adult patients with anisometropic amblyopia and no previous amblyopia treatment.

Effects of vernal and allergic conjunctivitis on severity of keratoconus

2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To demonstrate the effects of two different types of allergic conjunctivitis on severity of keratoconus (KC).METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 171 KC patients referred between June 2010 and June 2011. The KC patients were divided into 3 groups as KC (group A), KC with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) (group B) and KC with allergic conjunctivitis (AC) (group C). Main outcome measures were demographic and ocular clinical features including age at presentation, gender, spherical equivalent (SE), best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BCVA), mean keratometric measurement (Km), central corneal thickness (CCT), and intraocular pressure (IOP). Groups were compared in term of study variables.RESULTS:The median age at presentation was significantly lower in group B (P<0.001). According to the median SE (P=0.003), BCVA (P=0.022), Km (P<0.001), CCT (P=0.015) and Amsler–Krumeich classification (P<0.001), KC was more severe in group B. There was no significant difference in terms of IOP and corrected IOP among the groups (P=0.44), however there were 4 patients who had increased corrected IOP developed after topical corticosteroid use in group B. The differences among the groups persisted even after controlling for age and gender.CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrated a more severe KC in VKC patients despite their younger age which suggests evaluation of VKC patients as a separate group in keratoconus disease.

Forty-five years of keratoprosthesis study and application at the Filatov Institute:a retrospective analysis of 1 060 cases

Stanislav Iakymenko — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To present results of the keratoprosthesis method used at The Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy.METHODS:A retrospective case series analysis was used to describe the development of new types of keratoprostheses and methods of implantation as well as different ways of leukoma strengthening.RESULTS:Keratoprosthesis was performed in 1 060 eyes of 1 040 patients with leukomas of different etiology:burns, 725 eyes (68.4%); trauma, 120 eyes (11.3%); keratitis and ocular pemphigoid, 108 eyes (10.2%); and bullous keratopathy, 107 eyes (10.1%). Visual acuity before keratoprosthesis consisted of light perception in 962 eyes (92%), and 98 eyes (8%) had minimal visual acuity (1/200-1/50). Both eyes were blind (visual acuity less than 1/200) in 955 patients (91.8%). The period of blindness varied from 1 to 52 years. As a result of keratoprosthesis, visual acuity of ≥1/200 was restored in 1 023 of 1 060 eyes (96.5%). Visual acuity of 20/200-20/20 was achieved in 716 eyes (67.5%). At the last follow-up visit visual acuity of ≥1/200 was preserved in 806 eyes (76%), visual acuity of 20/200-20/20 was measured in 583 of 1 060 eyes (55%) and good keratoprosthesis fixation in the cornea was achieved in 986 of 1 060 eyes (93%). The minimal follow-up was 12 months (range, 12 months to 37 years, median 5 years).CONCLUSION: Our techniques of keratoprosthesis effectively restore vision in patients with leukomas that cannot be treated by optical corneal grafting.

Prevalence of retinopathy of prematurity in Brunei Darussalam

Nadir Ali Mohamed Ali,Joshua George,Nayan Joshi and Elizabeth Chong — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To identify the prevalence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) among preterm neonates admitted to Department of Neonatology, RIPAS hospital, Brunei Darussalam.METHODS:We studied 67 preterm infants fulfilling the eligibility criteria for ROP screening. All infants studied were admitted to the Department of Neonatology, RIPAS Hospital, within a period of one year. Birth weight (BW), gestational age (GA), corrected age at each review, initial and final diagnoses and number of reviews required was recorded for each infant. Infants were followed up two weekly until they reach a corrected age of 40 weeks or complete vascularization was noted. Prevalence of ROP was identified. Descriptive analysis, regression analysis and independent-sample t-test were used to statistically check for differences between ROP and non-ROP groups.RESULTS:A total number of 201 ROP screenings were carried out for 67 preterm infants. Males outnumbered females (56.7%). The mean number of reviews per child was (3.19±1.1) times (range:1-6 times), the mean GA among the preterm babies examined was (29.5±2.6) weeks (range:23-36 weeks), and the mean BW was 1300±500g (range:660-3600g). The prevalence of ROP among the examined infants was 34.8%. Prevalence of threshold disease that required laser treatment was 25.4%. Prevalence of ROP among those with extremely low BW was 86.7% compared to 27.8% in those with very low BW. Respiratory distress and congenital heart diseases were significantly associated with higher incidence of ROP.CONCLUSION: Lower BW, lower GA and female gender are associated with higher risk of developing ROP among preterm infants in Brunei Darussalam.

Graft survival and visual outcome after simultaneous penetrating keratoplasty and cataract extraction

Mansour M. Al-Mohaimeed — 2013/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the indications, complications, and visual and graft survival outcomes in eyes that had undergone simultaneous cataract extraction and penetrating keratoplasty (PKP).METHODS:We described a retrospective study of 101 patients who had undergone simultaneous cataract extraction and PKP at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2002. All patients were followed up postoperatively with maximum follow-up 68 months.RESULTS:The mean age of patients was 61 years. The mean overall follow-up was 27 months. The most common indications for surgery were corneal scarring (45.5%), previous failed graft (15.8%), corneal ulcer (12.9%), Fuchs endothelial dystrophy (8.9%), stromal dystrophy (2.9%), and other conditions (14.5%). Overall, 69 grafts (68.3%) remained clear at final follow-up. Previous glaucoma or postoperative glaucoma had no statistically significant effects on graft outcome (P>0.05).The graft rejection rate (17.8%) was a significant risk factor for failure (P=0.00). Age, gender, indications for surgery, corneal graft diameter, and intraoperative vitreous loss had no statistically significant effects on the PKP outcome (P>0.05). Postoperative visual acuity was significantly associated with preoperative visual acuity (P<0.01).CONCLUSION: The present study provides evidence that performing a combined procedure results in more rapid visual rehabilitation and good graft clarity.

Effects of intensive control of blood glucose and blood pressure on microvascular complications in patients with type II diabetes mellitus

Cai-Hong Zhu,Shi-Sheng Zhang,Yan Kong,Yu-Fang Bi,Ling Wang and Qiong Zhang — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the effects of intensive control of blood glucose and blood pressure on microvascular complications in patients with type II diabetes by comparing the therapeutic effects of intensive and standard treatment in patients with type II diabetes.METHODS: A total of 107 patients with type II diabetes were randomly assigned into intensive and standard treatment groups. Patients in the intensive treatment group received preterax (perindopril/ indapamide) to control blood pressure, and gliclazide (diamicron) MR to control blood glucose. Patients in the standard treatment group received routine medications or placebo. Urinary microalbumin (UMA), urinary creatinine (UCR), the UMA/UCR ratio, and visual acuity were monitored according to the study design of the ADVANCE trial. Direct ophthalmoscopy and seven-field stereoscopic retinal photography were used to examine the fundi at baseline, and repeated after 5 years of treatment.RESULTS: The characteristics of patients in both groups were well balanced at baseline. After 5 years of treatment, visual acuity was found to be decreased in the standard group (P=0.04), but remained stable in the intensive group. The severity of diabetic retinopathy had not progressed in patients in the intensive group, but had deteriorated in the standard group (P=0.0006). The UMA/UCR ratio was not obviously changed in patients in the intensive group, whereas it was significantly increased in the standard group (P=0.00).CONCLUSION: Intensive control of blood glucose and blood pressure can decrease the incidence or slow the progression of microvascular complications in patients with type II diabetes, and maintain stable vision.

CT features of exophthalmos in Chinese subjects with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy

Zhi-Jia Fang,Jenny Y. Zhang and Wei-Min He — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate computed tomography (CT) features of exophthalmos in Chinese subjects with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO).METHODS:A total of605 eyes of 325 patients with exophthalmos due to TAO were classified as grade I (mild exophthalmos) or II (severe exophthalmos) based on orbital CT imaging. The increased orbital volume features, such as changes from extraocular muscles, orbital fat, or both, were analyzed.RESULTS: A total of 605 eyes were analyzed, among them 62.98% presented grade I exophthalmos, while 36.02% showed grade II exophthalmos.#$TAB In grade I, 56.69% showed orbital fat change, and in grade II, 89.29% exhibited extraocular muscle enlargement.CONCLUSION: Orbital fat and extraocular muscle enlargement are likely to be observed on CTs of subjects with mild and severe exophthalmos, respectively. Our results suggest that CT findings may guide TAO clinical therapy recommendations and prognosis.

Optical biometry intraocular lens power calculation using different formulas in patients with different axial lengths

Jia-Kang Wang and Shu-Wen Chang — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the predictability of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation using the IOLMaster and different IOL power calculation formulas in eyes with various axial length (AL).METHODS:Patients were included who underwent uneventful phacoemulsification with IOL implantation in the Department of Ophthalmology, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, Chinafrom February 2007 to January 2009. Preoperative AL and keratometric values (Ks) were measured by IOLMaster optical biometry. Patients were divided into 3 groups based on AL less than 22mm (Group 1), 22–26mm (Group 2), and more than 26mm (Group 3). The power of the implanted IOL was used to calculate the predicted postoperative spherical equivalence (SE) by various formulas:the Haigis, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, and SRK/T. The predictive accuracy of each formula was analyzed by comparing the difference between the actual and predicted postoperative SE (MedAE, median absolute error). All the patients had follow-up periods exceeding 3 months.RESULTS:Totally, there were 200 eyes (33 eyes in Group 1, 92 eyes in Group 2, 75 eyes in Group 3). In all patients, the Haigis had the significantly lower MedAE generated by the other formulas (P<0.05). In Group 1 to 3, the MedAE calculated by the Haigis was either significantly lower or comparable to those calculated by the other formulas.CONCLUSION:Compared with other formulas using IOLMaster biometric data, the Haigis formula yields superior refractive results in eyes with various AL.

Long-term cost and efficacy analysis of latanoprost versus timolol in glaucoma patients in Germany

2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate 5-year effectiveness and cost between latanoprost or timolol monotherapy in a pilot trial. METHODS: A retrospective, multi-center trial performed at 6 sites in Germany of patients who had a diagnosis of primary open-angle or pigmentary glaucoma, in at least one eye, initiated on monotherapy with latanoprost or timolol maleate. Qualified consecutive charts were reviewed in which 5-year efficacy, safety and cost data was abstracted. RESULTS: Seventy-seoen latanoprost and 49 timolol patients were included, at the final visit no difference existed between the two groups in disc parameters including:rim area, rim area/disc area ratio, cup volume or vertical cup/disc ratio (P>0.05). There was no difference in intraocular pressure (IOP) between the initial latanoprost (17.4±2.6) and timolol (16.3±2.8mmHg) groups. There was less change in medicines over the follow-up period (0.1 vs 0.8) and fewer medications at the final visit (1.2 vs 1.8) with latanoprost compared to timolol. No patient treated with latanoprost discontinued therapy during follow-up, while 12% discontinued timolol mostly due to inadequate IOP control. Cost/year was less with initial timolol ($458±236) as compared to latanoprost ($552±202).CONCLUSION:Patients begun on latanoprost or timolol and followed over 5 years may have similar clinical outcomes. However, timolol patients may require more medicines and medicine changes to control IOP for long-term, but at a lower cost.

Pediatric traumatic cataract and surgery outcomes in eastern China:a hospital-based study

Ying-Nan Xu,Yu-Sen Huang and Li-Xin Xie — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the etiologies, management, and outcomes of pediatric traumatic cataract in eastern China.METHODS:Pediatric traumatic cataract were reviewed for demographic information, type of injury, mode of injury, time of injury, interval between injury and first visiting doctors, hospital of first visiting, surgeries, complications and prognosis.RESULTS:A total of 117 eyes of 117 patients (96 boys and 21 girls) with unilateral injuries (66 right and 51 left eyes) were included in the study. The mean (SEM) age at diagnosis was (6.6±3.2) years (range, 1.3-13.8 years). Each cataract was categorized according to the type of trauma:closed-globe (n=26) or open-globe (n=91) injuries. The most common injuring objects were sharp metal objects (37.61%). The most common complication in open-globe injuries was corneal laceration, whereas traumatic mydriasis was most common in closed-globe injuries. Of 68 eyes in patients with open-globe injuries who received cataract extraction, intraocular lens (IOLs) were primarily implanted in 47 eyes (68.12%), whereas 18 eyes with closed-globe injuries received cataract extraction, and IOLs were primarily implanted in 17 eyes (94.4%). The surgical procedures included reconstruction of the anterior segment, synechiolysis, excision of the membrane, lensectomy, vitrectomy and related techniques. Postoperative vision was significantly improved compared with preoperative vision.CONCLUSION: Pediatric traumatic cataract should be treated in time to attenuate the complications, and education on pediatric traumatic cataract and improvements in pediatric health care are needed for the early detection of cataract in children.

Episcleral macular buckling for posterior retinal detachment in silicone oil filled eyes associated with myopic macular hole

Jiao Tian,Luo-Sheng Tang,Xiao-Jian Guo and Yong-Heng Luo — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate anatomical and visual outcomes of episcleral macular buckling (EMB) for posterior retinal detachment in silicone oil filled eyes associated with myopic macular hole.METHODS: Five cases of EMB for initial failure of retinal reattachment after internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and silicone oil tamponade caused by myopic macular hole were retrospectively reviewed. A silicone sponge sutured directly across the macular region was performed on the silicone oil filled eyes. Silicone oil was removed no sooner than 1 month post-EMB. The duration of follow-up time after removal of silicone oil was more than 3 months.RESULTS: Retinas of five eyes were all reattached at the last follow-up. The postoperative vision ranged from counting fingers to 0.08.CONCLUSION: Anatomical results improved after EBM for posterior retinal detachment in silicone oil filled eyes associated with myopic macular hole, which was not evident for visual outcome.

Bevacizumab vs ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Chinese patients

Jun Li,Han Zhang,Peng Sun,Feng Gu and Zhe-Li Liu — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the clinical efficacy of intravitreal injections of bevacizumab and ranibizumab for treating Chinese patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).METHODS: Among 60 Chinese patients with exudative AMD (60 eyes), 28 received intravitreal bevacizumab injections (1.25mg) and 32 received intravitreal ranibizumab injections (0.5mg), once a month for 3 months and were followed for a total of 6 months. Monthly optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to determine whether the patients received additional treatments during the follow-up. We compared the baseline and 6-month follow-up values of mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) in both groups of patients. We also compared the occurrence of adverse events.RESULTS:At the 6-month follow-up, the mean BCVA (logMAR) of the bevacizumab and ranibizumab treatment groups improved from the baseline measurements of 0.72±0.23 and 0.73±0.22 to 0.47±0.14 and 0.45±0.20, respectively (P<0.05 for both groups). However, the change was not significantly different between the two groups. As evaluated by OCT, CRT decreased from 366.71±34.72μm and 352±36.9μm at baseline to 250.86±41.51μm and 243.22±41.38μm in the bevacizumab and ranibizumab groups, respectively (P<0.05 for both groups). However, the change was not significantly different between the two groups. There were no severe local adverse reactions or systemic adverse events.CONCLUSION:Intravitreal bevacizumab and ranibizumab have equivalent effects on BCVA and CRT and appeare safe over the short-term.

Endoscope-assisted goniosynechialysis combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation to manage primary angle-closure glaucoma

Jing Chen and Yu-Ping Zou — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To describe and evaluate a new ophthalmic endoscope surgical technique combined with phacoemulsification andintraocular lens (IOL) implantation to treat goniosynechialysis and manage primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG).METHODS:Endoscope-assisted goniosynechialysis combined with phacoemulsification andIOL implantation was performed in 32 eyes of 29 patients with PACG. Regular follow-up was performed 1 week and 1 month, 3, and 6 months after surgery to assess complications, intraocular pressure (IOP), anterior chamber depth, visual acuity, and anterior chamber angle.RESULTS:Preoperative mean IOP was 24.88±7.22mmHg with pharmacological treatment, and was 13.70±4.02, 13.06±3.74, 14.29±4.70, and 14.33±5.01mmHg 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery, respectively. The postoperative decrease in IOP was significant (P<0.05). The rate for all eyes with IOP of 21mmHg or less was 93.8% (30 eyes) at the final visit without ocular hypotensive agents. The average preoperative anterior chamber depth was 1.60±0.64mm, and this value significantly increased to 2.72±0.62, 2.76±0.70, 2.73±0.68, and 2.74±0.71mm at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months, respectively. Visual acuity was improved in 28 eyes (87.5%) at 6 months postoperatively. The anterior chamber angle had increased in 25 eyes (78.1%) at the final visit; it was adhesive 90°-180° in 6 eyes, 180°-270° in only 1 eye. Two eyes exhibited minimal hyphema in the early postoperative period, but it could gradually be absorbed. Fibrinous reaction was observed in five eyes and spontaneously disappeared within 7 days. No shallow anterior chamber, iridodialysis, choroidal detachment, or malignant glaucoma was found in any eyes.CONCLUSION:Endoscope-assisted goniosynechialysis combined with phacoemulsification and IOL implantation to manage PACG has several advantages, including optimized visualization, greater accuracy, and improved safety. Our results suggest that it has certain curative effects and clinical application value.

Aberration changes of the corneal anterior surface following discontinued use of rigid gas permeable contact lenses

Qing Yu,Jiang-Xiu Wu,He-Ning Zhang,Sheng Ye,Shi-Qi Dong and Chen-Hao Zhang — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To record aberrations with a corneal topographic device on the anterior surface of the cornea at different time-points prior to wearing and following discontinued use of rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses. The effect of wearing RGP on the anterior surface of the cornea was discussed to provide guidance for clinical refractive error correction.METHODS: The study objects were 24 eyes from 24 patients. All patients underwent identical examination procedures prior to lens use, as well as afterwards, including slit-lamp examination, non-contact tonometer measurement, computer optometry and corneal curvature measurement, subjective refraction test, and corneal topography analysis. The patients wore contact lenses everyday for 1 month and then discontinued. Corneal topographies were recorded at certain time points of 30 minutes, 1 day, 3, 7 and 14 days following use.RESULTS: Total corneal aberration at each time point following discontinued use of RGP contact lenses was less than the time point prior to use. Detailed results were as follows:root mean square (RMS) (pre)=(1.438±0.328)μm, RMS (30 minutes)=(1.076±0.355)μm, RMS (1 day)=(1.362±0.402)μm, RMS (3 days)=(1.373±0.398)μm, RMS (7 days)=(1.387±0.415)μm, and RMS (14 days)=(1.430±0.423)μm. Results showed that at 30 minutes after discontinued use of RGP contact lenses, almost all 2^nd- and 3^rd-order aberrations change. Quadrafoil Z10 and spherical Z12 of the 4^th-order were also changed. Alterations to Z5, Z6, and Z12 at 1 day after discontinued use were significant differences compared with the time period prior to RGP use:Z5 and Z6 decreased, and Z12 increased slightly. Z5 and Z6 remained decreased at 3 days after discontinued use, but Z9 and Z10 continued to increase and Z12 returned to levels prior to RGP use. At 14 days after discontinued use, all aberrations were not significantly different from the values prior to use.CONCLUSION: The use RGP contact lenses greatly reduced total aberration of the anterior surface of the cornea. Changes to 2^nd- and 3^rd-order aberrations (including Z3, Z4, Z5, Z6, Z7, and Z8) were more significant. Following discontinued use of RGP contact lenses, the majority of lower order aberrations returned to original levels in a short period of time. During this process, a transient higher order aberration appeared, but all changes disappeared within 14 days after discontinued use of RGP contact lenses.

Black diaphragm intraocular lens implantation and penetrating keratoplasty in aphakic eyes with traumatic aniridia

Jun Li and Xiao-Guang Dong — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term outcome of implantation of black diaphragm intraocular (BDI) lens combined with penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) for managing aphakic eyes with traumatic aniridia and corneal damage.METHODS: Six aphakic eyes of six patients with traumatic aniridia and corneal damage had BDI lens implantation at Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute from June 2008 to November 2011. Medical records of the patients were reviewed. Three patients received PKP and after 12-18months were implanted with BDI lens. The other three patients completed PKP and BDI lens implantation at the same time. The corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure and number of corneal endothelial cells were monitored.RESULTS: The patients were followed up for an average of 24.3±12.1months (range 14-48 months). All BDI lenses were located well. The best corrected visual acuity got improved in 5 patients (0.1-1.0) and decreased in 1 patient from 0.4 to 0.2. Three patients had normal intraocular pressure (IOP) after implantation. Two patients required antiglaucoma medications to control IOP within the normal range and 1 patient implanted Ahmed glaucoma valve to control IOP. The corneal grafts kept transparent in all eyes and the corneal endothelial counting >1 000/mm², although two patients experienced acute graft rejection and loss more than 30% corneal endothelial cells.CONCLUSION: Implantation of BDI lens combined with PKP is an effective option for managing aphakic eyes with traumatic aniridia and corneal damage. Although the results in our study are encouraging, additional studies of the long-term safety and efficacy are required. A larger study population and longer follow-up may be beneficial.

Cyclopexy versus vitrectomy combined with intraocular tamponade for treatment of cyclodialysis

Wei-Wei Xu,Yi-Fei Huang,Li-Qiang Wang and Mao-Nian Zhang — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effects and complications of direct cyclopexy (DC) versus vitrectomy, endophotocoagulation, and gas/silicone oil endotamponade (VEE) treatment in patients with cyclodialysis and persistent hypotony.METHODS: This is a prospective, comparative, nonrandomized clinical trial which includes 52 patients with cyclodialysis and persisting hypotony. Fifty-two patients suffering from cyclodialysis and persistent hypotony in one eye were divided into 2 groups (groups DC and VEE) and treated, respectively, with direct cyclopexy or vitrectomy, endophotocoagulation, and gas/silicone oil endotamponade. The patients were followed up for 12 months. Assessments included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV) and subjective rating of the pain caused by the treatments.RESULTS:After a follow-up of 12 months, significant improvement was seen in postoperative mean BCVA, IOP, ACD and ACV in both treatment groups (which were not significantly different from each other). The success rates for the treatments were not significantly different (DC:50.0% vs VEE:62.5%, P=0.383). Postoperative morbidity of cataract and subjective pain rating were significantly higher in the VEE group vs the DC group (P= 0.003 and P<0.001 respectively).CONCLUSION: DC and VEE were effective surgical procedures in treating patients with cyclodialysis and persistent hypotony. Patients had better tolerance to DC treatment and VEE was more likely lead to cataract complications. Taking into consideration the ease of the operation, success rate, and patient comfort, DC treatment seems preferable to VEE treatment in patients with simple cyclodialysis. While VEE has the advantage of treating patients with cyclodialysis combined with vitreous hemorrhage.

Treatment of intractable orbital implant exposure with a large conjunctival defect by secondary insertion of the implant after preceding dermis fat graft

Hyun Kyung Kim and Tae Yoon La — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To report a procedure and results of a two-stage operation to manage intractable extensive orbital implant exposure with a large conjunctival defect which was difficult to treat with dermis fat grafts due to repeated graft necrosis.METHODS:A retrospective chart review of four patients who had extensive orbital implant exposures with large conjunctival defects and had past histories of repeated autologous or preserved dermis graft failures was done. As a first-stage operation, the problematic pre-existing orbital implants were removed and autologous dermis fat grafts alone were performed on the defect area. Four months later, new orbital implants were secondarily inserted after confirmation of graft survival. The size of the conjunctival defects and state of the extraocular muscles were checked preoperatively. Success of the operations and complications were investigated.RESULTS:The mean size of the conjuctival defects was 17.3mm×16.0mm, and the mean time from the initial diagnosis of orbital implant exposure to implant removal and autologous dermis fat graft was 20.8 months. After implant removal and autologous dermis fat graft, no graft necrosis was observed in any patients. Also, implant exposure or fornix shortening was not observed in any patients after new orbital implant insertion.CONCLUSION:The secondary insertion of a new orbital implant after pre-existing implant removal and preceding dermis fat graft is thought to be an another selective management of intractable orbital implant exposure in which dermis fat grafts persistently fail.

Vitrectomy combined with silicone oil tamponade in the treatment of severely traumatized eyes with the visual acuity of no light perception

Shan-Shan Yang and Tao Jiang — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of surgical treatment of vitrectomy combined with silicone oil tamponade in the treatment of severely traumatized eyes with the visual acuity of no light perception (NLP).METHODS: This was a retrospective uncontrolled interventional case-series of 19 patients of severely traumatized eyes with NLP who underwent vitrectomy surgery at the Affiliated Hospital of Medical College, Qingdao University (Qingdao, China) during a 3-year period. We recorded perioperative factors with the potential to influence functional outcome including duration from the injury to intervention; causes for ocular trauma; open globe or closed globe injury; grade of vitreous hemorrhage; grade of endophthalmitis; grade of retinal detachment; size and location of intraocular foreign body (IOFB); extent and position of retinal defect; grade of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR); type of surgery; perioperative complications and tamponade agent. The follow-up time was from 3 to 18 months, and the mean time was 12 months.RESULTS: After a mean follow-up period of 12 months (3-18 months) 10.53% (2/19) of eyes had visual acuity of between 20/60 and 20/400, 52.63% (10/19) had visual acuity less than 20/400 but more than NLP, and 36.84% (7/19) remained NLP. Visual acuity was improved from NLP to light perception (LP) or better in 63.16% (12/19) of eyes and the rate of complete retinal reattachment was 73.68% (14/19). Good visual acuity all resulted from those patients of blunt trauma with intact eyewall (closed globe injury). The perioperative factors of poor visual acuity prognosis included delayed intervention; open globe injury; endophthalmitis; severe retinal detachment; large IOFB; macular defect; a wide range of retinal defects and severe PVR.CONCLUSION:The main reasons of NLP after ocular trauma are severe vitreous hemorrhage opacity; refractive media opacity; retinal detachment; retinal and uveal damages and defects, especially defects of the macula; PVR and endophthalmitis. NLP after ocular trauma in some cases does not mean permanent vision loss. Early intervention of vitrectomy combined with silicone oil tamponade and achieving retinal reattachment of the remaining retina, may make the severely traumatized eyes regain the VA of LP or better.

Ocular disorders in children with spastic subtype of cerebral palsy

A.Taylan Ozturk,A.Tulin Berk and Aylin Yaman — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To document common ocular abnormalities in children with spastic subtype of cerebral palsy (CP) and to find out whether any correlation exists between their occurance and etiologic factors.METHODS: Totally 194 patients with the diagnosis of spastic type CP were enrolled in this retrospective study. Detailed ophthalmic examinations were performed. Demographic data and neuroradiological findings were documented. Kruskal-Wallis, Mann Whitney U, Pearson Chi-square tests and Student’s t tests were used in the statistical analysis.RESULTS: The mean age was 64.7±44.2 months on the first ophthalmic examination. Prevalences of diplegia (47.4%) and tetraplegia (36.1%) were found to be higher than the frequency of hemiplegia (16.5%) in our study population. Etiologic factor was asphyxia in 60.8% of the patients. Abnormal ocular findings were present in 78.9% of the patients. Statistically significant poor vision was detected in tetraplegia group among all the spastic ubtypes of CP (P=0.000). Anisometropia and significant refractive error were found in 14.4% and 70.1% of the patients, respectively. Thirty-six children (18.6%) had nystagmus and 107 children (55.2%) had strabismus. Lower gestational age and birth weight were statistically higher in patients with esotropia than exotropia (P=0.009 and P=0.024, respectively). Abnormal morphology of the optic disc was present in 152 eyes (39.2%). Severe periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) was found in 48 patients and statistically significant poor vision was detected in the presence of PVL (P=0.000).CONCLUSION: Spastic diplegic or tetraplegic CP patients with positive neuroradiological symptoms, younger gestational age and lower birth weight ought to have detailed ophthalmic examinations as early as possible to provide best visual rehabilitation.

Effects of multiple intravitreal anti-VEGF injections on retinal nerve fiber layer and intraocular pressure:a comparative clinical study

Güngör Sobacı, Rıza Güngör and Gökhan Özge — 2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the effect of multiple injections of ranibizumab or bevacizumab on retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD).METHODS:This retrospective study includes 35 eyes of 35 patients treated with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB, 1.25mg/0.05mL) and 30 eyes of 30 patients with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR, 0.5mg/0.05mL) who had Fast RNFL analysis (Stratus?); IOP measurements were taken 30 minutes and 24 hours after each injection.RESULTS:The mean ages were 68.0±7.5 and 69.1±7.7 years in the IVR and IVB groups, respectively (P=0.55). They underwent (6.3±1.9) and (5.1±1.3) injections (P=0.07) over (13.6±2.1) and (14.05±2.6) months (P=0.45) in the IVR and IVB groups, respectively. Changes in overall and temporal RNFL thickness in IVR-treated eyes (105.3±6.9μm and 74.4±11.2μm) were not different from those in untreated eyes in the IVR group (104.6± 8.4μm and 75.1±12.6μm) (P=0.57 and P=0.41, respectively). Similarly, overall and temporal RNFL thickness in IVB-treated eyes (105.8±8.1μm and 74.5±11.8μm) were not different from those in untreated eyes in the IVB group (104.6±8μm and 74.8±12.9μm) (P=0.42 and P=0.80, respectively). The frequencies of IOP rise (P=0.60) and changes in RNFL thickness from baseline (P=0.16) were comparable between groups.CONCLUSION:Repeated intravitreal injection of ranibizumab or bevacizumab does not seem have adverse effects on RNFL thickness or IOP in wet AMD patients.

Secondary glaucoma after pediatric cataract surgery

2013/4/22 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the incidence and risk factors of secondary glaucoma after pediatric cataract surgery.METHODS: Two hundred and forty nine eyes of 148 patients underwent cataract surgery without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation (group 1), and 220 eyes of 129 patients underwent cataract surgery with IOL implantation (group 2) retrospectively, were evaluated between 2000 and 2011.The outcome measure was the presence or absence of post-cataract surgery glaucoma, defined as an intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥26mmHg, as measured on at least two occasions along with corneal or optic nerve changes.RESULTS: The mean follow-up periods of group 1 and 2 were (60.86±30.95) months (12-123 months) and (62.11±31.29) months (14-115 months) respectively. In group 1, 12 eyes of 8 patients (4.8%) developed glaucoma. None of the patients developed glaucoma after surgery in group 2. The mean age of the patients at the cataract surgery was (2.58±0.90) months (1 month-4 months) and the average period for glaucoma development after surgery was (9.50±4.33) months (4-16 months) in group 1. Three of the 12 glaucomatous eyes were controlled with antiglaucomatous medication and 9 eyes underwent trabeculectomy+mitomycin C surgery. One patient underwent a second trabeculectomy + mitomycin C operation for both of his eyes.CONCLUSION: The incidence of glaucoma after pediatric cataract surgery is very low in patients in whom IOL is implanted. The aphakic eyes after pediatric cataract surgery are at an increased risk for glaucoma development particularly if they underwent surgery before 4 months of age.

Predictors of visual outcome in eyes with choroidal neovascularization secondary to age related macular degeneration treated with intravitreal bevacizumab monotherapy
AIM: To evaluate the predictors of visual improvement in eyes with naive choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration (CNV -AMD) treated with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) monotherapy.METHODS: Fifty eyes with naive CNV- AMD with pretreatment best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) better than 20/200 and treated with IVB monotherapy were evaluated. Several variables including age, sex, pre-treatment BCVA, CNV type and lesion size on fluorescein angiogram as well as SD-OCT parameters including pre-treatment central macular thickness (CMT), inner-segment/outer-segment (IS/OS) junction integrity, and external limiting membrane (ELM) integrity were analyzed to predict visual outcome.RESULTS:On univariate regression, pretreatment ELM damage was associated with less visual improvement after treatment (P=0.0145). However, ELM damage predicted only 10% of the visual outcome. On multivariate regression, pretreatment BCVA, IS/OS junction, and ELM integrity on SD-OCT were the significant predictors for the treatment effect and together predicted 37% of visual improvement.CONCLUSION: Pretreatment BCVA, ELM and IS/OS junction integrity on SD-OCT are of significant value in predicting the visual improvement in naive wet AMD patients treated with IVB monotherapy.

Prospective case series on trabecular-iris angle status after an acute episode of phacomorphic angle closure

Jacky Lee,Jimmy Lai,Doris Yick and Can Yuen
AIM:To investigate the trabecular-iris angle with ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) post cataract extraction after an acute attack of phacomorphic angle closure.METHODS: This prospective study involved 10 cases of phacomorphic angle closure that underwent cataract extraction and intraocular lens insertion after intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering. Apart from visual acuity and IOP, the trabecular-iris angle was measured by gonioscopy and UBM at 3 months post attack.RESULTS: In 10 consecutive cases of acute phacomorphic angle closure from December 2009 to December 2010, gonioscopic findings showed peripheral anterior synechiae (PAS) ≤ 90° in 30% of phacomorphic patients and a mean Shaffer grading of (3.1±1.0). UBM showed a mean angle of (37.1°±4.5°) in the phacomorphic eye with the temporal quadrant being the most opened and (37.1°±8.0°) in the contralateral uninvolved eye. The mean time from consultation to cataract extraction was (1.4±0.7) days and the mean total duration of phacomorphic angle closure was (3.6±2.8) days but there was no correlation to the degree of angle closure on UBM (Spearman correlation P=0.7). The presenting mean IOP was (50.5±7.4) mmHg and the mean IOP at 3 months was (10.5±3.4) mmHg but there were no correlations with the degree of angle closure (Spearman correlations P=0.9).CONCLUSION:An open trabecular-iris angle and normal IOP can be achieved after an acute attack of phacomorphic angle closure if cataract extraction is performed within 1 day - 2 days after IOP control. Gonioscopic findings were in agreement with UBM, which provided a more specific and object angle measurement. The superior angle is relatively more narrowed compared to the other quadrants. All contralateral eyes in this series had open angles.

Quality of life and emotionalchange for middle-aged and elderly patients with diabetic retinopathy

Yao Yu,Lie Feng,Yi Shao,Ping Tu,He-Ping Wu,Xun Ding and Wei-Hua Xiao
AIM:To evaluate the SF-36, Diabetes Specificity Quality of Life Scale (DSQL) and anxiety and depression symptoms and investigate its changes in proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) by vitrectomy interventions.METHODS:The present study included 108 diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients:54 with PDR and 54 with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). Each healthy control group (n=54) sociodemographically matched to DR groups was established respectively. The quality of life, anxiety and depression symptoms were evaluated and analyzed on preoperative and postoperative month 1 using SF-36, DSQL and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS).RESULTS:DR patients described impaired HRQL (Health Related Quality of life, SF-36) in 6 out of 8 subscales, including ‘Body Health’, ‘Body Role Function’, ‘General Health’, ‘Society Function’, ‘Emotion Role Function’ and‘ Mental Health’. Compared with controls, DR patients (NPDR and PDR) suffered from statistically significantly impaired HRQL (SF-36 Summary score) (P<0.05). By surgical intervention, the anxiety and depression score were significantly reduced, while the health and quality of life (SF-36 Summary scores and DSQL scores) was improved in patients with PDR (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:DR patients were affected in mentation and quality of life. Surgery interventions can improve SF-36, DSQL, anxiety and depression in PDR patients.

Green-light fundus autofluorescence in diabetic macular edema
AIM:To evaluate the role of central green-light fundus autofluorescence (FAF) in diabetic macular edema (DME).METHODS: A consecutive series of 92 study eyes with diabetic retinopathy were included. Out of those, 51 diabetic eyes had DME and were compared to 41 diabetic eyes without DME. In all subjects, green-light FAF images were obtained, quantified and classified into various FAF patterns. Cross-sectional optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans were obtained for evaluation of Inner/Outer segment (IS/OS) layer integrity, measurements of central RPE-IS/OS layer thickness as well as classification of DME into various subtypes.RESULTS:Mean central green-light FAF intensity of eyes with DME (1.289±0.140)log did not significantly differ from diabetic patients without DME (1.317±0.137)log. Most classifiable FAF patterns were seen in patients with cystoid DME. Mean central retinal thickness (CRT) of all study eyes with DME was (501.9±112.4)µm compared to (328.2±27.0)µm in diabetic patients without DME. Patients with DME had significantly more disrupted photoreceptor IS/OS layers than diabetic patients without DME (28/51 vs 5/41, P<0.001). Mean RPE-IS/OS thickness of patients with DME (60.7±14.1)µm was significantly (P<0.001) lower than in diabetic eyes without DME (73.5±9.4)µm. Correlation analys1s revealed non-significant correlations of green-light FAF intensity and OCT parameters in all subtypes of DME.

Comparison of Densiron 68 and 1 000 cSt silicone oil in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with inferior breaks

Ibrahim Kocak and Haci Koc
AIM:To compare success rates and complications of Densiron 68 and 1000cSt silicone oil (SO) in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) with inferior breaks (IBs).METHODS:Totally 61 eyes of 61 consecutive patients with RRD with IBs were assigned to pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with Densiron (n=31) or PPV with SO (n=30) in order of presentation. SO and Densiron removal was performed 3 months after initial surgery. Follow up visits were terminated 6 months after SO removal.RESULTS:With a single operation, the Densiron group showed 84% and SO 74% reattachment. With further surgery, both groups showed 90% re-attachment. Complications such as cataract, raised intraocular pressure (IOP), inflammatory reaction, macular epiretinal membranes, and emulsification of SO were seen in both groups.CONCLUSION:Densiron and SO are found to have similar success rates and complications.

Macular and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia

Shuang-Qing Wu,Li-Wei Zhu,Qi-Bin Xu,Jun-Li Xu and Yu Zhang
AIM:To compare the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and macular thickness in the amblyopic eye with that in the sound eye of children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia using optical coherence tomography (OCT).METHODS: A prospective, nonrandom, intraindividual comparative cohort study includes 72 children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia in a single center. Macular thickness, macular foveola thickness, and peripapillary RNFL thickness were compared between the amblyopia eyes and the contralateral sound eyes.RESULTS:There were 38 male and 34 female patients, with a mean age as 9.7±1.9 years (range, 5–16 years). Hyperopic was +3.62±1.16D (range +2.00D to +6.50D) in the amblyopic eyes, which was significantly higher in the control eyes with +0.76±0.90D (range 0D to +2.00D) (P < 0.01). The mean peripapillary RNFL thickness was 113.9±7.2µm and 109.2±6.9µm in the amblyopic eye and the normal eye, respectively, reaching statistical significance (P = 0.02). The mean macular foveola thickness was significantly thicker in the amblyopic eyes than the contralateral sound eyes (181.4±14.2µm vs 175.2±13.3µm, P < 0.01), but the 1mm, 3mm or 6mm macular thickness central macular thickness was not significantly different. Degree of anisometropia in the contralateral eyes was not significantly correlated with differences of peripapillary RNFL, macular foveola thickness or central macular thickness.CONCLUSION:Eyes with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia are found thicker macular foveola and peripapillary RNFL than the contralateral eyes in children.

Evaluation of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer, macula and ganglion cell thickness in amblyopia using spectral optical coherence tomography

Penpe Gul Firat,Ercan Ozsoy,Soner Demirel,Tongabay Cumurcu and Abuzer Gunduz
AIM:To investigate peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), macula and ganglion cell layer thicknesses (GCC) in amblyopic eyes with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).METHODS:Thirty six patients with a history of unilateral amblyopia and thirty two children who had emmetropia without amblyopia were included in this study.In this institutional study, 36 eyes of 36 patients with amblyopia (AE), 36 fellow eyes without amblyopia (FE), and 32 eyes of 32 normal subjects (NE) were included. RNFL, GCC and macular thickness measurements were performed with RS-3000 OCT Retina Scan (Nidek Inc CA. USA).RESULTS:The mean global thicknesses of the RNFL were 113.22±21.47, 111.57±18.25, 109.96±11.31μm in the AE, FE, and NE, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference for mean global RNFL thickness among the eyes (P=0.13). The mean thicknesses of the macula were 258.25±18.31, 258.75±19.54, 248.62±10.57μm in the AE, FE and NE, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference for thickness of macula among the eyes (P=0.06). The GCC was investigated into two parts:superior and inferior. The mean thicknesses of superior GCC were 102.57±13.32, 103.32±10.64, 100.52±5.88μm in the AE, FE, and NE, respectively. The mean thicknesses of inferior GCC were 103.82±12.60, 107.82±12.33, 105.86±10.79μm in the AE, FE and NE, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference for thickness of superior and inferior GCC between the eyes (P=0.63, P=0.46).CONCLUSION:The macular thicknesses of AE and FEwere greater than the NE, although it was not statistically significant. Amblyopia does not seem to have a profound effect on the RNFL, macula and GCC.

The East London glaucoma prediction score:web-based validation of glaucoma risk screening tool

Cook Stephen and Longo-Mbenza Benjamin
AIM:It is difficult for Optometrists and General Practitioners to know which patients are at risk. The East London glaucoma prediction score (ELGPS) is a web based risk calculator that has been developed to determine Glaucoma risk at the time of screening. Multiple risk factors that are available in a low tech environment are assessed to provide a risk assessment. This is extremely useful in settings where access to specialist care is difficult. Use of the calculator is educational. It is a free web based service. Data capture is user specific.METHOD:The scoring system is a web based questionnaire that captures and subsequently calculates the relative risk for the presence of Glaucoma at the time of screening. Three categories of patient are described:Unlikely to have Glaucoma; Glaucoma Suspect and Glaucoma. A case review methodology of patients with known diagnosis is employed to validate the calculator risk assessment.RESULTS:Data from the patient records of 400 patients with an established diagnosis has been captured and used to validate the screening tool. The website reports that the calculated diagnosis correlates with the actual diagnosis 82% of the time. Biostatistics analysis showed:Sensitivity = 88%; Positive predictive value = 97%; Specificity = 75%.CONCLUSION:Analysis of the first 400 patients validates the web based screening tool as being a good method of screening for the at risk population. The validation is ongoing. The web based format will allow a more widespread recruitment for different geographic, population and personnel variables.

Anterior vitrectomy and partial capsulectomy via anterior approach to treat chronic postoperative endophthalmitis

Mete Güler and Turgut Yılmaz
AIM:To describe the results of vitrectomy and partial capsulectomy via anterior approach surgical technique in treatment of chronic postoperative endophthalmitis (CPE).METHODS:Clinical records of 9 patients treated for CPE between 2006 and 2010 were reviewed retrospectively. All of these patients were treated with vitrectomy and partial capsulectomy via anterior approach.RESULTS:Six of 9 patients were male. The average patients’ age was (60±8.1) years. The average period between cataract extraction and onset of signs and symptoms was (3.6±1.3) weeks. The average presenting visual acuity was 0.3±0.1 and the average final post operative visual acuity was 0.7±0.2. The mean follow-up period was (28.1±8.9) weeks. In all patients, the inflammation subsided after surgery.CONCLUSION:Our results suggest that anterior vitrectomy and partial capsulectomy via anterior approach may be considered as potentially useful and relatively less invasive technique to treat CPE.

Corneal injury and its protection using hydro-gel patch during general anesthesia

Ting Wan,Yan Wang and Xiu-Ming Jin — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate corneal injury during general anesthesia and analyze the protective effect of medical hydro-gel eye patch in clinics.METHODS: Seventy-six patients with 152 eyes undergoing general anesthesia were included. None had positive corneal fluorescein staining before surgery. Both eyes of each patient were analyzed, with one randomly allocated to receive medical hydro-gel eye patch, and the other to receive common adhesive tape as a control. Corneal injuries were evaluated by scoring fluorescein staining under a hand-held slit lamp immediately after surgery in postanesthesia care unit and 24h thereafter. Patients’ discomforts were also evaluated.RESULTS:Twelve eyes (15.8%) in the hydro-gel patch group and 30 eyes (39.5%) in the adhesive tape group showed corneal injury immediately after surgery. The eyes protected with hydro-gel patch showed statistically less corneal fluorescein staining than the control group. Four eyes in hydro-gel patch group and 6 eyes in adhesive tape group suffered discomfort immediately after surgery without intergroup difference and all discomforts disappeared after 24h (P=0.257). No side effect was observed in hydro-gel patch group, while 5 eyes had brow avulsion and 2 got skin itching in adhesive tape group.CONCLUSION:Corneal injury complication was more frequent than we thought following general anesthesia. The medical hydro-gel eye patch can protect the occurrence of corneal injury following general anesthesia.

Elevation of serum apelin-13 associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetic patients

2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To compare apelin-13, a ligand of G-protein-coupled receptor which has been shown to be involved in retinal angiogenesis, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) serum levels in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with or without retinopathy, and to investigate the relationship between the serum concentration of apelin-13 and diabetes retinopathy.METHODS: Sixty-nine patients with T2DM were enrolled. Of the 69 patients, 16 had proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR group), 23 had non-PDR (NPDR group) and 30 had no retinopathy (T2DM group). Subjects’ information, including demographics, medical history, and use of medications were recorded. Their serum samples were collected for measuring the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), serum lipid and glycosylated hemoglobin. Apelin-13 and VEGF serum levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Kruskal-Wallis test and one-way ANOVA were used to compare the differences among these groups. Chi-square test was used to assess categorical variables. Correlations between variables were investigated by Spearman rho correlation test and stepwise regression analysis. All statistical analyses were performed through SPSS 17.0 software.RESULTS:Sex, age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, CRP, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) have no significantly difference in the three groups. Serum level of apelin-13 was significantly elevated in PDR group as compared with T2DM group (P=0.041). Differences of VEGF serum concentration in the three groups were statistically significant (P=0.007, P=0.007 and P<0.001, respectively). Spearman rho correlation test showed that serum apelin-13 was positively correlated with BMI, serum triglycerides, VEGF, but not with age, duration of diabetes, blood pressure, CRP, HbA1c and total-cholesterol. Stepwise regression analysis showed that BMI also significantly associated with serum apelin-13 (P=0.002), while VEGF and serum triglycerides were irrelevant.CONCLUSION: This study elucidated a positive association of apelin-13 serum level with PDR, but not with VEGF. Apelin-13 may influence the promotion of PDR but unrelated with VEGF.

Visual acuity and endothelial cell density with respect to the graft thickness in Descemet''s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty:one year results

Banu Torun Acar¹,Mehmet Orcun Akdemir² and Suphi Acar¹ — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the visual acuity and endothelial cell density according to thethickness in Descemet''s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) one year after surgery.METHODS: DSAEK patients'' data were reviewed. Thirty-seven eyes of 37 patients who underwent DSAEK for pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (PBK) were included in this study. Graft thickness was measured with optical coherence tomography (OCT) 12mo after DSAEK. Eyes were divided into 3 groups based on the graft thickness:thick (>200 μm), medium-thick (150-200 μm) and thin (<150 μm). Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), endothelial cells density (ECD) and complications were assessed and comparisons were done between groups.RESULTS:There was no significant difference in age, sex, preoperative BCVA, or follow-up period between DSAEK groups. At postoperative 12mo, mean BCVA was 0.28±0.10 in thick graft group, 0.52±0.08 in medium-thick graft group, and 0.72±0.06 in thin graft group. Thin grafts showed better postoperative BCVA as compared with the medium-thick and thick grafts (P=0.001). Thick graft group had 1637.44±88.19-mm², medium thick graft had 1764.50±34.28-mm² and thin graft group had 1845.30±65.62-mm²ECD at 12mo after the surgery. Thin graft group had better ECD at 12mo after surgery (P=0.001).CONCLUSION: Thin grafts after DSAEK ensure better visual rehabilitation. Eyes with thin grafts had significantly lesser loss of ECD compared to eyes with medium-thick and thick grafts one year after surgery.

Curative effect assessment of bandage contact lens in neurogenic keratitis

Yu-Zhao Sun,Lei Guo and Fu-Sheng Zhang — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To observe the curative effect of bandage contact lens in neurogenic keratitis.METHODS:Twenty cases of neurogenic keratitis were studied attheDepartment of Ophthalmology, the first Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, between October 2012 and June 2013. These included 13 males and 7 females, aged from 35 to 88y. Patients were voluntarily divided into an experimental group (lens wearing group, n=10) and control group (drug therapy, n=10). In experimental group patients wore silicone hydrogel bandage soft contact lens. Both groups used the following eyedrops:0.5% levofloxacin TID; 0.5% Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose QID; fibroblast growth factor BID; ganciclovir BID [cases complicated with herpes simplex virus (HSV)]; compound tropicamide BID (cases concurrent hypopyon). The healing time of corneal ulcer and complication rates were observed in the two groups.RESULTS: The healing time of corneal ulcer in the experimental group was 10.80±4.44d versus 46.70±13.88d in the control group (P＜0.05). No complications occurred in the experimental group, except for the lens falling off twice in one case, the patient recovered eight days after rewearing the lens. While in the control group, all cases vascularized, 2 cases were complicated with descemetocele that recovered with amniotic membrane transplantation and 1 case was complicated with corneal perforation that recovered by autologous conjunctival flap covering.CONCLUSION: Bandage contact lens is a safe and effective method of treating neurogenic keratitis and significantly shortened the healing time of corneal ulcer.

Influence factors for successful corneal donation among Chinese adults:data from Nanjing between 2001 and 2012

Li-Xun Chen and Qing-Huai Liu — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the factors that may influence the successful corneal donation among adults in China.METHODS:This retrospective study was conducted in 2012. The eligible participants were all the adults registered in Nanjing Red Cross Eye Bank to donate their corneas after death during the period of 2001 and 2012. Multivariate logistic regression models were applied to investigate the influence factors for successful donation, the outcome events.RESULTS:Totally, 210 of 328 (64.0%) registered potential donors successfully donated their corneas after death. The mean (SD) age at registration was 64.7 (12.5) for all participants, with 65.5 (10.1) and 63.2 (15.8) for successful and unsuccessful donors, respectively. With multivariate logistic regression analysis, five factors, the willingness of donation, age, education level, residence area, and cause of death were identified to be associated with successful corneal donation.CONCLUSION:The willingness of donation and some socio-demographic factors might substantially affect their successful donation after death for people who registered to donate corneas.

Quantification of corneal neovascularization after ex vivo limbal epithelial stem cell therapy

2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To assess cultured limbal epithelial stem cell transplantation in patients with limbal stem cell deficiency by analyzing and quantifying corneal neovascularization.METHODS: This retrospective, interventional case series included eight eyes with total limbal stem cell deficiency. Ex vivo limbal epithelial stem cells were cultured on human amniotic membrane using an animal-free culture method. The clinical parameters of limbal stem cell deficiency, impression cytology, and quantification of corneal neovascularization were evaluated before and after cultured limbal stem cell transplantation. The area of corneal neovascularization, vessel caliber (VC), and invasive area (IA) were analyzed before and after stem cell transplantation by image analysis software. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), epithelial transparency, and impression cytology were also measured.RESULTS: One year after surgery, successful cases showed a reduction (improvement) of all three parameters of corneal neovascularization [neovascular area (NA), VC, IA], while failed cases did not. NA decreased a mean of 32.31% (P=0.035), invasion area 29.37% (P=0.018) and VC 14.29% (P=0.072). BCVA improved in all eyes (mean follow-up, 76±21mo). Epithelial transparency improved significantly from 2.00±0.93 to 0.88±1.25 (P=0.014). Impression cytology showed that three cases failed after limbal epithelial stem cell therapy before 1y of follow-up.CONCLUSION: This method of analyzing and monitoring surface vessels is useful for evaluating the epithelial status during follow-up, as successful cases showed a bigger reduction in corneal neovascularization parameters than failed cases. Using this method, successful cases could be differentiated from failed cases.

Amniotic membrane welded to contact lens by 1470-nm diode laser:a novel method for sutureless amniotic membrane transplantation

Rifat Rasier and Murat Gulsoy — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To avoid the side effects of the suture usage by welding amniotic membrane (AM) to contact lens (CL) with laser.METHODS:AM was taken from pregnant women and cleaned from blood clots with sterile phosphate-buffered physiological saline solution which included antibiotics. Stromal side of the AM was spread inside of the CL and it was welded to CL by 1470 nm diode laser. 600 μm diameter fiber tip of the laser was contacted with the epithelial side of the AM from 4 separate points. After welding excess amniotic membrane around the CL was cut with a scalpel.RESULTS:Stromal side of the AM was spread inside of the CL and then with laser fiber, different power levels and exposure times were applied on the epithelium of AM and 340 mW for seven seconds was found optimal. CL and AM attached with the spot welding effect in 4 points by touching fiber tip. CL-AM welded complex did not separated from each other while holding AM that extend beyond the CL with the help of two forceps.CONCLUSION:As a conclusion, it was aimed in this study to achieve the success of the conventional amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT)with the easiness of applying a CL and to avoid risks and side effects of corneal or conjunctival suturing. The results showed that the application of the CL–AM complex will be as easy as the application of a CL and lasts shortly.

Comparison of surgically induced astigmatism in various incisions in manual small incision cataract surgery

Nidhi Jauhari,Deepak Chopra,Rajan Kumar Chaurasia and Ashutosh Agarwal — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) in Straight, Frown and Inverted V shape (Chevron) incisions in manual small incision cataract surgery (SICS).METHODS:A prospective cross sectional study was done on a total of 75 patients aged 40y and above with senile cataract. The patients were randomly divided into three groups (25 each). Each group received a particular type of incision (Straight, Frown or Inverted V shape incisions). Manual SICS with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation was performed. The patients were compared 4wk post operatively for uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and SIA. All calculations were performed using the SIA calculator version 2.1, a free software program. The study was analyzed using SPSS version 15.0 statistical analysis software.RESULTS:The study found that 89.5% of patients in Straight incision group, 94.2% in Frown incision group and 95.7% in Inverted V group attained BCVA post-operatively in the range of 6/6 to 6/18. Mean SIA was minimum (-0.88±0.61D×90 degrees) with Inverted V incision which was statistically significant.CONCLUSION:Inverted V (Chevron) incision gives minimal SIA.

Spontaneous resolution of macular edema after silicone oil removal

2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the macular changes in eyes filled with silicone oil (SO) and course of these changes after SO removal.METHODS:A retrospective optical coherence tomography scan review was conducted for twenty-four patients who underwent uncomplicated pars plana vitrectomy with SO tamponade for complex retinal detachments were detected with optical coherence tomography before, and one week, one month and three months after SO removal.RESULTS:Mean duration of SO tamponade was 3.6±1.0mo (range:3-7mo). Cystoid macular edema (CME) was detected in 3 eyes before SO removal. Submacular fluid was represented in 1 eye before silicone SO removal. Resolution of CME and submacular fluid was achieved 1mo after SO removal in all eyes. Mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 1.15±0.65 (range, hand movement to 0.2) before SO removal in the eyes without macular changes. After SO removal, the mean BCVA values at 1wk and 1 and 3mo, and 0.82±0.23, 0.76±0.21, and 0.70±0.19, all of which were significantly better than baseline (P=0.030, 0.017, 0.006 respectively). In the eyes with macular CME and subretinal fluid the mean BCVA was significantly improved at 3mo after SO removal compared with baseline (P=0.037).CONCLUSION:Decreased visual acuity in eyes filled with SO could be caused by macular complications due to SO. CME and subretinal fluid may resolve without any additional macular surgery after SO removal.

Uveitis associated with multiple sclerosis:complications and visual prognosis

Derya Kaya,Mahmut Kaya,Serkan Özakbaş and Egemen İdiman — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the frequency, subtype, complications, treatment and visual prognosis of uveitis in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).METHODS:A total of 1702 MS patients’ medical records were reviewed for a history of uveitis both with a neurologist and an ophthalmologist.RESULTS:Nine patients (0.52%) with uveitis were detected. Eight of them were female, one was male. The mean age was 42.0±14.1y (range 22-66). Seven patients were relapsing remitting MS, two were secondary progressive MS. The mean duration of MS was 10.8±10.3y, and the mean duration of uveitis 10.3±9.9y. The onset of uveitis preceded that of MS (four patients) by a mean of 5.0±4.3y (range 1-11). MS diagnosed prior to the onset of uveitis (five patients) by an interval of 0.75-16y (mean 4.95±6.24y). There were 16 affected eyes of nine patients. The most common types of uveitis were panuveitis and intermediate uveitis. Uveitis was bilateral in most patients. The most common complications were cataract and glaucoma, and patients with such complications were surgically treated. The range of visual acuity of affected eyes was 20/800 to 20/22, with only six of 16 affected eyes better than 20/40. After treatment, the visual acuity of the affected eyes was better than 20/40 in 11 of 16 eyes.CONCLUSION:Uveitis should be considered when assessing an MS patient with visual loss, as surgical interventions other than medical treatments may be needed to improve visual function. Complications could be seen more often when posterior segment is involved.

Relationship between pinguecula formation and exposure to tandoor ovens in a hospital-based study

Adem Gul,Hasan Goker,Senol Sabanci,Ali Kurt and Kemal Turkyilmaz — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the relationship between pinguecula and the use of tandoor ovens.METHODS:A total of 539 women, ranging in age from 20 to 86y who attended an outpatient clinic were enrolled. All the patients were asked whether they used tandoor ovens. Women exposed to tandoor ovens (n=286) were accepted as participants in the study group and they were compared with participants in the control group (n=253). The age, presence of pinguecula, duration of exposure to tandoor ovens as years and occupations were recorded for all the subjects.RESULTS:Mean duration for exposure to tandoor was 20.26y (range 1-62y) in the study group. The rate of pinguecula in the study group was 82.2% (235/286), and the rate in the control group was 37.5% (95/253); this difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). Pinguecula was seen in 61.2% (330/539) of all the participants.CONCLUSION:Pinguecula is strongly associated with exposure to tandoor ovens.

Bilateral same-session intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors

Nakhleh E. Abu-Yaghi,Ahmed N Shokry and Rami H Abu-Sbeit — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To document the indications, safety and possible complications of bilateral same-session intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections performed in the ophthalmic operating room.METHODS:A retrospective case series study. Consecutive records of seventy four patients receiving simultaneous bilateral intravitreal injections of either ranibizumab or bevacizumab, between September 2010 and September 2013, were reviewed and the outcomes were assessed. Data collected included number of injections, indications for injections, pre-injection and post-injection visual acuity (VA), pre-injection and post-injection intraocular pressure and ocular and systemic complications/complaints after each injection.RESULTS: A total of 342 injections were administered to 74 patients, with a mean of 4.62 injections per patient. Seventy-three patients received bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA) alone, and only one patient received both bevacizumab and ranibizumab (Lucentis; Genentech Inc.) distributed between the injections. Pre- and post-injection VA follow-up measurements were available for 65 patients. Mean follow up period was 22mo. The indications for initiating therapy were choroidal neovascular membrane from age-related macular degeneration (3 patients) and diabetic macular edema (71 patients). The mean Snellen VA before each injection was 6/22. The next post-injection follow-up mean Snellen VA was 6/20. One patient had a painful, culture-positive endophthalmitis in one eye 3d after bilateral bevacizumab. Another patient had a painless subconjunctival hemorrhage in one eye. No other ocular or systemic adverse side effects/complaints have been registered in this study group.CONCLUSION:Bilateral same-session intravitreal injections using a separate povidone-iodine preparation, speculum, needle, and syringe for each eye are well-tolerated. None of the subjects in this study requested to switch to alternating unilateral injections. Proper patient counseling as to the risk of complications with this procedure is necessary.

Spectral domain optical coherence tomography cross-sectional image of optic nerve head during intraocular pressure elevation

Ji Young Lee,You Kyung Lee,Jung Il Moon and Myoung Hee Park — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze changes of the optic nerve head (ONH) and peripapillary region during intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation in patients using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT).METHODS: Both an optic disc 200×200 cube scan and a high-definition 5-line raster scan were obtained from open angle glaucoma patients presented with monocular elevation of IOP (≥30 mm Hg) using SD-OCT. Additional baseline characteristics included age, gender, diagnosis, best-corrected visual acuity, refractive error, findings of slit lamp biomicroscopy, findings of dilated stereoscopic examination of the ONH and fundus, IOP, pachymetry findings, and the results of visual field.RESULTS: The 24 patients were selected and divided into two groups:group 1 patients had no history of IOP elevation or glaucoma (n=14), and group 2 patients did have history of IOP elevation or glaucoma (n=10). In each patient, the study eye with elevated IOP was classified into group H (high), and the fellow eye was classified into group L (low). The mean deviation (MD) differed significantly between groups H and L when all eyes were considered (P=0.047) and in group 2 (P=0.042), not in group 1 (P=0.893). Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) average thickness (P=0.050), rim area (P=0.015), vertical cup/disc ratio (P=0.011), cup volume (P=0.028), inferior quadrant RNFL thickness (P=0.017), and clock-hour (1, 5, and 6) RNFL thicknesses (P=0.050, 0.012, and 0.018, respectively), cup depth (P=0.008), central prelaminar layer thickness (P=0.023), mid-inferior prelaminar layer thickness (P=0.023), and nasal retinal slope (P=0.034) were significantly different between the eyes with groups H and L.CONCLUSION:RNFL average thickness, rim area, vertical cup/disc ratio, cup volume, inferior quadrant RNFL thickness, and clock-hour (1, 5, and 6) RNFL thicknesses significantly changed during acute IOP elevation.

Evaluation of choroidal thickness using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome:a comparative study

Aylin Karalezli,Fatma Corak Eroglu,Tulay Kivanc and Rusina Dogan — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To assess choroidal thickness in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and compare them with healthy controls, using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).METHODS: In this observational, cross-sectional study, choroidal thicknesses of 23 newly severe OSAS patients and 23 body mass index- age- and sex-matched healthy subjects were measured using a high-speed, high-resolution frequency domain-OCT device (λ=840 nm, 26000 A-scans/s, 5 μm axial resolution). All patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination before the measurements. OCT measurements were taken at the same time of day (9:00 a.m.), in order to minimize the effects of diurnal variation.CONCLUSION: The decreased choroidal thickness of patients with severe OSAS might be related to the the autonomic disregulation associated with this disease. Further studies are needed to evaluate the etiopathologic relationship between choroidal thickness and OSAS.

Surgical results of the slipped medial rectus muscle after hang back recession surgery

Yasar Duranoglu,Hatice Deniz Ilhan and Meryem Guler Alis — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To analyze the surgical results of a slipped medial rectus muscle (MRM) after hang back recession surgery for esotropia.METHODS:Twenty-one patients who underwent re-exploration for diagnosed slipped muscle after hang back recession surgery were included in this retrospective study. Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging was performed to identify the location of the slipped muscle. Ocular motility was evaluated with assessment with prism and cover test in gaze at cardinal positions. The operations were performed by the same consultant. Intraoperative forced duction test was performed under general anesthesia. The empty sheath of the slipped MRM was resected and the muscle was advanced to the original insertion site in all patients.RESULTS:The average age of 21 patients who hadconsecutive exotropia with a slipped MRM at the time of presentation was 17.4±5.4y (5-50y). The average duration between the first operation and the diagnosis of the slipped muscle was 25mo (12 to 36mo). The mean follow up after the corrective surgery was 28mo. The mean preoperative adduction limitation in the field of action of the slipped muscle was -2.26 (ranging from -1 to -4). All patients had full adduction postoperatively.CONCLUSION:The diagnosis of the slipped muscle should be confirmed during the strabismus surgery. The slipped muscle may be caused due to insufficient suture and excessive rubbing of the eye. When divergent strabismus is observed after the recession of the MRM, a slipped muscle should be considered in the differential diagnosis.

A comparison between monocanalicular and pushed monocanalicular silicone intubation in the treatment of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction

Dima Andalib and Hossein Mansoori — 2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the success rate of monocanalicular versus pushed monocanalicular silicone intubation (PMCI) of the nasolacrimal duct for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO).METHODS: In a prospective randomized clinical trial 53 eyes of 49 patients with CNLDO underwent either monocanalicular silicone intubation (MCI) (n=28 eyes) or PMCI (n=25 eyes). All procedures were performed by 1 oculoplastic surgeon. Treatment success was defined as the complete resolution of epiphora at 3mo after tube removal.Results: The surgical outcome was assessed in 20 eyes with MCI and 20 eyes with PMCI. The mean age of treatment was 26.25±10.08mo (range, 13-49mo) for MCI and 26.85±12.25mo (range, 16-68mo) for PMCI. Treatment success was achieved in 18 of 20 eyes (90.0%) in the MCI group compared with 10 of 20 eyes (50%) in the PMCI group (P=0.01). In the PMCI group, the tube loss (30%) was greater than the MCI group (5%), however the differences between the 2 groups proved to be not significant (P=0.91).CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that MCI has higher success rate in CNLDO treatment compared with PMCI in this small series of patients.

Long-term postoperative outcomes of bilateral lateral rectus recession vs unilateral recession-resection for intermittent exotropia

2014/12/15 0:00:00
AIM:To discuss the long-term postoperative results of bilateral lateral rectus recession (BLR) and unilateral lateral rectus recession-medial rectus resection (RR) in therapy of intermittent exotropia.METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 213 cases of intermittent exotropia who underwent surgery between 2008 and 2010. The patients were grouped into BLR group and RR group. Motor outcomes were divided into three groups on the basis of the angle of deviation after surgery:overcorrection (esotropia/phoria ＞5^△), orthophoria (esotropia/phoria ≤5^△to exotropia/phoria ≤10^△), and undercorrection/recurrence (exotropia/phoria＞10^△). Titmus test was used to evaluate stereoacuity, the stereoacuity ＜800s of arc meaned the patients had stereopsis. Surgical outcome including motor criteria and sensory status were compared at postoperative 6, 12, 24mo and at 36mo examination between groups.RESULTS:At 12, 24mo after surgery, the motor outcomes had no difference (P＞0.05) between groups. However, the motor outcomes at 6, 36mo were signally different in each group, indicating the success rate in RR group at 6mo was higher than that in BLR group (83.02% vs 82.24%, P＜0.05) but the result was contrary at the 3y examination (60.75% vs 43.40%, P＜0.05). No statistical significance were found in the sensory outcomes between the groups at mean of 3.7y follow-up.CONCLUSION:Themotor outcomes in RR group were better than in BLR group at 6mo after surgery, while the 3y outcomes were better in BLR group. This may be due to the recurrence rate of the BLR was lower than the RR group’s.

Amniotic membrane covering promotes healing of cornea epithelium and improves visual acuity afterdebridement for fungal keratitis

Bo Zeng,Ping Wang,Ling-Juan Xu,Xin-Yu Li,Hong Zhang and Gui-Gang Li — 2014/10/20 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the effect of amniotic membrane covering (AMC) on the healing of cornea epithelium and visual acuity for fungal keratitis after debridement.METHODS:Twenty fungal keratitis patients were divided into two groups randomly, the AMC group and the control group, ten patients each group. Both debridement of the infected cornea tissue and standard anti-fungus drugs treatments were given to every patients, monolayer amniotic membrane were sutured to the surface of the entire cornea and bulbar conjunctiva with 10-0 nylon suture for patients in the AMC group. The diameter of the ulcer was determined with slit lamp microscope and the depth of the infiltration was determined with anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was tested before surgery and three month after healing of the epithelial layer. The healing time of the cornea epithelium, visual acuity (VA) was compared between the two groups using t-test.RESULTS:There was no statistical difference of the diameter of the ulcer, depth of the infiltration, height of the hypopyon and VA between the two groups before surgery (P＞0.05). The average healing time of the AMC group was 6.89±2.98d, which was statistically shorter than that of the control group (10.23±2.78d) (P＜0.05). The average UCVA of the AMC group was 0.138±0.083, which was statistically better than that of the control group (0.053±0.068) (P＜0.05).CONCLUSION:AMC surgery could promote healing of cornea epithelium after debridement for fungal keratitis and lead to better VA outcome.

Application of Prussian blue staining in the diagnosis of ocular siderosis

Zhen Yang,Xiao-Li Yang,Li-Shuai Xu,Le Dai and Mei-Chao Yi — 2014/10/20 0:00:00
AIM:To explore the value of Prussian blue staining in the diagnosis of ocular siderosis.METHODS: Between January 2012 and January 2013, the Prussian blue stain used in anterior lens capsule and vitreous liquid after centrifugation from patients with definitive diagnosis and suspicious diagnosed of ocular siderosis. At the same time, give a negative control.RESULTS: Anterior lens capsule membrane and liquid of vitreous cavity from patients with definitive diagnosis and suspicious diagnosed of ocular siderosis revealed ferric ions that stained positively with Prussian blue. In the control group, there is no positive reaction.CONCLUSION: Prussian blue staining in the diagnosis of ocular siderosis has a very significant worth, suspected cases can be definitive diagnosed.

Safety of prophylactic intracameral moxifloxacin ophthalmic solution after cataract surgery in patients with penetrating keratoplasty

2014/10/20 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the safety of prophylactic intracameral moxifloxacin after cataract surgery in patients with penetrating keratoplasty (PKP).METHODS:In this retrospective study of consecutive patients who had phacoemulsification cataract surgery after PKP, were treated with intracameral moxifloxacin 0.5% ophthalmic solution (0.5 mg/0.1 mL). The main outcome measures were anterior chamber reaction, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal endothelial cell count (ECC), and central corneal thickness (CCT).RESULTS:Fifty-five patients were recruited (26 males, 29 females). The mean age was 54.36±4.97y (range 45-64y). All eyes had improved postoperative BCVA. The mean BCVA was 0.25 preoperatively and 0.57 postoperatively, which was statistically significant (P<0.001). One eye had 3+, 7 eyes had 2+, 12 eyes had 1+ and 8 eyes had trace amount of aqueous cells on the first day after surgery. All eyes had no anterior chamber cells at subsequent follow up examinations. Effective phacoemulsification time was 4.33±1.01s. The mean ECC was 2340.20 cells/mm² preoperatively and 1948.75 cells/mm² 1mo postoperatively (P<0.001). The increase of 21.09 μm in postoperative pachymetry 1mo after surgery was statistically significant (P<0.001).CONCLUSION: No untoward effects were observed after intracameral injection of moxifloxacin (0.5 mg/0.1 mL) in terms of anterior chamber reaction, CCT, ECC, and visual rehabilitation at the conclusion of cataract surgery in patients with PKP.

Visual rehabilitation in low-moderate keratoconus:intracorneal ring segment implantation followed by same-day topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy and collagen cross linking

Ferial M. Zeraid,Asma A Jawkhab,Waleed S Al-Tuwairqi and Uchechukwu L. Osuagwu — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To present the results of same-day topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (TG-PRK) and corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) after previous intrastromal corneal ring segment (ISCR) implantation for keratoconus.METHODS:An experimental clinical study on twenty-one eyes of 19 patients aged 27.1±6.6y (range 19-43y), with low to moderate keratoconus who were selected to undergo customized TG-PRK immediately followed by same-day CXL, 9mo after ISCR implantation in a university ophthalmology clinic. Refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuities (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuities (CDVA), keratometry (K) values, central corneal thickness (CCT) and coma were assessed 3mo after TG-PRK and CXL.RESULTS:After TG-PRK/CXL:the mean UDVA (logMAR) improved significantly from 0.66±0.41 to 0.20±0.25 (P<0.05); Kflat value decreased from:48.44±3.66 D to 43.71±1.95 D; Ksteep value decreased from 45.61±2.40 D to 41.56±2.05 D; Kaverage also decreased from 47.00±2.66 D to 42.42±2.07 D (P<0.05 for all). The mean sphere and cylinder decreased significantly post-surgery from, -3.10±2.99 D to -0.11±0.93 D and from -3.68±1.53 to -1.11±0.75 D respectively, while the CDVA, CCT and coma showed no significant changes. Compared to post-ISCR, significant reductions (P<0.05 or all) in all K values, sphere and cylinder were observed after TG-PRK/CXL.CONCLUSION:Same-day combined topography-guided PRK and corneal crosslinking following placement of ISCR is a safe and potentially effective option in treating low-moderate keratoconus. It significantly improves all visual acuity, reduced keratometry, sphere and astigmatism, but causes no change in central corneal thickness and coma.

Umbilical cord blood serum therapy for the management of persistent corneal epithelial defects

Elif Erdem,Meltem Yagmur,Inan Harbiyeli,Hande Taylan-Sekeroglu and Reha Ersoz — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the role of umbilical cord blood serum (CBS) therapy in cases with persistent corneal epithelial defects (PED).METHODS:Sixteen eyes of 14 patients with PED who were resistant to conventional treatment were treated with 20% umbilical cord serum eye drops. Patients were followed-up weekly until epithelization was complete. The collected data included the grade of corneal lesion (Grade I:epithelial defect+superficial vascularization, Grade II:epithelial defect+stromal edema, Grade III:corneal ulcer+stromal melting), the size of epithelial defect (pretreatment, 7^th, 14^th and 21^st days of treatment), and follow-up time was evaluated retrospectively.RESULTS:The mean size of epithelial defect on two perpendicular axes was 5.2×4.6-mm² (range:2.5-8×2.2-9 mm²). Mean duration of treatment was 8.3±5wk. CBS therapy was effective in 12 eyes (75%) and ineffective in 4 eyes (25%). The epithelial defects in 4 ineffective eyes were healed with amniotic membrane transplantation and tarsorrhaphy. The rate of complete healing was 12.5% by 7d, 25% by 14d, and 75% by 21d. The healing time was prolonged in Grade III eyes in comparison to eyes in Grade I or Grade II.CONCLUSION:The results of the current study indicated the safety effectiveness of CBS drops in the management of PED. The grade of disease seems have a role on the healing time.

Short-term effects of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide injection on ocular blood flow evaluated with color Doppler ultrasonography

2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the changes in ocular blood flow with color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU) after intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) injection.METHODS: A total of 46 patients who underwent IVTA (4 mg/0.1 mL) injection for diabetic macular edema (DME) (n=22), central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) (n=12) and choroidal neovascular membrane (CNVM) (n=12) were included in the study. Peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV) and resistivity index (RI) were measured from the ophthalmic artery (OA), the central retinal artery (CRA) and the posterior ciliary artery (PCA) of each patient with CDU before, at the end of the first week and at the end of the first month following IVTA injection.RESULTS:In the DME group, PSV of OA at the first of the first month (mean±SD) (37.48±10.87 cm/s) increased compared to pre-injection value (31.39±10.84 cm/s) (P=0.048). There was a statistically significant decrease (P=0.049) in PSV of CRA at the end of the first month (7.97±2.67 cm/s) compared to the pre-injection (9.47±3.37 cm/s). There was not any statistically significant difference on the other parameters in the DME group. Also, there was not any statistically significant difference on the ocular blood flow values in the CRVO and CNVM groups.CONCLUSION: We observed that 4 mg/0.1 mL IVTA increased PSV of OA and decreased PSV of CRA in DME patients and did not have any effect on ocular blood flow values of CRVO and CNVM patients.

Clinical study of customized aspherical intraocular lens implants

Lie-Xi Jia and Zhao-Hui Li — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To compare if there is an improvement in visual functions with age-related cataracts between patients receiving a aspherical intraocular lens (IOL) based on corneal wavefront aberration and patients randomly assigned lenses.METHODS:A total of 124 eyes of 124 patients with age-related cataracts were placed in experimental group and a group receiving randomly assigned (RA) lenses. The experimental group was undergone Pentacam corneal spherical aberration measurement before surgery; the targeted range for residual total spherical aberration after surgery was set to 0-0.3 μm. Patients with a corneal spherical aberration ＜0.3 μm were implanted with a zero-spherical aberration advanced optics (AO) aspherical IOL and patients with an aberration ≥0.3 μm received a Tecnis Z9003 aspherical lens in experimental group. RA patients were randomly implanted with an AO lens or a Tecnis Z9003 lens. Three months after surgery total spherical aberration, photopic/mesopic contrast sensitivities, photopic/mesopic with glare contrast sensitivities, and logMAR vision were measured.RESULTS:Statistical analysis on logMAR vision showed no significant difference between two groups (P=0.413). The post-surgical total spherical aberration was 0.126±0.097 μm and 0.152±0.151 μm in the experimental and RA groups, respectively (P=0.12). The mesopic contrast sensitivities at spatial frequencies of 6, 12 and 18 c/d in the experimental group were significantly higher than of the RA group (P=0.00; P=0.04; P=0.02). The mesopic with glare contrast sensitivity in the experimental group at a spatial frequency of 18 c/d was also significantly higher vs the RA group (P=0.01).CONCLUSION:Pre-surgical corneal spherical aberration measurement in cataract patients followed by customized selection of aspherical IOL implants improved mesopic contrast sensitivities at high spatial frequencies, and thus is a superior strategy compared to the random selection of aspherical IOL implants.

Comparison of corneal endothelial changes following phacoemulsification with transversal and torsional phacoemulsification machines

2014/10/20 0:00:00

Evaluation of early results of quick-chop phacoemulsification in the patients with high myopic cataract

2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To assess the early surgical outcomes ofquick-chop phacoemulsification technique in patients with high myopia.METHODS: The data of patients with high myopia who underwent quick-chop phacoemulsification were reviewed retrospectively. There were 42 eyes of 31 patients. The axial length was more than 26 mm in all eyes. All eyes underwent quick-chop phacoemulsification surgery with the placement of an intraocular lens (IOL) in the capsular bag. Postoperative visits were performed at 1, 3d; 2wk, 1mo. Early postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), preoperative and postoperative corneal endothelial cell density (ECD), central corneal thickness (CCT) and postoperative complications were assessed. Paired sample t-test or Wilcoxon tests were used to compare data between preoperative and postoperative data.RESULTS:There was no statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative ECD and CCT. Retinal detachment was developed in one eye at postoperative first day. There was an iris prolapsus from side port insicion.CONCLUSION: Quick-chop phacoemulsification technique is a safe surgical technique. However we can encounter some complications in high myopic eyes due to histopathological differences. Both side port and clear corneal tunnel insicion size is crucial for preventing postoperative complications. If any persistent leakage is noticed, suture should be placed.

Intraocular pressure-lowering effects of commonly used fixed combination drugs with timolol in the management of primary open angle glaucoma

Murat Atabey Ozer,Mutlu Acar and Cem Yildirim — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effect and ocular tolerability of brimonidine/timolol, dorzolamide/timolol and latanoprost/timolol fixed combination therapies in the management of primary open angle glaucoma.METHODS:Each drug was administered for two months, after which a circadian tonometric curve was recorded using a Goldmann applanation tonometer. Ocular discomfort (conjunctival hyperemia, burning or stinging, foreign body sensation, itching, ocular pain) of each eye was assessed by the subject on a standardized ocular discomfort scale.RESULTS:Among the three study groups, there were no significant differences in the mean baseline IOP measurements, mean 2^nd mo IOP measurements, and mean (%) change of IOPs from baseline. Among the three study groups, there were no significant differences in the mean IOP measurements obtained at circadian tonometric curves at baseline and at two months controls. In sum brimonidine/timolol, dorzolamide/timolol and latanoprost/timolol fixed combination therapies showed similar effects on IOP levels.CONCLUSION:Brimonidine/timolol, dorzolamide/timolol and latanoprost/timolol fixed combination therapies showed similar lowering efficaties on IOP levels whereas there was no any difference between each other.

Intravitreal bevacizumab and Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in patients with neovascular glaucoma

Hai-Tao Zhang,Yu-Xin Yang,Ying-Ying Xu,Rui-Min Yang,Bao-Jun Wang and Jun-Xi Hu — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To explore the efficacy of preoperative intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection combined with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in the treatment of neovascular glaucoma (NVG).METHODS: This retrospective study included 35 eyes from 35 patients who underwent preoperative IVB and AGV implantation for treatment of NVG. Findings such as intraocular pressure (IOP) number of anti-glaucoma medications, visual acuity (VA), surgical success rates, and complications were recorded.RESULTS: After AGV implantation, IOP was 18.2±4.0 mm Hg, 15.5±3.3 mm Hg and 9.8±2.6 mm Hg at 6, 12 and 36mo, significantly decreased compared with pre-IOP (P<0.01). The number of anti-glaucoma medications was 0.9±0.5, 0.8±0.9 and 0.8±0.6 at 6, 12 and 36mo, significantly decreased compared to pre-treatment (P<0.01). At last visit, there were 19 eyes with stable VA, 4 with VA improvement, 12 with diminished VA and 3 with complete loss light perception. There were 7 cases that failed during 3-year fellow up period. Cumulative probabilities of valve survival by Kaplan-Meier analysis were 82.9%, 74.1% and 71.0% at 12, 24 and 36mo, respectively. Cox stepwise regression analysis found that the survival time was significant associated with the pre-visual acuity <2/400 (P<0.05). Post-operative complications occurred in 8 eyes, of which hyphema presented in 2 eyes, choroidal effusion in 2 eyes.CONCLUSION: The procedure of preoperative IVB and AGV implantation should be one of treatments for NVG because of its safety and effectiveness.

Risk factors for posterior synechiae of the iris after 23-gauge phacovitrectomy

Jong-Hyun Oh,Jaehoon Na,Seong-Woo Kim,Jaeryung Oh and Kuhl Huh — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To identify risk factors for the development of posterior synechiae of the iris (PSI) after 23-gauge phacovitrectomy.METHODS:A retrospective chart review was performed in consecutive Asian patients treated with 23-gauge phacovitrectomy with a 3-piece intraocular lens (IOL) or a single-piece 4 haptics IOL.RESULTS:A total of 263 eyes from 242 patients were included in the study. Postoperative PSI was identified in 16 (6.1%) eyes. In multivariate analysis, C3F8 gas tamponade, oil tamponade, and long operation time were significantly associated with PSI formation. There was no difference in the incidence of PSI between the groups using two different types of IOL (P=0.779). CONLUSION:C3F8 gas or oil tamponade and long operation time increased the incidence of PSI after 23-gauge phacovitrectomy. The single-piece 4 haptics IOL, in lieu of a 3-piece IOL, may be inserted into the capsular bag with a comparable incidence of PSI.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with massive spontaneous suprachoroidal hemorrhage and prognosis of pars plana vitrectomy

Jie Zhang,Xiao-Hua Zhu and Luo-Sheng Tang — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To describe the clinical characters of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) associated with massive spontaneous suprachoroidal hemorrhage (SSCH). To evaluate optimal timing and prognosis of pars plana vitrectomy.METHODS: A retrospective review of 6 cases (6 eyes) of RRD and massive SSCH among 3772 cases of RRD was conducted. All of 6 patients were treated with twenty-gauge vitrectomy, suprachoroidal blood drainage, phacoemulsification (PHACO) or lensectomy and silicon oil tamponade. The clinical characters, intraoperative findings and treatment outcomes were reported.RESULTS: In the 6 affected eyes of 6 patients (3 men and 3 women; mean age, 53.83y; range 34-61y), preoperative visual acuity ranged from faint light perception (LP) to counting finger (CF). The average interventional duration from visual decreased to surgery was 12.8 d (range 9-15d). All eyes were associated with high myopia and the mean ocular length was 30.32 mm (range 28.14-32.32 mm). Choroidal hemorrhage were successfully drained in the operation of all 6 eyes. Intraoperative findings showed there were multiple retinal breaks in all 6 eyes and in 4 eyes breaks were along supratemporal and/or infratemporal retinal vascular arcade, especially in the edge of chorioretinal atrophy areas. These patients were followed up from 6 to 34mo (Mean, 23.5mo). The best-corrected visual acuity after surgery varied from CF to 20/100, with improvement in 5 eyes (83.33%) and no change in 1 eye (16.67%). Ocular hypertension ocurred in 1 eye (16.67%), which was successfully treated by silicon oil removal combined with trabeculectomy. In 4 eyes, tractional retinal detachment caused by proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) appeared and a secondary surgery of pre-retinal membrane peeling and silicon oil retained were performed. In 4 eyes, silicon oil cannot be removed. The initial and final reattachment rates were 33.33% and 66.67%, respectively.CONCLUSION: RRD associated with massive SSCH is an extremely rare event. The most common risk factor is long axial length. Vitrectomy and choroidal blood drainage can effectively remove suprachoroidal hemorrhage and promote retinal reattachment in these eyes. However, silicon oil could not be removed in most eyes and final visual acuities are generally poor.

Effects of moxifloxacin exposure on the conjunctival flora and antibiotic resistance profile following repeated intravitreal injections

2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the effects of moxifloxacin exposure on the conjunctival flora and antibiotic resistance profile following repeated intravitreal injections.METHODS:Seventy-two eyes of 36 patients [36 eyes in control group, 36 eyes in intravitreal injection (IVI) group] were enrolled in the study. All the eyes had at least one IVI and had diabetic macular edema (DME) or age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). Moxifloxacin was prescribed to all the patients four times a day for five days following injection. Conjunctival cultures were obtained from the lower fornix via standardized technique with every possible effort made to minimize contamination from the lids, lashes, or skin. Before the application of any ophthalmic medication, conjunctival cultures were obtained from both eyes using sterile cotton culture. An automated microbiology system was used to identify the growing bacteria and determine antibiotic sensitivity. RESULTS:The bacterial cultures were isolated from 72 eyes of 36 patients, sixteen of whom patients (44.4%) were male and twenty (55.6%) were female. Average age was 68.4±9.0 (range 50-86). The average number of injections before taking cultures was 3.1+1.0. Forty-eight (66.7%) of 72 eyes had at least one significant organism. There was no bacterial growth in 8 (20.5%) of IVI eyes and in 16 (44.4%) of control eyes (P=0.03). Of the bacteria isolated from culture, 53.8% of coagulase negative staphylococci (CoNS) in IVI eyes and 47.2% CoNS in control eyes. This difference between IVI eyes and control eyes about bacteria isolated from culture was not statistically significant (P=0.2). Eleven of 25 bacteria (44.0%) isolated from IVI eyes and 11 (57.9%) of 19 bacteria isolated from control eyes were resistant to oxacillin. The difference in frequency of moxifloxacine resistance between two groups was not statistically significant (12.0% in IVI eyes and 21.1% in control eyes) (P=0.44). There were no cases of resistance to vancomycin, teicoplanin and linezolid.CONCLUSION:There was no difference in species of bacteria isolated from cultures, or in the frequency of resistance to antibiotics between eyes that had recurrent IVI followed by moxifloxacin exposure compared with control eyes. However, the number of eyes that had bacterial growth was higher in IVI group than in the control group.

Visual impact of sub-Tenon anesthesia during combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy surgery

Wei-Qi Chen,Vishal Jhanji,Hao-Yu Chen,Gui-Hua Zhang and Ping Hou — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To investigate the visual impact of sub-Tenon anesthesia during combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy surgery.METHODS:In this prospective case series, consecutive patients who underwent combined phacoemulsification and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) under sub-Tenon anesthesia between October 2008 and September 2009 were enrolled. The patients were asked whether they could see the light of the operating microscope or not between various surgical steps with their contralateral eye being covered.RESULTS:A total of 163 eyes of 163 patients were enrolled in this study. After their contralateral eyes were covered, 152 (93.3%) patients said that they could not see any light at least during one of the surgical steps. All eyes recovered to at least light perception on the first postoperative day. The incidence of no light perception during the surgery was not related to demographic factors, including age, gender, or type of ocular diseases.CONCLUSION:The incidence of no light perception during combined phacoemulsification and vitrectomy under sub-Tenon anesthesia was high in our study. Patients should be duly informed about this temporary but potential intraoperative event.

Microbiologic spectrum of acute and chronic dacryocystitis

Bahram Eshraghi,Parisa Abdi,Mohammadreza Akbari and Masoud Aghsaei Fard — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To report the microbiological spectrum of acute and chronic dacrocystitis.METHODS: Retrospective study on 100 patients who presented to the ophthalmic plastic clinic of a tertiary eye care center from May 2011 and April 2013 with acute and chronic dacryocystitis was reviewed for demographic and microbiological profile. The culture results and organisms isolated were recorded.RESULTS:Sixty patients had acute onset and the remaining 40 patients had chronic onset dacryocystitis. The female to male ratio was 1.78. The mean age of patients was 44y.Gram-positive organisms were the most commonly isolated accounting for 54%, and the commonest species isolated was S. aureus in 26%. Percentage of gram positive cultures was higher in chronic dacryocystitis than acute ones (82% vs 48% of positive cultures; P=0.003). Also in culture positive acute dacryocystitis, gram negative species were found in 52% of eyes but only in 18% of chronic dacryocystitis.CONCLUSION:Gram negative bacteria, culture negative samples, unusual and more virulent organisms are more common in acute dacryocystitis than chronic ones. The results of this study have significant bearing on the treatment of patients with dacrocystitis.

Effects of medication methods after simple and effective probing of lacrimal passage

Bin Lu,Hua-Ying Xie,Cai-Ping Shi,Chun-Si Xu and Mei-Hong Gu — 2014/10/20 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the effect of reducing the use of antibiotics in the treatment of infant bacterial dacryocystitis after probing of the lacrimal duct.METHODS: A total of 542 cases of children under one year old and accepting nasolacrimal duct probing treatment were divided into two groups, which were treated with topical and oral antibiotics, respectively. Conjunctival sac secretions were used as a control index of bacterial infection, whereas the disappearance of epiphora symptoms and lacrimal passage patency were used as cure indexes. The χ² test was used to compare enumeration and measurement data, and a statistical significance was set at P<0.05. The therapeutic effect on the two groups of postoperative patients was investigated.RESULTS:In the two study groups, no significant differences in gender, age and postoperative control of lacrimal sac infection were observed. The cure rates after three probing operations also showed no significant difference.CONCLUSION:After probing of the lacrimal passage, results of this study confirmed that postoperative medication without oral antibiotics but an ophthalmic dosage of antibiotics was a simple and effective treatment method.

Evaluation of immersion 20 MHz B-scan ultrasonography in observing lens in the alkali burn eyes

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the accuracy of 20 MHz immersion B-scan ultrasonography in observing lens and to investigate the value of this noninvasive preoperative diagnosis method in alkali burn eyes.METHODS: It was a comparative study. Fifty-six cases (56 eyes) of alkali burn eyes were examined by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and immersion 20 MHz B-scan ultrasonography from June 2011 to April 2013, the images were analyzed, and the ultrasonographic diagnosis compared with the operation results.RESULTS: In 56 alkali burn eyes examined by UBM, the lens were not detected in 16 eyes; the IOL could be detected in 2 eyes; the anterior lens capsule surface or/and the front lens could be detected in 18 eyes, and lens opacification in 3 eyes of them; suspected abnormal lens were detected in the other 20 eyes. In all the same eyes examined by immersion 20 MHz B-scan ultrasonography, the lens were not detected in 16 eyes; the IOL could be detected in 2 eyes; 24 abnormal lens (opacity, lens expansion, shrinkage) and 14 normal lens were found. Compared with the intraoperative findings, the diagnostic accordance rate of the immersion 20 MHz B-scan appearance of lens was 100% (56/56), which was significantly higher than examined by UBM 57.14% (32/56) (χ²=30.55, P=0.0000).CONCLUSION:Immersion 20 MHz B-scan ultrasonography can observe the lens accurately in alkali burn eyes. It has important clinical value to combine with UBM in eyes of alkali burn.

Femtosecond laser-assisted deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus and keratectasia

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To describe the initial outcomes and safety of femtosecond laser-assisted deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) for keratoconus and post-LASIKkeratectasia.METHODS:In this non-comparative case series, 10 eyes of 9 patients underwent DALK procedures with a femtosecond laser (Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, Jena, Germany). Of the 9 patients, 7 had keratoconus and 2 had post-LASIK keratectasia. A 500 kHz VisuMax femtosecond laser was used to perform corneal cuts on both donor and recipient corneas.The outcome measures were the uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal thickness, astigmatism, endothelial density count (EDC), and corneal power.RESULTS: All eyes were successfully treated. Early postoperative evaluation showed a clear graft in all cases. Intraoperative complications included one case of a small Descemet’s membrane perforation. Postoperatively, there was one case of stromal rejection, one of loosened sutures, and one of wound dehiscence. A normal corneal pattern topography and transparency were restored, UCVA and BCVA improved significantly, and astigmatism improved slightly. There was no statistically significant decrease in EDC.CONCLUSION: Our early results indicate that femtosecond laser-assisted deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty could improve UCVA and BCVA in patients with anterior corneal pathology. This approach shows promise as a safe and effective surgical choice in the treatment of keratoconus and post-LASIK keratectasia.

Presence of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Emrah Kan,Elif Kilic Kan,Gülcin Ecemis and Ramis Colak — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To determine the prevalence of ophthalmopathy in Hashimoto’s patients and to make a comparison in subgroups of patientsMETHODS:The study involved 110 Hashimoto’s thyroiditis patients and 50 control subjects attending to the endocrinology department of the hospital. Subgroup classification of patientswas made as euthyroid, subclinic and clinic in Hashimato’s thyroiditis. All patients were evaluated by a single experienced ophthalmologist for the prevalence and characteristics of eye signs.RESULTS: The overall prevalences of eye changes were 22.7% (25 patients) in patients and 4% (2 persons) in control subjects respectively (P=0.002). In patients the most common symptom was retrobulbar eye pain with or without any eye movement. Thirteen patients had significant upper eyelid retraction (11.8%). Six patients had eye muscle dysfunction as reduced eye movements in up gaze. In control patients one person had proptosis and another had lid retraction. The clinical activity score and classification of the ophthalmopathy did not show any significant differences among subgroups.CONCLUSION:The eye signs were mostly mild (22.7%) and the most common eye sign was the presence of upper eyelid retraction (11.8%). Additionally six patients had eye muscle dysfunction as reduced eye movements in up gaze. Therefore we recommend to make a routine ophthalmic examination in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis patients in order not to omit the associated ophthalmopathy.

Effects of laser photocoagulation on serum angiopoietin-1, angiopoietin-2, angiopoietin-1/angiopoietin-2 ratio, and soluble angiopoietin receptor Tie-2 levels in type 2 diabetic patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Qiao-Ying You,Fu-Yuan Zhuge,Qi-Qian Zhu and Xu-Wei Si — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To determine the effects of laser photocoagulation on serum levels of angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1), angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2), soluble angiopoietin receptor Tie-2 (Tie-2), Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). We also explored the role of the Ang/Tie system in PDR.METHODS: 160 patients with T2DM, including 50 patients with non-diabetic retinopathy (NDR), 58 patients with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), and 52 patients with PDR were enrolled in this study. Serum Ang-1, Ang-2, Tie-2 receptor and VEGF levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for all patients and were repeated in 26 patients who underwent laser photocoagulation two months after the procedure.RESULTS: The median levels of Ang-2 and VEGF in serum were significantly higher in the NPDR group (4.23 ng/mL and 303.2 pg/mL, respectively) compared to the NDR group (2.67 ng/mL and 159.8 pg/mL, respectively, P<0.01), with the highest level in the PDR group (6.26 ng/mL and 531.2 pg/mL, respectively, P<0.01). The median level of Ang-1 was significantly higher in the NPDR group (10.77 ng/mL) compared to the NDR group (9.31 ng/mL) and the PDR groups (9.54 ng/mL) (P<0.05), while no difference was observed between the PDR and NDR groups. Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio of PDR group was lowest in three groups (1.49 vs 2.69 and 2.90, both P<0.01). The median level of Tie-2 was not significantly different among three groups (P>0.05). Ang-2 was positively correlated with VEGF and Tie-2 in the PDR and NPDR groups (both P<0.05). Among the 26 patients who underwent laser photocoagulation, serum Ang-2 and VEGF levels significantly decreased (both P<0.05), whereas serum Ang-1 level and Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio were weakly increased (P>0.05). The median levels of Ang-2 and VEGF in serum were highest in PDR group, however, Ang-1/Ang-2 ratio of PDR group was lowest in three groups.CONCLUSION: Laser photocoagulation can reduce serum Ang-2 and VEGF levels. The Ang/Tie system and VEGF play an important role in the development and progression of T2DM patients with PDR.

Analysis of peripapilary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness of healthy Chinese from northwestern Shanghai using Cirrus HD-OCT

Shen Qu,Xiao-Ting Sun,Wei Xu and Ao Rong — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To investigate peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness of healthy Chinese individuals from northwestern Shanghai using Cirrus HD-OCT (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc. Dublin, CA, USA).METHODS:The peripapillary RNFL thickness of 720 eyes from 360 healthy Chinese participants were measured using the Optic Disc Cube 200×200 protocol. Each eye was scanned 3 times. Global and each quadrant’s RNFL thickness around the optic nerve were compared between genders, and interocular differences were analyzed. The correlation between global RNFL thickness and age were also assessed in this study.RESULTS:The mean global, superior, nasal, inferior and temporal RNFL thickness of all the eyes were 96.04±7.40 μm, 118.36±13.52 μm, 67.63±8.60 μm, 125.17±13.48 μm, 72.49±10.70 μm, respectively. When analyzing between genders, the mean nasal RNFL thickness of male and female were 68.29±8.44 μm and 66.97±8.70 μm, with statistically significant difference (P=0.038), while the data of global, superior, inferior and temporal quadrant showed no significant difference (all P>0.05). When analyzing interocular differences, the mean RNFL thickness of all the right eyes and all the left eyes were 116.46±13.17 μm and 120.27±13.61 μm in superior quadrant (P<0.001); 68.74±8.80 μm and 66.52±8.25 μm in nasal quadrant (P<0.001); 73.16±10.95 and 71.83±10.41 in temporal quadrant (P<0.001), all having statistically significant differences. There were no statistically significant interocular differences of global and inferior RNFL thickness (both P>0.05). There was a significantly negative correlation (r=-0.618, P<0.001) between the mean global RNFL thickness and the age.CONCLUSION:In healthy Chinese from northwestern Shanghai, there were no significant differences detected interocular difference and between genders in the mean global RNFL thickness. Nevertheless, significant difference existed in the nasal quadrant between genders, and interocular differences existed in the superior, nasal and temporal quadrants. The RNFL thickness appeared to gradually decrease with age.

Diagnosis of lacrimal canalicular diseases using ultrasound biomicroscopy:a preliminary study

Hai Tao,Li-Ping Xu,Cui Han,Peng Wang and Fang Bai — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To evaluate the application of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in the examination of lacrimal canalicular diseases, and to investigate UBM image characteristics of lacrimal canaliculi in disease states.METHODS:Sixty cases (63 eyes, 69 canaliculi) of lacrimal canalicular diseases were enrolled that included 32 patients (32 eyes, 32 canaliculi) with chronic lacrimal canaliculitis, 18 patients (18 eyes, 18 canaliculi) with previous lacrimal canalicular laceration, 9 patients (12 eyes, 18 canaliculi) with congenital absence of lacrimal puncta and canaliculi, and 1 case (1 eye, 1 canaliculus) of canalicular mass. The patients were examined using UBM, and disease-specific features of the UBM images were noted.RESULTS:UBM imaging of lacrimal canaliculi in chronic canaliculitis patients showed obvious ectasia of the lacrimal canalicular lumen. Dot-like moderate echoic signals were detected on some ectatic lumina of the lacrimal canaliculus. Some lumen-like structures of the lower lacrimal canaliculus were observed in 2 (2 eyes, 2 canaliculi) of the 9 patients (12 eyes, 18 canaliculi) with congenital absence of the lacrimal canaliculus. Of the 18 patients (18 eyes, 18 canaliculi) with previous lacrimal canalicular laceration, the lacerated end on the nasal side of the lacrimal canaliculus was detected only in 14 patients (14 eyes, 14 canaliculi).CONCLUSION:UBM can be used to evaluate lacrimal canalicular diseases and can provide an imaging basis for the diagnosis of lacrimal canalicular diseases.

Birth weight and gestational age on retinopathy of prematurity in discordant twins in China

Zong-Hua Wang,Yao-Yu Li and Zhi-Min Liu — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To assess the relative effect of birth weight and gestational age on retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) using preterm twin pairs discordant for birth weigh in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit in China.METHODS: Fifty-six discordant twin pairs of 112 preterm infants were retrospectively analyzed. The twin pairs were divided into two subgroups based on birth weight in each pair. The occurrence of ROP and severe ROP requiring treatment were compared between the lower birth weight infants and their co-twins with the higher birth weight. Some neonatal morbidities related to prematurity and neonatal characteristics were also compared between the twin pairs.RESULTS: Based on the univariate analysis, gestational age and birth weight were significantly associated with the occurrence and progression of ROP. But no significant differences in ROP between larger and smaller infants were observed in the twin-paired analysis. The incidence of neonatal morbidities regarding respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), sepsis and neonatal characteristics regarding gender distribution, one- and five-minute Apgar score, postnatal steroid treatment, blood transfusion, supplemental oxygen therapy, and mechanical ventilation were not different between the twins. However, gestational age of ≤28wk was significantly associated with significantly higher rates of ROP and severe ROP.CONCLUSION: Gestational age is a better predictor of ROP than birth weight in the twin-paired study.

Anatomical characterization of central, apical and minimal corneal thickness

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To anatomically locate the points of minimum corneal thickness and central corneal thickness (pupil center) in relation to the corneal apex.METHODS: Observational, cross-sectional study, 299 healthy volunteers. Thickness at the corneal apex (AT), minimum corneal thickness (MT) and corneal thickness at the pupil center (PT) were determined using the pentacam. Distances from the corneal apex to MT (MD) and PT (PD) were calculated and their quadrant position (taking the corneal apex as the reference) determined:point of minimum thickness (MC) and point of central thickness (PC) depending on the quadrant position. Two multivariate linear regression models were constructed to examine the influence of age, gender, power of the flattest and steepest corneal axes, position of the flattest axis, corneal volume (determined using the Pentacam) and PT on MD and PD. The effects of these variables on MC and PC were also determined in two multinomial regression models.RESULTS: MT was located at a mean distance of 0.909 mm from the apex (79.4% in the inferior-temporal quadrant). PT was located at a mean distance of 0.156 mm from the apex. The linear regression model for MD indicated it was significantly influenced by corneal volume (B=-0.024; 95%CI:-0.043 to -0.004). No significant relations were identified in the linear regression model for PD or the multinomial logistic regressions for MC and PC.CONCLUSION: MT was typically located at the inferior-temporal quadrant of the cornea and its distance to the corneal apex tended to decrease with the increment of corneal volume.

Multicolor pattern scan laser for diabetic retinopathy with cataract

Takao Hirano,Yasuhiro Iesato and Toshinori Murata — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the ability of various laser wavelengths in delivering sufficient burns to the retina in eyes with cataract using a new multicolor pattern scan laser with green (532 nm), yellow (577 nm), and red (647 nm) lasers.METHODS:The relationship between the Emery-Little (EL) degree of cataract severity and the laser wavelength required to deliver adequate burns was investigated in 102 diabetic eyes. Treatment time, total number of laser shots, and intra-operative pain were assessed as well.RESULTS:All EL-1 grade eyes and 50% of EL-2 eyes were successfully treated with the green laser, while 50% of EL-2 eyes, 96% of EL-3 eyes, and 50% of EL-4 eyes required the yellow laser. The red laser was effective in the remaining 4% of EL-3 and 50% of EL-4 eyes.CONCLUSION: Longer wavelength lasers are more effective in delivering laser burns through cataract when we use a multicolor pattern scan laser system.

Enucleation and evisceration:indications, complications and clinicopathological correlations

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To assess main indications, postoperative complications and clinicopathological correlation of ocular enucleation-evisceration.METHODS: A total of 107 subjects who underwent enucleation and/or evisceration and received hydroxyapatite implants (Scleral wrap or mesh) were assessed. For each patient clinicopathological data was collected which included demographic information, clinical history, primary clinical diagnosis, main cause of ophthalmic surgery (traumatic, non-traumatic), type of surgical procedure (enucleation, evisceration) and pathological report. Patients’ postoperative clinical visits were checked for procedure-related complications during first year after surgery.RESULTS:One hundred and seven patients (male:65.4%; mean age:26y) underwent enucleation (n=100) or evisceration (n=7) due to traumatic (n=41) and non-traumatic (n=66) causes. Disfiguring painful blind eye was the most common indication of surgery (66.4%), followed by leukocoria (19.6%) and endophthalmitis (4.7%). The main types of injury included ?recracker, traf?c and work accidents, and sharp object perforating injury. In 53 (80.3%) subjects in non-traumatic group the initial clinical diagnosis matched the histopathological results. Malignant tumors (retinoblastoma:47.5%, malignant melanoma:27.3%) were the most common pathological diagnoses followed by phthisis bulbi (25.8%). The most common procedure-related complications were major eye discharge (39.6%), and implant exposure and discharge (20.8%).CONCLUSION: Trauma and malignant tumors are the leading causes of enucleation-evisceration. Despite developing new techniques and materials, enucleation is still associated with considerable postoperative complications.

Spontaneous or secondary to intravitreal injections of anti-angiogenic agents retinal pigment epithelial tears in age-related macular degeneration

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the visual function evolution of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) tears in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) according to type of occurrence [spontaneous or secondary to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) injection] and the topographic location of the tear after a two-year follow-up period.METHODS:A total of 15 eyes of 14 patients with RPE tears in exudative AMD were analyzed retrospectively at the University Eye Clinic of Trieste. Inclusion criteria were:patient age of 50 or older with AMD and RPE tears both spontaneous occurring or post anti-VEGF treatment. Screening included:careful medical history, complete ophthalmological examination, fluorescein angiography (FA), indocyanine green angiography (ICG), autofluorescence and infrared imaging and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Patients were evaluated every month for visual acuity (VA), fundus examination and OCT. Other data reported were:presence of PED, number of injections before the tear, location of the lesion.RESULTS: Mean follow-up was 24wk (SD±4wk). A total of 15 eyes were studied for RPE tear. In 6 cases (40%), the RPE tears occurred within two years of anti-VEGF injections the others occurred spontaneously. In 13 cases (86.6%), the RPE tear was associated with pigment epithelial detachment (PED). In 7 cases (46.6%), the RPE tear occurred in the central area of the retina and involved the fovea. Two lesions were found in the parafoveal region, six in the extra-macular area. In all cases visual acuity decreased at the end of the follow-up period (P<0.01) independently of the type or the topographical location of the lesion.CONCLUSION:RPE tear occurs in exudative AMD as a spontaneous complication or in relation to anti-VEGF injections. Visual acuity decreased significantly and gradually in the follow-up period in all cases. No correlation was found between visual loss and the type of onset or the topographic location of the tears.

Evaluation of bacterial contamination rate of the anterior chamber during phacoemulsification surgery using an automated microbial detection system

Ibrahim Kocak,Funda Kocak,Bahri Teker,Ali Aydin,Faruk Kaya and Hakan Baybora — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To assess the incidence of anterior chamber bacterial contamination during phacoemulsification surgery using an automated microbial detection system (BacT/Alert).METHODS:Sixty-nine eyes of 60 patients who had uneventful phacoemulsification surgery, enrolled in this prospective study. No prophylactic topical or systemic antibiotics were used before surgery. After antisepsis with povidone-iodine, two intraoperative anterior chamber aqueous samples were obtained, the first whilst entering anterior chamber, and the second at the end of surgery. BacT/Alert culture system was used to detect bacterial contamination in the aqueous samples.RESULTS: Neither aqueous samples obtained at the beginning nor conclusion of the surgery was positive for microorganisms on BacT/Alert culture system. The rate of bacterial contamination during surgery was 0%. None of the eyes developed acute-onset endophthalmitis after surgery.CONCLUSION:In this study, no bacterial contamination of anterior chamber was observed during cataract surgery. This result shows that meticulous surgical preparation and technique can prevent anterior chamber contamination during phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Endoscopic vs external dacryocystorhinostomy-comparison from the patients’ aspect

Serdar Ozer and Pinar A. Ozer — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To compare the success and complication rates, duration of surgeries and clinical comfort after endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (END-DCR) or external dacryocystorhinostomy (EXT-DCR).METHODS: Fifty patients who underwent EXT- or END-DCR between January 2010-2012 were involved in the study. A questionnaire was applied to patients preoperatively, and postoperatively. Subjective success was defined by absence of epiphora, objective success by a normal nasolacrimal lavage and a positive functional endoscopic dye test (FEDT). Postoperative pain and cosmetic result of surgery were interpreted by the patients, who were also asked whether they would offer this surgery to a friend or would prefer this surgery once more if necessary.RESULTS:Twenty-five patients underwent END-DCR and 25 underwent EXT-DCR. Mean duration of surgeries were 35min both for EXT-DCR (30-50) and END-DCR (35-50) (P=0.778). Intraoperative bleeding were documented in 48% of EXT-DCR and 4% of END-DCR cases (P<0.001). In total 96% of EXT-DCR and 100% of END-DCR patients had subjective success. Objective success was 100% in each group. There was no significant difference between the epiphora scorings and FDDT results in postoperative visits among the groups.END-DCR group reported less pain in first week and month (P<0.05, P<0.05). More patients in END-DCR group were happy with the cosmetic result in first week and month (P<0.001, P<0.001). More patients in END-DCR group offered this surgery to a friend (P<0.001). All patients in END-DCR group preferred this surgery once more if necessary, only 48% in EXT-DCR preferred the same method (P<0.001).CONCLUSION: Although both END- and EXT-DCRs provide satisfactory outcomes with similar objective and subjective success rates, we demonstrated that the endonasal approach caused significantly less pain in early postoperative period than the external approach. Clinical comfort defined by the patients was quite higher in END-DCR group, in which patients mainly were pleased to encounter a sutureless surgical area.

Role of wide-field autofluorescence imaging and scanning laser ophthalmoscopy in differentiation of choroidal pigmented lesions

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the diagnostic properties of wide-field fundus autofluorescence (FAF) scanning laser ophthalmoscope (SLO) imaging for differentiating choroidal pigmented lesions.METHODS:A consecutive series of 139 patients were included, 101 had established choroidal melanoma with 13 untreated lesions and 98 treated with radiotherapy. Thirty-eight had choroidal nevi. All patients underwent a full ophthalmological examination, undilated wide-field imaging, FAF and standardized US examination. FAF images and imaging characteristics from SLO were correlated with the structural findings in the two patient groups.RESULTS:Mean FAF intensity of melanomas was significantly lower than the FAF of choroidal nevi. Only 1 out of 38 included eyes with nevi touched the optic disc compared to 31 out of 101 eyes with melanomas. In 18 out of 101 melanomas subretinal fluid was seen at the pigmented lesion compared to none seen in eyes with confirmed choroidal nevi. In “green laser separation”, a trend towards more mixed FAF appearance of melanomas compared to nevi was observed. The mean maximal and minimal transverse and longitudinal diameters of melanomas were significantly higher than those of nevi.CONCLUSION:Wide-field SLO and FAF imaging may be an appropriate non-invasive diagnostic screening tool to differentiate benign from malign pigmented choroidal lesions.

Retinal nerve fiber layer thickness changes in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome:one year follow-up results

Mehmet Ozgur Zengin,Ibrahim Tuncer and Eyyup Karahan — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To investigate the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness changes in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) for one year follow-up. To discuss the possibility of detecting tendency of glaucoma in this population by using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (3D-OCT-2000 Spectral domain).METHODS:After polysomnographic study, all subjects (64 OSAS patients and 40 controls) underwent detailed ophthalmological examination. After these examinations, patients with glaucoma and patients who had ophthalmological and/or systemic disease were excluded from the study. Totally, 20 patients in OSAS group and five patients in controls were excluded from the study in the first examination and follow-up period. The RNFL thickness was assessed with OCT. Forty-four OSAS patients and 35 control subjects were followed up 12mo. RNFL thickness change and OSAS patients were evaluated for severity of disease by Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI).RESULTS:Forty-four OSAS patients and 35 controls were enrolled in the study. Statistically significance was found between OSAS patients and controls at the 12^th mo. Average RNFL thickness was found to be significantly lower in last measurements in OSAS patients when compared with first measurements and control subjects (P<0.001, 0.002, respectively). There was a statistically significant correlation among AHI, and RNFL thickness (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:The results suggest that the patients with OSAS were related with a proportional decrease in the RNFL thickness. These patients should be followed up regularly for glaucomatous changes. Detecting more RNFL thinning in severe OSAS was important.

Comparison of surgically induced astigmatism in patients with horizontal rectus muscle recession

Harun Çakmak,Tolga Kocatürk and Sema Oruç Dündar — 2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM: To compare surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) following horizontal rectus muscle recession surgery between suspension recession with both the “hang-back" technique and conventional recession technique.METHODS:Totally, 48 eyes of 24 patients who had undergone horizontal rectus muscle recession surgery were reviewed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups. Twelve patients were operated on by the hang-back technique (Group 1), and 12 by the conventional recession technique (Group 2). SIA was calculated on the 1^st wk, 1^st and in the 3^rd mo after surgery using the SIA calculator.RESULTS: SIA was statistically higher in the Group 1 all postoperative follow-up. SIA was the highest in the 1^st wk, and decreased gradually in both groups.CONCLUSION: The suspension recession technique induced much more SIA than the conventional recession technique. This difference also continued in the following visits. Therefore, the refractive power should be checked postoperatively in order to avoid refractive amblyopia. Conventional recession surgery should be the preferred method so as to minimize the postoperative refractive changes in patients with amblyopia.

Topographic characteristics of keratoconus among a sample of Jordanian patients

2014/8/15 0:00:00

AIM:To identify topographic characteristics of keratoconus in a Jordanian sample.METHODS:This study characterized 210 corneas affected with keratoconus presenting to Jordan University Hospital. Patients were diagnosed based on clinical examinations and Pentacam imaging. Eyes of males (n=101) were of a similar proportion to females (n=109). All of the 111 patients were affected bilaterally. Ages ranged between 13 and 44y with a mean age of 25.2y.RESULTS:Results revealed significant differences between males and females at the level of the flat curvature power, basement membrane thickness and size of the anterior chamber. Eyes were arranged in three groups based on severity levels:mild, moderate and severe determined by the mean curvature power (Km). Results show that the flat (K1) and steep (K2) curvature powers, corneal asphericity coefficient (QV), thinnest point, pachy apex and basement membrane thickness are significantly different among the three groups, but not the corneal and anterior chamber volumes. Morphological analyses, based on sagittal maps, show no differences in keratometric values between eyes with different sagittal patterns except for the vertical location of the pachy apex relative to the pupil center and the thinnest point. Eyes with the island front elevation map are significantly more affected than eyes with the U shape and the ridge pattern.CONCLUSION:All keratometric values measured except for corneal and anterior chamber volumes vary significantly with disease severity. The vertical pachy apex location correlates well with severity levels while the horizontal location seems to have no effect. Our study also indicates that front elevation maps may be a better predictor of the severity of keratoconus than sagittal maps.

Accuracy of axial length measurements from immersion B-scan ultrasonography in highly myopic eyes

Qing-Hua Yang,Bing Chen,Guang-Hua Peng,Zhao-Hui Li and Yi-Fei Huang — 2014/6/24 0:00:00

AIM:To evaluate the accuracy of axial length (AL) measurements obtained from immersion B-scan ultrasonography (immersion B-scan) for intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in patients with high myopia and cataracts.METHODS:Immersion B-scan, contact A-scan ultrasonography (contact A-scan), and the IOLMaster were used to preoperatively measure the AL in 102 eyes from 102 patients who underwent phacoemulsification and IOL implantation. Patients were divided into two groups according to the AL:one containing patients with 22 mm≤AL<26 mm(group A) and the other containing patients with AL≥26 mm (group B). The mean error (ME) was calculated from the difference between the AL measurement methods predicted refractive error and the actual postoperative refractive error.RESULTS:In group A, ALs measured by immersion B-scan (23.48±1.15) didn’t differ significantly from those measured by the IOLMaster (23.52±1.17) or from those by contact A-scan (23.38±1.20). In the same group, the standard deviation (SD) of the mean error (ME) of immersion B-scan (-0.090±0.397 D) didn’t differ significantly from those of IOLMaster (-0.095±0.411 D) and contact A-scan (-0.099±0.425 D). In group B, ALs measured by immersion B-scan (27.97±2.21 mm) didn’t differ significantly from those of the IOLMaster (27.86±2.18 mm), but longer than those measured by Contact A-scan (27.75±2.23 mm, P=0.009). In the same group, the standard deviation (SD) of the mean error (ME) of immersion B-scan (-0.635±0.157 D) didn’t differ significantly from those of the IOLMaster (-0.679±0.359 D), but differed significantly from those of contact A-scan (-0.953±1.713 D, P=0.028).CONCLUSION:Immersion B-scan exhibits measurement accuracy comparable to that of the IOLMaster, and is thus a good alternative in measuring AL in eyes with high myopia when the IOLMaster can’t be used, and it is more accurate than the contact A-scan.

Analysis of glistenings in hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses on visual performance

Lei Xi,Yi Liu,Feng Zhao,Chuan Chen and Bing Cheng — 2014/6/24 0:00:00

AIM:To assess patients’ visual performance with glistenings in one piece soft hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses (IOLs) (Alcon) 2 years postoperatively.METHODS:This cross section trial included 120 eyes with one piece IOL at 2 years postoperatively. Glistening was classified in 4 groups, ranging from 0 (none) to 3 (most evident) according to their severity in IOLs optics observed under a slit lamp. All eyes underwent a uncorrected and best-corrected visual acuity evaluation (UCVA and BCVA, LogMAR scale), a complete clinical examination, a contrast sensitivity (CS) evaluation by F.A.C.T chart, and a visual field test by Humphrey Field AnalyzerⅡ(HFA). One-way ANOVA was used for quantitative data, while Pearson χ² test was used for qualitative data to analyze the visual function of 4 glistening groups.RESULTS: Totally 120 eyes were enrolled with 30 eyes in each glistening group. There was no statistical correlation between glistening grades and patients’ age, IOLs power, postoperative UCVA and BCVA (P>0.05). Quantificationally, CS values among each group were not statistically different. However, qualitative analysis showed there were more eyes in grade 3 group than in grade 0 group having abnormally declined CS at high spatial frequency (10% vs 36.7% at 18 cpd, P=0.029; 6.7% vs 26.7% at 12 cpd, P=0.013). Mean deviation (MD) of the visual field test was -2.14±2.31, -1.97±2.23, -3.02±3.17, -4.12±3.38 in group 0 to 3 respectively. There was a significant decrease in the most serious glistenings group (P =0.018).CONCLUSION:Glistenings may potentially have an impact on contrast sensitivity at high spatial frequencyand MD in visual field test.

Using LaserSight Astrapro Planner 2.2 Z software in corneal topography-guidedlaser in situ keratomileusis for myopia with asymmetric corneal shape

2014/6/24 0:00:00

AIM: To determine the clinical outcomes of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) treatments using LaserSight AstraPro Planner 2.2 Z software for myopia with asymmetric corneal shape.METHODS:Four hundred and eighty-five eyes [243 patients; spherical equivalent (SE), -5.93±1.88 diopters (D)] were treated with asymmetric ablations using LaserSight SLX laser (version 5.3, 300Hz) were retrospectively analyzed and LaserSight AstraPro Planner 2.2 Z software. Preoperative and postoperative uncorrected visual acuities (UCVA), spherical equivalent (SE) refraction, pachymetry, and corneal asphericity (Q value) and decentration were evaluated. RESULTS:At 12mo postoperatively, the decimal UCVA was 1.0 or better in 449 (92.6%) eyes. Two eyes (0.4%) lost 1 line of the decimal best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), 316 (65.2%) did not change, 149 (30.7%) gained 1 line, and 18 (3.7%) gained 2 lines or more after surgery. Three hundred and thirty-two eyes (68.5%) were within 0.5 D in SE. The mean tissue saving ablation depth was 4.28±2.86 (0-16) μm (median, 4 μm). The mean attempted remaining central corneal thickness was 435.79±29.56 μm, the mean postoperative pachymetry was 444.94±28.93 μm. The mean preoperative Q value was -0.19±0.18, the postoperative was 0.30±0.48 (P=0.000). The mean postoperative decentration was 0.39±0.19 mm. CONCLUSION:Topography-guided LASIK with AstraPro Planner 2.2 Z custom ablation planning software in an asymmetric ablation mode was an effective, safe, predictable, and stable refractive procedure for the myopia with asymmetric corneal topography.

A near-vision chart for children aged 3-5 years old:new designs and clinical applications

Yang-Qing Huang,He Huang and Rong-Zhi Huang — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To introduce a new near-vision chart for children aged 3-5 years old and its clinical applications.METHODS:The new near-vision chart which combined the Bailey-Lovie layout with a newly devised set of symmetry symbols was designed based on Weber-Fechner law. It consists of 15 rows of symmetry symbols, corresponding to a visual acuity range from 1.3 to 0.1 logMAR. The optotypes were red against a white background and were specially shaped four basic geometric symbols:circle, square, triangle，and cross, which matched the preschool children''s cognitive level. A regular geometric progression of the optotype sizes and distribution was employed to arrange in 15 lines. The progression rate of the optotype size between two lines was 1.2589 and two smaller groups of optotypes ranging from 0.7 to -0.1 logMAR were included for repetitive testing. A near visual acuity was recorded in logMAR or decimal, and the testing distance was 25 cm.RESULTS:This new near-vision chart with pediatric acuity test optotypes which consists of 4 different symbols (triangle, square, cross, and circle) met the national and international eye chart design guidelines. When performing the near visual acuity assessment in preschoolers (3-5 years old). It overcame an inability to recognize the letters of the alphabet and difficulties in designating the direction of black abstract symbols such as the tumbling ''E'' or Landolt ''C'', which the subjects were prone to lose interest in. Near vision may be recorded in different notations:decimal acuity and logMAR. These two notations can be easily converted each other in the new near-vision chart. The measurements of this new chart not only showed a significant correlation and a good consistency with the Chinese national standard logarithmic near-vision chart (r=0.932, P<0.01), but also indicated good test-retest reliability (89% of retest scores were within 0.1 logMAR units of the initial test score) and a high response rate.CONCLUSION:The results of this study support the validity and reliability of near visual acuity measurements using the new near-vision chart in children aged 3-5y over a wide range of visual acuities, and the new eye chart was especially suitable for the detection of amblyopia risk factors and low vision examination in children (3-5y of age). It can be applied in routine clinical practice.

Relationship between modified homeostasis model assessment/correlative serum factors and diabetic retinopathy among type 2 diabetics with insulin therapy in Guangzhou, China

Li Hu and Dong-Hao Li — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To explore the related risk factors for diabetic retinopathy (DR) in type 2 diabetes with insulin therapy.METHODS: We studied the relationships among blood glucose, serum C-peptide, plasma insulin, beta-cell function and the development of DR. Beta-cell function was assessed by a modified homeostasis model assessment (modified HOMA) which was gained by using C-peptide to replace insulin in the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) of beta-cell function. We also studied the relationships between modified HOMA index and serum C-peptide response to 100g tasteless steamed bread to determine the accuracy of modified HOMA.RESULTS:Our study group consisted of 170 type 2 diabetic inpatients with DR (age:58.35±13.87y, mean±SD) and 205 type 2 diabetic inpatients with no DR (NDR) (age:65.52±11.59y). DR patients had higher age, longer diabetic duration, higher hypertension grade, higher postprandial plasma glucose, higher fluctuation level of plasma glucose, lower body mass index (BMI), lower postprandial serum insulin and C-peptide, lower fluctuation level of serum insulin and C-peptide (P＜0.05). In our logistic regression model, duration of diabetes, hypertension grade, fasting plasma insulin and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C) were significantly associated with the presence of DR after adjustment for confounding factors (P＜0.05).CONCLUSION:Our results suggested although modified HOMA showed significant correlation to the occurrence of DR on Spearman’s rank-correlation analysis, logistic regression showed no significant association between these two variables after adjustment for relevant confounding factors (such as age, sex, duration of diabetes, BMI, hypertension grade, HbA1C, plasma insulin). Duration of diabetes, hypertension grade, fasting plasma insulin and HbA1C were independently associated with the development of DR in Chinese type 2 diabetics.

Anatomical and functional outcomes after Densiron 68 heavy silicone oil tamponade for complicated retinal detachment in Chinese eyes

Fang Liu,Hui Li,Le Feng and Fang Wang — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Densiron 68 heavy silicone oil (HSO) tamponade for complicated retinal detachment (RD) in Chinese eyes.METHODS: Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients with complicated RD were included in this retrospective study. All patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy with an internal tamponade using Densiron 68 HSO. Anatomical and functional results and complications were evaluated, including retinal status, visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), intraocular inflammation, lens opacity, and HSO emulsification.RESULTS:All the patients were followed up for 3mo to 1y (5.8±1.16mo). Retinal reattachment was achieved in 19 of 21 patients (90.5%). VA improved in 18 of 21 patients (85.7%), from 1.93 logMAR (±0.48) to 1.52 logMAR (±0.45) (P=0.001). Postoperative complications included early dispersion of HSO in 7 eyes (38.8%), cataract in 10 of 18 phakic eyes (55.5%), moderate postoperative inflammation reaction in 10 eyes (47.6%), and elevated IOP in 5 eyes (23.8%), all of which were controlled by medication or by surgery.CONCLUSION: High anatomical and functional success rates can be achieved with primary vitrectomy for complicated RD by using Densiron 68 HSO; however, it should not be ignored that Densiron 68 HSO can cause some complications in the eye.

Agreement in identification of glaucomatous progression between the optic disc photography and Heidelberg retina tomography in young glaucomatous patients

2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate concordance between the clinical assessment of glaucomatous progression of the optic disc photography and progression identified by Heidelberg Retina Tomograph (HRT) in patients with suspected primary juvenile open angle glaucoma (JOAG).METHODS:Optic disc photographs and corresponding HRT Ⅱ series were reviewed. Optic disc changes between first and final photographs were noted as well as progression identified by HRT topographic change analysis (TCA) and rim area regression line (RARL) Agreement between progression indentified by photography and HRT methods was assessed. Progression, determined from optic disc photographs by consensus assessment was used as the reference standard.RESULTS: A total of 31 patients (59 eyes) with suspected JOAG were studied. Agreement for progression/no progression between TCA and photography was obtained in 4 progressing eyes and 38 stable eyes (71.19%, k=0.11). Agreement for progression/no progression between RARL and photography was detected in 5 progressing eyes and in 34 stable eyes (66.10%, k=0.15). The number of HRT per patient was statistically higher in the progressing group (P=0.034).CONCLUSION:Agreement for detection of longitudinal changes between photography and HRT analysis was poor. One way to improve the chance of discovery of the progression could be increasing the number of HRT examinations.

Comparison of the efficacies of patching and penalization therapies for the treatment of amblyopia patients

2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: Tocompare the efficacies of patching and penalization therapies for the treatment of amblyopia patients.METHODS:The records of 64 eyes of 50 patients 7 to 16y of age who had presented to our clinics with a diagnosis of amblyopia, were evaluated retrospectively. Forty eyes of 26 patients who had received patching therapy and 24 eyes of 24 patients who had received penalization therapy included in this study. The latencies and amplitudes of visual evoked potential (VEP) records and best corrected visual acuities (BCVA) of these two groups were compared before and six months after the treatment.RESULTS:In both patching and the penalization groups, the visual acuities increased significantly following the treatments (P<0.05). The latency measurements of the P100 wave obtained at 1.0°, 15 arc min. Patterns of both groups significantly decreased following the 6-months-treatment. However, the amplitude measurements increased (P<0.05).CONCLUSION: The patching and the penalization methods, which are the main methods used in the treatment of amblyopia, were also effective over the age of 7y, which has been accepted as the critical age for the treatment of amblyopia.

Open globe injury in Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia - A 10-year review

2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To identify the aetiology of open globe injuries at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia over a period of 10y and the prognostic factors for visual outcome.METHODS:Retrospective review of medical records of open globe injury cases that presented from January 2000 to December 2009. Classification of open globe injury was based on the Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology (BETT). Records were obtained with hospital permission via the in-house electronic patient management system, and the case notes of all patients with a diagnosis of open globe injury were scrutinised. Patients with prior ocular trauma, pre-existing ocular conditions affecting the visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, central vision or corneal thickness, as well as those with a history of previous intraocular or refractive surgery were excluded. Analysis of data was with SPSS version 20.0. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between prognostic factors and visual outcome.RESULTS: This study involved 220 patients (n=222 eyes). The most common place of injury was the home (51.8%), followed by the workplace (23.4%). Among children aged less than 16y of age, domestic-related injury was the predominant cause (54.6%), while in those aged 16y and above, occupational injuries were the most common cause (40.0%). Most eyes (76.5%) had an initial visual acuity worse than 3/60, and in half of these, the visual acuity improved. The visual outcome was found to be significantly associated with the initial visual acuity (P<0.005), posterior extent of wound (P<0.001), length of wound (P<0.001), presence of hyphaema (P<0.001) and presence of vitreous prolapse ((P<0.005).CONCLUSION:The most common causes of open globe injury are domestic accidents and occupational injuries. Significant prognostic factors for final visual outcome in patients with open globe injury are initial visual acuity, posterior extent and length of wound, presence of hyphaema and presence of vitreous prolapse. Awareness of the factors predicting a poor visual outcome may be helpful during counselling of patients with open globe injuries.

Comparison of the Retinomax hand-held autorefractor versus table-top autorefractor and retinoscopy

Ibrahim Tuncer,Mehmet Ozgur Zengin and Eyyup Karahan — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To compare noncycloplegic and cycloplegic results of Retinomax measurements with findings achieved after cycloplegia using table-top autorefractor and retinoscopy.METHODS: The study included 127 patients (mean age 96.7mo, range 21 to 221). Retinomax (Rmax) (Nikon Inc., Japan) was used to obtain noncycloplegic refraction. Under cycloplegia, refraction was measured with Rmax, table-top autorefractor (TTR) (Nikon NRK 8000, Inc., Japan) and retinoscopy. The values of sphere, spherical equivalent, cylinder and axis of cylinder were recorded for Rmax, TTR and retinoscopy in each eye. All results were analyzed statistically.RESULTS: The mean spheric values (SV), spherical equivalent values (SEV) and cylindrical values (CV) of the noncycloplegic Rmax (SV:0.64 D, SEV:0.65 D and CV:0.03 D, respectively) were found to be significantly lower than cycloplegic TTR (1.43 D, 1.38 D and 0.3 D; P=0.012, P=0.011 and P=0.04, respectively) and retinoscopy (1.34 D, 1.45 D and 0.23 D; P=0.04, P=0.002 and P=0.045, respectively). Mean cycloplegic SV, SEV, CV were not significantly different between Rmax and TTR, Rmax and retinoscopy, TTR and retinoscopy. Cycloplegic or noncycloplegic axis values were not different between any method.CONCLUSION: Rmax may be used successfully as a screening tool but may not be accurate enough for actual spectacle prescription. Cycloplegic Rmax measurements may be able to identify refractive error in children because of approximate results to retinoscopy.

Central corneal thickness measurements in premature infants

2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the central corneal thickness (CCT) measurements of premature infantsMETHODS: The premature infants who were born between 25-34wk of gestational age (GA) were retrieved for the study. All CCT measurements were performed within the first 2d of their life under topical anesthesia by using an ultrasonic pachymeter.RESULTS: The mean CCT of 200 eyes was 647.79±63.94 μm. The mean CCT of the right and left eyes were similar (647.30±64.72 μm and 648.29±63.47 μm consecutively). The mean CCT of the girls was 642.08±54.89 μm and the boys was 653.07±71.14 μm, with no statistically significant difference (P>0.05). But there was a negative correlation of the CCT with GA and birth weight (BW) (P<0.01).CONCLUSION:The CCT values of premature babies were negatively correlated with GA and BW.

Aqueous levels of erythropoietin in acute retinal vein occlusion with macular edema

Hyun Jin Shin,Hyung Chan Kim and Jun Woong Moon — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the aqueous erythropoietin (EPO) levels and associated factors in patients with acute retinal vein occlusion (RVO).METHODS:The aqueous EPO level was measured in patients with macular edema (ME) secondary to acute branched retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) or central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). Aqueous fluid from cataract patients served as the control. We also evaluated whether aqueous level of EPO was associated with factors such as serum EPO level, non-perfusion area, central macular thickness (CMT), and arterio-venous (AV) transit timeRESULTS:Twenty-seven RVO patients (16 BRVO, 11 CRVO) and 9 control subjects were enrolled in the study. The aqueous EPO level (mU/mL) was higher in RVO (68.2±54.3) than that in the control subjects (12.9±5.9). More specifically, the aqueous EPO level was higher in CRVO (118.9±52.1) than that in BRVO (33.3±10.8). However, no differences were found in serum EPO levels among three groups. CMT in RVO patients had a positive correlation with the aqueous EPO level (r=0.66). Also, in terms of non-perfusion area, the aqueous EPO levels were more elevated in the ischemic subgroup than in the non-ischemic subgroup in both BRVO and CRVO.CONCLUSION:Aqueous EPO levels are elevated in patients with macular edema secondary to recent onset RVO. Patients with CRVO have higher EPO levels than those with BRVO. The aqueous EPO level in RVO has a positive correlation with CMT and is associated with non-perfusion area. These results suggest that the aqueous EPO level could be associated with retinal ischemia and may be involved in the pathogenesis of macular edema secondary to RVO.

Total lower lid reconstruction:clinical outcomes of utilizing three-layer flap and graft in one session

2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To report the clinical outcomes of utilizing a three-layer flap and graft in reconstruction of the lower lid in one session. METHODS: Seventeen patients with total or near total lower eyelid defect were included. The defects were reconstructed in three layers. Posterior lamella was reconstructed by using tarsoconjunctival free graft from the ipsilateral upper lid and periosteal flap from lateral orbital rim. Mobilization of residual orbicularis muscle provided a rich blood supply; and the anterior lamella was reconstructed by skin flap prepared from upper lid blepharoplasty as a one-pedicular or bipedicular bucket handle flap.RESULTS: The cause of lower eyelid defect was basal cell carcinoma in 15 patients and trauma in two of them. No intraoperative and postoperative complication occurred. Patients were followed from 10 to 15mo postoperatively. Cosmetic results were favorable in all patients and we had acceptable functional results. Thickness of the reconstructed tissue was a concern in early postoperative period.CONCLUSION:Three-layer lower lid reconstruction in one session is an effective technique for total lower lid reconstruction with minimal complications and acceptable functional and aesthetic outcomes and can be considered as a safe alternative for the preexisting techniques.

Does topical bevacizumab prevent postoperative recurrence after pterygium surgery with conjunctival autografting?

Aylin Karalezli,Cem Kucukerdonmez,Yonca A. Akova and Bengu Ekinci Koktekir — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To assess the effect of topical bevacizumab use on postoperative pterygium recurrence in eyes who underwent pterygium excision with limbal-conjunctival autograft transplantation (LCAT).METHODS:Eighty-eight eyes of 88 patients with primary pterygium were included. Pterygia were graded preoperatively from type 1 to type 3 (type 1 atrophic, type 3 inflamed) according to the inflammatory status. The eyes were preoperatively randomized to receive topical steroid and antibiotic treatment (group 1, 46 eyes) and additional topical bevacizumab (5 mg/mL; group 2, 42 eyes) in the postoperative period. All eyes underwent pterygium excision and LCAT. Medications were tapered and discontinued at one month. Postoperative complications and recurrence rates were recorded.RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 29.3±4.2mo (24-52mo) and 28.5±3.4 (24-48mo) in group 1 and 2, respectively (P＞0.05). There were no statistically significant differences regarding the age or gender between groups (P＞0.05). Also, the difference between groups with respect to pterygium type was not significant. During the follow-up period, recurrence developed in 2 eyes (4.3%) in group 1, whereas in one eye (2.4%) in group 2. No statistically significant difference between groups was found in recurrence rates (P＞0.05). No re-operation for recurrence was necessary during the follow-up period in both groups. CONCLUSION: Topical bevacizumab seems to have no additonal effect on pterygium recurrence after LCAT.

Long-term outcomes of penetrating keratoplasty in keratoconus:analysis of the factors associated with final visual acuities

Jin A Choi,Min A Lee and Man-Soo Kim — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the long-term results of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in patients with keratoconus (KC) and to evaluate factors that might influence the final visual outcome.METHODS:We retrospectively reviewed the data of all patients with clinical KC who had undergone PK by a single corneal surgeon in a single center from May 1980 to December 2005. The age of the patients, preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal thickness, death to preservation time, and preservation to transplantation time were recorded. Additionally, postoperative complications such as graft rejection, development of glaucoma and specular microscopy were checked during the follow-up.RESULTS:Sixty-nine eyes from 69 patients were finally included. The follow-up period was 8.64±6.13y. Graft rejection occurred in 4 eyes of 69 cases (5.8%), and the time to graft rejection was 2.1±1.3y. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that the estimated cumulative probability of graft rejection at 6, 13, and 17y after PK were 95.6%, 90.0%, and 78.8%, respectively. When we evaluated factors that might influence final BCVA in eyes, no disparity donor-host trephine size (same graft size) as well as higher spherical equivalent, and average K-value were associated with higher final BCVA. (P=0.006, 0.051, 0.092, and 0.021 in eyes with follow-up <8y; P=0.068, 0.065, and 0.030 in eyes with follow-up ≥8y, respectively).CONCLUSION: The long-term results of PK in patients with KC were favorable with a high percentage of good BCVA. Less myopic change and low average K-reading, as well as a surgical technique using the same size donor-recipient button may provide better visual outcomes particularly in patients with KC.

Factors associated with strabismus after cataract extraction and primary intraocular lens implantation in congenital cataracts

Soo Jung Lee and Wan-Soo Kim — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate factors associated with the development of strabismus after cataract extraction and primary intraocular lens implantation.METHODS: The medical records of 122 patients, aged 1.5mo to 9y, who had undergone cataract extraction with primary intraocular lens implantation between January 1993 and August 2011 were reviewed. Fourteen patients (17 eyes) with strabismus before cataract surgery were excluded. Patients were divided into those with congenital bilateral cataracts (64 patients, 128 eyes) and those with unilateral cataracts (44 patients, 44 eyes). The associations between the development of strabismus and age at cataract surgery, pre- and post-cataract extraction corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), interocular CDVA difference, nystagmus, surgical method, and secondary cataract were evaluated.RESULTS: Factors significantly associated with the development of strabismus included age at cataract surgery (≤1y), preoperative mean CDVA ≤20/100, presence of nystagmus in the bilateral cataract group and postoperative interocular CDVA difference ＞20/70 in the unilateral group. Postoperative CDVA ≤20/100 and preservation of posterior capsule, and presence of secondary cataract were significant factors in both groups.CONCLUSION: Children with congenital cataracts should be monitored carefully after cataract surgery for the development of strabismus, especially when they underwent surgery at age ≤1y, and they have nystagmus, large postoperative interocular CDVA difference, poor preoperative and postoperative CDVA, preservation of the posterior capsule, or secondary cataract.

Survival analysis following early surgical success in intermittent exotropia surgery

Joo Yeon Lee,Sung Ju Ko and Sung Uk Baek — 2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To assess the consecutive recurrence following early success of intermittent exotropia surgery and to determine the clinical factors that affect the survival.METHODS:One hundred and thirty-five patients who underwent intermittent exotropia surgery and experienced early surgical success [≤5 prism diopters (PD) esophoria (E) to ≤10 PD exophoria (X) on the postoperative sixth month] were enrolled in this study. Their consecutive survival on the postoperative first year, second year and third year and at the last visit of fourth year or more, and the factors that might affect their survival, were analyzed. The final surgical outcomes after the postoperative fourth year were also investigated by dividing the patients into the success group (≤5 PD E to ≤10 PD X) and the failure group (>5 PD esodeviation or >10 PD exodeviation)RESULTS:The survival rates from the Kaplan-Meier analysis were 97.78%, 92.89%, 83.70% and 50.49% on the postoperative first, second and third years and fourth year or more, respectively. None of the clinical factors was determined to have affected the survival. The amount of the exodrift was largest (2.29 PD) between the first year and the second year, and smallest (1.47 PD) between the fourth year and the last visit. Sixty-three patients had their final visit after the postoperative fourth year, and 29 of them were in the failure group. Twenty-five patients in the failure group had an intermittent exotropia (IXT) of <20 PD with good to fair distant fusion; two had an IXT of <20 PD with poor distant fusion; one had an IXT of ≥20 PD with fair distant fusion; and another had delayed-onset consecutive esotropia. The exodeviation on the postoperative sixth month was smaller in the success group than in the failure group (2.81 PD vs 5.86 PD, P=0.012). The reoperation rate for recurrent IXT was 3.7%.CONCLUSION:The survival rate steadily decreases with the exodrift, but the amount of the exodrift decreases with long-term follow-up. The final outcomes demonstrate favorable results via surgical success or small-angle IXT with good fusion in most of the patients. A smaller deviation on the postoperative sixth month is associated with long-term survival.

Comparison of scanning electron microscopy findings regarding biofilm colonization with microbiological results in nasolacrimal stents for external, endoscopic and transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy

2014/6/24 0:00:00
AIM:To compare bacterial biofilm colonization in lacrimal stents following external dacryocystorhinostomy (EX-DCR), endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (EN-DCR), and transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy (TC-DCR) with multidiode laser.METHODS: This prospective study included 30 consecutive patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction who underwent EXT-, EN-, or TC-DCR. Thirty removed lacrimal stent fragments and conjunctival samples were cultured. The lacrimal stent biofilms were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).RESULTS:Eleven (36.7%) of the 30 lacrimal stent cultures were positive for aerobic bacteria (most commonly Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). However anaerobic bacteria and fungi were not identified in the lacrimal stent cultures. Twenty-seven (90%) patients had biofilm-positive lacrimal stents. The conjunctival culture positivity after the DCR, biofilm positivity on stents, the grade of biofilm colonization, and the presence of mucus and coccoid and rod-shaped organisms did not significantly differ between any of the groups (P＞0.05). However, a significant difference was found when the SEM results were compared to the results of the lacrimal stent and conjunctival cultures (P＜0.001).CONCLUSION: Type of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) surgery did not affect the biofilm colonization of the lacrimal stents. SEM also appears to be more precise than microbiological culture for evaluating the presence of biofilms on lacrimal stents.

Improvement of visual acuity based on optical coherence tomography patterns following intravitreal bevacizumab treatment in patients with diabetic macular edema

Haider R. Cheema,Ahmed Al Habash and Essam Al-Askar — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To report the visual outcome based on various patterns of optical coherence tomography (OCT) morphology in diabetic macular edema (DME), following treatment with anti-VEGF intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injection.METHODS:Sixty-seven consecutive subjects with centre involving DME underwent intravitreal injection of Bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) in this retrospective, comparative, non randomized study. The DME was classified into one of four categories:focal, diffuse, focal cystoid and neurosensory detachment based on OCT. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), macular appearance, and OCT findings were used to decide whether the subject should have a repeat injection of intravitreal bevacizumab. Outcome measures were a change in mean BCVA (Snellen converted to logMAR) and central macular thickness (CMT) in each group during the six month follow-up period.RESULTS:The mean BCVA improved to logMAR 0.23 at final follow-up from a baseline of 0.32 logMAR (P=0.040) in the focal group, logMAR 0.80 at final follow-up from a baseline of 0.82 logMAR (P=0.838) in the diffuse group, worsened to logMAR 0.53 at final follow-up from a baseline of 0.43 logMAR (P=0.276) in the focal cystoid group, and improved to logMAR 0.79 at final follow-up from a baseline of 0.93 logMAR (P=0.490) in the neurosensory detachment group. The mean CMT before treatment were 298.8±25.03 μm in the focal group, 310.8±40.6 μm in the diffuse group, 397.15±31.05 μm in the focal cystoid group and 401.03±75.1 μm in the neurosensory detachment group. A mean of 2.05 (range:1-5) injections in the focal group, 1.32 (range:1-2) in the diffuse group, 2.6 (range:1-6) in the focal cystoid group and 2.6 (range:1-6) in the neurosensory detachment group were performed during the six month follow-up period. Following intravitreal bevacizumab treatment, vision improved, remained unchanged or worsened in 11, 7 and 2 subjects in focal group; 11, 9 and 8 in diffuse group; 0, 2 and 4 in focal cystoid group and 5, 5 and 3 subjects respectively in neurosensory detachment group.CONCLUSION:OCT morpholgy patterns in DME may predict the effects of intravitreal bevacizumab treatment, and patients with focal DME are most likely to benefit from the improvent of visual acuity from this treatment.

Comparative proteomic analysis of plasma proteins in patients with age-related macular degeneration

2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To find the significant altered proteins in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients as potential biomarkers of AMD.METHODS: A comparative analysis of the protein pattern of AMD patients versus healthy controls was performed by means of proteomic analysis using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis followed by protein identification with MALDI TOF/TOF mass spectrometry.RESULTS: We identified 28 proteins that were significantly altered with clinical relevance in AMD patients. These proteins were involved in a wide range of biological functions including immune responses, growth cytokines, cell fate determination, wound healing, metabolism, and anti-oxidance.CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate the capacity of proteomic analysis of AMD patient plasma. In addition to the utility of this approach for biomarker discovery, identification of alterations in endogenous proteins in the plasma of AMD patient could improve our understanding of the disease pathogenesis.

Multiple methods of surgical treatment combined with primary IOL implantation on traumatic lens subluxation/dislocation in patients with secondary glaucoma

2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To describe clinical findings and complications from cases of traumatic lens subluxation/dislocation in patients with secondary glaucoma, and discuss the multiple treating methods of operation combined with primary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. METHODS:Non-comparative retrospective observational case series. Participants:30 cases (30 eyes) of lens subluxation/dislocation in patients with secondary glaucoma were investigated which accepted the surgical treatment by author in the Ophthalmology of Xi''an No.4 Hospital from 2007 to 2011. According to the different situations of lens subluxation/dislocation, various surgical procedures were performed such as crystalline lens phacoemulsification, crystalline lens phacoemulsification combined anterior vitrectomy, intracapsular cataract extraction combined anterior vitrectomy, lensectomy combined anterior vitrectomy though peripheral transparent cornea incision, pars plana lensectomy combined pars plana vitrectomy, and intravitreal cavity crystalline lens phacofragmentation combined pars plana vitrectomy. And whether to implement trabeculectomy depended on the different situations of secondary glaucoma. The posterior chamber intraocular lenses (PC-IOLs) were implanted in the capsular-bag or trassclerally sutured in the sulus decided by whether the capsular were present. Main outcome measures:visual acuity, intraocular pressure, the situation of intraocular lens and complications after the operations.RESULTS: The follow-up time was 11-36mo (21.4±7.13). Postoperative visual acuity of all eyes were improved; 28 cases maintained IOP below 21 mm Hg; 2 cases had slightly IOL subluxation, 4 cases had slightly tilted lens optical area; 1 case had postoperative choroidal detachment; 4 cases had postoperative corneal edema more than 1wk, but eventually recovered transparent; 2 cases had mild postoperative vitreous hemorrhage, and absorbed 4wk later. There was no postoperative retinal detachment, IOL dislocation, and endophthalmitis.CONCLUSION:To take early treatment of traumatic lens subluxation/dislocation in patients with secondary glaucoma by individual surgical plan based on the different eye conditions would be safe and effective, which can effectively control the intraocular pressure and restore some vision.

Comparison of corneal flap thickness using a FS200 femtosecond laser and a moria SBK microkeratome

Jing Zhang,Shi-Sheng Zhang,Qing Yu,Jiang-Xiu Wu and Jing-Cai Lian — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate differences in flap thickness resulting from use of an Alcon Wavelight FS200 femtosecond laser and a MORIA SBK microkeratome when making a 110-μm-thick corneal flap and to identify the potential factors that affect corneal flap thickness.METHODS: A prospective case study was performed on 120 eyes of 60 patients who were divided into two groups for LASIK, each group consisting of 60 eyes (30 patients). The corneal flaps were created using an Alcon Wavelight FS200 femtosecond laser or a MORIA SBK microkeratome. The central corneal flap thickness was calculated by subtraction pachymetry. Age, central corneal thickness (CCT), spherical equivalent refraction, mean keratometry, and corneal diameter were recorded preoperatively for analysis.RESULTS: Cutting of all flaps was easily performed without intraoperative complications. In the Alcon Wavelight FS200 femtosecond lasergroup, the mean right and left corneal flap thicknesses were 114.0±6.6 μm (range:98-126) and 111.4±7.6 μm (range:98-122), respectively. The difference (2.6±9.1 μm) in the corneal flap thickness between the right and left eyes was not significant (t=1.59, P=0.12). Stepwise regression analysis indicated that the resulting corneal flap thickness was unrelated to the patient’s age, preoperative CCT, spherical equivalent refraction, mean keratometry, or corneal diameter. In the MORIA SBK microkeratome group, the mean right and left corneal flap thicknesses were 110.6±7.4 μm (range:97-125 μm) and 108.2±6.1 μm (range:78-123 μm), respectively. The difference in the corneal flap thickness between the right and left eyes (2.4±6.5μm) was not significant (t=2.039, P=0.0506). The corneal flap thickness was positively correlated with the preoperative CCT through stepwise regression analysis (r=0.297, P=0.021). The corneal flap thickness was not related to age, spherical equivalent refraction, mean keratometry, or corneal diameter. The corneal flap thickness was estimated using the following equation:Tflap=67.77+0.076 CCT (F=5.63, P=0.021).CONCLUSION:Both the Alcon Wavelight FS200 femtosecond laser and the MORIA SBK microkeratome produced 110-μm-thick corneal flaps. The central corneal flap thickness was positively correlated with the preoperative CCT in MORIA SBK microkeratome surgery.

General anesthesia versus local anesthesia for penetrating keratoplasty:a prospective study

Xu Wang,Guang-Fu Dang,Ying-Mei Li,Wei-Fan Li and Xin-Yi Wu — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To examine which anesthesia general or local is more effective for penetrating keratoplasty (PKP).METHODS: Patients with indications for PKP (n=141) were enrolled in a prospective study and randomly divided into general anesthesia group (group A, 70 eyes) and local anesthesia group (group B, 71 eyes). Patients received optical PKP (group A1, 30 eyes; group B1, 30 eyes) or therapeutic PKP (group A2, 40 eyes; group B2, 41 eyes). Measurement of anterior chamber treatment time (T) for PKP patients and the ratio (R) of the area of the pupils to that of recipient graft region. T and R values, as well as perioperative and postoperative complications, were compared between groups A and B using t-test or χ² test.RESULTS: Patients were followed for 2wk after PKP. T was (13.45±8.64)min for group A and (7.36±5.24)min for group B, a statistically significant difference (P<0.001). The R value for group A was stable during the operation, while for PKP patients in group B the value initially increased then gradually decreased to normal after suturing. In group B, extrusion of intraocular contents occurred in 5 eyes, and iridal prolapse occured in 11 cases; no perioperative complications occurred in group A. Relapse rate for fungal keratitis was 13.04% in group B and 0% in group A.CONCLUSION: Under general anesthesia, pupils remaine stable during PKP and perioperative complications are averted. General anesthesia gives more time to treat pathological changes in the anterior chamber and treatment success rate is higher.

Comparison of Artisan iris-claw intraocular lens implantation and posterior chamber intraocular lens sulcus fixation for aphakic eyes

He Teng and Hong Zhang — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the efficacy and complications of Artisan iris-claw intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and posterior chamber IOL sulcus fixation for the treatment of aphakic eyes without capsular support after vitrectomy.METHODS:A prospective study of 45 cases was conducted. Forty-five eyes without sufficient lens capsule support following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) combined lens extraction were divided into two groups. Group A:25 eyes received Artisan iris-claw IOL implantation. Group B:20 eyes received posterior chamber IOL sulcus fixation. The corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal endothelial cell loss rate, surgical time and complications were compared between the two groups. Pigment changes of trabecular meshwork and anterior chamber depths were measured at each time point in Artisan group.RESULTS:The mean surgical time of Artisan group was significantly shorter (P<0.05). No statistically significant difference in endothelial cell loss rate was noted between two groups at any time point (P>0.05). CDVA of Artian group was better than that of the sulcus fixation group 1d after surgery (P<0.05) and there was no statistically significant difference 1 and 3mo after surgery (P>0.05). Mean IOP showed no significant differences between groups before and after surgery. The postoperative complications of Artisan group were anterior uveitis, iris depigmentation, pupillary distortion and spontaneous lens dislocation. The complications of sulcus fixation group include choroidal detachment, intraocular haemorrhage, tilt of IOL optic part and retinal detachment.CONCLUSION:Secondary Artisan IOL implantation can be performed less invasively and in a shorter surgical time period with earlier visual recovery after surgery compared to transscleral suturing fixation of an IOL. This technique is an effective and safe procedure. It is a promising option for the treatment of aphakic eyes without capsular support after vitrectomy.

A self-made disposable iris retractor in small pupil phacoemulsification

Jie Li,Fei Liu,Wei-Wei Zhang and Jun-Jun Zhang — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To explore a simple and low-cost self-made disposable flexible iris retractor and study its clinical efficacy and safety in small pupil phacoemulsification. METHODS: Polyproplyene suture and scalp acupuncture were used to make iris retractor. A prospective study were carried on 50 patients (50 eyes) with a maximally dilated pupil size of 2.5-4.0 mm which underwent phacoemulsification using this self-made iris retractor. Another 50 cases of phacoemulsification with normal pupil size sever as control group. The mean operation time, ultrasound time and ultrasonic power, volume of irrigation fluid were documented intraoperatively. The visual acuity, pupil size and complication were observed on 1d, 1wk, 1mo and 1y after operation. Corneal endothelial cell was measured at 1mo postoperatively. RESULT: Pupils could be expanded to approximately 4.5-5.5 mm with our self-made iris retractor in operation. No serious postoperative complication was found. Most (88%) of the pupils returned round or oval shape, light reflex restored to varying degrees at the first day after surgery. Best corrected visual acuity stabilized in 37 eyes (74%) at one day, in 43 eyes (86%) at one week, in 44 eyes (88%) at one month and 46 eyes (92%) at one year. Compared with the control, more time was needed to complete the operation in the small pupil group. There was no significant difference of the mean ultrasound time, ultrasonic power, volume of irrigation fluid required and corneal endothelial cell loss in 1mo follow up between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Our self-made disposable flexible iris retractor could be easy obtained preoperatively or intraoperatively. It performed both safety and efficacy in our clinical trials. This simple self-made device has shown economic and practical values, especially in primary care hospital of the less developed districts.

Retinopathy in non diabetics, diabetic retinopathy and oxidative stress:a new phenotype in Central Africa?

2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the rates of retinopathy without diabetes and diabetic retinopathy (DR), associated with some markers of oxidative stress, antioxidants and cardiometabolic risk factors.METHODS: We determined the prevalence of DR in 150 type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients, that of retinopathy in 50 non diabetics, the levels of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), blood pressure, lipids, 8-isoprostane, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), gamma-glutamyl transferase GT (GGT), oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL), thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS), reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), uric acid, creatinine, albumin, total antioxidant status (TAOS), zinc, selenium, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, glucose, apolipoprotein B (ApoB).RESULTS: The prevalences of DR at 53y and Rtp at 62y were 44% (n=66) and 10% (n=5), respectively. The highest levels of 8-isoprostane, 8-OHdG, TBARS, SOD, and OxLDL were in DR. The lowest levels of vitamin D, vitamin C, TAOS, and vitamin E were in DR. In the case-control study discriminant analysis, the levels of vitamin C, vitamin D, ApoB, 8-OHdG, creatinine, Zn, vitamin E, and WC distinguished significantly non-diabetics without DR (controls), T2DM patients without DR and T2DM patients with DR.CONCLUSION: Anticipation of DR onset is significantly associated with the exageration of oxidative stress biomarkers or decrease of antioxidants in African type 2 diabetics. Prevention of oxidative stress and abdominal obesity is needed. Supplementation in vitamin C, D, and E should be recommended as complement therapies of T2DM.

Comparison of central corneal thickness measurements with three new optical devices and a standard ultrasonic pachymeter.

Hasan Ali Bayhan,Seray Aslan Bayhan and İzzet Can — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the RTVue spectral optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), Sirius Scheimpflug-Placido topographer, Lenstar optical low coherence reflectometry (OLCR) and ultrasound pachymetry (USP) devices in terms of their agreement and repeatability of measuring central corneal thickness (CCT).METHODS: In this prospective study, 50 eyes of 50 patients were included. Three repeated measures were obtained using SD-OCT, Scheimpflug-Placido topographer and USP and five measurements were determined with the OLCR. Bland-Altman plots were used to assess agreement among the instruments, and 95% limits of agreement (LoA) for each comparison were calculated. Intra-examiner repeatability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs).RESULTS: The mean CCT by SD-OCT, Scheimpflug-Placido topographer, OLCR, and USP were 525.90±34.08 μm, 525.92±34.10 μm, 530.30±35.62 μm, and 543.50±37.11 μm respectively. All 4 modalities of CCT measurements correlated closely with each other, with Pearson correlation coefficients ranging from 0.977 to 0.995. The mean differences (and upper/lower LoA) for CCT measurements were -0.05±6.77 μm (13.3/-13.3) between SD-OCT and Scheimpflug-Placido topographer, 4.38±3.79 μm (11.8/-3.1) between OLCR and SD-OCT, 4.38±6.03 μm (16.2/-7.5) between OLCR and Scheimpflug-Placido topographer, 13.20±6.46 μm (25.9/0.5) between USP and OLCR, 17.59±6.76 μm (30.8/4.3) between USP and SD-OCT, and 17.58±8.13 μm (33.5/1.6) between USP and Scheimpflug-Placido topographer. Intra-examiner repeatability was excellent for all devices with ICCs>0.98.CONCLUSION: For most practical purposes, CCT measurements with the RTVue, Sirius and Lenstar can be used interchangeably. Although highly correlated, CCT measurement differences between USP and these 3 optical instruments can be significant depending on the clinical situation.

White-to-white corneal diameter:normal values in healthy Iranian population obtained with the Orbscan II

Hamid Gharaee,Mojtaba Abrishami,Masoud Shafiee and Asieh Ehsaei — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the normative values of white-to-white corneal diameter with Orbscan II Topography System and to compare right and left eyes data in the normal young population.Methods:A total of 1001 healthy participants aged 18-45y participated in this observational cross-sectional study. The study population consisted of 616 female and 385 male subjects. The corneal diameter was measured with the Orbscan II. The differences between genders, between right and left eyes and age-related changes were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using Student’s t-test.RESULTS:The average white-to-white distance in our study population was recorded as 11.65±0.36 mm (median:11.60 mm, mode:11.70 mm, minimum:10.50 mm and maximum:13.60 mm). The white-to-white distance was 11.60±0.35 mm in males and 11.71±0.36 mm in females which was statistically different between genders (P<0.01). However, white-to-white distance was not statistically different between right and left eyes. In addition, this parameter decreased with increasing age. Considering 95% confidence interval, corneal diameter less than 10.93 mm and greater than 12.34 mm would be considered as microcornea and megalocornea, respectively based on this study population, using the Orbscan II topography.CONCLUSION:Detailed description and analysis of corneal diameter with Orbscan demonstrate that the obtained average value of horizontal white-to-white is higher in male than female and decreases slightly with increasing age. Our data also suggests the cut off values for definition of microcornea and megalocornea, which can be employed with this population.

Scheimpflug imaged corneal changes on anterior and posterior surfaces after collagen cross-linking

Ziad Hassan,Laszlo Modis,Eszter Szalai,Andras Berta and Gabor Nemeth — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the anterior and posterior corneal parameters before and after collagen cross-linking therapy for keratoconus.METHODS: Collagen cross-linking was performed in 31 eyes of 31 keratoconus patients (mean age 30.6±8.9y). Prior to treatment and an average 7mo after therapy, Scheimpflug analysis was performed using Pentacam HR. In addition to corneal thickness assessments, corneal radius, elevation, and aberrometric measurements were performed both on anterior and posterior corneal surfaces. Data obtained before and after surgery were statistically analyzed.RESULTS: In terms of horizontal and vertical corneal radius, and central corneal thickness no deviations were observed an average 7mo after operation. Corneal higher order aberration showed no difference neither on anterior nor on posterior corneal surfaces. During follow-up period, no significant deviation was detected regarding elevation values obtained by measurement in mm units between the 3.0-8.0 mm-zones.CONCLUSION: Corneal stabilization could be observed in terms of anterior and posterior corneal surfaces, elevation and higher order aberration values 7mo after collagen cross-linking therapy for keratoconus.

Corneal properties in children with congenital isolated growth hormone deficiency

2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the corneal parameters of children with congenital isolated growth hormone deficiency and healthy subjects.METHODS: In this cross-sectional, prospective study, 50 cases with growth hormone (GH) deficiency treated with recombinant GH and 71 healthy children underwent a complete ophthalmic examination. The corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg) and corneal-compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc) were measured with the Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA). Central corneal thickness (CCT) was measured by a ultrasonic pachymeter.RESULTS: The mean age was 13.0±3.0 years in the GH deficiency group consisting of 21 females and 29 males and 13.4±2.4 years in the healthy children group consisting of 41 females and 30 males. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups for gender or age (Chi-square test, P=0.09; independent t-test, P=0.28, respectively). The mean duration of recombinant GH therapy was 3.8±2.4y in the study group. The mean CH, CRF, IOPg and IOPcc values were 11.0±2.0, 10.9±1.9, 15.1±3.3, and 15.1±3.2 mm Hg respectively in the study group. The same values were 10.7±1.7, 10.5±1.7, 15.2±3.3, and 15.3±3.4 mm Hg respectively in the control group. The mean CCT values were 555.7±40.6, 545.1±32.5 μm in the study and control groups respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups for CH, CRF, IOPg, IOPcc measurements or CCT values (independent t-test, P=0.315, 0.286, 0.145, 0.747, 0.13 respectively).CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that GH deficiency does not have an effect on the corneal parameters and CCT values. This observation could be because of the duration between the beginning of disease and the diagnosis and beginning of GH therapy.

Conjunctival impression cytology in non-proliferative and proliferative diabetic retinopathy

Mehmet Citirik,Nilufer Berker,Hulya Haksever,Ufuk Elgin and Huseyin Ustun — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the integrity of the ocular surfaces of subjects with and without diabetes with no conjunctival and dry eye signs and symptoms and compare conjunctival impression cytology findings in diabetics with non-proliferative and proliferative diabetic retinopathy.METHODS: Conjunctival impression cytology was performed on 43 eyes of 43 subjects with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), 42 eyes of 42 subjects with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and 30 eyes of 30 control subjects. Impression cytology specimens of each group were graded and scored in the range 0-3 according to Nelson’s method.RESULTS: There were 45 (52.9%) women and 40 (47.1%) men. The mean age of the patients was 59.6±9.3y (range, 43-76y) in NPDR group and 58.0±8.8y (range, 41-85y) in PDR group. Cases with NPDR and PDR showed statistically significant higher impression cytology scores than control group (P<0.05). There was no difference between the NPDR and PDR patients for impression cytology grading scores.CONCLUSION: It is determined that impression cytology grades are altered in patients with NPDR and PDR. Consequently, we suggest that there might be an association between the impression cytology grading scores and the severity of diabetic retinopathy

Correlation of pattern reversal visual evoked potential parameters with the pattern standard deviation in primary open angle glaucoma

Ruchi Kothari,Pradeep Bokariya,Ramji Singh,Smita Singh and Purvasha Narang — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate whether glaucomatous visual field defect particularly the pattern standard deviation (PSD) of Humphrey visual field could be associated with visual evoked potential (VEP) parameters of patients having primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).METHODS:Visual field by Humphrey perimetry and simultaneous recordings of pattern reversal visual evoked potential (PRVEP) were assessed in 100 patients with POAG. The stimulus configuration for VEP recordings consisted of the transient pattern reversal method in which a black and white checker board pattern was generated (full field) and displayed on VEP monitor (colour 14”) by an electronic pattern regenerator inbuilt in an evoked potential recorder (RMS EMG EP MARK II).RESULTS:The results of our study indicate that there is a highly significant (P<0.001) negative correlation of P100 amplitude and a statistically significant (P<0.05) positive correlation of N70 latency, P100 latency and N155 latency with the PSD of Humphrey visual field in the subjects of POAG in various age groups as evaluated by Student’s t-test.CONCLUSION:Prolongation of VEP latencies were mirrored by a corresponding increase of PSD values. Conversely, as PSD increases the magnitude of VEP excursions were found to be diminished.

A 4-year retrospective study of add-on therapy to the fixed combination of dorzolamide/timolol for the treatment of POAG

Curt Hartleben-Matkin,Diddier Prada and Rafael Mancilla-Vences — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term response to the fixed combination of dorzolamide/timolol in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and the addition of other intraocular pressure (IOP) lowering medications such as prostaglandin analogs and brimonidine.METHODS: A retrospective, non-randomized, and descriptive clinical study was performed with 182 eyes diagnosed with POAG. Patients were divided into three groups:a group with fixed combination of dorzolamide/timolol only, a second group with prostaglandin analogs plus fixed combination of dorzolamide/timolol, and a third group with the addition of brimonidine to the same fixed combination. IOP data were gathered retrospectively and the differences between groups were calculated.RESULTS: IOP was reduced satisfactorily in all three groups; however, a progressive IOP reduction was noted in the group with the fixed combination plus prostaglandin analogs. In this group, a progressive, significant and more homogeneous response of the reduction was noted in comparison with the other groups.CONCLUSION: IOP reduction was efficacious in all three groups. The addition of prostaglandin analogs showed progressive IOP reduction, progressive response and absence of long-term drift. Brimonidine did not show a significant additive effect.

Combined therapy with bevacizumab and photodynamic therapy for myopic choroidal neovascularization:A one-year follow-up controlled study

2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combined treatment for myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) using photodynamic therapy (PDT) and intravitreal bevacizumab and to compare it with intravitreal bevacizumab monotherapy.METHODS: Thirty-four eyes with angiographic evidence of myopic CNV were randomly divided into two groups:17 were treated with one intravitreal bevacizumab injection (1.25 mg) and low-fluence-rate PDT within seven days of the injection (Group A). The other 17 received monotherapy with bevacizumab injections (Group B). Clinical evidence of complications, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and fluorescein leakage were evaluated. BCVA and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were evaluated monthly. The timepoints follow-up was established at 6 and 12mo. All patients were retreated following a PRN protocol.RESULTS:A total of 34 eyes of 34 patients (26 women and 8 men) with a mean age of 62.35 years were included. In Group A (17 eyes) the mean BCVA increased from 0.55±0.13 logMAR before the treatment to 0.40±0.09 logMAR at the 12mo follow-up (P<0.01). In Group B (17 eyes) the mean BCVA increased from 0.60±0.11 logMAR before the treatment to 0.55±0.12 logMAR at the 12mo follow-up (P<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of LogMar visual acuity. In Group A the mean number of combined treatments was 1.8±0.11 per patient; in Group B the mean number of intravitreal bevacizumab injections was 3.1±0.08 per patient. The number of treatments was significantly fewer in Group A (P<0.01). No local or systemic side effects occurred among any of the patients treated in this study.CONCLUSION:The combination of anti-angiogenic injections and PDT appears to be a safe and effective option for myopic CNV treatment and allows for a significant reduction of intravitreal injections.

Clinical and impression cytology findings of amniotic membrane and oral mucosal membrane transplantation for the management of socket contracture

Bengi Ece Kurtul,Ugur Erdener,Mehmet Cem Mocan,Murat Irkec and Mehmet Orhan — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate and compare the cytopathological and clinical effects of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) and oral mucosal membrane transplantation (OMMT) in socket contraction. METHODS:Twelve patients who could not be fitted with ocular prosthesis due to socket contracture were included in this study. Seven patients underwent AMT and 5 patients underwent OMMT. Thirteen patients who had healthy sockets were included as control group. Depth of inferior fornix, degree of inflammation, extent of the socket contracture and socket volume were measured in the preoperative period and at sixth and twelfth weeks postoperatively. Impression cytology of conjunctival fornices and tear transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGFβ1) levels were determined. RESULTS:In the AMT group,socket volume and lower fornix depth values were significantly higher (P=0.030 and P=0.004 respectively) and inflammation levels and impression cytology stages (P=0.037 and P=0.022 respectively) were significantly lower in postoperative period compared to preoperative period. In the OMMT group, no statistical differences were found in terms of clinical parameters, inflammation levels and impression cytology stages of preoperative versus postoperative values. Preoperative tear TGFβ1 levels were higher in AMT and OMMT groups compared to the control group (25.5 ng/mL, 26.3 ng/mL and 21.7 ng/mL respectively). Decreased tear TGFβ1 levels were observed in both the AMT and OMMT groups postoperatively (median decrease value=2.1 ng/mL and 2.7 ng/mL respectively). CONCLUSION: AMT is associated with postoperative improvement in inferior fornix depth, socket volume, inflammation and impression cytology levels and may be a more proper alternative method than OMMT in the management of socket contracture.

A new technique for Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

Jung Kee Min,Jae Hwan An and Jin Ho Yim — 2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects of a new opening pattern in neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy on visual function.METHODS: This technique was conducted along a circular pattern. The energy ranged between 0.8 and 1.2 mJ/pulse was consumed and mean total energy levels were 74±21 mJ (mean±standard deviation:SD, from 40 to 167) and laser shots aimed at 150 μm away behind a datum point and went along an imaginary line which extends 0.5 mm inside from optic margin and into the circular en bloc pattern. Vitreous stands were attached with fragment and then they were cut off by the laser after circular application. The circular fragment was completely separated from vitreous, and then this fragment was quickly sunk in intravitreal space.RESULTS: The follow-up period ranges from at least a week to 40mo, making 15.8mo on average. The procedural outcome showed 96% (74 eyes out of the 77 eyes) enhancement in patients’ visual acuity. Cystoid macular edema or retinal detachment was not observed in any of the patients during follow-up periods.CONCLUSION: This new technique is expected to improve the weaknesses that the conventional procedures have by adding the process to cut off vitreous stands attached with the fragment by the laser to the circular application.

Comparison of autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography findings in acute and chronic central serous chorioretinopathy

2014/4/23 0:00:00
AIM:To discuss and compare the fundus autofluorescence (FAF) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in acute or chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR).METHODS: Medical records of 100 cases of CSCR were reviewed. Acute and chronic cases were evaluated according to the duration of decreased visual acuity, serous retinal detachment (RD) and focal leakage on fluorescein angiography (FA). Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.RESULTS:Forty cases had acute and 60 cases had chronic CSCR. FAF showed focal hypo-autofluorescence in 34 (85%) and iso-autofluorescence in 6 (15%) of acute cases and hypo-autofluorescence in 51 (85%), hyper-autofluorescence in 6 (10%) and iso-autofluorescence in 3 (5%) of chronic cases. OCT showed serous RD with distinct borders correlated with FAF findings (hypo-autofluorescence) in all acute CSCR cases. In chronic CSCR group, OCT showed serous RD with indistinct borders correlated with FAF findings. The differences between the OCT and FAF findings of the two groups were significant (P=0.000).CONCLUSION: OCT and FAF findings can support the clinical observations in differential diagnosis of acute and chronic CSCR and help clinicians to evaluate retinal pigment epithelium, outer segments of photoreceptors and the components of serous RD.

Fibrin glue-assisted for the treatment of corneal perforationsusing glycerin-cryopreserved corneal tissue

Nuo Dong,Cheng Li,Wen-Sheng Chen,Wen-Juan Qin,Yu-Hua Xue and Hu-Ping Wu — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcomes and safety of lamellar keratoplasty (LK) assisted by fibrin glue in corneal perforations.METHODS: Six eyes of 6 patients affected by different corneal pathologies (2 posttraumatic corneal scar and 3 bacterial keratitis) underwent LK procedures by using fibrin glue. The mean corneal perforation diameter was 1.35±0.64mm (range, 0.7-2.5mm), and the greatest diameter of the ulcerative stromal defect was 2.47±0.77mm in average (range, 1.5-3.5mm). The donor corneal lamella diameters were 0.20-mm larger and thicker than the recipient to restore a physiologic corneal thickness and shape:mean donor diameter was 8.34±0.28mm (range, 8.2-8.7mm) and mean thickness was 352±40.27mm (range, 220-400mm). Mean follow-up was 7.33±1.97 months (range, 6-11 months). Postoperatively, the graft status, graft clarity, anterior chamber response, the visual prognosis, intraocular pressures, and postoperative complications were recorded.RESULTS: All the corneal perforations were successfully healed after the procedure. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) ranged from 20/1 000 to 20/50 in their initial presentation, and from 20/100 to 20/20 in their last visit, showed increase in all the patients. No major complications such as graft dislocation and graft failure were noted. Neovascularization developed in the superficial stroma of donor graft in 1 case. High intraocular pressure developed on day 2 after surgery, while was remained in normal range after application of anti-glaucomatous eyedrops for 1 week in 1 case.CONCLUSION: Fibrin glue-assisted sutureless LK is valuable for maintaining the ocular integrity in the treatment of corneal perforations.

Comparison of outcomes between overlapping-spot and single-spot photodynamic therapy for circumscribed choroidal hemangioma

Zhao-An Su,Xia-Jing Tang,Li-Xia Zhang and Xiao-Hong Su — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the efficacy and safety of photodynamic therapy (PDT) with overlapping multiple spots and single spot for treating circumscribed choroidal hemangioma.METHODS:Twenty-two patients (22 eyes) with symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangioma received PDT treatment. Fourteen patients received overlapping spots (two to three spots) PDT, whereas eight patients received single-spot PDT. Laser was used at 50J/cm² for 83s in the overlapping-spot group and 50J/cm² for 166s in the single-spot group. Clinical examination, funduscopy, fluorescein angiography, and ultrasonography were performed at baseline and after treatment.RESULTS:The mean follow-up time was 28.5±8.0 months in the overlapping-spot group and 27.0±5.0 months in the single-spot group. Nine patients (64.2%) had their vision improved over two lines on the Snellen chart, and five patients showed stable visual acuity in the overlapping-spot group. The mean thickness of tumor decreased from 2.7±0.8mm to 1.2±0.9mm, and the mean greatest tumor linear dimension decreased from 7.4±1.5mm to 4.5±3.5mm after treatment. In the single-spot group, two patients (25%) had their vision improved over two lines on the Snellen chart, and six patients had unchanged stable vision. The mean tumor thickness in this group decreased from 2.5±0.7mm to 1.4±1.0mm, and the mean greatest tumor linear dimension decreased from 7.2±1.3mm to 4.7±3.6mm. No significant differences in visual improvement and tumor regression were found between the two groups.CONCLUSION: Overlapping-spot PDT under appropriate treatment parameters and strategies is as effective and safe as single-spot PDT for treating symptomatic circumscribed choroidal hemangioma. Improved or stabilized visual acuity was achieved as a result of tumor regression.

Evaluation of regional bulbar redness using an image-based objective method

Wen-Juan Zhao,Fang Duan,Zhong-Ting Li,Hua-Jun Yang,Qiang Huang and Kai-Li Wu — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: To develop an image-based objective method to precisely evaluate regional ocular bulbar injection.METHODS:Six healthy adult volunteers were photographed in four orientations (superior, inferior, nasal and temporal sides) with and without stimulating eye drops. Six line segments (covering 30°) were drawn 4mm away from the limbus on each image using ImageJ software. The graph peaks, which were derived from the areas under the line segments and corresponded to the cross-sectional grey-level of the vessels, were analyzed to obtain peak area, peak height/width (PH/PW), and peak numbers. Different-sized areas were selected to calculate the pixels based on the edge-detection algorithm. Also, conjunctival and superficial scleral vessels were analyzed separately. RESULTS:This method had a smaller coefficient of variation, especially for PH/PW, in all four orientations. Hyperaemia parameters changed the least after challenging in the superior region. Moreover, 95% of the PH/PW ratios were greater than 0.87 in conjunctival vessels and less than 1.00 in superficial scleral vessels. PH/PW significantly increased in conjunctival vessels and changed less in superficial scleral vessels.CONCLUSION:A new method of objectively assessing bulbar injection based on ocular surface images was developed. This method can be used to quantify ocular regional injection and to distinguish the superficial scleral and conjunctival vessels.

An enhanced functional ability questionnaire (faVIQ) to measure the impact of rehabilitation services on the visually impaired

2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:To develop a short, enhanced functional ability Quality of Vision (faVIQ) instrument based on previous questionnaires employing comprehensive modern statistical techniques to ensure the use of an appropriate response scale, items and scoring of the visual related difficulties experienced by patients with visual impairment.METHODS:Items in current quality-of-life questionnaires for the visually impaired were refined by a multi-professional group and visually impaired focus groups. The resulting 76 items were completed by 293 visually impaired patients with stable vision on two occasions separated by a month. The faVIQ scores of 75 patients with no ocular pathology were compared to 75 age and gender matched patients with visual impairment.RESULTS:Rasch analysis reduced the faVIQ items to 27. Correlation to standard visual metrics was moderate (r=0.32-0.46) and to the NEI-VFQ was 0.48. The faVIQ was able to clearly discriminate between age and gender matched populations with no ocular pathology and visual impairment with an index of 0.983 and 95% sensitivity and 95% specificity using a cut off of 29.CONCLUSION:The faVIQ allows sensitive assessment of quality-of-life in the visually impaired and should support studies which evaluate the effectiveness of low vision rehabilitation services.

Comparison of intravitreal ranibizumab and bevacizumab for the treatment of macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion

2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the efficacy of ranibizumab and bevacizumab for macular edema due to retinal vein occlusion (RVO).METHODS:A retrospective study was conducted at a single academic institution. Eighty-one patients na?ve to anti-VEGF therapy with RVO and macular edema were identified. Twenty-six eyes were treated with ranibizumab, 33 eyes with bevacizumab, and 22 eyes with bevacizumab then switched to ranibizumab (crossover). The main outcome was change in visual acuity at 3 months, 6 months, and final visit.RESULTS:The mean visual acuity improved from 20/80 to 20/40 in the ranibizumab (R) group and from 20/125 to 20/60 in the bevacizumab (B) group (P=0.66). The mean change in central subfield thickness (CST) was -186 and -212μm, respectively (P=0.69). Mean time between injections was 94±21.1d in the R group and 103.8±10.5d in the B group (P=0.78). In the crossover group, mean initial visual acuity was 20/125, reached 20/60 at crossover, and remained 20/60 at conclusion (P=0.91).CONCLUSION:Both ranibizumab and bevacizumab are effective for the treatment of RVO and appear to have similar visual and anatomic outcomes. Changing treatments from bevacizumab to ranibizumab did not result in further gains in visual acuity.

Tono-pen measurement of intraocular pressure under topical anaesthesia in full term normal newborns

Sagili Chandrasekhara Reddy and Rosnita Alias — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: Tono-pen measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP) under topical anaesthesia in full term normal newborns.METHODS: The IOP measurements were taken using Tono-pen XL tonometer under topical anaesthesia in 150 newborns (300 eyes) within 24h after birth, over a period of three months, in a university hospital. Gender, gestation period, mode of delivery and birth weight of newborns were noted from medical records.RESULTS:There were 70 males and 80 females. All babies were Malays. The IOP measurements were taken between 12 and 24h after birth. The gestation period of babies ranged between 37 and 41 weeks; 118 babies were delivered by spontaneous vaginal delivery and 32 by caesarian section. The birth weight of babies ranged between 2.1 and 4.3kg. The mean IOP of 300 eyes was 15.99±2.79mmHg (range 8-22). There was no statistically significant difference of mean IOP and gender, laterality of eye, type of delivery, gestation age, or birth weight of newborns.CONCLUSION: The IOP in full term normal newborns was 16mmHg. Tono-Pen appears to be ideal instrument for taking IOP in newborns because of its small size and easy handling.

A new measure of nystagmus acuity

Jun-Ping Yao,Zheng Tai and Zheng-Qin Yin — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: To construct a new visual acuity measuring function for congenital nystagmus (CN) patients by studying the relationships between acuity, velocities and positions of the eye.METHODS: After assessing the relationship between acuity, movement velocities and positions of the eye separately, a new function, which we call the automated nystagmus acuity function (ANAF), was constructed to measure the visual acuity of CN patients. Using a high-speed digital video system working at 500 frames per second, each eye was calibrated during monocular fixation. Twenty-six recorded nystagmus data were selected randomly. Using nystagmus waveforms, the best vision position (foveation period) and visual acuity were analyzed in three groups of subjects, and then all outputs were compared with the well-known expanded nystagmus acuity function (NAFX) and ANAF. Standard descriptive statistics were used to summarize the outputs of the two programs.RESULTS:Foveation periods were brief intervals in the CN waveform when the image was on or near the fovea and eye velocity was relatively slow. Results showed good visual acuity happened during the period when velocity was low and the eye position was near the zero position, which fitted the foveation periods. The data analyzed with NAFX and ANAF had a correlation coefficient of 0.934276, with an average error of -0.00973.CONCLUSION: The results from ANAF and NAFX analyses showed no significant difference. The NAFX manually identifies foveation eye positions and produces accurate measurements. The ANAF, however, can be calculated simply using the factors eye position and velocity, and it automatically calculates the ANAF without the need to manually identify foveation eye positions.

Contrast visual acuity after multifocal intraocular lens implantation:aspheric versus spherical design

Jun-Hua Li,Yi-Fan Feng,Yun-E Zhao,Yin-Ying Zhao and Lei Lin — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate contrast visual acuity (CVA) after implantation of an aspheric apodized diffractive intraocular lens (IOL) or a spherical apodized diffractive IOL in cataract surgery. METHOD: This prospective randomized controlled study with a 12-month follow-up compared the results of cataract surgery with implantation of an aspheric AcrySof ReSTOR SN6AD3 IOL (30 eyes) and a spherical AcrySof ReSTOR SN60D3 IOL (30 eyes). CVA with best distance correction was measured at 4 contrast levels (100%, 25%, 10% and 5%) under 3 levels of chart luminance [250, 85 and 25 candelas per square meter (cd/m²)] using a multi-functional visual acuity tester (MFVA-100)． RESULTS:At 12 months after surgery, there were no statistically significant differences in 100% CVA and 25% CVA under 250cd/m² (P100%=0.875 and P25%=0.057) and 85cd/m² (P100%=0.198 and P25%=0.193) between the aspheric group and the spherical group. However, the 10% CVA and 5% CVA were significant better in aspheric group than spherical group under 250cd/m² (P10%=0.042 and P5%=0.007) and 85cd/m² (P10%=0.002 and P5%=0.039). Under the luminance level of 25cd/m², no significant differences was found in the 100% CVA between the 2 group (P100%=0.245), while aspheric group had better visual acuity in the remaining 3 contracts (P25%=0.023, P10%=0.026 and P5%=0.002, respectively). CONCULSION:The aspheric AcrySof ReSTOR SN6AD3 IOL provided patients with better low-contrast visual acuity than the spherical AcrySof ReSTOR SN60D3 IOL.

Trabeculectomy with large area mitomycin-C application as a first-line treatment in advanced glaucoma:retrospective review

2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the outcomes of trabeculectomy with large area mitomycin-C (MMC) application as a first line treatment in advanced glaucoma.METHODS:The records of 55 patients with severe visual field defects undergoing trabeculectomy were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were classified as first-line therapy to either early trabeculectomy (initial trabeculectomy-Group 1) or long term medical therapy followed by trabeculectomy (primary trabeculectomy-Group 2). Trabeculectomy was performed with large-area MMC application. Intraocular pressure (IOP) values, visual acuities, mean deviations, morphology and function of the blebs, necessity for anti-glaucomatous medications and surgical complications were reported.RESULTS:There were 20 eyes of 18 patients in Group 1 and 37 eyes of 37 patients in Group 2. The mean preoperative IOPs in Groups 1 and 2 were 40.2±10.0mmHg (27-68mmHg) and 29.0±4.4mmHg (21-41mmHg), respectively (P=0.001). Average preoperative mean deviations (MD) in Groups 1 and 2 were 17.4±2.8dB (13.3-23dB) and 17.9±2.4 dB (13.7-23.2dB), respectively (P=0.441). Postoperative IOPs significantly decreased and were comparable in both Groups. The mean number of medications was significantly higher in Group 2 (P=0.005). No cystic bleb formation was observed in Group 1, whereas 4 patients from Group 2 (10.8 %) developed cystic bleb (P=0.040). No visually devastating complication has occurred in both Groups.CONCLUSION:Initial trabeculectomy with large area MMC application might be applied in patients with advanced glaucoma with low complication rates. Long-term topically applied anti-glaucomatous medications seem to increase the risk of cystic bleb formation.

Peribulbar anesthesia in 750 patients treated with oral anticoagulants

Emile Calenda,Olivier Genevois,Annie Cardon and Marc Muraine — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: To check the safety of continuation of oral anticoagulants in ophthalmic procedures requiring a peribulbar anesthesia. METHOD:A prospective case control study included 750 patients with oral anticoagulants in group A and 750 patients who had never been treated with oral anticoagulant in group B. Hemorrhages were graded as follows:1) spot ecchymosis of eyelid and or subconjunctival hemorrhage; 2) eyelid ecchymosis involving half of the lid surface area; 3) eyelid ecchymosis all around the eye, no increase in intraocular pressure; 4) retrobulbar hemorrhage with increased intraocular pressure.RESULTS: In group A, grade 1 was observed in 13 patients (1.74%) and grade 2 in 2 patients (0.26%). In group B, grade 1 was observed in 12 patients (1.6%) and grade 2 was absent. No 3 or 4 hemorrhage grade was encountered in both groups. There was not significant difference in grade 1 hemorrhage between both groups (P=0.21).CONCLUSION:Oral anticoagulants were not associated with a significant increase in potentially sight-threatening local anesthetic complications.

Spectrum of fungal keratitis:clinicopathologic study of 44 cases

2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the causative agents of fungal keratitis and study the predisposing factors over a period of ten years in a single tertiary care hospital.METHODS:A retrospective analysis of fungal corneal ulcers was done from 2003-2012. Patients’ clinical data were noted from the file records. Correlation of histopathological diagnosis was done with the report on fungal culture.RESULTS: Mycotic keratitis was established in 44 cases by a positive fungal culture. Direct microscopic examination of potassium hydroxide (KOH) mounts revealed fungal elements in 39 cases while 40 cases showed fungus on Gram stained smears. Males (54.55%) were more commonly affected than the females (45.45%). The age ranged from 18 to 82 years. Most common age group to be involved was 41-60 years. Predisposing risk factors were seen in 34 (77.27%) cases. Most common findings on clinical examination were anterior chamber reaction and conjunctival injection seen in all the cases. Other common findings were stromal infiltration and hypopyon seen in 20 (45.45%) and 18 (40.91%) cases respectively. On histopathological examination the fungus was typed, as aspergillus in 34 cases while no definite typing was possible in 10 cases. The predominant isolate was aspergillus flavus (59.09%) followed by fusarium (15.91%). Mixed fungal and bacterial infection was seen in 3 (6.82%) cases.CONCLUSION:Although culture is the gold standard for definitive diagnosis of fungal keratitis, direct microscopic examination of corneal scrapings or histomorphological evaluation of biopsies allow a rapid preliminary diagnosis. Early administration of antifungal treatment helps in preventing dreadful complications.

Ocular findings in children with thalassemia major in Eastern Mediterranean

2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate ophthalmologic findings in children with thalassemia major (TM) and compare the findings with healthy controls. METHODS: In a cross-sectional study, 43 children with thalassemia major from pediatric hematology outpatient clinics from two university hospitals and age/sex matched 47 healthy children were included in the study. After a complete ophthalmic examination, tear function tests including the Schirmer test, fluorescein tear break-up time (BUT), ultrasound pachymetry, and axial length measurement were performed. Obtained data was recorded for statistical analysis and the values of right eyes were compared between groups. RESULTS: The mean best corrected visual acuity was 1.34±0.75 in TM and 1.08±0.28 in controls. It was found lower than 0.1 logMAR unit in 10 (23.2%) children with TM and 2 (4.2%) in controls, and the difference was statistically significant (P＜0.05). The mean central corneal thickness was 540±26.95 in children with TM and 536.98±20.45μm in controls (P＞0.05). The mean axial length was 22.53±0.50 in TM and 22.57±0.43mm in the control group. The mean Schirmer test score was 19.94±6.91 in TM and 24.22±3.95mm in the control group (P＜0.01). The mean BUT score was 9.62±1.28 in TM and 9.73±0.6s in the control group (P＞0.05). CONCLUSION: In TM, while corneal thickness, axial length, and BUT are close to controls, the Schirmer scores are less than normal. The study revealed that TM may be affected by the tear function and visual acuity.

Measurement of retinal thickness in macular region of high myopic eyes using spectral domain OCT

Ai-Ping Song,Xin-Yi Wu,Jian-Rong Wang,Wei Liu,Yan Sun and Tao Yu — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the changes of retinal thickness in macula of high myopic eyes using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).METHODS: Middle-aged and young myopic patients were divided into three groups according to their refractive error/axial length:low and medium myopia group (LMMG), high myopia group (HMG) and super high myopia group (SHMG). Cirrus HD-OCT was used to evaluate total average macular thickness, central subfield thickness, inner/outer macular thickness and macular volume. The differences among experimental groups were analyzed by one-factor analysis of variance. Associations between macular thickness and refractive error/axial length were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis.RESULTS: There was no significant difference in age among the three groups (P=0.2789). The mean refraction error in the LMMG, HMG, and SHMG groups was -2.49±1.38D, -8.53±1.95D and -13.88±1.76D, respectively (P＜0.001). The central subfield thickness of three groups was 244.56±12.19μm, 254.33±11.61μm and 261.75±11.83μm, respectively, and there were statistically significance between random two groups. The total average macular thickness, inner/outer macular thickness, and macular volume decreased with increased myopia/axial length. Average foveal thickness had negative correlations with refractive error (P＜0.001), and positive correlations with axial length. The inferior and temporal inner macular thickness, all the quadrants of outer ring, total average macular thickness and macular volume featured positive correlations with refractive error, and negative correlations with axial length. Average foveal thickness, superior and temporal inner macular thicknesses, and temporal outer macular thickness was lower in females compared to males.CONCLUSION:With an increase in myopia degree/axial length, the average foveal thickness increased and the inner/outer macular thickness decreased. Females featured thicker average foveal thickness, and thinner macular thickness compared to males.

Study of long term structural and functional changes in medically controlled glaucoma

Achyut N Pandey and S Sujata — 2014/2/20 0:00:00
AIM:Prospectively analyze the long term structural and functional changes in patients of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) receiving medical therapy (beta blockers and non beta blockers). In this study an attempt has been made to evaluate whether medical reduction of IOP prevents or delays the progression of glaucomatous visual field loss and/or optic nerve damage in patients with open angle glaucoma.METHODS:Study conducted over a period of 27 months, at a tertiary eye care hospital including both eyes of 40 patients with POAG. Group 1 (20 patients, 40 eyes) received beta-blockers, and Group 2 (20 patients, 40 eyes) received non-beta-blockers. Each patient underwent intraocular pressure measurement, best corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp, fundus examination, gonioscopy, central corneal thickness, visual field assessment by Humphrey automated perimetry and retinal nerve fibre layer thickness by Stratus optical coherence tomography at baseline and at two subsequent visits. The average time interval between each visit was 10-11 months. The statistical analysis was done using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Post-hoc test, using tukey’ method were adopted. Probablity (P) value of 0.05 or less was considered to be statistically significant.RESULTS:A total of 80 eyes of 40 patients of POAG were enrolled, 24 males, 16 females, age group 50-80 years. In both beta and non beta blocker group, reduction (improvement) in mean IOP from initial levels to the levels achieved at the 2nd and 3rd visits was statistically significant. One way ANOVA (df=2), fisher f value=11.64, P=0.000, one way ANOVA (df=3), fisher f value=35.61, P=0.000. Both mean deviation (MD) and pattern standard deviation (PSD) in both beta and non beta blockers at different visits were not statistically significant. Retinal nerve fibre layer thickness (RNFL) -only mean inferior retinal nerve fibre layer, the difference between the mean value in beta and non beta blocker groupwere statistically significant. [unpaired t test value (df=78) =2.27, P=0.03]. Side effects with beta blocker were conjunctival hyperemia (10%), burning (5%), and conjunctival hyperemia (5%) in non beta blockers.CONCLUSION: Non-beta-blockers are as effective as beta-blockers in bringing about a significant lowering of intraocular pressure to the normal range, and in preventing progressive damage to the visual fields and retinal nerve fibre layer. The absence of systemic side effects and superior IOP lowering efficacy has made non beta-blockers attractive for first line therapy for the treatment of glaucoma worldwide.

Comparison of effectiveness of silicone hydrogel contact lens and hydrogel contact lens in patients after LASEK

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To conduct a comparative study of effectiveness of silicone hydrogel contact lens and hydrogel contact lens, which are used in patients after laser-assisted subepithelial keratomileusis (LASEK). METHODS: Sixty-three patients (121 eyes) with a spherical equivalent ≤-5.0 D were chosen after undergoing LASEK in 2012 at Guangdong General Hospital. They were randomly divided into 2 groups. The silicone hydrogel group included 32 cases (61 eyes) that wore silicone hydrogel contact lenses for 4-6d after the operation, while the hydrogel group included 31 cases (60 eyes) who wore hydrogel contact lenses for 4-6d after the operation. Patients’ self-reported postoperative symptoms (including pain, photophobia, tears, and foreign body sensation) were evaluated. The healing time of the corneal epithelium, the visual acuity of patients without contact lens after epithelial healing, and the incidence of delayed corneal epithelial shedding were also assessed. The follow-up time was 1mo. RESULTS: Postoperative symptoms were milder in the silicone hydrogel group than in the hydrogel group. There were significant differences in pain, foreign body sensation, and photophobia between the 2 groups (P<0.05), although there was no significant difference in postoperative tearing (P>0.05). The healing time of the corneal epithelium in the silicone hydrogel lens group was markedly shorter than that in the hydrogel group (4.07±0.25 vs 4.33±0.82d, t=2.43, P=0.02). Visual acuity without contact lenses after healing of the corneal epithelium was better in the silicone hydrogel group compared with the hydrogel group (χ2=7.76, P=0.02). There was no significant difference in the occurrence of delayed corneal epithelial shedding between the 2 groups (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Patients with LASEK using silicon hydrogel contact lenses had less discomfort and shorter corneal epithelial healing time compared with those using hydrogel contact lenses, suggesting that silicon hydrogel contact lenses may be considered to be a better choice of bandage contact lens after LASEK.

Correlation of basic indicators with stages of keratoconus assessed by Pentacam tomography

Xian-Li Du,Min Chen and Li-Xin Xie — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the diagnostic efficiency of basic indicators and find characteristic indicators for keratoconus (KC) at adjacent stages, and to assess the progression pattern of KC. METHODS: One hundred and eight (41 subclinical, 40 moderate, and 27 severe) keratoconic patients (108 eyes) and 105 myopic patients (105 eyes) as controls were recruited in this prospective, comparative case series study. Pentacam topography was performed. Receiver-operating-characteristic curves were used to get the characteristic indicators. RESULTS: The most efficient distinguishing index between the subclinical KC and the controls was posterior elevation value (PEV, AUC=0.882), with the highest specificity being 93.8%. Corneal thickness (AUC=0.852) and posterior inferior-superior value (I-S) ranked second and third (AUC=0.776). When KC became moderate, PEV remained to be of the highest diagnostic efficiency (AUC=0.988), followed by the anterior elevation value (AUC=0.986) and other parameters of anterior surface. The diagnostic value increased significantly in the anterior curvature indices (all AUC>0.900) and appeared in the anterior best fitting sphere radius (AUC=0.919) when KC developed into the severe stage. CONCLUSION: In the subclinical stage of KC, PEV, thickness, and posterior I-S had important diagnostic values, and elevation values remained most efficient when KC developed to the moderate stage. The anterior curvature indices were most characteristic when KC became severe. KC first appeared in the inferior cornea of posterior surface, but the feature of protrusion formed at the moderate stage.

In-vivo corneal biomechanical analysis of unilateral keratoconus

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare corneal biomechanical findings measured by ocular response analyzer, topographic and pachymetric findings in patients with unilateral keratoconus patients and healthy controls. METHODS: This is an observational, case-control study. Patients with keratoconus in one eye and forme fruste keratoconus in the fellow eye were compared with sex and age matched with controls healthy subjects. All subjects were evaluated with rotating scheimpflug imaging system. The receiver-operating-characteristic curves were analyzed to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of the parameters. RESULTS: Twenty-seven patients with keratoconus in one eye and forme fruste keratoconus in the fellow eye were compared with 40 eyes of 40 normal subjects. Corneal hysteresis (CH) was 8.0±1.7 mm Hg in keratoconus group, 8.3±1.6 mm Hg in forme fruste keratoconus group, and 9.8±1.6 mm Hg in control groups (P=0.54 between keratoconus and forme fruste keratoconus groups, P<0.01 between control group and other groups). Corneal resistance factor (CRF) was 7.1±2.2 mm Hg in keratoconus group, 7.8±1.2 mm Hg in forme fruste keratoconus group and 9.9±1.5 mm Hg in control group (P<0.001 between control group and other groups). Using receiver-operating-characteristic analysis, the area under curve values of the parameters to distinguish forme fruste keratoconus from control subjects were: CH (0.768), CRF (0.866). Best cut-off points were 9.3 mm Hg and 8.8 mm Hg for CH and CRF respectively. CONCLUSION: Ocular response analyzer parameters (CH and CRF) are found to be significantly lower in forme fruste keratoconus patients compared to normal control subjects.

Comparison of pseudophakic retinal straylight in spherical/aspherical and hydrophobic/hydrophilic intraocular lens

Yong Tang,Hui Song,Jing Chen and Xin Tang — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To study the potential reasons of increased straylight in pseudophakic eyes. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Seventy patients diagnosed as bilateral age-related cataract and implanted with Tecnis ZA9003, Sensar AR40e, SA60AT, XLSTABI ZO or Akeros AO intraocular lens (IOL) were enrolled in this research. Straylight was measured by a C-Quant straylight meter three to four weeks postoperatively. Five different modalities of IOL, including spherical/aspherical optics and hydrophobic/hydrophilic material were tested in this study. Normal as well as dilated pupils were used. The main outcome variable for straylight measurement was the logarithmic straylight parameter, log(s). RESULTS: The straylight parameter increased significantly after pupil dilation (P<0.05). Straylight of aspherical IOL was significantly higher after pupil dilation (P<0.05) compared to spherical IOL. In normal pupil, straylight of hydrophobic IOL was significant higher when compared with hydrophilic IOL (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Straylight and visual acuity stand for the different aspects of visual function. Several factors including pupil diameter, optic material, aspherical design of IOL influence intraocular light scattering in pseudophakic eyes. Further investigation was needed to study the impact of optic material and optic surface design on pseudophakic straylight.

Lens thickness assessment: anterior segment optical coherence tomography versus A-scan ultrasonography

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To assess lens thickness measurements with anterior segment-optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in comparison with A-scan ultrasonography (A-scan US). METHODS: There were 218 adult subjects (218 eyes) aged 59.2±9.2y enrolled in this prospective cross-sectional study. Forty-three eyes had open angles and 175 eyes had narrow angles. Routine ophthalmic exam was performed and nuclear opacity was graded using the Lens Opacities Classification System III (LOCS III). Lens thickness was measured by AS-OCT (Visante OCT, Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA). The highest quality image was selected for each eye and lens thickness was calculated using ImageJ software. Lens thickness was also measured by A-scan US. RESULTS: Interclass correlations showed a value of 99.7% for intra-visit measurements and 95.3% for inter-visit measurements. The mean lens thickness measured by AS-OCT was not significantly different from that of A-scan US (4.861±0.404 vs 4.866±0.351 mm, P=0.74). Lens thickness values obtained from the two instruments were highly correlated overall (Pearson correlation coefficient=0.81, P<0.001), and in all LOCS III specific subgroups except in grade 5 of nuclear opacity. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a 95% limit of agreement from -0.45 to 0.46 mm. Lens thickness difference between the two instruments became smaller as the lens thickness increased and AS-OCT yielded smaller values than A-scan US in thicker lens (β=-0.29, P<0.001) CONCLUSION: AS-OCT-derived lens thickness measurement is valid and comparable to the results obtained by A-scan US. It can be used as a reliable noncontact method for measuring lens thickness in adults with or without significant cataract.

Correlations between corneal and optic nerve head variables in healthy subjects and patients with primary open angle glaucoma

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To correlate corneal variables (determined using the Pentacam) with optic nerve head (ONH) variables determined using the Heidelberg retina tomograph (HRT) in healthy subjects and patients diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). METHODS: Measurements were made in 75 healthy eyes and 73 eyes with POAG and correlations examined through Pearson correlation coefficients between the two sets of variables in the two subject groups. The corneal variables determined were corneal volume (CVol), central corneal thickness (CCT), overall corneal thickness (OvCT), the mean thickness of a circular zone centered at the corneal apex of 1 mm radius (zone I) and the mean thickness of several concentric rings, also centered at the apex until the limbus, each of 1 mm width (zones II to VI respectively). The ONH variables were determined using the HRT. RESULTS: The following pairs of variables were correlated in the control group: CCT-disc area (DAr) (-0.48; P<0.0001), Zone I-DAr (-0.503; P<0.0001) and Zone II-DAr (-0.443; P<0.0001); and in the POAG group: CCT-cup-to-disc area ratio (CDRa) (-0.402; P<0.0001), Zone I-CDRa (-0.418; P<0.0001), Zone II-CDRa (-0.405; P=0.006), Zone I-cup shape measure (CSM) (-0.415; P=0.002), Zone II-CSM (-0.405; P=0.001), Zone IV-height variation contour (HVC) (0.378; P=0.002); Zone V-HVC (0.388, P<0.0001).CONCLUSION: AS-OCT-derived lens thickness measurement is valid and comparable to the results obtained by A-scan US. It can be used as a reliable noncontact method for measuring lens thickness in adults with or without significant cataract.

Long-term results of viscocanalostomy and phacoviscocanalostomy: a twelve-year follow-up study

Uzeyir Gunenc,Taylan Ozturk,Gul Arikan and Nilufer Kocak — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety results of viscocanalostomy and phacoviscocanalostomy. METHODS: The charts of 49 glaucoma patients who underwent viscocanalostomy or phacoviscocanalostomy surgery between February 1999 and August 2004 were reviewed retrospectively. Thirty-one eyes of 21 glaucoma patients who underwent filtering procedure with a postoperative follow-up of at least 5y were included in the study. Results of complete ophthalmologic examinations were recorded and statistically analyzed. Long-term surgical outcome was defined as an overall success when intraocular pressure (IOP) was found as ≤20 mm Hg with or without antiglaucomatous medication at the last follow-up visit, while it was defined as a complete success when IOP was measured ≤20 mm Hg without antiglaucomatous medication. RESULTS: Mean age was 68.1±9.6y (range: 32-81y). Mean follow-up time was 101.5±27.3mo (range: 60-144mo). Viscocanalostomy was performed in 8 eyes (25.8%) and phacoviscocanalostomy was performed in 23 eyes (74.2%). The mean preoperative IOP was 23.1±7.6 mm Hg with 2.1±1.0 medications, while mean IOP was 16.8±3.8 mm Hg with 0.9±1.1 medication at the last follow-up visit. Both the IOP decrease and the reduction in the antiglaucomatous medication were statistically significant (P<0.001 and P<0.001). No case required further glaucoma surgery. Overall success and complete success were found as 87.1% and 51.6%, respectively. Complete success rate was statistically higher in phacoviscocanalostomy group compared with the viscocanalostomy group (P=0.031), however there was no significant difference in overall success rate between two groups (P=0.072). CONCLUSION: Both viscocanalostomy and phacoviscocanalostomy provide good IOP reduction in the long-term period.

Comparison of 45-degree Kelman and 45-degree balanced phaco tip designs in torsional microcoaxial phacoemulsification

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the intraoperative performance and postoperative outcome after microcoaxial torsional phacoemulsification using either a Kelman or balanced phaco tip. METHODS: Cataracts were treated using 2.2 mm microcoaxial torsional phacoemulsification using either a 45-degree mini-flared Kelman® or a 45-degree Intrepid® Balanced phaco tip. Intraoperative measurements included total ultrasound (US) time, cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), torsional US time, and balanced salt solution (BSS) use. The central endothelial cell density (ECD) and central corneal thickness (CCT) were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively 1, 7, and 30d after surgery using noncontact specular microscopy. RESULTS: The 116 enrolled eyes (116 patients) were divided equally between the Kelman and balanced tip groups. Intraoperative measurements showed significantly less total US time, torsional US time, CDE, and BSS use in the balanced group than in Kelman group (P<0.05). The total US time, torsional US time, CDE, and BSS use were 17.45±14.53s, 16.63±13.97s, 6.38±5.26, and 48.21±17.21 mL in the Kelman group and 11.39 ± 9.60s, 10.90 ± 9.25s, 4.04 ± 3.42, and 41.36 ± 12.70 mL in the balanced group, respectively. CONCLUSION: Torsional phacoemulsification performed with a balanced tip provided more effective lens removal with less total US time, torsional time, CDE, and BSS use, as well as similar changes in ECD with a Kelman tip in all cataract grades. This special designed phaco tip for torsional phacoemulsification provides an alternative phaco tip for many surgeons' preference with straight phaco tip.

A comparison of visual outcomes in three different types of monofocal intraocular lenses

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the visual outcomes (distance and near) in patients opting for three different types of monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) (Matrix Aurium, AcrySof single piece, and AcrySof IQ lens). METHODS: The present study is a cross-sectional analysis of secondary clinical data collected from 153 eyes (52 eyes in Matrix Aurium, 48 in AcrySof single piece, and 53 in AcrySof IQ group) undergoing cataract surgery (2011-2012). We compared near vision, distance vision, distance corrected near vision in these three types of lenses on day 15 (±3) post-surgery. RESULTS: About 69% of the eyes in the Matrix Aurium group had good uncorrected distance vision post-surgery; the proportion was 48% and 57% in the AcrySof single piece and AcrySof IQ group (P=0.09). The proportion of eyes with good distance corrected near vision were 38%, 33%, and 15% in the Matrix Aurium, AcrySof single piece, and AcrySof IQ groups respectively (P=0.02). Similarly, The proportion with good “both near and distance vision” were 38%, 33%, and 15% in the Matrix Aurium, AcrySof single piece, and AcrySof IQ groups respectively (P=0.02). It was only the Matrix Aurium group which had significantly better both “distance and near vision” compared with the AcrySof IQ group (odds ratio: 5.87, 95% confidence intervals: 1.68 to 20.56). CONCLUSION: Matrix Aurium monofocal lenses may be a good option for those patients who desire to have a good near as well as distance vision post-surgery.

Comparison of 25-gauge sutureless vitrectomy and 20-gauge vitrectomy in the treatment of posterior capsule opacification in pseudophakic children

Xiao-Ming Wu and Li-Xin Xie — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effectiveness and safety of pars plana capsulotomy and vitrectomy using 25-gauge tansconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy system and 20-gauge vitrectomy system for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) in pseudophakic children. METHODS: Retrospectively study. Pars plana capsulotomy and vitrectomy using 25-gauge sutureless vitrectomy system was performed for PCO in the study group (32 eyes). Patients in the control group (34 eyes) underwent capsulotomy and vitrectomy using standard 20-gauge vitrectomy system, providing a comparison between 2 groups with regard to preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and intraoperative and postoperative complications. The two groups were performed consequentially. The patients ages ranged from 2 to 13y (means: 6.61±2.73y). Surgical technique, intraoperative and postoperative complications, visual acuity, IOP, and recurrent PCO were recorded. RESULTS: The surgical procedure was performed uneventfully in all patients. Visual acuity improved significantly in both groups. BCVA improved in 22 eyes (81.5%) in the study group and in 28 eyes (87.5%) in the control group. There was no statistical difference of visual acuity that were attainable in two groups (H=0.115, P=0.909). Mean postoperative IOP showed no significant difference between the groups at 1wk. All sort of PCO were accomplished by 20-gauge system, while 25-gauge system was effective for pearls style and 2 grade of fibrous PCO, and was insufficient to grade 3 of PCO. In the study group two cases were not accomplished by 25-gauge system while 20-gauge system conquered them. Compared with the control group, mean operative time for opening and closing the sclerotomy in the study group was considerably reduced. The mean follow-up was 38.2mo (range: 8-79mo). During the follow-up period, no incision leakage, corneal edema, vitreous loss, IOL damage, retinal detachment, recurrent PCO, or other complications were noted. CONCLUSION: Pars plana capsulotomy and vitrectomy using 25-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy appeared to be a safe and effective approach for PCO in pseudophakic children. Combined sutureless surgery needed shorter setup time for sclerotomy and caused less surgical trauma than combined surgery with 20-gauge vitrectomy. Therefore, this type of procedure would be a good option for selected cases with PCO in pseudophakic children.

Risk factors for endophthalmitis following cataract surgery-our experience at a tertiary eye care centre in India

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the risk factors for acute endophthalmitis after cataract extraction in a tertiary care centre in India. METHODS: We performed a nested case control study within a retrospective cohort. The surgical records of all patients with clinically diagnosed endophthalmitis within one month after cataract surgery, performed between January 2006 and December 2009, were reviewed. These were compared with randomly selected age and gender-matched controls, from patients having routine cataract surgery within ±1wk of the endophthalmitis case. Univariable and multivariable analysis were performed to identify risk factors for endophthalmitis. RESULTS: Of the total 33 856 cataract surgeries performed during this period, there were 57 cases of postoperative acute endophthalmitis that met our study criteria. Thus, the overall incidence of endophthalmitis in our cohort was 1.6 per 1000 cataract extractions performed. Mean age of cases was 55.9y (SD: 10.9y) and for controls was 55.6y (SD: 9.8y). Thirty-five cases (61.4%) and 133 controls (59.6%) were males. Median time of onset of endophthalmitis was 4d (IQR 2-9d; range: 1-30d). Thirty-nine cases (68.4%) presented within 7d and 27 cases (47.4%) were culture positive. Two hundred and twenty-three age and gender matched controls were selected. In multivariate analysis, endophthalmitis was associated with posterior capsular rupture (PCR) during surgery (OR 6.98, 95%CI: 2.22-21.98), phacoemulsification via scleral incision with a foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation (OR 3.02, 95%CI: 1.13-8.04) and ocular co-morbidity (OR 2.32, 95%CI: 1.11-4.87). CONCLUSION: PCR, presence of ocular co-morbidity, and phacoemulsification via scleral incision with foldable-IOL were found to be independent risk factors for acute endophthalmitis.

Measurement of macular pigment optical density among healthy Chinese people and patients with early-stage age-related macular degeneration

2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To measure the macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in healthy Chinese people and patients with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Cross-sectional population based study. Demographic and lifestyle characteristics were ascertained by questionnaire. A food frequency questionnaire was completed for all participants. Participants underwent general physical and ophthalmic examinations and MPOD was measured by heterochromatic flicker photometry. Foveal architecture was measured by optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: MPOD of 225 participants (122 healthy and 103 early AMD) was 0.48±0.18. Patients with early AMD (0.52±0.19) tended to have higher MPOD levels than healthy people (0.47±0.17), but the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.06). Participants with carrot or corn oil intake every week tended to have higher levels of MPOD (P=0.002 and 0.008 respectively) while those with corn intake had relatively lower level of MPOD (P=0.01). MPOD increased with the center foveal thickness (P=0.01). CONCLUSION: Our findings show that there is no statistically significant association between MPOD and early AMD in the studied population. MPOD is related to center foveal thickness and diets would influence MPOD levels.

Comparison and interchangeability of macular thickness measured with Cirrus OCT and Stratus OCT in myopic eyes

Geng Wang,Kun-Liang Qiu,Xue-Hui Lu and Ming-Zhi Zhang — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the difference of macular thickness measurements between stratus optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Cirrus OCT (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA) in the same myopic patient and to develop a conversion equation to interchange macular thickness obtained with these two OCT devices. METHODS: Eighty-nine healthy Chinese adults with spherical equivalent (SE) ranging from -1.13 D to -9.63 D were recruited. The macular thickness was measured by Cirrus OCT and Stratus OCT. The correlation between macular thickness and axial length and the agreement between two OCT measurements were evaluated. A formula was generated to interchange macular thickness obtained with two OCT devices. RESULTS: Average macular thickness measured with Stratus OCT (r=-0.280, P=0.008) and Cirrus OCT (r=-0.224, P=0.034) were found to be negatively correlated with axial length. No statistically significant correlation was found between axial length and central subfield macular thickness (CMT) measured with Stratus OCT (r=0.191, P=0.073) and Cirrus OCT (r=0.169, P=0.113). The mean CMT measured with Cirrus OCT was 53.63±7.94 μm thicker than with Stratus OCT. The formula CMTCirrus OCT=78.328+0.874×CMTStratus OCT was generated to interchange macular thickness obtained with two OCT devices. CONCLUSION: Macular thickness measured with Cirrus OCT were thicker than with Stratus OCT in myopic eyes. A formula can be used to interchange macular thickness measured with two OCT devices in myopic eyes. Studies with different OCT devices and larger samples are warranted to enable the comparison of macular values measured with different OCT devices.

Changes in vitreous VEGF, bFGF and fibrosis in proliferative diabetic retinopathy after intravitreal bevacizumab

Jiu-Ke Li,Fang Wei,Xiao-Hong Jin,Yuan-Min Dai,Hu-Shan Cui and Yu-Min Li — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the relationship between intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) treatment and the levels of vitreous vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vitreous-retina surface fibrosis in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). METHODS: This study was a prospective, open-label, controlled, randomized clinical trial. Sixty-eight eyes of PDR patients (n=53) and macular hole patients (n=15) were enrolled in this study. Thirty-four eyes of the PDR patients received IVB before vitrectomy. Twenty-three of the 34 PDR patients received IVB treatment 5d before vitrectomy (subgroup a), and 11 of the 34 PDR patients received IVB treatment greater than 2wk prior to vitrectomy (subgroup b). Nineteen of the PDR patients did not receive IVB treatment at any time prior to vitrectomy. The levels of bFGF and VEGF in vitreous samples were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the degree of vitreoretinal fibrosis was characterized using clinical data and data obtained intra-operatively. RESULTS: In PDR patients, VEGF and bFGF levels were significantly increased compared to non-PDR (control) subject’s eyes (P<0.01). In PDR patients, vitreous VEGF levels were significantly decreased following IVB treatment compared to PDR patients that did not receive IVB treatment (P<0.01). The degree of vitreoretinal fibrosis was significantly increased in subgroup b compared to subgroup a(P<0.05) and to patients that did not receive IVB (P<0.05). Vitreous bFGF levels were significantly greater in subgroup b than subgroup a (P<0.01) or in patients who did not receive IVB treatment (P<0.05). A Spearman’s rank correlation test indicated that higher levels of vitreous bFGF, but not VEGF, correlated with the degree of vitreoretinal fibrosis. CONCLUSION: We found that bFGF levels increase in PDR patient’s vitreous after IVB treatment longer than two weeks prior to vitrectomy and correlated with the degree of fibrosis after IVB treatment. These findings suggest vitreous fibrosis is increased in PDR patients after IVB treatment may be due to increased levels of bFGF.

Postnatal weight gain in very low birth weight infants in Beijing and the risk of retinopathy of prematurity

Zong-Hua Wang,Peng-Fen Gao,Hua Bai and Yao-Yu Li — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the low weight gain (WG) from birth to 4 and 6wk of life to predict the development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) among very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm babies. METHODS: Three hundred and three newborns with VLBW were analyzed. Body weight measurements were recorded weekly. In all patients, the proportion of the WG was defined as the preterm weight measured at the 4th and 6th weeks of life minus the birth weight (BW) divided by the BW. Other risk factors for ROP were also analyzed. RESULTS: Mean gestational age and mean BW of the whole cohort were 29.56±1.44wk and 1270.58±176.18g respectively. WG proportion at 4wk postnatal age (18.89%±13.58%) were significantly lower in infants with ROP (P=0.003). WG proportion at 6wk was not different between ROP and no ROP group (42.48%±20.36% vs 46.43%±15.65% P=0.118). When all the other risk factors signi?cant for ROP were included in the logistic regression poor WG did not arise as an independent risk factor. Area under the ROC curve was 0.591 (95%CI: 0.515-0.666; P=0.016). For ROP, the best discriminative cutoff of 18.06% of the proportional WG at the 4th week over the BW, sensitivity and specificity values were 67.3% and 50.0% respectively. CONCLUSION: Low WG proportion in the first 4wk of life is maybe an additional predictor of ROP in very low BW infants. Preterm babies with low BW and low WG proportion should be followed closely for ROP.

A study of retinal parameters measured by optical coherence tomography in patients with multiple sclerosis

Sai-Jing Hu,Yi-An You and Yi Zhang — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the difference of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and macular fovea thickness/volume between multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and healthy normal individuals using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and assess its association with visual field parameters. METHODS: Thirty consecutive MS patients and 28 healthy controls were recruited in this prospective study. Comprehensive standardized ophthalmic examinations included visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, intraocular pressure, gonioscopy, visual field, and RNFL thickness and macular fovea thickness/volume detection using Humphrey OCT. Mean values for the thickness of the peripapillary RNFL and macular volume were calculated. Associations between visual field parameters and RNFL thickness/macular volume were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. RESULTS: The RNFL thicknesses in each quadrant, the average macular thickness, and the average macular volume in MS patients were all less than those in healthy controls, with statistically significant differences. The RNFL thickness and macular fovea thickness/volume were greater in eyes without optic neuritis than in eyes with optic neuritis. The average visual field parameters had positive correlations with the RNFL thickness and negative correlations with macular parameters in MS patients. CONCLUSION: OCT measurements can effectively identify the nerve changes of MS patients, which provide more data for the diagnosis of MS.

Clinical features and visual outcomes of scleritis patients presented to tertiary care eye centers in Saudi Arabia

Mohammad Al Barqi,Ashley Behrens and Abdullah M. Alfawaz — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the clinical features, systemic associations, treatment and visual outcomes in Saudi patients with scleritis. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed for patients with scleritis presenting to two tertiary care eye hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2001 to 2011. Data were collected on the clinical features of scleritis, subtypes of scleritis, associated systemic disease, history of previous ocular surgery and medical therapy, including the use of immunosuppressants. Treatment outcomes were evaluated based on best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and response to treatment. RESULTS: Of the 52 patients included in the study, non-necrotizing anterior scleritis was the most common type of scleritis in 22 patients (42.3%), followed by posterior scleritis in 14 patients (26.9%). The majority of cases, 31 patients (59.6%), were idiopathic in nature. Systemic associations were present in 12 patients (23.1%). Infectious scleritis was confirmed in 6 patients (11.5%): 3 with bacterial scleritis after pterygium excision, 2 patients with scleritis related to tuberculosis and 1 patient with scleritis resulting from herpes simplex infection. For the various subtypes of scleritis, BCVA values after treatment and time to remission significantly differed (P<0.05, all cases). Systemic immunosuppressive therapies in addition to steroids were administered to 46.2% of all patients. The T-sign was present on B-scan ultrasonography in 9 (64.3%) of the 14 posterior scleritis patients. CONCLUSION: Non-necrotizing anterior scleritis was the most common subtype of scleritis. Final visual outcome and time to remission differed among the various scleritis subtypes.

Comparative clinical study of conjunctival toxicities of newer generation fluoroquinolones without the influence of preservatives

Han Sang Park,Jun Hun Lee and Hong Kyun Kim — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the conjunctival epithelial toxicities of three newer-generation fluoroquinolones without preservatives. METHODS: In a prospective, randomized, double blind comparative study, 47 eyes of 47 patients with a primary pterygium were enrolled, and divided randomly into three groups (levofloxacin 0.5%, gatifloxacin 0.3%, and moxifloxacin 0.5%). After pterygium surgery with the same conjunctival autograft technique, each patient maintained a regimen with a randomly assigned fluoroquinolone eye drop. Patients were examined every other day after surgery until the epithelium had completely healed. Photos were taken and used to measure the area of residual epithelial defects. Conjunctival healing time and speed (initial defect area/healing time (mm2/d) compared in each group using Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in mean age, gender, and conjunctival defect size of the donor site between these groups. However, the mean of conjunctival healing time and speed were statistically different in each group. The mean of conjunctival epithelial healing time was 8.93±2.69d (levofloxacin group), 10.31±2.96d (gatifloxacin group), and 13.50±4.10d (moxifloxacin group), P=0.006. The mean conjuctival epithelial healing speed was 6.18±1.39 mm2/d (levofloxacin group), 5.52±1.68 mm2/d (gatifloxacin group), and 4.40±1.30 mm2/d (moxifloxacin group), P=0 .003. CONCLUSION: Without the influence of preservatives, levofloxacin and gatifloxacin might be less toxic to the regeneration of conjunctival epithelial cells and cause a faster conjunctival wound healing relative to moxifloxacin.

Factors influencing improvement of visual field after trans-sphenoidal resection of pituitary macroadenomas: a retrospective cohort study

Fen-Fen Yu,Li-Li Chen,Yi-Hua Su,Li-Hun Huo,Xian-Xuan Lin and Rui-Duan Liao — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the influencing factors of visual field improvement after trans-sphenoidal resection of pituitary macroadenomas. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 201 patients (366 eyes) with visual field defect induced by pituitary macroadenomas. All of them were treated with trans-sphenoidal surgery. Ophthalmologic evaluation, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and visual field examination were performed before and 3mo after surgery. BCVA, visual field defect index mean deviation (MD), duration of symptoms, age, sex, and volume of tumors were compared. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Ki-67 of tumor tissue were detected by immunohistochemical technique. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 44.23±1.29y. Ninety-three patients were female and 108 were male. The mean tumor volume was 14.36±6.23 cm3. The mean duration of preoperative symptoms was 11.50±0.88mo. Mean preoperative MD was -17.50±0.82 dB. Mean Preoperative visual acuity was 0.64±0.04. Postoperative visual field improved in 270 (73.77%) eyes, unchanged in 96 (26.23%) eyes. Multivariate logistic regression displayed that the factors independently influencing visual field improvement were young age (OR=1.71, 95%CI: 1.325-2.387, P=0.013), low preoperative MD absolute value (OR=1.277, 95%CI: 1.205-1.355, P<0.001), small volume of tumor (OR=1.458, 95%CI: 1.060-4.289, P<0.001), low expression of VEGF in tumor tissue (OR=1.554, 95%CI: 1.089-2.457, P=0.022), and low expression of Ki-67 in tumor tissue (OR=1.552, 95%CI: 1.161-2.847, P=0.026). CONCLUSION: After pituitary macroadenomas trans-sphenoidal resection, the independent influencing factors of the visual fields recovery were low preoperative MD absolute value, young age, small volume of tumor, and expression levels of VEGF/ Ki-67.

Visual outcomes in patients with open globe injuries compared to predicted outcomes using the Ocular Trauma Scoring system

Nagib du Toit,Hamza Mustak and Colin Cook — 2015/11/12 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the visual outcomes in adult patients who sustained open globe injuries and to determine whether the visual prognosis following an eye injury in an African setting differs from the predicted outcomes according to the Ocular Trauma Score (OTS) study. A secondary aim was to establish the evisceration rate for these injuries and assess how this form of intervention affected outcomes in comparison to the OTS. METHODS: A prospective case series of all patients admitted with open globe injuries over a two-year (July 2009 to June 2011) period. Injuries were scored using the OTS and the surgical intervention was recorded. The best corrected visual acuity at three months was regarded as visual outcome. RESULTS: There were 249 open globe injuries, of which 169 patients (169 eyes) completed the 3-month follow-up. All patients underwent primary surgery, 175 (70.3%) repairs, 61 (24.5%) eviscerations and 13 (5.2%) other procedures. Globe eviscerations were mainly done on OTS Category 1 cases, but outcomes in this category were not found to be different from OTS outcomes. Outcomes were significantly worse in Category 2, but when the entire distribution was tested, the differences were not statistically significant. The overall association between OTS outcomes and the final visual outcomes in this study was found to be a strong (P<0.005). CONCLUSION: Reliable information regarding the expected outcomes of eye injuries will influence management decisions and patient expectations. The OTS is a valuable tool, the use of which has been validated in many parts of the world-it may also be a valid predictor in an African setting.

Combined pars plana vitrectomy and Baerveldt glaucoma implant placement for refractory glaucoma

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate outcomes of combined pars plana vitrectomy and Baerveldt glaucoma implant (PPV-BGI) placement for refractory glaucoma.METHODS: The medical records of 92 eyes (89 patients) that underwent PPV-BGI were retrospectively reviewed, including 43 eyes with neovascular glaucoma (NVG) and 49 eyes with other types of glaucoma (non-NVG).RESULTS: Outcome measures were visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), glaucoma medical therapy, complications, and success [VA>hand motions (HM), IOP≥6 mm Hg and ≤21 mm Hg, no subsequent glaucoma surgery]. Cumulative success rates for the non-NVG group and NVG group were 79% and 40% at 1y, respectively (P=0.038). No difference in the rates of surgical success were found between pars plana and anterior chamber tube placement. Preoperative IOP (mean±SD) was 30.3±11.7 mm Hg in the Non-NVG group and 40.0±10.6 mm Hg in the NVG group, and IOP was reduced to 15±9.5 mm Hg in the non-NVG group and 15±10.5 mm Hg in the NVG at 1y. Number of glaucoma medications (mean±SD) decreased from 2.7±1.3 in the non-NVG group and 2.8±1.3 in the NVG group preoperatively to 0.76±1.18 in the non-NVG group and 0.51±1.00 in the NVG group at 1y. Improvement in VA of ≥2 Snellen lines was observed in 25 (27%) eyes, although only 33% of non-NVG eyes and 2.3% of NVG eyes maintained VA better than 20/200 at 1y. Nonclearing vitreous hemorrhage was the most common postoperative complication occurring in 16 (17%) eyes, and postoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhages developed in 5 (5.4%) eyes.#$NLCONCLUSION: PPV-BGI is a viable surgical option for eyes with refractory glaucoma, but visual outcomes are frequently poor because of ocular comorbidities, especially in eyes with NVG. The location of tube placement does not influence surgical outcome and should be left to the discretion of the surgeon.

Presence of Fleischer ring and prominent corneal nerves in keratoconus relatives and normal controls

gnes Kriszt, Gergely Losonczy, András Berta and Lili Takács — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the occurrence of commonly known clinical signs of keratoconus (KC), i.e. Fleischer ring, prominent corneal nerves and thinning, among unaffected family members of KC patients and healthy control individuals.METHODS: Data of both eyes of 117 relatives of KC patients having no manifest disease based on videokeratography indices (KC relatives), and 142 controls were used for Pearson correlation and t-test statistics. Correlation of Fleischer ring, prominent corneal nerves and central pachymetry data were tested with each other and with videokeratography indices (KSI, KISA, 3 and 6 mm Fourier asymmetry, and I-S). RESULTS: A moderate correlation was found between Fleischer ring and all examined topographical indices. Most important correlation was present with 6 mm Fourier asymmetry, and corneal pachymetry (r=0.272, P<0.001; r=-0.234, P=0.027, respectively). Similar correlations were found with prominent corneal nerves (r=0.234, P<0.001 for 6 mm Fourier asymmetry and r=-0.235, P=0.0265 for pachymetry). KC family members who exhibited Fleischer ring or prominent nerves had thinner and more asymmetric corneas than those without Fleischer ring or prominent corneal nerves (P<0.05 for pachymetry and topographic indices with t-test and Mann-Whitney rank sum test). Though rarely, Fleischer ring and prominent corneal nerves occurred among normal controls, indicating the existence of forme fruste cases in the normal population. Control subjects, who had corneal Fleischer ring or prominent nerves had corneas more similar to KC than other controls (t-test:increased KSI and KISA, P=0.048 and 0.012, respectively).CONCLUSION: In KC family members and healthy individuals, Fleischer ring and prominent corneal nerves are associated with features of KC and may suggest a possibility of forme fruste KC. Searching for the possible presence of Fleischer ring or prominent nerves on the cornea may help in the decision whether or not to diagnose subclinical KC in a borderline case.

A new multiple noncontinuous puncture (pointage) technique for corneal tattooing

Jin Hyoung Park,Taewoong Um,Myoung Joon Kim,Hungwon Tchah and Jae Yong Kim — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To assess the safety and cosmetic efficacy of a new multiple noncontinuous transepithelial puncture technique for tattooing a decompensated cornea.METHODS:It was anon-comparative clinical case series study.The study examines 33 eyes in 33 patients with total corneal opacity due to corneal decompensation, which developed following intraocular surgery.Corneal tattooing was performed using the multiple noncontinuous transepithelial puncture technique (i.e. pointage). The safety of this new surgical strategy was assessed by occurrence of adverse events for the follow-up period. The cosmetic efficacy was determined by the patient’s cosmetic satisfaction and independent observer’s opinion about patient appearance.RESULTS:Seven women and 26 men were included in the study. The mean age was 46.4±17.5y (range:7-67). In total, 30 of 33 patients (91%) reported cosmetic satisfaction within the follow-up period. Only 3 patients (9%) required additional tattooing due to cosmetic unsatisfaction. Cosmetic outcomes were analyzed and classified as excellent or good in 13 (39%) and 17 (52%) patients, respectively. No serious adverse events developed, except delayed epithelial healing in 3 cases.CONCLUSION:The cosmetic outcomes of the multiple noncontinuous transepithelial puncture technique for corneal tattooing were good. The safety of this method is higher than conventional procedures. This new procedure also provides improved cost-effectiveness and safety over current corneal tattooing techniques.

Risk factors of regression and undercorrection in photorefractive keratectomy:a case-control study

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To determine risk factors of regression and undercorrection following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) in myopia or myopic astigmatism.METHODS: A case-control study was designed in which eyes with an indication for re-treatment (RT) were defined as cases; primary criteria for RT indication, as assessed at least 9mo postoperatively, included an uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) of 20/30 or worse and a stable refraction for more than 3mo. Additional considerations included optical quality symptoms and significant higher order aberrations (HOAs). Controls were chosen from the same cohort of operated eyes which had complete post-operative follow up data beyond 9mo and did not need RT. The cohort included patients who had undergone PRK by the Tissue-Saving (TS) ablation profile of Technolas 217z100 excimer laser (Bausch & Lomb, Rochester, NY, USA). Mitomycin C had been used in all of the primary procedures.RESULTS:We had 70 case eyes and 158 control eyes, and they were comparable in terms of age, sex and follow-up time (P values:0.58, 1.00 and 0.89, respectively). Pre-operative spherical equivalent of more than -5.00 diopter (D), intended optical zone (OZ) diameter of less than 6.00 mm and ocular fixation instability during laser ablation were associated with RT indications (all P values <0.001). These factors maintained their significance in the multiple logistic regression model with odd ratios of 6.12, 6.71 and 7.89, respectively.CONCLUSION:Higher refractive correction (>-5.00 D), smaller OZ (<6.00 mm) and unstable fixation during laser ablation of PRK for myopia and myopic astigmatism were found to be strong predictors of undercorrection and regression.

Toxic keratopathy associated with abuse of topical anesthetics and amniotic membrane transplantation for treatment

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical findings of toxic keratopathy associated with abuse of topical anesthetics and the treatment efficacy of amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT).METHODS: Fifteen eyes of 10 patients with abuse of topical anesthetics were included in this study. The data collected included patients’ demographic information, initial best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), clinical findings, time to AMT, duration of epithelization, additional treatments, posttreatment BCVA, and the results of psychiatric examination.RESULTS:All patients were male, with the mean age of 37.9±5.4y. The patients had received 0.5% proparacaine hydrochloride due to pain resulting from foreign bodies, such as welding flash burns and car battery explosions, for a mean of 18.2±12.4d. The mean initial BCVA of the patients was 0.069±0.100. All patients had persistent epithelial defects, stromal infiltration, ring ulcer, and corneal edema. Initially, medical treatment was attempted in all cases. Because of severe pain, persistent epithelial defects and progressing stromal thinning did not improve with medical treatment, thus, the patients underwent AMT. The mean posttreatment BCVA of the patients was 0.33±0.27. All of them, except for two patients, showed improved visual acuity. One patient underwent evisceration for corneal melting and endophthalmitis in another center, and one patient underwent evisceration for severe pain of unknown origin. All 5 patients who consented to a psychiatric examination had depression, had personality disorder, and used tobacco.CONCLUSION:AMT appears to be an effective method for pain relief, rapid epithelial and stromal healing; however, visual prognosis is still poor despite medical and surgical interventions.

Comparison of brimonidine-timolol and dorzolamide-timolol in the management of intraocular pressure increase after phacoemulsification

Adem Turk,Osman Melih Ceylan,Gokcen Gokce,Mehmet Borazan and Mehmet Kola — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effectiveness of brimonidine/timolol fixed combination (BTFC) and dorzolamide/timolol fixed combination (DTFC) in the management of short-term intraocular pressure (IOP) increase after phacoemulsi?cation surgery.METHODS: Eighty eyes of 80 patients undergoing phacoemulsi?cation and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation were randomly assigned into three groups. Group 1 consisted of 28 eyes and represented the control group. Group 2 consisted of 25 eyes undergoing phacoemulsi?cation surgery and BTFC was instilled at the end of surgery. Group 3 consisted of 27 eyes undergoing phacoemulsi?cation surgery and DTFC was instilled at the end of surgery. IOP was measured preoperatively and 6, 24h and 1wk postoperatively.RESULTS: There was no statistically signi?cant difference in preoperative baseline IOP among the three groups (P=0.84). However, IOP was significantly lower in groups 2 and 3 compared to the control group (P<0.05 for all comparisons) at all postoperative visits. There was no significant difference between groups 2 and 3 at any visit. Eight eyes (28.6%) in the control group, two (8%) in Group 2 and one (3.7%) in Group 3 had IOP >25 mm Hg at 6h after surgery (P=0.008). However, IOP decreased and was >25 mm Hg in only one eye in each group at 24h after surgery.CONCLUSION: BTFC and DTFC have similar effects in reducing increases in IOP after phacoemulsification surgery and can both be recommended for preventing IOP spikes after such surgery.

Management of hypotony and flat anterior chamber associated with glaucoma filtration surgery

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the effectiveness of pharmacological and interventional treatment of hypotony and flat anterior chamber (FAC) resulting from glaucoma filtration surgery. METHODS:We retrospectively examined the medical records of fifty-two trabeculectomy patients (52 eyes) who developed postoperative hypotony and FAC. The management and associated complications of hypotony, changing intraocular pressure (IOP) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were evaluated. RESULTS:Of the 52 patients with hypotony, 29 (56%) had a grade 1 FAC, 21 (40%) had a grade 2 FAC, and only 2 had a grade 3 FAC. There was no significant difference between the mean preoperative IOP and the mean IOP at three and six months after surgery. Thirteen eyes (25%) required antiglaucomatous medication three months after surgery. The mean BCVA at 6mo after surgery was significantly reduced as compared with the mean preoperative BCVA. CONCLUSION:Hypotonia and FAC following trabeculectomy are associated with troublesome complications that require pharmacological and/or surgical treatment. Thus, close follow-up is essential for affected patients.

Effects of primary selective laser trabeculoplasty on anterior segment parameters

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the effects of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on the main numerical parameters of anterior segment with Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera in patients with ocular hypertension (OHT) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG).METHODS: Pentacam measurements of 45 eyes of 25 (15 females and 10 males) patients (12 with OHT, 13 with POAG) before and after SLT were obtained. Measurements were taken before and 1 and 3mo after SLT. Pentacam parameters were compared between OHT and POAG patients, and age groups (60y and older, and younger than 60y).RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 57.8±13.9 (range 20-77y). Twelve patients (48%) were younger than 60y, while 13 patients (52%) were 60y and older. Measurements of pre-SLT and post-SLT 1mo were significantly different for the parameters of central corneal thickness (CCT) and anterior chamber volume (ACV) (P<0.05). These parameters returned back to pre-SLT values at post-SLT 3mo. Decrease of ACV at post-SLT 1mo was significantly higher in younger than 60y group than 60y and older group. There was no statistically significant difference in Pentacam parameters between OHT and POAG patients at pre- and post-treatment measurements (P>0.05).CONCLUSION:SLT leads to significant increase in CCT and decrease in ACV at the 1^st month of the procedure. Effects of SLT on these anterior segment parameters, especially for CCT that interferes IOP measurement, should be considered to ensure accurate clinical interpretation.

Long-term outcomes in patients initially responsive to selective laser trabeculoplasty

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To determine the long-term effects of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) and the number of medications used up to 5y following treatment in glaucoma patients receiving maximally tolerated medical therapy (MTMT).METHODS:The Wills Eye Hospital Glaucoma Research Center retrospectively reviewed the charts of glaucoma patients who underwent SLT after receiving MTMT. Eyes that did not achieve their target pressure within 3mo following SLT were excluded from the study. Changes in mean IOP and number of glaucoma medications used were analyzed at 1, 3, and 5y following SLT.RESULTS:Seventy-five eyes of 67 patients were included in the study. Fifteen eyes that received SLT failed to achieve their target pressure within 3mo and were excluded from the study. The average follow-up time was 37.4mo (±14.4). Mean IOP was significantly reduced 1y after treatment (P=0.005). It was also reduced 3, 5y after treatment without reaching statistical significance (P=0.20 and P=0.072, respectively). There was a significant decrease in mean number of medications used 1, 3, 5y after treatment (P<0.001, P<0.001, and P=0.039, respectively). In the span of 5y, 2 eyes (2.7%) underwent repeat SLT, 7 eyes (9.3%) underwent glaucoma surgery and an additional 3 eyes (4.0%) underwent both.CONCLUSION:SLT significantly reduced the number of glaucoma medications used 5y following treatment in glaucoma patients receiving MTMT. SLT may delay operating-room surgery.

Phacoemulsification versus small incision cataract surgery in patients with uveitis

Rahul Bhargava,Prachi Kumar,Shiv Kumar Sharma,Manoj Kumar and Avinash Kaur — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the safety and efficacy of phacoemulsification and small incision cataract surgery (SICS) in patients with uveitic cataract.METHODS:In aprospective, randomized multi-centric study, consecutive patients with uveitic cataract were randomized to receive phacoemulsification or manual SICS by either of two surgeons well versed with both the techniques. A minimum inflammation free period of 3mo (defined as less than 5 cells per high power field in anterior chamber) was a pre-requisite for eligibility for surgery. Superior scleral tunnel incisions were used for both techniques. Improvement in visual acuity post-operatively was the primary outcome measure and the rate of post-operative complications and surgical time were secondary outcome measures, respectively. Means of groups were compared using t-tests. One way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used when there were more than two groups. Chi-square tests were used for proportions. Kaplan Meyer survival analysis was done and means for survival time was estimated at 95% confidence interval (CI). A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.RESULTS:One hundred and twenty-six of 139 patients (90.6%) completed the 6-month follow-up. Seven patients were lost in follow up and another six excluded due to either follow-up less than six months (n=1) or inability implant an intraocular lens (IOL) because of insufficient capsular support following posterior capsule rupture (n=5). There was significant improvement in vision after both the procedures (paired t-test; P<0.001). On first postoperative day, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was 20/63 or better in 31 (47%) patients in Phaco group and 26 (43.3%) patients in SICS group (P=0.384). The mean surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was 0.86±0.34 dioptres (D) in the phacoemulsification group and 1.16±0.28 D in SICS group. The difference between the groups was significant (t-test, P=0.002). At 6mo, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was 20/60 or better in 60 (90.9%) patients in Phaco group and 53 (88.3%) in the manual SICS group (P=0.478). The mean surgical time was significantly shorter in the manual SICS group (10.8±2.9 versus 13.2±2.6min) (P<0.001). Oral prednisolone, 1 mg/kg body weight was given 7d prior to surgery, continued post-operatively and tapered according to the inflammatory response over 4-6wk in patients with previously documented macular edema, recurrent uveitis, chronic anterior uveitis and intermediate uveitis. Rate of complications like macular edema (Chi-square, P=0.459), persistent uveitis (Chi-square, P=0.289) and posterior capsule opacification (Chi-square, P=0.474) were comparable between both the groups.CONCLUSION:ManualSICS and phacoemulsification do not differ significantly in complication rates and final CDVA outcomes. However, manual SICS is significantly faster. It may be the preferred technique in settings where surgical volume is high and access to phacoemulsification is limited, such as in eye camps. It may also be the appropriate technique for uveitic cataract under such circumstances.

Results of cataract surgery in renal transplantation and hemodialysis patients

Li-Hua Luo,Shi-Hong Xiong and Yan-Ling Wang — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effect of cataract surgery in renal transplantation and hemodialysis patients.METHODS: We evaluated 51 eyes of 31 renal transplantation patients, 41 eyes of 29 hemodialysis patients and 45 eyes of 32 normal control patients who received phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation from January, 2000 to August, 2014 in the Beijing Friendship Hospital. Each individual underwent a blood routine and a kidney function examination. Routine ophthalmologic examination included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), a slit-lamp examination to detect cataract type, determination of intraocular pressure, a corneal endothelial count, and fundus examination. All patients received phacoemulsification and an IOL implantation.CONCLUSION: This study showed that the PSC was more in the renal transplantation patients. BCVA was better and fundus lesions were less frequent in the renal transplantation group than in the hemodialysis group after cataract surgery. The multiple linear regression was showed that the Hb was positively correlated with postoperative BCVA, while Cr was negatively correlated with postoperative BCVA. These results may act as indicators in predicting visual acuity for the renal transplantation and hemodialysis patients.

Diffusion tensor imaging of optic nerve and optic radiation in primary chronic angle-closure glaucoma using 3T magnetic resonance imaging

Qiu-Juan Zhang,Dong Wang,Zhi-Lan Bai,Bai-Chao Ren and Xiao-Hui Li — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the value of quantitative diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in assessing the axonal and myelin damage of the optic nerves and optic radiations in patients with chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) by using high-field magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (3T).METHODS:Twenty patients with bilateral chronic PACG and twenty age- and sex matched disease-free control subjects were enrolled. Conventional MRI and DTI were performed on all subjects using 3T MR scanner. Mean diffusivity (MD), fractional anisotropy (FA), axial diffusivities (AD) and radial diffusivities (RD) of each optic nerve and each optic radiation were measured by using post-processing software of DTI studio 2.3, and then compared between left eyes and right eyes and between patients group and control group. The paired-sample t- test were used．RESULTS: There was no abnormality in the shape and signal intensity of the optic nerves and optic radiations in patients group and control group on the conventional MRI. No significant differences were observed in the FA, MD, AD and RD between the right and left optic nerves and optic radiations within patients group and control group (P＞0.05). The optic nerves and optic radiations of patients with chronic PACG, as compared with control subjects, had significantly higher MD, AD, RD and significantly lower FA (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:The diffusivity of optic nerves and optic radiations in chronic PACG group showed abnormal and diffusivity parameters could be used markers of axonal and myelin injury in glaucoma.

Anterior segment changes after pharmacologic mydriasis using Pentacam and optical coherence tomography in angle closure suspects

Jing-Min Guo,Mu Li,Xiao-Lan Xu,Hong Zhang and Jun-Ming Wang — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the dynamic changes of anterior segment parameters especially iris morphology induced by pharmacologic mydriasis between angle closure suspects and normal controls.METHODS:The study group comprised 19 eyes of 19 angle closure suspects and 19 eyes of 19 age- and sex-matched normal open-angle eyes. Pentacam and optical coherence tomography measurements before and 30min after instillation of compound tropicamide eye drop were performed and compared. Biometric evaluations of iris tomography and anterior chamber angle were estimated by a customized image-processing software.RESULTS:Baseline axial length, iris cross sectional area and volume did not differ significantly between angle closure suspects and normal controls. Angle closure suspects had smaller pupil size, narrower anterior segment dimension and axial length, thinner iris with greater curve in comparison with normal controls. Pharmacologic mydriasis led to significant increments in iris thickness at 750 μm, anterior chamber depth and volume, whereas significant decrements in iris curve, cross sectional area and volume in both groups. Angle opening distance at 500 μm was increased significantly in normal controls (from 0.465±0.115 mm to 0.539±0.167 mm, P=0.009), but not in angle closure suspects (from 0.125±0.100 mm to 0.145±0.131 mm, P=0.326). Iris volume change per millimeter of pupil dilation (△IV/△PD) decreased significantly less in angle closure suspects than normal controls (-2.47±1.33 mm² vs -3.63±1.58 mm², P=0.019). Linear regression analysis showed that the change of angle opening distance at 500 μm was associated most with the change of central anterior chamber depth (β=0.841, P=0.002) and △IV/△PD (β=0.028, P=0.002), followed by gender (β=0.062, P=0.032).CONCLUSION:Smaller iris volume decrement per millimeter of pupil dilation is related significantly with the less anterior angle opening in angle closure suspects after pharmacologic mydriasis. Dynamic iris change may be as a prospective indicator of iris compressibility and angle closure glaucoma.

Total oxidative stress, paraoxonase and arylesterase levels at patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the oxidative stress status of the aqueous humor and serum of patients with pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEG) and to measure paraoxonase (PON) and arylesterase (ARE) levels.METHODS: A total of 78 patients were enrolled in the study, with 26 patients in each separate group. The patients were divided into three groups:the first group entailed PEX syndrome patients, while the second group consisted of patients with PEG and the third group involved patients with no additional systemic diseases, other than the diagnosis of cataract as control. Total oxidative stress (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), PON, and ARE levels in aqueous humor and serum were measured.RESULTS: TAC, PON and arylesterase levels in aqueous humor and serum of the PEX syndrome and PEG patients were significantly decreased compared with control group (P<0.05). TOS values were higher in patients with PEX syndrome and PEG than controls (P<0.05). TAC, PON and ARE levels of aqueous humor did not differ significantly between the PEX syndrome and PEG groupsCONCLUSION: These findings are potentially of significance and add to the growing body of evidence for oxidative stress in PEX syndrome and PEG. Decreased antioxidant defense and increased oxidative stress system may play an important role in the pathogenesis of PEX syndrome and PEG.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor in patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the serum level of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and healthy control subjects. The disruption in the tight balance of neuroinflammatory and neuroprotective processes in an immune-privileged site like retina is proposed to contribute to the pathogenesis of AMD. One of the main neuroprotective mediators in the central nervous system is BDNF with its serum level notably affected in several neurodegenerative disorders.METHODS:Thirty-six patients with AMD and 36 age-matched controls were enrolled in this study. The serum level of BDNF was measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Results were analyzed to compare case and control values. Comparisons were also made between the BDNF level of wet- vs dry-AMD, and male vs female patients and controls. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student’s t-test were employed to analyze the data.RESULTS: The mean BDNF levels in AMD group were significantly higher than the control group. Furthermore, our analysis revealed greater BDNF values in all AMD subgroups compared to controls (P=0.004, 0.005, 0.001 and 0.02 for male wet-AMD, male dry-AMD, female wet-AMD and female dry-AMD vs controls, respectively). The BDNF level however did not vary between wet- and dry-AMD patients (P=0.74). While within-group comparisons in males and females of AMD and control groups did not show any difference in BDNF (P=0.16, 0.64 and 0.85 for wet-AMD, dry-AMD and control groups, respectively), between-group data showed a higher mean BDNF in both male and female AMD subjects than their peer controls.CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that the serum BDNF level is different in patients with AMD as compared to subjects without AMD. Future attempts should be done to unravel beneficial or deleterious effect of this neurotrophin in the pathogenesis of AMD.

Characterization of human retinal vessel arborisation in normal and amblyopic eyes using multifractal analysis

Stefan Tlu, Cristina Vlduiu and Carmen A. Lupacu — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To characterize the human retinal vessel arborisation in normal and amblyopic eyes using multifractal geometry and lacunarity parameters.METHODS:Multifractal analysis using a box counting algorithm was carried out for a set of 12 segmented and skeletonized human retinal images, corresponding to both normal (6 images) and amblyopia states of the retina (6 images).RESULTS:It was found that the microvascular geometry of the human retina network represents geometrical multifractals, characterized through subsets of regions having different scaling properties that are not evident in the fractal analysis. Multifractal analysis of the amblyopia images (segmented and skeletonized versions) show a higher average of the generalized dimensions (Dq) for q=0, 1, 2 indicating a higher degree of the tree-dimensional complexity associated with the human retinal microvasculature network whereas images of healthy subjects show a lower value of generalized dimensions indicating normal complexity of biostructure. On the other hand, the lacunarity analysis of the amblyopia images (segmented and skeletonized versions) show a lower average of the lacunarity parameter Λ than the corresponding values for normal images (segmented and skeletonized versions).CONCLUSION:The multifractal and lacunarity analysis may be used as a non-invasive predictive complementary tool to distinguish amblyopic subjects from healthy subjects and hence this technique could be used for an early diagnosis of patients with amblyopia.

Fundus autofluorescence in central serous chorioretinopathy:association with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiography

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the correlation among changes in fundus autofluorescence (AF) measured using infrared fundus AF (IR-AF) and short-wave length fundus AF (SW-AF) with changes in spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and fluorescein angiography (FA) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).METHODS:Two hundred and twenty consecutive patients with CSC were included. In addition to AF, patients were assessed by means of SD-OCT and FA. Abnormalities in images of IR-AF, SW-AF, FA were analyzed and correlated with the corresponding outer retinal alterations in SD-OCT findings.RESULTS:Eyes with abnormalities on either IR-AF or SW-AF were found in 256 eyes (58.18%), among them 256 eyes (100%) showed abnormal IR-AF, but SW-AF abnormalities were present only in 213 eyes (83.20%). The hypo-IR-AF corresponded to accumulation of sub-retinal liquid, collapse of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) or detachment of RPE with or without RPE leakage point in the corresponding area. The hyper-IR-AF corresponded to the area with loss of the ellipsoid portion of the inner segments and sub-sensory retinal deposits or focal melanogenesis under sensory retina. The hypo-SW-AF corresponded to accumulation of sub-retinal liquid or atrophy of RPE. The hyper-SW-AF associated with sub-sensory retinal deposits, detachment of RPE and focal melanogenesis.CONCLUSION:IR-AF was more sensitive than SW-AF and FA for identifying pathological abnormalities in CSC. The characteristics of IR-AF in CSC were attributable to the modification of melanin in the RPE. IR-AF should be used as a common diagnostic tool for identifying pathological lesion in CSC.KEYWORDS:central serous chorioretinopathy; fluorescein angiography; fundus autofluorescence; optical coherence tomography

Helvacioglu reproducibility index:a new algorithm to evaluate the effects of misalignments on the measurements of retinal nerve fiber layer by spectral-domain OCT

Firat Helvacioglu,Osman Murat Uyar,Sadik Sencan,Zeki Tunc and Ziya Kapran — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the effect of misalignment on the measurements of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT).METHODS:A total of 42 eyes from 21 healthy young subjects underwent RNFL measurements with RTVue spectral-domain OCT (Optovue Inc., Fremont, California, USA). Two baseline measurements with perfectly aligned central circle to the borders of the optic nerve and four misaligned measurements which were misaligned towards to four quadrants were taken. The differences in RNFL between the baseline and misaligned measurements were analyzed with a new algorithm called Helvacioglu reproducibility index (HRI) which is designed to measure the reproducibility of the scans by evaluating the RNFL changes in the four main quadrants.RESULTS:The average RNFL scores of the first two baseline measurements have good correlation (c=0.930) and good reproducibility scores (0.15±0.07). Superior misaligned measurements had significantly lower superior quadrant score and higher inferior quadrant score, similar nasal and little higher temporal scores (P1, P2<0.001, P3=0.553, P4=0.001). Inferior misaligned measurements had significantly higher superior quadrant score and lower inferior quadrant score with similar temporal and little lower nasal scores (P1, P2<0.001, P3=0.315, P4=0.016). Nasal misaligned measurements had significantly higher temporal quadrant score and lower nasal quadrant score with little lower superior and inferior scores (P1, P2, P4<0.001, P3=0.005). Temporal misaligned measurements had significantly higher nasal quadrant score and lower temporal quadrant score with similar superior and little higher inferior scores (P1, P2<0.001, P3=0.943, P4=0.001).CONCLUSION:Good alignment of the central circle to the borders of optic nerve is crucial to have correct and repeatable RNFL measurements. Misalignment to a quadrant resulted in falsely low readings at that quadrant and falsely high readings at the opposite quadrant.

Relationship between short-wavelength automatic perimetry and Heidelberg retina tomograph parameters in eyes with ocular hypertension

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To compare and correlate optic nerve head parameters obtained byHeidelberg retina tomograph (HRT) with short-wavelength automatic perimetry (SWAP) indices in eyes with ocular hypertension (OHT).METHODS: One hundred and forty-six patients with OHT included in the present study. All subjects had reliable SWAP and HRT measurements performed within a 2wk period. The eyes were classified as normal/abnormal according to visual field criteria and Moorfields regression analysis (MRA). Correlations between visual field indices and HRT parameters were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient (r).RESULTS:Twenty-nine eyes (19.9%) had SWAP defects. Twenty-nine eyes (19.9%) were classified as abnormal according to global MRA. Six eyes (4.1%) had abnormal global MRA and SWAP defects. The k statistic is 0.116 (P=0.12) indicating a very poor agreement between the methods. No statistical significant correlation between HRT and SWAP parameters was detected.CONCLUSION:SWAP defects may coexist with abnormalities of optic disc detected by HRT in eyes with OHT. In most eyes, however, the two methods detect different glaucoma properties.

Orbital metastases in Italy

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To describe a series of Italian patients with orbital metastasis focusing on the outcomes in relation to the different primary site of malignancy.METHODS:Retrospective chart review of 93 patients with orbital metastasis collected in a tertiary referral centre in a period of 38y and review of literature.RESULTS:Out of 93 patients, 52 were females and 41 were males. Median age at diagnosis was 51y (range 1 to 88y). The patients have been divided into four groups on the basis of the year of diagnosis. The frequency of recorded cases had decreased significantly (P<0.05) during the last 9.5y. Primary tumor site was breast in 36 cases (39%), kidney in 10 (11%), lung in 8 (9%), skin in 6 (6%); other sites were less frequent. In 16 case (17%) the primary tumor remained unknown. The most frequent clinical findings were proptosis (73%), limited ocular motility (55%), blepharoptosis (46%) and blurred vision (43%). The diagnosis were established by history, ocular and systemic evaluation, orbital imaging studies and open biopsy or fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). Treatment included surgical excision, irradiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or observation. Ninety-one percent of patients died of metastasis with an overall mean survival time (OMST) after the orbital diagnosis of 13.5mo.CONCLUSION:Breast, kidney and lung are the most frequent primary sites of cancer leading to an orbital metastasis. When the primary site is unknown, gastrointestinal tract should be carefully investigated. In the last decade a decrease in the frequency of orbital metastasis has been observed. Surgery provides a local palliation. Prognosis remains poor with a OMST of 13.5mo ranging from the 3mo in the lung cancer to 24mo in the kidney tumor.

Removal of the eye in a tertiary care center of China:a retrospective study on 573 cases in 20 years

Ying Zhang,Mao-Nian Zhang,Xin Wang and Xiao-Fei Chen — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate the original protopathy, direct indications, clinical characteristics, complications of orbit plants and visual conditions of eye enucleation/evisceration.METHODS: A retrospective study of 573 eyes removed (573 inpatients) at Ophthalmology Department in a tertiary care center of China from January 1993 to December 2012 was completed.RESULTS:Cases underwent removal of the eye accounted for 2.15% of total ophthalmology inpatients, whose annual frequency declined from 3.80% to 0.52%. There were 167 eyes (29.14%) being enucleated and 406 (70.86%) eviscerated. Annual proportion of evisceration rose from 16.67% in 1993 to 90.48% in later years. Trauma was the top one (65.62%) in original protopathies followed by neoplasm (13.44%) and ocular infections (5.76%). Phthisis bulbi (45.20%) was the most common direct indication, succeeded by malignant tumor (12.57%), loss/unreconstructed of intraocular tissues due to trauma (11.00%), untreatable inflammation (9.60%), intractable glaucoma (8.55%) and sclerocorneal staphyloma (5.24%). Exenteration was underwent in 20 (25.97%) cases (40% for recurrent carcinoma). Following evisceration, secondary prosthesis implantation was more and earlier, implant exposure occurred in less but earlier and infection and extraction/exchange of implants were more than those following enucleation. Male, phthisis bulbi, evisceration and secondary implantation meant lower risk of implant exposure; eyes removed within 24h following trauma was an independent risk factor. There were 14.37% of eyes with vision of light perception at least as been removed. In the residual contralateral eyes, low vision accounted 5.58% and blindness 3.14%.CONCLUSION:Ocular trauma, tumor and infections were great threats to eyeball preservation. Early and effective controlling of any original protopathies was vital. Generally evisceration presented more superior and safe outcomes than enucleation did. Visual conditions of the sufferers should be focused on.

Evaluation of patient visual comfort and repeatability of refractive values in non-presbyopic healthy eyes

2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the intra-operator repeatability in healthy subjects using the WAM-5500 auto-kerato/refractometer and the iTrace aberrometer, to compare the refractive values and the subjective refraction obtained with both devices and to determine which of these three spherocylindrical corrections allows the subject to achieve the best visual comfort. METHODS: Forty-two non-presbyopic healthy eyes of 42 subjects were enrolled in this prospective study. Refractive values were compared, evaluating the repeatability, the relationship between the methods and the best visual comfort obtained. RESULTS: Sphere, cylinder and axis results showed good intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC); the highest ICC was obtained using the spherical refraction with the autorefractometer and the aberrometer, achieving levels of 0.999 and 0.998, respectively. The power vector (PV) was calculated for each refraction method, and the results indicated that there were no statistically significant differences between them (P>0.05). Direct comparison of PV measurements using the three methods showed that aberrometer refraction gave the highest values, followed by the subjective values; the autorefractometer gave the lowest values. The subjective method correction was most frequently chosen as the first selection. Equal values were found for the autorefractometer and the aberrometer as the second selection. CONCLUSION: The iTrace aberrometer and the WAM-5500 auto-kerato/refractometer showed high levels of repeatability in healthy eyes. Refractive corrections with the aberrometer, the autorefractometer and subjective methods presented similar results, but spherocylindrical subjective correction was the most frequently selected option. These technologies can be used as complements in refractive evaluation, but they should not replace subjective refraction.

Oxygen permeability of soft contact lenses in different pH, osmolality and buffering solution

Se Eun Lee,So Ra Kim and Mijung Park — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the effect of pH, osmolality, and buffering system on the oxygen permeability (Dk) of soft contact lenses.METHODS: Two hydrogel lenses (nelfilcon A and etafilcon A) and 2 silicone hydrogel lenses (lotrafilcon A and balafilcon A) were used in the study. These lenses were incubated in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and borate-buffered saline (BBS) solutions adjusted by 0.8 pH increments to a pH in the range of 5.8-9.0 or in hypotonic (280 mOsmol/kg), isotonic (310 mOsmol/kg) and hypertonic (380 mOsmol/kg) PBS solutions. Polarographic method was used for measuring the Dk and lenses were stacked as 4 layers to correct the boundary effect.RESULTS: Dk values of all contact lenses measured in BBS solutions were more stable than those in PBS solutions. Especially the etafilcon A lens showed a relative big change compared with other types of contact lenses at the same conditions. When the osmolality of PBS solution increased from hypotonic to hypertonic, Dk of all contact lenses decreased. Variations in Dk existed depending on lens materials, etafilcon A lens was the most affected and nelfilcon A was the least affected by osmolality.CONCLUSION:From the result obtained, it is revealed that Dk of contact lenses is changed by the pH, osmolality, and buffering condition of tear. Thus, Dk of contact lens can be varied by the lens wearers'' physiological and/or pathological conditions.

Reproducibility of optical quality parameters measured at objective and subjective best focuses in a double-pass system

Ai-Lian Hu,Li-Ya Qiao,Ye Zhang,Xiao-Gu Cai,Lei Li and Xiu-Hua Wan — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate intra-session repeatability and reproducibility of optical quality parameters measured at objective and subjective best focuses in a double-pass system.METHODS: Thirty Chinese healthy adults (19 to 40 years old) meeting our inclusion criterion were enrolled in the study. After a basic eye examination, two methods of optical quality measurement, based on subjective and objective best focuses were performed using the Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) with an artificial pupil diameter of 4.0 mm.RESULTS: With each method, three consecutive measurements of the following parameters:the modulation transfer function cutoff frequency (MTFcutoff), the Strehl^2D ratio, the OQAS values (OVs) at contrasts of 100%, 20%, 9% and the objective scatter index (OSI) were performed by an experienced examiner. The repeatability of each method was evaluated by the repeatability limit (RL) and the coefficient of repeatability (COR). Reproducibility of the two methods was evaluated by intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) and the 95% limits of agreement (Bland and Altman analysis). Thirty subjects, seven females and twenty three males, of whom 15 right eyes and 15 left eyes were selected randomly for recruitment in the study. The RLs (percentage) for the six parameters measured at objective focus and subjective focus ranged from 8.44% to 15.13% and 10.85% to 16.26%, respectively. The CORs for the two measurement methods ranged from 8.27% to 14.83% and 10.63% to 15.93%, respectively. With regard to reproducibility, the ICCs for the six parameters of OQAS ranged from 0.024 to 0.276. The 95% limits of agreement obtained for the six parameters (in comparison of the two methods) ranged from -0.57 to 42.18 (MTFcutoff), -0.01 to 0.23 (Strehl^2D ratio), -0.02 to 1.40 (OV100%), -0.10 to 1.75 (OV20%), -0.14 to 1.80 (OV9%) and -1.46 to 0.18 (OSI).CONCLUSION:Measurements provided by OQAS with either method showed a good repeatability. However, the results obtained from the two different measurement methods showed a poor reproducibility. These findings suggest that it might be best to evaluate patients’ optical quality by OQAS using the best focus as chosen automatically by the instrument.

Application of traditional indexes and adverse events in the ophthalmologic perioperative medical quality evaluation during 2010-2012

Yong-Na Bian,Jian Shi,Jun-Jun She,Jie Wu and Jian-Min Gao — 2015/10/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the medical quality of ophthalmologic perioperative period during 2010-2012 in our hospital.METHODS:The relevant data of perioperative period were collected in our hospital during 2010-2012, and the medical quality of perioperative period was evaluated by using the traditional evaluation indexes and adverse events. Whereby, the traditional indicators include vision changes, improving of intraocular pressure, diagnostic accordance rate before and after operation, cure improvement rate, successful rescue rate, and incidence of surgical complications, etc. Adverse events are associated with ophthalmologic perioperative events including pressure sores, postoperative wound infection, drug adverse events, and equipment related adverse events.RESULTS:There were 1483, 1662 and 1931 ophthalmic operations in our hospital in the year 2010, 2011 and 2012, respectively. From traditional index analysis, the proportions of vision improvement for each year were 96.43%, 96.76% and 97.32%, respectively; the rates of intraocular pressure improvement were 87.50%, 85.72% and 90.17%, respectively (P <0.05); the diagnostic accordance rates before and after operation were 99.86%, 99.94% and 99.90%, respectively; cure improvement rates were 99.73%, 99.93% and 99.84%, respectively; the successful rescue rates were 82.98%, 81.46% and 76.66%, respectively; the complications incidence rates were 18.44%, 17.52% and 17.97%, respectively. The negative factor analysis results showed that:among all the patients of ophthalmic surgeries in our hospital during 2010 and 2012, only one case of postoperative wound infection was found in 2011, and also only one case of tumbling in 2010. The adverse drug events for each year were 1 case (0.07%), 2 cases (0.12%), and 4 cases (0.21%), respectively; the medical device adverse events for each year were 3 cases (0.20%), 5 cases (0.30%), and 6 cases (0.31%), respectively. Noticeably, only one case with postoperative infection of endophthalmitis was found in 2011. Moreover, no pulmonary infection or pulmonary embolism occurred during the three years. The perioperative adverse event rates for each year were 0.34% (5/1483), 0.48% (8/1662) and 0.52% (10/1931), respectively. Though incidence was rising during the three years period, no statistical significance was observed (P>0.05). It is the same case with drugs and medical devices adverse events (P >0.05).CONCLUSION:Traditional indicators reflect an excellent operation of the perioperative ophthalmologic quality, whereas adverse events analysis indicates some underlying problems. Compared with the traditional indexes for medical quality evaluation, the index of adverse events is more reasonable and easier to make an objective evaluation for medical quality of ophthalmologic perioperation, facilitating further refine analysis. Reasonable application of the adverse events indicators helps hospital to make the detailed quality control measures.

Investigation of the efficiency of intrastromal ring segments with cross-linking using different sequence and timing for keratoconus

Xuan-Li Liu,Ping-Hua Li,Pierre Fournie and François Malecaze — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate and compare the efficacy and stability of intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRs) implantation with cross-linking (CXL) using different sequence and timing.METHODS:In this single retrospective study, 86 keratoconic eyes subjected the ICRs implantation. We analyzed only 41 eyes that had complete follow-ups. They were divided into three groups:ICRs implantation was applied only (group normal), ICRs first followed by CXL immediately (group CXL-S), CXL first followed by ICRs long after (group CXL-B). The visual acuity, refractive results, keratometry were compared preoperatively and 1y postoperatively. Their differences among the three groups were also analyzed.RESULTS:Group normal comprised 25 eyes, group CXL-S 8 eyes, and group CXL-B 8 eyes. There were improvements in the mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and the mean corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) compared preoperatively and 1y postoperatively {UDVA:0.31 (P=0.030) logarithmic minimum angle of resolution [logMAR] group normal, 0.4 (P=0.020) group CXL-S, 0.45 (P=0.001) group CXL-B; CDVA:0.21 logMAR (P=0.013) group normal, 0.30 (P=0.036) group CXL-S; 0.26 (P=0.000) group CXL-B}. The refractive and topographic outcomes also showed improvements. In terms of comparisons among the three groups, all the P values were above 0.05, showing no significant difference. But only group CXL-B had improvement in UDVA and CDVA for all the patients.CONCLUSION:With safety and good visual outcomes, ICRs implantation is a viable alternative for keratoconus. No significant difference was found among these three groups.

Nd:Yag laser iridotomy in Shaffer-Etienne grade 1 and 2:angle widening in our case studies

2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To obtain widening of a potentially occludable angle, in according to Kanski’s indications, through preventive Nd:Yag laser iridotomy. The observational study was performed by using gonioscopy for the selection and follow-up of 1165 treated eyes and exploiting Shaffer-Etienne gonioscopic classification as a quality/quantity test of the angle recession.METHODS:Between September 2000 and July 2012, 586 patients were selected at the Outpatients’ Ophthalmological Clinic of the Policlinico Umberto I of Rome in order to undergo Nd:Yag laser iridotomy. A Goldmann type contact lens, Q-switched mode, 2-3 defocus, and 7-9 mJ intensity with 2-3 impulse discharges were used for surgery.RESULTS:From as early as the first week, a whole 360° angle widening were evident in the patients, thus showing the success of Nd:Yag laser iridotomy in solving relative pupil block. The angle remained narrow by 270° in 14 eyes only, despite repetitions of further treatment with laser iridotomy in a different part of the iris, twice in 10 eyes and three times in 4 eyes.CONCLUSION:Nd:Yag laser iridotomy revealed itself as being a safe and effective treatment in widening those critical Shaffer-Etienne grade 1 and 2 potentially occludable angles.

Autologous sclera-muscle flaps technique in evisceration with hydroxyapatite implantation

Ying Zhu,Hong Zhang,Yin-Wei Song,Jing-Min Guo,Xiao-Lan Xu and Jun-Ming Wang — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To provide superior cosmetic results and reduce complications, unlike traditional evisceration coupled with implant insertion technique and its modifications, we have developed a novel and simple technique for anophthalmic patients.METHODS: All patients who underwent the scleral-muscle flaps procedure in evisceration with the placement of hydroxyapatite implant were included in the study. Main outcome measures were complications such as exposure, infection, chemosis, conjunctival inclusion cysts, granulomas. Meanwhile, implant motility was indirectly measured and the results were collected and analyzed.RESULTS: A total of twenty-eight patients were enrolled in the study. Eighteen were men (64.29%) and ten were women (35.71%). Ages ranged from 18 to 65y (mean age, 32 years old). Mean follow-up was 12.32mo (range, 9-16mo). All patients received a hydroxyapatite implant. The average diameter of the implant was 19.29±1.36 mm (range, 18-22 mm). Minor complications occurred in 3 patients, and a major complication was observed in 1 patient. Mean motility were 11.04±1.45 mm horizontally (range, 7-14 mm) and 8.57±1.50 mm vertically (range, 5-12 mm).CONCLUSION: The sclera-muscle flaps technique in evisceration with hydroxyapatite implantation is simple and practical that eases the surgical procedure, enables a proper size hydroxyapatite implantation, distinctively reduces complications and provides superior surgery results, especially the motility of the implant.

Correction of low corneal astigmatism in cataract surgery

2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare aspheric toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and aspheric monofocal IOL implantation with limbal relaxing incisions (LRI) to manage low corneal astigmatism (1.0-2.0 D) in cataract surgery.METHODS:A prospective randomized comparative clinical study was performed. There were randomly recruited 102 eyes (102 patients) with cataracts associated with corneal astigmatism and divided into two groups. The first group received toric IOL implantation and the second one monofocal IOL implantation with peripheral corneal relaxing incisions. Outcomes considered were:visual acuity, postoperative residual astigmatism, endothelial cell count, the need for spectacles, and patient satisfaction. To determine the postoperative toric axis, all patients who underwent the toric IOL implantation were further evaluated using an OPD Scan III (Nidek Co, Japan). Follow-up lasted 6mo.RESULTS: The mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCVA) and the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) demonstrated statistically significant improvement after surgery in both groups. At the end of the follow-up the UCVA was statistically better in the patients with toric IOL implants compared to those patients who underwent implantation of monofocal IOL plus LRI. The mean residual refractive astigmatism was of 0.4 D for the toric IOL group and 1.1 D for the LRI group (P<0.01). No difference was observed in the postoperative endothelial cell count between the two groups.CONCLUSION: The two surgical procedures demonstrated a significant decrease in refractive astigmatism. Toric IOL implantation was more effective and predictable compared to the limbal relaxing incision.

Comparison of posterior capsule opacification at 360-degree square edge hydrophilic and sharp edge hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens in diabetic patients

Ling Bai,Jin Zhang,Ling Chen,Ting Ma and Hou-Cheng Liang — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To compare posterior capsule opacification (PCO) degree and visual functions after phacoemulsification in eyes implanted with 360-degree square edge hydrophilic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) (570C C-flex, Rayner) and sharp edge hydrophobic acrylic IOL (Sensar AR40e, AMO) in diabetic patients.METHODS:Sixty diabetic patients underwent uneventful phacoemulsification and randomly implanted one of the two IOLs. The PCO value was measured by retroillumination photographs and Evaluation of Posterior Capsule Opacification (EPCO) 2000 image-analysis software at 1, 6, 12, and 24mo after surgery. Visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity in photopic and mesopic conditions were also examined at each follow up time point. The incidence of eye that required Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy were also compared.RESULTS:There was not any statistically significant difference in PCO scores between Rayner C-flex 570C group and Sensar AR40e group at each follow up time point. Visual acuity, Nd:YAG capsulotomy incidence and contrast sensitivity also had no significant difference during the 24mo follow-up.CONCLUSION: For diabetic patients, Rayner 570C C-flex and Sensar AR40e IOLs are same effective for prevent PCO. The 360-degree square edge design maybe is a good alternative technique to improve PCO prevention.

Optical performance of toric intraocular lenses in the presence of decentration

Bin Zhang,Jin-Xue Ma,Dan-Yan Liu,Ying-Hua Du,Cong-Rong Guo and Yue-Xian Cui — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the optical performance of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) after decentration and with different pupil diameters, but with the IOL astigmatic axis aligned.METHODS: Optical performances of toric T5 and SN60AT spherical IOLs after decentration were tested on a theoretical pseudophakic model eye based on the Hwey-Lan Liou schematic eye using the Zemax ray-tracing program. Changes in optical performance were analyzed in model eyes with 3-mm, 4-mm, and 5-mm pupil diameters and decentered from 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm with an interval of 5° at the meridian direction from 0° to 90°. The ratio of the modulation transfer function (MTF) between a decentered and a centered IOL (MTFDecentration/MTFCentration) was calculated to analyze the decrease in optical performance.RESULTS:Optical performance of the toric IOL remained unchanged when IOLs were decentered in any meridian direction. The MTFs of the two IOLs decreased, whereas optical performance remained equivalent after decentration. The MTFDecentration/MTFCentration ratios of the IOLs at a decentration from 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm were comparable in the toric and SN60AT IOLs. After decentration, MTF decreased further, with the MTF of the toric IOL being slightly lower than that of the SN60AT IOL. Imaging qualities of the two IOLs decreased when the pupil diameter and the degree of decentration increased, but the decrease was similar in the toric and spherical IOLs. CONCLUSIONS: Toric IOLs were comparable to spherical IOLs in terms of tolerance to decentration at the correct axial position.

High order aberration and straylight evaluation after cataract surgery with implantation of an aspheric, aberration correcting monofocal intraocular lens

Florian T A Kretz,Tamer Tandogan,Ramin Khoramnia and Gerd U Auffarth — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the quality of vision in respect to high order aberrations and straylight perception after implantation of an aspheric, aberration correcting, monofocal intraocular lens (IOL).METHODS:Twenty-one patients (34 eyes) aged 50 to 83y underwent cataract surgery with implantation of an aspheric, aberration correcting IOL (Tecnis ZCB00, Abbott Medical Optics). Three months after surgery they were examined for uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), contrast sensitivity (CS) under photopic and mesopic conditions with and without glare source, ocular high order aberrations (HOA, Zywave II) and retinal straylight (C-Quant).RESULTS:Postoperatively, patients achieved a postoperative CDVA of 0.0 logMAR or better in 97.1% of eyes. Mean values of high order abberations were +0.02±0.27 (primary coma components) and -0.04±0.16 (spherical aberration term). Straylight values of the C-Quant were 1.35±0.44 log which is within normal range of age matched phakic patients. The CS measurements under mesopic and photopic conditions in combination with and without glare did not show any statistical significance in the patient group observed (P≥0.28).CONCLUSION:The implantation of an aspherical aberration correcting monofocal IOL after cataract surgery resulted in very low residual higher order aberration (HOA) and normal straylight.

Angle parameter changes of phacoemulsification and combined phacotrabeculectomy for acute primary angle closure

Shi-Wei Li,Yan Chen,Qiang Wu,Bin Lu,Wen-Qing Wang and Jian Fang — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the difference in angle parameters and clinical outcome following phacoemulsification and combined phacotrabeculectomy in patients with acute primary angle closure (APAC) using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM).METHODS: Patients (n=23, 31 eyes) were randomized to receive phacoemulsification or combined phacotrabeculectomy (n=24, 31 eyes). Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), the main complications following surgery, and indentation gonioscopy and angle parameters measured using UBM were documented preoperatively and postoperatively.RESULTS:The improvement in BCVA in the phacoemulsification group was significantly greater than in the combined group (P<0.05). IOP in the phacoemulsification group was slightly higher than in the combined group following 1wk of follow-up (P<0.05), whereas there was no significant difference between the two groups at the latter follow-up (P>0.05). Phacoemulsification alone resulted in a slight increase in the trabecular ciliary processes distance compared with the combined surgery (P<0.05), whereas the other angle parameters showed no significant difference between the groups. Complications in combined group were greater than phacoemulsification only group.CONCLUSION:Both surgeries effectively opened the drainage angle and deepened the anterior chamber, and IOP was well controlled postoperatively. However, phacoemulsification showed better efficacy in improving visual function and showed reduced complications following surgery.

Bleb needling outcomes for failed trabeculectomy blebs in Asian eyes:a 2-year follow up

Andrew S. H. Tsai,Pui Yi Boey,Hla M Htoon and Tina T Wong — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To describe the outcomes of bleb needling in primary glaucoma in an Asian tertiary eye centre over a 2y period. To compare the success rates between primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). Lastly, to identify factors associated with success of bleb needling.METHODS:This was a retrospective review of 227 patients who underwent bleb needling between June 2009 and June 2011 in Singapore National Eye Centre. The 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) augmented bleb needling was performed either at the slit lamp or in the operating theatre. Repeat bleb needlings were performed as necessary. Complete success was defined as maintenance of intraocular pressure (IOP) ≥6 mm Hg and ≤21 mm Hg, in the absence of further surgery or use of antiglaucoma medication. Qualified success met the above criteria with or without use of antiglaucoma medications.RESULTS:One hundred and seventy-five eyes completed the two-year follow up. Sixty-nine percent of participants had POAG and 31% had PACG. The mean interval between filtering surgery and bleb needling was 299.9±616.4d for POAG and 167.1±272.2d for PACG. Mean needling attempts were 1.9±1.4 and 2±1.6 for POAG and PACG respectively. In general, there was a statistically significant reduction of IOP ranging from 21.9% to 26.8% from month 1 through to month 24. The complete success rates at month 6 were 70.0% for POAG and 65.7% for PACG. At month 12, this decreased to 62.2% for POAG and PACG and at month 24, 57.9% for POAG and 63.0% for PACG respectively. The qualified success rates at month 6 for POAG and PACG were 23.8% and 29.9% respectively, 32.2% and 29.2% at month 12, and 34.7% and 29.6% at month 24. The success rates between POAG and PACG were not significantly different (P>0.05 for complete and qualified success at months 6, 12 and 24). An increased number of needlings and higher pre-needling IOP were associated with failure.CONCLUSION:The5-FU augmented bleb needling within one year of trabeculectomy in Asian eyes can provide clinically significant IOP lowering of more than 20% for 2y. POAG and PACG had similar complete success rates (58% and 63% respectively). Factors associated with greater risk of procedure failure included increased number of needlings and higher pre-needling IOP. Asian eyes have a greater propensity for scarring but bleb needling, if performed in a timely manner can rescue bleb function.

Ultrasound biomicroscopy in patients with unilateral pseudoexfoliation

Erkan Ünsal,Kadir Eltutar,Ilkay Muftuoglu,Tulay Alpar Akcetin and Yıldız Acar — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the anterior segment morphology evaluated using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in patients with clinical pseudoexfoliation syndrome (XFS) in one eye and no clinical XFS in the fellow eye.METHODS: Thirty patients with unilateral XFS were included in the study. All patients underwent evaluation of their anterior segment using UBM with and without dilatation with 1% cyclopentolate. The anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT), anterior chamber angle (ACA), ciliary body thickness (CBT), scleral thickness (ST), trabeculae -ciliary processes distance (T-CPD), and iris-ciliary processes distance (I-CPD) were measured using UBM scans. All results between the eyes with clinical XFS and their fellow eyes without clinical XFS were then compared.RESULTS: Before dilatation the eyes with XFS (4.350±0.531 mm) were found to have a significantly thicker lens (P=0.002) than the eyes without XFS (4.238±0.540 mm). In addition after dilatation, the eyes with XFS (4.310±0.500 mm) were found to have a significantly thicker lens than the eyes without XFS (4.160±0.480 mm) (P=0.019). The average ACD, for the group with XFS, comparing pre-dilatation (2.616±0.349 mm) and post-dilatation measurements (2.714±0.413) was found to be statistically increased (P=0.014). The average ACD, comparing pre-dilatation to post-dilatation measurements in patients without XFS (2.680±0.360), (2.720±0.500) was found to be statistically unchanged (P=0.450). DISCUSSION: Crystalline lenses tended to be thicker in the eyes with clinical pseudoexfoliation than their fellow eyes without pseudoexfoliation.

Clinical characteristics of intermediate uveitis in adult Turkish patients

2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To describe the clinical characteristics of Turkish patients with intermediate uveitis (IU) and to investigate the effect of clinical findings and complications on final visual acuity (VA).METHODS:We retrospectively analyzed the medical records of patients with IU who had at least 6mo of follow-up and were older than 16y.RESULTS:A total of 78 eyes of 45 patients were included in the study and the mean follow-up period was 19.4mo. The mean age at the time of presentation was 42.9s. Systemic disease associations were found in 17.7% of cases; sarcoidosis (8.8%) and multiple sclerosis (6.6%) were the most common diseases. Recurrence rate (odds ratio=45.53; 95%CI:2.181-950.58), vitritis equals to or more than 3+ cells (odds ratio =57.456; 95%CI:4.154-794.79) and presenting with VA less than 20/40 (odds ratio =43.81; 95%CI:2.184-878.71) were also found as high risk factors for poor final VA. At the last follow-up examination, 67.9% of eyes had VA of 20/40 or better.CONCLUSION: IU is frequently seen at the beginning of the fourth decade of life. The disease is most commonly idiopathic in adult Turkish patients. Patients with severe vitritis at presentation and patients with frequent recurrences are at high risk for poor visual outcome.

Visual function and vision-related quality of life after vitrectomy for idiopathic macular hole:a 12mo follow-up study

Hong-Tao Duan,Song Chen,Yue-Xin Wang,Jia-Hui Kong and Meng Dong — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the visual function and the relationship with vision-related quality of life (VRQOL) after macular hole repair surgery．METHODS: Prospective case series. Thirty-six consecutive eyes in 36 patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling were included. The 25-item National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) was answered by the participants before and 3 and 12mo after operation. Follow-up visits examinations included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), clinical examination, and central macular thickness (CMT) measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT).RESULTS: Macular-hole closure was achieved in 35 of 36 eyes (97.2%). At baseline and months 3 and 12, the logMAR BCVAs (mean±SD) were 1.15±0.47, 0.68±0.53 (P<0.0001 versus baseline), and 0.55±0.49 (P<0.001 versus baseline, P =0.273 versus month 3), respectively; the CMTs (μm) were 330±81, 244±62 (P<0.001 versus baseline), and 225±58 (P<0.001 versus baseline, P=0.222 versus month 3), respectively; the median preoperative VFQ-25 composite score of 73.50 (63.92-81.13) increased postoperatively to 85.50 (80.04-89.63) at 3mo (P<0.001) and 86.73(82.50-89.63) at 12mo (P<0.001) respectively. The improved BCVA was correlated with improvements in five subscales (r=-0.605 to -0.336, P<0.001 to P=0.046) at 12mo.CONCLUSION: PPV with ILM peeling improved anatomic outcome, visual function, and VRQOL. The improved BCVA was an important factor related to the improved VRQOL.

Characterisation of human non-proliferativediabetic retinopathy using the fractal analysis

2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate and quantify changes in the branching patterns of the retina vascular network in diabetes using the fractal analysis method. METHODS: This was a clinic-based prospective study of 172 participants managed at the Ophthalmological Clinic of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, between January 2012 and December 2013. A set of 172 segmented and skeletonized human retinal images, corresponding to both normal (24 images) and pathological (148 images) states of the retina were examined. An automatic unsupervised method for retinal vessel segmentation was applied before fractal analysis. The fractal analyses of the retinal digital images were performed using the fractal analysis software ImageJ. Statistical analyses were performed for these groups using Microsoft Office Excel 2003 and GraphPad InStat software. RESULTS: It was found that subtle changes in the vascular network geometry of the human retina are influenced by diabetic retinopathy (DR) and can be estimated using the fractal geometry. The average of fractal dimensions D for the normal images (segmented and skeletonized versions) is slightly lower than the corresponding values of mild non-proliferative DR (NPDR) images (segmented and skeletonized versions). The average of fractal dimensions D for the normal images (segmented and skeletonized versions) is higher than the corresponding values of moderate NPDR images (segmented and skeletonized versions). The lowest values were found for the corresponding values of severe NPDR images (segmented and skeletonized versions). CONCLUSION: The fractal analysis of fundus photographs may be used for a more complete undeTrstanding of the early and basic pathophysiological mechanisms of diabetes. The architecture of the retinal microvasculature in diabetes can be quantitative quantified by means of the fractal dimension. Microvascular abnormalities on retinal imaging may elucidate early mechanistic pathways for microvascular complications and distinguish patients with DR from healthy individuals.

Effect of suction on macular thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness during LASIK used femtosecond laser and Moria M2 microkeratome

Jing Zhang and Yue-Hua Zhou — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the effect of suction on the macular thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness during laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) used Ziemer FEMTO LDV femtosecond laser (Ziemer group) and Moria M2 automated microkeratome (Moria group) for flap creation.METHODS: Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) was used to measure macular thickness, ganglion cell complex thickness and (RNFL) thickness of 204 eyes of 102 patients with the Ziemer femtosecond laser (102 eyes) and the Moria M2 microkeratome (102 eyes) before surgery and 30min; 1, 3d; 1wk; 1, 3mo; 1y after surgery.RESULTS:The average foveal thickness and parafoveal retinal thickness 30min after the surgery were statistically more than that before surgery (Ziemer P<0.001, P=0.003 and Moria P=0.001, P=0.006) and the effect was less in the Ziemer group than that in the Moria group (P all<0.05). The ganglion cell complex thickness was not significantly changed in both groups (P all>0.05). The RNFL thickness was statistically less 30min after surgery in both groups (P=0.014, P<0.001), but the influence was less in Ziemer group than that in Moria group (P=0.038). However, the RNFL thickness had recovered to the preoperative level only 1d after surgery.CONCLUSION:The suction offemtosecond laser and mechanical microkeratome led to the increase in macular central fovea thickness and the decrease in RNFL thickness values at the early stage after LASIK. The effect of suction on macular and the RNFL thicknesses in Ziemer group is smaller than that in Moria group.

Comparison of the femtosecond laser and mechanical microkeratome for flap cutting in LASIK

Li-Kun Xia,Jie Yu,Guang-Rui Chai,Dang Wang and Yang Li — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To compare refractive results, higher-order aberrations (HOAs), contrast sensitivity and dry eye after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) performed with a femtosecond laser versus a mechanical microkeratome for myopia and astigmatism.METHODS: In this prospective, non-randomized study, 120 eyes with myopia received a LASIK surgery with the VisuMax femtosecond laser for flap cutting, and 120 eyes received a conventional LASIK surgery with a mechanical microkeratome. Flap thickness, visual acuity, manifest refraction, contrast sensitivity function (CSF) curves, HOAs and dry-eye were measured at 1wk; 1, 3, 6mo after surgery.RESULTS:At 6mo postoperatively, the mean central flap thickness in femtosecond laser procedure was 113.05±5.89 μm (attempted thickness 110 μm), and 148.36±21.24 μm (attempted thickness 140 μm) in mechanical microkeratome procedure. An uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) of 4.9 or better was obtained in more than 98% of eyes treated by both methods, a gain in logMAR lines of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) occurred in more than 70% of eyes treated by both methods, and no eye lost ≥1 lines of CDVA in both groups. The difference of the mean UDVA and CDVA between two groups at any time post-surgery were not statistically significant (P＞0.05). The postoperative changes of spherical equivalent occurred markedly during the first month in both groups. The total root mean square values of HOAs and spherical aberrations in the femtosecond treated eyes were markedly less than those in the microkeratome treated eyes during 6mo visit after surgery (P＜0.01). The CSF values of the femtosecond treated eyes were also higher than those of the microkeratome treated eyes at all space frequency (P＜0.01). The mean ocular surface disease index scores in both groups were increased at 1wk, and recovered to preoperative level at 1mo after surgery. The mean tear breakup time (TBUT) of the femtosecond treated eyes were markedly longer than those of the microkeratome treated eyes at postoperative 1, 3mo (P＜0.01).CONCLUSION:Both the femtosecond laser and the mechanical microkeratome for LASIK flap cutting are safe and effective to correct myopia, with no statistically significant difference in the UDVA, CDVA during 6mo follow-up. Refractive results remained stable after 1mo post-operation for both groups. The femtosecond laser may have advantages over the microkeratome in the flap thickness predictability, fewer induced HOAs, better CSF, and longer TBUT.

Comparison of the extrusion rate of Crawford tubes

2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the outcomes of dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) using traditional Crawford tubes (TCT) and Crawford tubes with suture (CTS) in the lumen.METHODS:Retrospective case series consisting of patients who underwent DCR between 2008 and 2013.RESULTS:A total of 61 DCRs were performed on 50 patients. Patients who underwent DCR using CTS had higher rates of prolapse compared to the TCT group (50% vs 9.4%; P=0.003). Stent removal occurred earlier in patients who received CTS (3.3mo vs 5.1mo; P=0.004). Success rates were equivalent between the two groups (75% vs 81.1%; P=0.684).CONCLUSION:CTS in the lumen increases the risk of prolapse, prompting earlier tube removal in patients following DCR for nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). Earlier removal of tubes does not appear to significantly decrease success rates.

Extensive full-thickness eyelid reconstruction with rotation flaps through “subcutaneous tunnel” and palatal mucosal grafts

Jian-Xia Cheng,Lan Zuo,Xin-Yu Huang,Ji-Zhe Cui,Shuai Wu and Yuan-Yuan Du — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM: To reconstruct the extensive full-thickness defects of eyelids is a challenge for the plastic surgeon because of their complex anatomy and special functions. This article presents and discusses an improved surgical technique in which the orbicularis oculi myocutaneous flap is rotated through a “subcutaneous tunnel” in conjunction with a palatal mucosal graft employed for lining.METHODS: Data from 22 eyes with extensive full-thickness eyelid defects from various causes between 2009 and 2013 were analyzed in this study. After the different layers of eyelid were separated completely, a temporally based orbicularis oculi myocutaneous flap was designed following fishtail lines and was mobilized, leaving the base of the pedicle intact with a submuscular tissue attachment. The flap was then rotated through a “subcutaneous tunnel” to the defect, and the donor site was closed primarily. Posterior lamellar reconstruction was performed with a mucosal graft harvested from the hard palate.RESULTS:All the flaps were survived without any healing problems. There was no corneal irritation, flap contraction, or significant donor-site morbidity in the follow-up period. The incision scars were almost invisible. The defects were repaired completely, and the evaluations showed satisfactory function and appearance.CONCLUSION: This technique is an improved single-stage operation and can be applied to repair large, full-thickness eyelid defects from various causes. With our method, the functional and aesthetic results can be obtained in either the upper or lower eyelids.

Visual findings as primary manifestations in patients with intracranial tumors

Nazife Sefi-Yurdakul — 2015/7/27 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the visual findings as primary manifestations in patients with intracranial tumors.METHODS:The medical charts of the patients with intracranial tumors who initially admitted to the Neuro-ophthalmology and Strabismus Department with ocular complaints between August 1999 and December 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. The detailed clinical history and the findings of neuro-ophthalmologic examination were recorded. Ocular symptoms and signs, the types and locations of intracranial tumors, and the duration of symptoms before the diagnosis were evaluated.RESULTS:The mean age of 11 women (61.1%) and 7 men (38.9%) was 42.2±11.0 (range 20-66y) at the time of intracranial tumor diagnosis. Initial symptoms were transient visual obscurations, visual loss or visual field defect in 16 cases (88.9%), and diplopia in 2 cases (11.1%). Neuro-ophthalmologic examination revealed normal optic discs in both eyes of 6 patients (33.3%), paleness, atrophy or edema of optic disc in 12 patients (66.7%), and sixth cranial nerve palsy in 2 patients (11.1%). Visual acuity ranged between normal vision and loss of light perception. Cranial imaging demonstrated craniopharyngioma (n=1), plasmacytoma (n=1), meningioma (n=6; olfactory groove and tuberculum sellae, pontocerebellar angle, anterior cranial fossa, frontal vertex, suprasellar region), and pituitary macroadenoma (n=10). The mean duration between the onset of visual disturbances and the diagnosis of intracranial tumor was 9.8±18mo (range 3d-6y).CONCLUSION:The ophthalmologist is frequently the first physician to encounter a patient with clinical manifestations of intracranial tumors that may cause neurological and ocular complications. Neuro-ophthalmologic findings should be carefully evaluated to avoid a delay in the diagnosis of intracranial tumors.

Association of n3 and n6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in red blood cell membrane and plasma with severity of normal tension glaucoma

Man Yu,Bo Chen,Bo Gong,Ping Shuai,Zheng-Zheng Wu and Wei Lin — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To determine whether red blood cell (RBC) membrane and plasma lipids, particularly long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), arachidonic acid (AA) are significantly correlated with severity of normal tension glaucoma (NTG).METHODS:This study included 35 patients with NTG and 12 healthy normal control subjects, matched for age and sex with the study group. The stage of glaucoma was determined according to the Hodapp-Parrish-Anderson classification. Lipids were extracted from RBC membranes and plasma, and fatty acid methyl esters prepared and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).RESULTS:When RBC lipids were analyzed, the levels of EPA, the levels of DHA and the ratio of n3 to n6 were positively associated with the Humphrey Perimetry mean deviation (MD) score (r=0.617, P<0.001; r=0.727, P<0.001 and r=0.720, P<0.001, respectively), while the level of AA was negatively associated with the MD score (r=-0.427, P=0.001). When plasma lipids were analyzed, there was a significant positive relationship between the levels of EPA and the MD score (r=0.648, P<0.001), and the levels of AA were inversely correlated with the MD score (r=-0.638, P<0.001).CONCLUSION:The levels of n3 and n6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in RBC membrane and plasma lipids were associated with severity of NTG.

Standardization of choroidal thickness measurements using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography

2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To describe and evaluate a standardized protocol for measuring the choroidal thickness (ChT) using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI OCT).METHODS:Single 9 mm EDI OCT line scans across the fovea were used for this study. The protocol used in this study classified the EDI OCT images into four groups based on the appearance of the choroidal-scleral interface and suprachoroidal space. Two evaluation iterations of experiments were performed:first, the protocol was validated in a pilot study of 12 healthy eyes. Afterwards, the applicability of the protocol was tested in 82 eyes of patients with diabetes. Inter-observer and intra-observer agreements on image classifications were performed using Cohen’s kappa coefficient (k). Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman’s methodology were used for the measurement of the ChT.RESULTS:There was a moderate (k=0.42) and perfect (k=1) inter- and intra-observer agreements on image classifications from healthy eyes images and substantial (k=0.66) and almost perfect (k=0.86) agreements from diabetic eyes images. The proposed protocol showed excellent inter- and intra-observer agreements for the ChT measurements on both, healthy eyes and diabetic eyes (ICC>0.90 in all image categories). The Bland-Altman plot showed a relatively large ChT measurement agreement in the scans that contained less visible choroidal outer boundary.CONCLUSIONS:A protocol to standardize ChT measurements in EDI OCT images has been developed; the results obtained using this protocol show that the technique is accurate and reliable for routine clinical practice and research.

Imaging of filtering blebs after implantation of the Ex-PRESS shunt with the use of the Visante optical coherence tomography

2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To analyze the features of the filtering blebs following implantation of the Ex-PRESS glaucoma device (model P-50) with the aid of the Visante anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT)METHODS: Five patients with open angle glaucomas were included in the study. They all underwent implantation of the Ex-PRESS device under a scleral flap. The surgical procedure was augmented with the use of mitomycin C subconjunctivally. The filtering blebs were analyzed with the Visante AS-OCT with the scans taken along the axis of the implantation of the glaucoma device.RESULTS: All filtering blebs were graded as diffuse functioning. The morphological characteristics of the blebs were similar to those of the trabeculectomy. However the use of the Ex-PRESS implant tend to form a characteristic episcleral lake at the site of the plate of the implant.CONCLUSION: The use of the Ex-PRESS implant produces filtering blebs similar to those of the trabeculectomy with the formation of a characteristic episcleral lake at the site of the plate of the implant.

Effect of dorzolamide-timolol fixed combination prophylaxis on intraocular pressure spikes after intravitreal bevacizumab injection

Sehnaz Ozcaliskan,Faruk Ozturk,Pelin Yilmazbas and Ozlem Beyazyildiz — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of topical dorzolamide-timolol fixed combination prophylaxis on short term intraocular pressure (IOP) changes in patients who had intravitreal bevacizumab injection.METHODS: One hundred and fifty one eyes of 151 patients which were followed up in retina clinic in Ulucanlar Eye Training and Research Hospital were evaluated in this study. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 consists of 75 patients who had topical dorzolamid-timolol medication two hours before injection; while Group 2 consists of 76 patients without prophylaxis. Demographic data, IOP measurements prior to the injection and one, thirty and sixty minutes and twenty-four hours after the injection were recorded. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 15.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).RESULTS:There were no significant difference between two groups in age, gender distrubition and indications for injections. The mean IOPs in Groups 1 and 2 prior to the injection (T0) were 17.84±0.43 and 18.15±0.43 mm Hg, one minute after the injection (T1) were 29.75±1.6 and 34.44±1.59 mm Hg, 30min after the injection (T30) were 20.06±0.6 and 21.71±0.59 mm Hg respectively. The mean IOPs were 18.26±0.56 mm Hg in Group 1 and 19.78±0.56 mm Hg in Group 2 sixty minutes after the injection (T60). All IOP values after the injection were compared between two groups, there was a significant difference between two groups only on T1; one minute after the injection (P=0.04). There were a statiscially significant difference between the baseline values and other recorded values; except on T60, in Groups 1 and 2 (P<0.05).CONCLUSION: After intravitreal bevacizumab injection; we observe a transient IOP elevation which normalizes about one hour after intravitreal injection. In patients who had topical dorzolamid-timolol combination prophylaxis before injections, a significant decrease is seen in IOP spikes due to this injection. The appropiate approach will monitor IOP after intravitreal injection and evaluate the using prophylactic antiglaucomatous drugs before the injection in patients with ganglion nerve cell damage.

Error induced by the estimation of the corneal power and the effective lens position with a rotationally asymmetric refractive multifocal intraocular lens

2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the prediction error in intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation for a rotationally asymmetric refractive multifocal IOL and the impact on this error of the optimization of the keratometric estimation of the corneal power and the prediction of the effective lens position (ELP).METHODS:Retrospective study including a total of 25 eyes of 13 patients (age, 50 to 83y) with previous cataract surgery with implantation of the Lentis Mplus LS-312 IOL (Oculentis GmbH, Germany). In all cases, an adjusted IOL power (PIOLadj) was calculated based on Gaussian optics using a variable keratometric index value (nkadj) for the estimation of the corneal power (Pkadj) and on a new value for ELP (ELPadj) obtained by multiple regression analysis. This PIOLadj was compared with the IOL power implanted (PIOLReal) and the value proposed by three conventional formulas (Haigis, Hoffer Q and Holladay Ⅰ).RESULTS:PIOLReal was not significantly different than PIOLadj and Holladay IOL power (P>0.05). In the Bland and Altman analysis, PIOLadj showed lower mean difference (-0.07 D) and limits of agreement (of 1.47 and -1.61 D) when compared to PIOLReal than the IOL power value obtained with the Holladay formula. Furthermore, ELPadj was significantly lower than ELP calculated with other conventional formulas (P<0.01) and was found to be dependent on axial length, anterior chamber depth and Pkadj.CONCLUSION:Refractive outcomes after cataract surgery with implantation of the multifocal IOL Lentis Mplus LS-312 can be optimized by minimizing the keratometric error and by estimating ELP using a mathematical expression dependent on anatomical factors.

CD18 expression in granulocytes infiltrating the vitreous fluid in patients with diabetic retinopathy

Qi Zhu and Hu-Ping Song — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the levels of CD18 on the surface of granulocytes infiltrating the vitreous fluid in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR).METHODS:Vitreous samples from twelve patients with non-proliferative DR with significant macula edema (group A), 33 patients with proliferative DR (grade 3 as group B, n=14, and, grade 4 as group C, n=19) were obtained during pars plana vitrectomy. Vitreous samples from 12 patients with macular hole as controls (group D) were analyzed together. The infiltrating of granulocytes and its surface level of CD18 were measured by flow cytometry. The level of CD18 was presented as the mean channel fluorescence (MCF) on a logarithmic scale.RESULTS: Granulocytes were detected in 6 of 12 vitreous samples from group A, 9 of 14 from group B, 15 of 19 from group C, and none of 12 from group D. MCF of CD18 on granulocytes from groups A, B, and C were 2.978±1.446, 3.201±0.692, and 4.072±0.837, respectively. The difference was significant (F=4.354, P=0.021). Subjects with more severe DR were more likely to have a higher level of CD18 MCF (trend test, c²=7.351, P=0.007). CD18 MCF was significantly associated with the development of DR (r=0.46, P=0.005 and β=0.147, P=0.035).CONCLUSION:Our results confirm the presence of granulocytes and the elevated levels of CD18 on the surface of them in the vitreous fluid from DR patients. These results may provide indirect evidence shown that granulocytes activation also has occurred in the retinal local compared to non-DR control.

Focal choroidal excavation:a preliminary interpretation based on clinic and review

2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To describe the clinical and imaging characteristics associated with focal choroidal excavation (FCE), analyze the possible complication, and interpret its probable etiopathogenesis.METHODS:Retrospective descriptive case series of 37 eyes of 32 patients with FCE. Findings of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography, and clinical features were analyzed.RESULTS: All patients were Chinese. Five patients (15.6%) were bilaterally involved. Patients’ ages ranged from 7 to 66y. Refractive error ranged between +2.0 D and ?11.0 D. Mean best-corrected visual acuity was 0.6 (range, 0.1 to 1.2). Fundus examinations exhibited mild-moderate localized pigmentary disturbances in the corresponding area of 17 eyes. Fluorescein angiography performed in 18 patients showed varying degrees of hyperfluorescence and hypofluorescence related to a range of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) alterations. Indocyanine green angiography performed in 7 patients showed hypofluorescence at the excavation. SD-OCT demonstrated choroidal excavation in all 37 eyes. Twenty-nine eyes showed a single lesion of FCE, and three eyes showed 2-3 separated lesions. Fifteen eyes showed separation between the photoreceptor tips and RPE consistent with nonconforming FCE. Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC, n=1) and choroidal neovascularization (CNV, n=1) developed during follow-up.CONCLUSION:FCE could be interpreted as congenital focal choroidal dysplasia involving the RPE, choriocapillaris, and photoreceptor associated with the faulty anatomy. The abnormal anatomy of FCE was similar to anatomy at risk of CSC and CNV.

Clinical analysis of risk factors contributing to recurrence of pterygium after excision and graft surgery

Sang Won Ha,Joon Ho Park,Im Hee Shin and Hong Kyun Kim — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To find the risk factors related to the reproliferation of the pterygial tissue after excision and graft surgery.METHODS:Charts of 130 eyes of 130 patients who had pterygial excision from March 2006 to April 2011 were reviewed. Preoperative pterygium morphology, surgical methods, and adjunctive treatments were statistically analyzed for their relationship with recurrence.RESULTS: During the follow-up period, recurrence was observed in 20 eyes (15.4%). None of the preoperative morphologic features were affected the rate of the recurrence. However, an age < 40y [P =0.085, odds ratio (OR) 3.609, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.838-15.540] and amniotic membrane graft instead of conjunctival autograft (P =0.002, OR 9.093, 95% CI 2.316-35.698) were statistically significant risk factors for recurrence. Multivariate analysis revealed that intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) (P=0.072, OR 0.298, 95% CI 0.080-1.115) decreased the rate of recurrence.CONCLUSION:Younger age is a risk factor for reproliferation of pterygial tissue after excision and amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) are less effective in preventing recurrence of pterygium after excision based on the comparison between conjunctival autograft and AMT. Intraoperative MMC application and conjunctival autograft reduce recurrence.

Surgical induced astigmatism correlated with corneal pachymetry and intraocular pressure:transconjunctival sutureless 23-gauge versus 20-gauge sutured vitrectomy in diabetes mellitus

Yan Shao,Li-Jie Dong,Yan Zhang,Hui Liu,Bo-Jie Hu,Ju-Ping Liu and Xiao-Rong Li — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the difference of surgical induced astigmatism between conventional 20-gauge sutured vitrectomy and 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy, and the influence of corneal pachymetry and intraocular pressure (IOP) on surgical induced astigmatism in diabetic patients.METHODS:This retrospective, consecutive case series consisted of 40 eyes of 38 diabetic subjects who underwent either 20-gauge or 23-gauge vitrectomy. The corneal curvature and thickness were measured with Scheimpflug imaging before surgery and 1wk; 1, 3mo after surgery. We compared the surgical induced astigmatism (SIA) on the true net power in 23-gauge group with that in 20-gauge group. We determined the correlation between corneal thickness change ratio, IOP and SIA measured by Pentacam.RESULTS: The mean SIAs were 1.082±0.085 D (mean±SEM), 0.689±0.070 D and 0.459±0.063 D at postoperative 1wk; 1, 3mo respectively in diabetic subjects. The vitrectomy induced astigmatisms were declined significantly with time (F2,36=33.629, P=0.000) postoperatively. The 23-gauge surgery group induced significantly less astigmatism than 20-gauge surgery group (F1,37=11.046, P=0.020). Corneal thickness in diabetes elevated after surgery (F3,78=10.532, P=0.000). The linear regression analysis at postoperatively 1wk went as:SIA=-4.519+4.931 change ratio (Port3) +0.026 IOP (R²=0.46, P=0.000), whereas the rate of corneal thickness change and IOP showed no correlation with the change of astigmatism at postoperatively 1 and 3mo.CONCLUSION: There are significant serial changes in both 20-gauge and 23-gauge group in diabetic subjects. 23-gauge induce less astigmatism than 20-gauge and become stable more rapidly than 20-gauge. The elevation of corneal thickness and IOP was associated with increased astigmatim at the early postoperative stage both in 23-gauge and 20-gauge surgery group.

In vivo corneal confocal microscopic analysis in patients with keratoconus

Gulfidan Bitirgen,Ahmet Ozkagnici,Banu Bozkurt and Rayaz A Malik — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To quantify corneal ultrastructure using laser scanning in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) in patients with keratoconus and control subjects.METHODS: Unscarred corneas of 78 keratoconic subjects without a history of contact lens use and 36 age-matched control subjects were evaluated with slit-lamp examination (SLE), corneal topography and laser scanning IVCM. One eye was randomly chosen for analysis. Anterior and posterior stromal keratocyte, endothelial cell and basal epithelial cell densities and sub-basal nerve structure were evaluated.RESULTS: IVCM qualitatively demonstrated enlarged basal epithelial cells, structural changes in sub-basal and stromal nerve fibers, abnormal stromal keratocytes and keratocyte nuclei, and pleomorphism and enlargement of endothelial cells. Compared with control subjects, significant reductions in basal epithelial cell density (5817±306 cells/mm² vs 4802±508 cells/mm², P<0.001), anterior stromal keratocyte density (800±111 cells/mm² vs 555±115 cells/mm², P<0.001), posterior stromal keratocyte density (333±34 cells/mm² vs 270±47 cells/mm², P<0.001), endothelial cell density (2875±223 cells/mm² vs 2686±265 cells/mm², P<0.001), sub-basal nerve fiber density (31.2±8.4 nerves/mm² vs 18.1±9.2 nerves/mm², P<0.001), sub-basal nerve fiber length (21.4±3.4 mm/mm² vs 16.1±5.1 mm/mm², P<0.001), and sub-basal nerve branch density (median 50.0 (first quartile 31.2 - third quartile 68.7) nerve branches/mm² vs median 25.0 (first quartile 6.2 - third quartile 45.3) nerve branches/mm², P<0.001) were observed in patients with keratoconus.CONCLUSION: Significant microstructural abnormalities were identified in all corneal layers in the eyes of subjects with keratoconus using IVCM. This non-invasive in vivo technique provides an important means to define and follow progress of microstructural changes in patients with keratoconus.

Intraocular pressure measurement over soft contact lens by rebound tonometer:a comparative study

Senay Asik Nacaroglu,Emine Seker Un,Mehmet Giray Ersoz and Yelda Tasci — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements by Icare rebound tonometer over a contact lens in comparison with Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT).METHODS: Fifty patients using contact lens were included in this study. One of the eyes of the patients was selected randomly and their IOP were measured by rebound tonometer with and without contact lens (RTCL, RT respectively) and by GAT, as well as their central corneal thickness (CCT) by optical pachymeter. The results of both methods were compared by correlation analysis, general linear method repeated measure and Bland-Altman analysis.RESULTS: Mean IOP values measured by RTCL, RT and GAT were 15.68±3.7, 14.50±3.4 and 14.16±2.8 (P<0.001), respectively. Mean IOP by RTCL was significantly higher than the measurements implemented by RT and GAT (P<0.001), while there was no difference between the measurements by GAT and RT (P=0.629). There was a good level of positive correlation between GAT and RTCL as well as RT (r=0.786 P<0.001, r=0.833 P<0.001, respectively). We have observed that CCT increase did not show any correlation with the differences of the measurements between RTCL and RT (P=0.329), RTCL and GAT (P=0.07) as well as RT and GAT (P=0.189) in linear regression model.CONCLUSION: The average of the measurements over contact lens by rebound tonometer was found to be higher than what was measured by GAT. Although this difference is statistically significant, it may be clinically negligible in the normal population.

Treatment of ocular rosacea:comparative study of topical cyclosporine and oral doxycycline

Aysegul Arman,Duriye Deniz Demirseren and Tamer Takmaz — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To compare the effectiveness of topical cyclosporine A emulsion with that of oral doxycycline for rosacea associated ocular changes and dry eye complaints.METHODS:One hundred and ten patients with rosacea were screened. Thirty-eight patients having rosacea associated eyelid and ocular surface changes and dry eye complaints were included in the study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups:nineteen patients were given topical cyclosporine twice daily and nineteen patients were given oral doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for the first month and once daily for the following two months. Symptom and sign scores, ocular surface disease index questionnarie and tear function tests were evaluated at baseline and monthly for 3mo. Three months after results were compared with that of baseline.RESULTS:Mean values of symptom, eyelid sign and corneal/conjunctival sign scores of each treatment group at baseline and 3mo after treatments were compared and both drugs were found to be effective on rosacea associated ocular changes (P<0.001). Cyclosporine was more effective in symptomatic relief and in the treatment of eyelid signs (P=0.01). There was statistically significant increase in the mean Schirmer score with anesthesia and tear break up time scores in the cyclosporine treatment group compared to the doxycycline treatment group (P<0.05).CONCLUSION:Cyclosporine as a topical drug can be used in the treatment of rosacea associated ocular complications because it is more effective than doxycycline. In addition ocular rosacea as a chronic disease requires long term treatment and doxycycline has various side effects limiting its long term usage.

Comparison of intravitreal bevacizumab and triamcinolone acetonide theraphies for diffuse diabetic macular edema

Sibel Aksoy,Gursel Yilmaz,Imren Akkoyun and Ayse Canan Yazici — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To compare therapeutic effects of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) versus intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injections for bilateral diffuse diabetic macular edema (DDME).METHODS: Forty eyes of 20 patients with bilateral DDME participated in this study. For each patient, 4 mg/0.1 mL IVTA was injected to one eye and 2.5 mg/0.1 mL IVB was injected to the other eye. The effects of injection for diabetic macular edema (DME) were evaluated using best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macular thickness (CMT) by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) by applanation tonometer. Patients underwent eye examinations, including BCVA, CMT, and IOP at pre-injection, 1, 4, 8, 12 and 24wk after injection. During the follow-up, second injections were performed to eyes which have CMT greater than 400 μm at 12wk for salvage therapy.RESULTS: BCVA (logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution) at pre-injection, 1, 4, 8, 12 and 24wk after injection was 0.71±0.19, 0.62±0.23, 0.63±0.12, 0.63±0.13, 0.63±0.14 and 0.61±0.24 in the IVTA group and 0.68±0.25, 0.61±0.22, 0.60±0.24, 0.62±0.25, 0.65±0.26 and 0.59±0.25 in the IVB group, respectively. CMT (μm) at pre-injection, 1, 4, 8, 12 and 24wk after injection was 544±125, 383±96, 335±87, 323±87, 333±92, 335±61 in the IVTA group and 514±100, 431±86, 428±107, 442±106, 478±112, 430±88 in the IVB group respectively. Reduction ratios of mean CMT were 29% at 1wk, 38% at 4wk, 40% at 8wk, 38% at 12wk, and 38% at 24wk in the IVTA group. Second IVTA injections were performed to the 6 eyes (30%) at 12wk. Reduction ratios of mean CMT were 16% at 1wk, 17% at 4wk, 14% at 8wk, 7% at 12wk, and 16% at 24wk in the IVB group. Second IVB injections were performed to the 15 eyes (75%) at 12wk.CONCLUSION:This study showed earlier and more frequent macular edema recurrences in the eyes treated with bevacizumab compared with the ones treated with triamcinolone acetonide. Triamcinolone acetonide was found to provide more efficient and long-standing effect in terms of reducing CMT compared with the bevacizumab.

Matrix γ-carboxyglutamate protein and Fetuin-A, in wet type age-related macular degeneration

2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), Fetuin-A and matrix γ-carboxyglutamate protein (MGP) as the main factors for vascular calcification and inflammation in serum of patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) in comparison to healthy controls.METHODS: The subjects were 40 patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) having a mean age of 70.9±9.1y and a matched group of 49 apparently healthy control subjects. The ARMD was diagnosed using a slit-lamp with superfield lens, fundus photography and fluorescein angiography. Measurement of hsCRP was done by nephelometry method. Levels of Fetuin-A and MGP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique.RESULTS:hsCRP [0.45(0.07-2.63) mg/L vs 0.25(0.03-1.2) mg/L, P=0.02)] and Fetuin-A levels (50.27±5.04 vs 44.99±10.28 ng/mL, P=0.009) were higher in the patients than in the control groups. We could not find significant difference in MGP level between two groups (P=0.08). There was not a significant correlation between MGP with Fetuin-A and hsCRP among the patients (P=0.7, P=0.9 respectively). A significant negative correlation of hsCRP with Fetuin-A was observed in both case and control groups (P=0.004, r=-0.33 and P=0.001, r=-0.54, respectively).CONCLUSION: Although our study shows that serum hsCRP and Fetuin-A is increased in CNV patients as well as negatively correlated with both study groups, their direct role on pathogenesis of ARMD required future studies.

Outcomes of Ahmed valve surgery for refractory glaucoma in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia

Tariq Alasbali,Abdullah Ali Alghamdi and Rajiv Khandekar — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To evaluate the outcomes of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation surgery for refractory glaucoma.METHODS:This one-armed historical cohort study was conducted in 2011. Refractory glaucoma was defined as eyes with an intraocular pressure (IOP) greater than 21 mm Hg with maximally tolerated glaucoma medications, failed surgeries, or both. For all eyes with refractory glaucoma that underwent AGV implantation, data were collected on IOP, the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and glaucoma medications preoperatively and 4, 6, 12, 24 and 56wk postoperatively. Logarithm values of IOP were calculated and compared.RESULTS: The study group was comprised of 30 patients (30 eyes, 16 males and 14 females) with refractory glaucoma. Mean preoperative IOP was 39.3±13.8 mm Hg. Postoperative mean IOP was 15.7±7.1 mm Hg, 19.6±12.8 mm Hg and 13.9±14.2 mm Hg at 12, 24 and 56wk respectively. BCVA was ≥ 6/60 in 11 eyes preoperatively, and five eyes had BCVA≥6/60 at 56wk postoperatively. Preoperatively, more than four medications were used to treat glaucoma in 21 eyes. At 12wk postoperatively, no medications were required to control IOP in 20 eyes. At 56wk postoperatively, at least one medication was required to control IOP in 10 eyes. Over the entire follow up period, four eyes were treated with yttrium aluminium garnet (YAG) laser and 14 eyes required a second surgery. The AGV was removed in four eyes.CONCLUSION: AGV implantation reduced IOP and the number of medications required to control refractory glaucoma. However, there was a higher risk of decreased vision. Long-term follow up and prompt intervention are recommended.

Higher order aberration comparison between two aspherical intraocular lenses:MC6125AS and Akreos advanced optics

2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare higher order aberrations in two aspherical intraocular lenses (IOLs):Akreos advanced optics (AO) and Dr. Schmidt Microcrystalline 6125 aspheric anterior surface (MC6125AS) with each other.METHODS: Forty eyes of 39 patients underwent phacoemulsification and Akreos AO and MC6125AS were implanted in their eyes in a random manner. Three months post-operatively, higher order aberrations including spherical aberration, coma aberration, and total aberrations were measured and compared.RESULTS: The total aberration was 0.24±0.17 in eyes with Dr. Schmidt and 0.20±0.01 in eyes with Akreos AO (P=0.361). The mean of coma aberration was 0.17±0.21 and 0.09±0.86 in Dr. Schmidt and Akreos lenses, respectively (P=0.825). Total spherical aberration was almost the same in both groups (Mean:0.05, P=0.933). Best corrected visual acuity in Akreos AO (0.10±0.68) and Dr. Schmidt (0.09±0.67) did not differ significantly (P=0.700).CONCLUSION: There is no statistically significant difference in the higher order aberrations between these two aspherical lenses.

Inferior oblique weakening surgery on ocular torsion in congenital superior oblique palsy

Jinho Lee,Soh-Youn Suh,Ho-Kyung Choung and Seong-Joon Kim — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To investigate changes in fundus excyclotorsion after inferior oblique myectomy or myotomy.METHODS:The records of 21 patients undergoing strabismus surgery by a single surgeon between 2009 and 2012 were examined. Only patients who had undergone an inferior oblique myectomy or myotomy, with or without horizontal rectus muscle surgery, were evaluated. Digital fundus photographs were obtained, and the angle formed by a horizontal line passing through the optic disc center and a reference line connecting the foveola and optic disc center was measured. Associated clinical factors examined include age at the time of surgery, presence or absence of a head tilt, degree of preoperative vertical deviation, torsional angle, inferior oblique muscle overaction/superior oblique muscle underaction, and surgery laterality. Whether the procedure was performed alone or in combination with a horizontal rectus muscle surgery was also examined.RESULTS:Mean preoperative torsional angle was 12.0±6.4°, which decreased to 6.9±5.7° after surgery (P<0.001, paired t-test). Torsional angle also decreased from 15.1±7.0° to 6.2±4.3° in the myectomy group (P<0.001, paired t-test) but there were no significant changes in the myotomy group (P=0.093, Wilcoxon signed rank test). Multivariable linear regression analysis showed that preoperative torsional angle, degree of inferior oblique overaction, and age at surgery independently and significantly affected postoperative torsional angle.CONCLUSION:Mean torsional angle decreased after inferior oblique myectomy. Degree of preoperative torsional angle, inferior oblique overaction, and age at surgery influence postoperative torsional angle.

Long term results of no-alcohol laser epithelial keratomileusis and photorefractive keratectomy for myopia

2015/6/9 0:00:00
RESULTS: Twenty-one eyes and 22 eyes completed follow-up of 60mo in LASEK and PRK group respectively. Manifest refraction at 60mo follow-up was -0.01 and 0.26 in LASEK and PRK group respectively. In the LASEK group mean UDVA and mean CDVA after 60mo were 20/22 and 20/20 respectively (P>0.01). In the PRK group mean UDVA and mean CDVA at 60mo follow-up were 20/20 and 20/20 after 60mo (P>0.01). The efficacy indexes were 0.87 and 0.95, and the safety indexes were 1.25 and 1.4 respectively for LASEK group and PRK group.CONCLUSION:Both standard PRK and no-alcohol LASEK offer safe and effective correction of low-moderate myopia in the long term without any statistically significant difference between the two groups.

Evaluation of the efficacy of laser peripheral iridoplasty in reversing the darkroom provocative test result in Chinese patients with primary angle closure status post laser iridotomy

Ping Huang and Ling-Ling Wu — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy and safety of krypton laser peripheral iridoplasty (LPIP) for Chinese patients with primary angle closure (PAC) or primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) status post laser iridotomy in reversing the positive results of the dark room provocative test (DRPT).METHODS:This study was prospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Thirty-three patients (thirty-eight eyes) with PAC or PACG status post patent laser iridotomy and maintained normal intraocular pressure (IOP) but with positive DRPT results were enrolled. All the subjects were treated with krypton LPIP. DRPT was repeated after krypton LPIP. Results of DRPT were recorded. The visual acuity, IOP and gonioscopy were analyzed before and after krypton LPIP. A minimum time limit for follow-up was 6mo.RESULTS:Thirty-three patients (thirty-eight eyes) were followed for 17.7±8.37mo (range 7-41mo) after LPIP. Positive results of DRPT decreased from 38 eyes to 9 eyes (23.7%) after LPIP. Peripheral anterior synechiae of angle in 34 of 38 eyes (89.5%) remained unchanged at dynamic gonioscopy throughout the follow-up period after LPIP.CONCLUSION:LPIP decreased positive rates of the DRPT significantly. The mechanism may be that LPIP minimized contact between the peripheral iris and trabecular meshwork, which is a key factor for developing peripheral anterior synechiae.

Retinal circulation and its role in macular disorders in patients without systemic disease

Priyangshu Chandra,Aditya Sudhalkar,Souvik Mandal and Jay Chhablani — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM: To determine whether retinal circulatory changes play a role in the pathogenesis of macular disorders in patients who are otherwise healthy.METHODS:Patients with macular disorders that required angiographic imaging were included in this prospective case series. After a complete ocular exam, fluorescein angiography was performed using a standardized technique on the HRA-II (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) with special focus on the posterior pole. Only patients with good quality images were included in the analysis. Circulatory parameters recorded included the arm-choroid time, choroid-retinal artery, and finally the retinal artery-vein time. Zonal asymmetry (between the upper and lower zones divided by a line passing through the centre of the fovea) in transit times, if any was also noted. Appropriate statistical analysis was done. Circulation times were compared with age matched historical controls. Changes in retinal dye transit times relative to historical age matched controls, if any, were noted and compared between various disorders.RESULTS:A total of 156 eyes of 156 patients (120 males) were included in the study. Mean age:49.14±14.93y. Macular disorders studied were age related degeneration, polypoidal vasculopathy, central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) and parafoveal telangiectasia. Delayed circulation time was noted in CSCR patients only.CONCLUSION:CSCR patients appear to have delayed arterial filling, retinal circulatory disturbances do not seem to contribute to the pathogenesis of other macular disorders.

A randomized controlled trial of peeling and aspiration of Elschnig pearls and neodymium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser capsulotomy

Rahul Bhargava,Prachi Kumar,Shiv Kumar Sharma and Avinash Kaur — 2015/6/9 0:00:00
AIM:To compare surgical peeling and aspiration and neodymium yttrium garnet laser capsulotomy for pearl form of posterior capsule opacification (PCO).METHODS:A prospective, randomized, double blind, study was done at Rotary Eye Hospital, Maranda, Palampur, India, Santosh Medical College Hospital, Ghaziabad, India and Laser Eye Clinic, Noida India. Consecutive patients with pearl form of PCO following surgery, phacoemulsification, manual small incision cataract surgery and conventional extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) for age related cataract, were randomized to have peeling and aspiration or neodymium yttrium garnet laser capsulotomy. Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), intra-operative and post-operative complications were compared.RESULTS:A total of 634 patients participated in the study, and 314 (49.5%) patients were randomized to surgical peeling and aspiration group and 320 (50.5%) to the Nd:YAG laser group. The mean pre-procedural logMAR CDVA in peeling and neodymium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser group was 0.80±0.25 and 0.86±0.22, respectively. The mean final CDVA in peeling group (0.22±0.23) was comparable to Nd:YAG group (0.24±0.28; t test, P=0.240). There was a significant improvement in vision after both the procedures (P<0.001). A slightly higher percentage of patients in Nd:YAG laser group (283/88.3%) than in peeling group (262/83.4%) had a CDVA of 0.5 (20/63) or better at 9mo (P<0.001). On the contrary, patients having CDVA worse than 1.00 (20/200) was also significantly higher in Nd:YAG laser group as compared to peeling group (25/7.7% vs 15/4.7%, respectively). On application of ANCOVA, there was less than 0.001% risk that PCO thickness and total laser energy had no effect on rate of complications in Nd:YAG laser group and less than 0.001 % risk that PCO thickness had no effect on complications in peeling group respectively. Sum of square analysis suggests that in the Nd:YAG laser group, thick PCO had a stronger impact on complications (Fischer test probability, Pr<0.0001) than thin PCO and total laser energy (Fischer test probability, Pr<0.002), respectively; similarly, in peeling group, thick PCO and preoperative vision had a stronger effect on complications than thin PCO, respectively (Fischer test probability, Pr<0.001).The rate of complications like uveitis (P=0.527) and cystoid macular edema (P=0.068), did not differ significantly between both the groups. However, intraocular pressure spikes (P=0.046) and retinal detachment (P<0.001) were significantly higher in Nd:YAG laser group as compared to peeling group. Retinal detachment was more common in patients having degenerative myopia (7/87.5%, P<0.001). Recurrence of pearls was the most common cause of reduction of vision in the peeling group (24/7.6%, P<0.001).CONCLUSION:There is no alternative to Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy for fibrous subtype of PCO. For pearl form of PCO, both techniques are comparable with regard to visual outcomes. Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy has a higher incidence of IOP spikes and retinal detachment whereas recurrence of pearls may occur after successful peeling and aspiration. When posterior capsulotomy is needed in patients with retinal degenerations, retinopathies and pre-existing retinal breaks, the clinician should be cautious about increased risks of possible complications of Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy.

Comparison of corneal measurements in keratoconic eyes using rotating Scheimpflug camera and scanning-slit topography

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the anterior segment measurements obtained by rotating Scheimpflug camera (Pentacam) and Scanning-slit topography (Orbscan IIz) in keratoconic eyes. METHODS: A total of 121 patients, 71 males (58.7%) and 50 females (41.3%) (214 eyes) with the diagnosis of keratoconus (KC) were enrolled in this study. Following diagnosis of KC by slit-lamp biomicroscopic examination, central corneal thickness (CCT), thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and pupil diameter (PD) were measured by a single examiner using successive instrumentation by Pentacam and Orbscan. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the two instruments for the measurement of CCT and TCT. In contrast, scanning-slit topography measured ACD (3.46±0.40 mm vs. 3.38±0.33 mm, P=0.019) and PD (4.97±1.26 mm vs 4.08±1.19 mm, P<0.001) significantly larger than rotating Scheimpflug camera. The two devices made similar measurements for CCT (95% CI: -2.94 to 5.06, P=0.602). However, the mean difference for TCT was -6.28 (95% CI: -10.51 to -2.06, P=0.004) showing a thinner measurement by Orbscan than by Pentacam. In terms of the ACD, the mean difference was 0.08 mm (95% CI: 0.04 to 0.12, P<0.001) with Orbscan giving a slightly larger value than Pentacam. Similarly, Orbscan measurement for PD was longer than Pentacam (95% CI: 0.68 to 1.08, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: A good agreement was found between Pentacam and Orbscan concerning CCT measurement while comparing scanning-slit topography and rotating Scheimpflug camera there was an underestimation for TCT and overestimation for ACD and PD.

Effect of torsional mode phacoemulsification on cornea in eyes with/without pseudoexfoliation

Süleyman Demircan,Mustafa Atas and Yusufcan Yurtsever — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of torsional mode phacoemulsification on central corneal thickness, corneal endothelial cell density, and morphology in eyes with/without pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome. METHODS: Fourty-two consecutive patients with and 42 patients without PEX as a control group scheduled for cataract surgery was studied. Phacoemulsification, using OZiL IP system, was performed with quick chop technique. Using noncontact specular microscopy, the central endothelial cell density (ECD), coefficient of variation, percentage of hexagonal cells, and the central corneal thickness (CCT) were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively at 1, 7 and 30d. RESULTS: The ECD in PEX syndrome was statistically significantly lower than that in the control group preoperatively and postoperatively (P≤0.001). Percentage change in ECD was statistically significantly higher in PEX than that in control group after surgery follow up (P≤0.04). There was no statistically significant difference between both groups comparing percentage of hexagonal cells and coefficient of variation in the cell size before and after the surgery. At 1 and 7d after surgery, percentage change in CCT was statistically significantly higher in PEX group than that in the control group (P≤0.041). CONCLUSION: Although torsional mode phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation provided a safe and favorable surgical outcome in patients with/without PEX, torsional phacoemulsification led to significantly higher ECD loss in the PEX group than that in the control group during the whole follow up period. In addition, more corneal swelling in the PEX group than that in the control group during the early postoperative period has indicated that the corneal endothelium, in presence of PEX endotheliopathy, seems to be more susceptible to the effects of phacoemulsification surgery in eyes with PEX. The increased risk of anterior chamber manipulations in patients with PEX should be taken into account for an increased risk of bullous keratopathy.

Comparison of laser iridotomy using short duration 532-nm Nd: YAG laser (PASCAL) vs conventional laser in dark irides

Hye Jin Chung,Hae-Young Park and Su-Young Kim — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcome of laser iridotomy using 532-nm Nd: YAG laser (PASCAL) with short pulse duration and Nd: YAG laser compared to conventional combined laser iridotomy. METHODS: Retrospective, nonrandomized, comparative case series. Forty-five eyes of 34 patients underwent laser iridotomy. Twenty-two eyes underwent iridotomy using short duration PASCAL and Nd: YAG laser, and 23 eyes underwent iridotomy using conventional combined laser method. The average settings of PASCAL were 60 μm and 700-900 mW with a short duration of 0.01s to reduce the total applied energy. The conventional laser was 50 μm and 700-900 mW for 0.1s. After photocoagulation with these laser, the Nd: YAG laser was added in each group. Endothelial cell counts of pre-iridotomy and 2mo after iridotomy were measured and compared. RESULTS: All eyes completed iridotomy successfully. The total energy used in the PASCAL group was 1.85±1.17 J. Compared to conventional laser 13.25±1.67 J, the energy used was very small due to the short exposure time of PASCAL. Endothelial cell counts were reduced by 0.88% in the PASCAL group and 6.72% in the conventional laser group (P=0.044). The change in corneal endothelial cell counts before and after iridotomy was significant in conventional combined laser iridotomy group (P=0.004). CONCLUSION: Combined PASCAL and Nd:YAG laser iridotomy is an effective and safe technique in the dark brown irides of Asians. Furthermore, the short duration of exposure in PASCAL offers the advantages of reducing the total energy used and minimizing the corneal damage.

Assessment of visual outcomes of cataract surgery in Tujia nationality in Xianfeng County, China

Jing Yuan,Xia Wang,Li-Qin Yang,Yi-Qiao Xing and Yan-Ning Yang — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the visual outcome and factors influencing visual outcome of manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS) in the rural area in the Xianfeng County. METHODS: Eighty-two eyes of 82 patients who underwent cataract surgery performed by using MSICS technique were identified. Data collected included each patient’s age, gender, the level of education. Uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (UDVA and CDVA) at presentation and at 1, 6, 8wk postoperatively, pre-existing eye disease, operative findings and complications, the risk factors were evaluated. RESULTS: In 82 patients, the average age was 69.6±0.6y, illiterate were 52 (63.4%). Of 82 eyes, pseudophakia was present in 77 eyes (93.9%). At 1wk postoperatively, 47 eyes (57.3%) had the UDVA of ≥6/18, and 52 eyes (63.4%) had the CDVA of ≥6/18. At 6 to 8wk postoperatively, 50 eyes (61.0%) had UDVA of ≥6/18, and 57 eyes (69.5%) had the CDVA of ≥6/18. Postoperative visual status was significantly related to the co-morbidities, such as corneal pathology, glaucoma (P<0.001). Operative complications, such as posterior capsule opacity and cystoid macular edema were main operative cause for the poor visual outcome. CONCLUSION: MSICS provides a good visual recovery in our study but the vision outcome did not fulfill the standards proposed by WHO, which highlights the need for an improvement in local socioeconomic understanding, population education and surgery quality.

Comparison of Goldmann applanation tonometry, rebound tonometry and dynamic contour tonometry in normal and glaucomatous eyes

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements obtained with the rebound tonometry (RT), dynamic contour tonometry (DCT) and Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) in normal and glaucomatous eyes and investigate the effects of central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal curvature (CC) on IOP measurements. METHODS: One hundred and twenty-four eyes of 124 subjects were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Fifty-six of participants were healthy individuals and 68 of them were glaucomatous patients. IOP was measured on each subject always in the same order, ICare RT-Pascal DCT-GAT, after a minimum interval of 10min between measurements. CCT and CC were measured using a rotating Scheimpflug camera before the IOP measurements in all subjects. One way repeated measures ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficient and regression analysis, and Bland-Altman analysis was used for the statistical assessment. RESULTS: Mean IOP for all enrolled eyes was 16.00±3.80 mm Hg for GAT, 16.99±4.91 mm Hg for RT, and 20.40±4.44 mm Hg for DCT. Mean differences between GAT and RT was -1.75±3.41 mm Hg in normal (P<0.001) and -0.37±3.00 mm Hg in glaucomatous eyes (P=0.563). Mean differences between GAT and DCT was -4.06±3.42 mm Hg in normal (P<0.001) and -4.67±3.12 mm Hg in glaucomatous eyes (P<0.001). GAT and RT were significantly positive correlated with CCT in normal (r=0.317, P=0.017 and r=0.576, P<0.001, respectively) and glaucomatous eyes (r=0.290, P=0.016 and r=0.351, P=0.003, respectively). DCT was also significantly positive correlated with CCT in normal eyes (r=0.424, P=0.001) but not in glaucomatous eyes (r=0.170, P=0.165). All tonometers were unaffected by CC. CONCLUSION: IOP measurements by RT and DCT were significantly higher than GAT. DCT has highest IOP measurements among these tonometers. RT was most influenced tonometer from CCT although all tonometers were significantly positive correlated with CCT except DCT in glaucomatous eyes. CC did not influence IOP measurements.

Central retinal artery resistive index and optical coherence tomography in assessment of glaucoma progression

Ahmed F. Abdel Ghany,Samer M. Botros and Tamer M. El-Raggal — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the relation between central retinal artery (CRA) resistive index (RI) and retinal nerve fiber thickness measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in assessment of disease progress in cases of open angle glaucoma. METHODS: Twenty-three patients with diagnosed open angle glaucoma were included in this study. They were examined by colored duplex ultrasonography of CRA with estimation of RI of CRA and ophthalmic artery (OA) with estimation of CRA/OA RI ratio as well as OCT measurement of the average retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in order to assess the disease progress. RESULTS: There was strong inverse relation between the increased RI in CRA as well as the increased CRA/OA RI ratio and the decrease in average RNFL thickness in cases of open angle glaucoma. CONCLUSION: Assessment of CRA RI can indirectly assess the vascular changes associated with glaucoma and can assess the degree of retinal atrophy helping in evaluating prognosis thus guiding the choice of treatment.

Oral eplerenone for the management of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To examine eplerenone (Inspra, Pfizer), a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, as a treatment option for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). METHODS: A retrospective consecutive case series was conducted for patients receiving oral eplerenone for chronic CSCR. At baseline and each follow-up visit, spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging was performed, including manual measurements of the height and diameter size of subretinal fluid. The primary outcome measure was the reduction in subretinal fluid following initiation of therapy. RESULTS: A total of 17 eyes of 13 patients treated with 25 and 50 mg of oral eplerenone per day were identified. Subretinal fluid (SRF) decreased over time following eplerenone therapy (P= 0.007 and P = 0.002, diameter and height respectively). Maximum SRF height decreased from a mean of 131.5 μm at baseline to 15.3 μm at day 181+. SRF diameter decreased from an average of 2174.4 μm at baseline to 46.9 μm at day 181+. LogMAR visual acuity improved from 0.42 (Snellen equivalent: 20/53) at baseline to 0.29 (Snellen equivalent: 20/39) at day 181+ (P = 0.024). Central subfield thickness (CST) decreased from 339.5 μm at baseline to 270.3 μm at day 181+ (P = 0.029). CONCLUSION: Eplerenone therapy resulted in significant anatomic and visual improvements in eyes with chronic CSCR.

Effects of three consecutive monthly intravitreal injection of ranibizumab for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy in Korea

Young Gun Park,Seungbum Kang and Young Jung Roh — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of three consecutive monthly injections of intravitreal ranibizumab for the treatment of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) in Korea. METHODS: A retrospective chart review of 25 patients (27 eyes) with PCV was conducted. Patients received three initial monthly intravitreal injections (0.5 mg) of ranibizumab and were monitored monthly for 12mo between January 2010 and October 2011. Reinjection of ranibizumab after three initial monthly loading was administered on an as-needed basis, guided by the optical coherence tomography (OCT), fluorescein angiography (FA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). The main outcomes were the changes of the mean best corrected Snellen visual acuity (VA), central macular thickness (CMT) by OCT, the changes of polyps and branching vascular network by FA and ICGA, and total number of injections received by patients during the 12mo. RESULTS: The mean best corrected Snellen visual acuities at baseline, 1, 3, 6 and 12mo after primary injection were 0.77±0.59, 0.76±0.53, 0.70±0.47, 0.63±0.43, 0.61±0.43, 0.62±0.42 logMAR, respectively, and showed significant improvement at 3, 6, 12mo (P=0.003, P=0.002, P=0.018, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). The mean CMT at baseline, 1, 2, 3, 6, and 12mo was 312.41±66.38 μm, 244.59±71.47 μm, 232.32±69.41 μm, 226.69±69.03 μm, 228.62±37.07 μm, 227.59±51.01 μm respectively, and showed significant reduction (all P<0.001, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Polypoidal lesions resolved on ICGA in 3 eyes (11.1%) and a branching vascular network remained in all 24 eyes (88.9%). A total of 106 injections were given in the 12-month period, which equaled to a mean of 3.92 (range, 3-6) times. Sixteen of the 27 treated eyes had additional 1.56±0.91 injections. The others (11 eyes) had just 3 consecutive injections. CONCLUSION: An initial loading dose of three monthly ranibizumab injections is a safe and effective method in treating PCV, with visual and anatomical improvement over one year follow-up.

Measurement of choroidal thickness and macular thickness during and after pregnancy

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of pregnancy on subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and macular thickness in both pregnant and not pregnant healthy women. METHODS: Twenty-nine healthy pregnant women in their third trimester and 36 age-matched healthy women were enrolled in a prospective, cross-sectional study. Foveal and parafoveal thickness in the four quadrants and SFCT were measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the healthy pregnant women (i.e. study group) and healthy women (i.e. control group). OCT measurements were again measured 3mo after delivery in the study group. RESULTS: Mean SFCT measurements in the control group, pregnant women of the study group, and after delivery of the study group were 320.86±59.18 μm, 387.97±59.91 μm, and 332.40±26.03 μm, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in the mean SFCT values between pregnant women of the study group and the control group (P=0.000). Foveal and parafoveal thickness values were not statistically significant in either the study or control group. CONCLUSION: SFCT increases during pregnancy and returns to normal range in the three months after delivery. Macular thickness does not show any change during pregnancy.

Is there any correlation between vitamin D insufficiency and diabetic retinopathy?

Shokoufeh Bonakdaran and Nasser Shoeibi — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To determine a relation between vitamin D level, which is an inhibitor of angiogenesis, and diabetic retinopathy and its risk factors METHODS: In a clinic-based cross sectional study two hundred and thirty-five type 2 diabetic patients older than 20y were selected. Patients were classified according to ophthalmologic examination as following: no diabetic retinopathy (NDR) (n=153), non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) (n=64) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) (n=18). Study subjects were tested for fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), lipid profile, microalbuminuria, HsCRP, IGF1, insulin (in patients without history of insulin taking) and 25 hydroxy vitamin D [25 (OH) D] levels. Vitamin D insufficiency was defined according to 25 (OH) D level less than 30 ng/mL. The relationship between diabetic retinopathy and serum 25 (OH) D insufficiency was evaluated. RESULTS: The prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was 34.8% in our patients. Long duration of diabetes, hypertension, poor glycemic control, diabetic nephropathy, hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance were risk factors for diabetic retinopathy but 25 (OH) D level was not significant different between NDR, NPDR and PDR groups. Correlation between 25 (OH) D level and other known risk factors of diabetic retinopathy was not significant. CONCLUSION: This study did not find any association between diabetic retinopathy and its severity and vitamin D insufficiency. Vitamin D insufficiency is not related to risk factors of diabetic retinopathy.

Retinal vessel diameters and their correlation with retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To compare retinal artery-vein diameters (RAVDs) of patients with pseudoexfoliation (PSX) syndrome with healthy controls and investigate the correlations between retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness parameters and RAVDs. METHODS: Seventeen eyes with PSX and 17 eyes of age-matched controls were included in the study. All participants underwent routine ophthalmological examination, Humphrey visual field and RNFL examination by using Stratus OCT. Retinal images were obtained by using a retinal camera (Topcon 501X). RAVDs were measured from inferior nasal, inferior temporal, superior nasal and superior temporal arcuates by using IMAGEnet software. Superior, inferior, nasal, temporal and average RNFL thicknesses were recorded. RAVDs and RNFL parameters in groups and correlations were analyzed by Mann-Whitney U and Spearmann correlation tests. RESULTS: Only inferior quadrant and average RNFL thickness were detected thinner in the PSX group compared with control group (P=0.009, P=0.038, respectively). No statistically significant difference regarding RAVDs was found between two groups. CONCLUSION: RAVDs seems to be comparable in the PSX and control group. RNFL is thinner in the inferior quadrant in the PSX group. RNFL thickness and RAVDs show significant correlations in both groups. This correlation doesn’t seem to be specific to PSX.

Clinical patterns and characteristics of uveitis in a secondary hospital in southern China

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the characteristics of uveitis in a secondary hospital in southern China. METHODS: We reviewed all records of patients with uveitis at Hengli Hospital from January 2008 to December 2011. Demographic data, past history, ophthalmic examinations and other laboratory tests were analyzed. RESULTS: One hundred and ninety-nine uveitis patients were enrolled in this study, including 134 (67.3%) males and 65 females (32.7%) with an average age of 41.0±15.1y. The anatomical distribution included 103 (51.8%) cases of anterior uveitis, followed by panuveitis (65, 32.7%), posterior uveitis (29, 14.6%) and intermediate uveitis (2, 1.0%). Of the 98 (49.2%) non-idiopathic cases, there were 10.1% Behcet’s disease, 9.5% Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) syndrome, 7.5%infectious uveitis, 7.5% traumatic uveitis and 3.5% postoperative uveitis. CONCLUSION: Idiopathic anterior and posterior uveitis, Behcet’s disease, VKH syndrome, infectious uveitis and traumatic uveitis are the most common uveitis entities in a secondary hospital in southern China. Additional measures should be taken to prevent infectious and traumatic uveitis.

Agreement of angle closure assessments between gonioscopy, anterior segment optical coherence tomography and spectral domain optical coherence tomography

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To determine angle closure agreements between gonioscopy and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT), as well as gonioscopy and spectral domain OCT (SD-OCT). A secondary objective was to quantify inter-observer agreements of AS-OCT and SD-OCT assessments. METHODS: Seventeen consecutive subjects (33 eyes) were recruited from the study hospital’s Glaucoma clinic. Gonioscopy was performed by a glaucomatologist masked to OCT results. OCT images were read independently by 2 other glaucomatologists masked to gonioscopy findings as well as each other’s analyses of OCT images. RESULTS: Totally 84.8% and 45.5% of scleral spurs were visualized in AS-OCT and SD-OCT images respectively (P<0.01). The agreement for angle closure between AS-OCT and gonioscopy was fair at k=0.31 (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.03-0.59) and k=0.35 (95% CI: 0.07-0.63) for reader 1 and 2 respectively. The agreement for angle closure between SD-OCT and gonioscopy was fair at k=0.21 (95% CI: 0.07-0.49) and slight at k=0.17 (95% CI: 0.08-0.42) for reader 1 and 2 respectively. The inter-reader agreement for angle closure in AS-OCT images was moderate at 0.51 (95% CI: 0.13-0.88). The inter-reader agreement for angle closure in SD-OCT images was slight at 0.18 (95% CI: 0.08-0.45). CONCLUSION: Significant proportion of scleral spurs were not visualised with SD-OCT imaging resulting in weaker inter-reader agreements. Identifying other angle landmarks in SD-OCT images will allow more consistent angle closure assessments. Gonioscopy and OCT imaging do not always agree in angle closure assessments but have their own advantages, and should be used together and not exclusively.

Efficacy and safety of active silicone oil removal through a 23-gauge transconjunctival cannula using an external vacuum pump

Hyun Ju Oh,Woohyok Chang and Min Sagong — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of active removal of silicone oil with low and high viscosity through a 23-gauge transconjunctival cannula using an external vacuum pump. METHODS: This study was conducted as a prospective, interventional case series. A total of 22 eyes of 21 patients [1000 centistokes (cSt): 17 eyes, 5700 cSt: 5 eyes] were included in this study. All patients underwent active silicone oil removal via the entire lumen of a 23-gauge microcannula with suction pressure of a 650-700 mm Hg vacuum using an external vacuum pump. A tubing adaptor from the Total Plus Pak? (Alcon, Fort Worth, USA) was used to join the microcannula and silicone vacuum tube connected to an external vacuum pump. Main outcome measures were mean removal time, changes of intraocular pressure (IOP) and visual acuity, and intraoperative and postoperative complications. RESULTS: Mean removal time (min) was 1.49±0.43 for 1000 cSt and 7.12±1.27 for 5700 cSt. The IOP was 18.57±7.48 mm Hg at baseline, 11.68±4.55 mm Hg at day 1 postoperatively (P<0.001), and 15.95±4.92, 16.82±3.81, 17.41±3.50, and 17.09±3.01 mm Hg after one week, one month, three months, and six months, respectively. All patients showed improved or stabilized visual acuity. There was no occurrence of intraoperative or postoperative complications during the follow up period. CONCLUSION: This technique for active removal of silicone oil through a 23-gauge cannula using an external vacuum pump is fast, effective, and safe as well as economical for silicone oil with both low and high viscosity in all eyes with pseudophakia, aphakia, or phakia.

Outcome comparison between transcanalicular and external dacryocystorhinostomy

Gunay Uludag,Baris Yeniad,Erdinc Ceylan,Ayse Yildiz-Tas and Lale Kozer-Bilgin — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the outcomes achieved with external dacryocystorhinostomy (EX-DCR) and transcanalicular dacryocystorhinostomy (TC-DCR) using a multidiode laser in patients with bilateral nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO). METHODS: This prospective study was conducted on 38 eyes of 19 patients with bilateral NLDO. Simultaneous bilateral surgery was performed on all patients. TC-DCR (Group 1) with a diode laser was used in the right eye, and EX-DCR (Group 2) was used in the left eye. All patients were placed under general anesthesia. Routine follow-ups were scheduled at 1wk; 1, 3, 6 and 12mo postoperative intervals. Objective (lacrimal system irrigation) and subjective [tearing, irritation, pain, discharge and visual analogue scale (VAS) score] outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: The overall objective success rate at 12mo was 73.7% (14/19) in Group 1 and 89.5 % (17/19) in Group 2. This difference was statistically significant. There were no significant between-group differences in the subjective results, such as tearing, pain and irritation. Only the discharge scores were found to be significantly higher in Group 1 compared to Group 2 at the 1y follow-up. The average VAS score was 6.8 in Group 1 and 8.7 in Group 2, with no statistically significant differences. CONCLUSION: Although TC-DCR allows surgeons to perform a minimally invasive and safe procedure, EX-DCR offers better objective and subjective outcomes than TC-DCR.

Ocular surface changes in type II diabetic patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy

2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To detect and analyze the changes on ocular surface and tear function in type II diabetic patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), an advanced stage of diabetic retinopathy (DR), using conventional ophthalmic tests and the high-resolution laser scanning confocal microscopy. METHODS: Fifty-eight patients with type II diabetes were selected. Based on the diagnostic criteria and stage classification of DR, the patients were divided into the non-DR (NDR) group and the PDR group. Thirty-six patients with cataract but no other ocular and systemic disease were included as non-diabetic controls. All the patients were subjected to the conventional clinical tests of corneal sensitivity, Schirmer I Test, and corneal fluorescein staining. The non-invasive tear film break-up time (NIBUT) and tear interferometry were conducted by a Tearscope Plus. The morphology of corneal epithelia and nerve fibers was examined using the high-resolution confocal microscopy. RESULTS: The NDR group exhibited significantly declined corneal sensitivity and Schirmer I test value, as compared to the non-diabetic controls (P< 0.001). The PDR group showed significantly reduced corneal sensitivity, Schirmer I test value, and NIBUT in comparison to the non-diabetic controls (P < 0.001). Corneal fluorescein staining revealed the progressively injured corneal epithelia in the PDR patients. Moreover, significant decrease in the corneal epithelial density and morphological abnormalities in the corneal epithelia and nerve fibers were also observed in the PDR patients. CONCLUSION: Ocular surface changes, including blunted corneal sensitivity, reduced tear secretion, tear film dysfunction, progressive loss of corneal epithelia and degeneration of nerve fibers, are common in type II diabetic patients, particularly in the diabetic patients with PDR. The corneal sensitivity, fluorescein staining scores, and the density of corneal epithelial cells and nerve fibers in the diabetic patients correlate with the duration of diabetes. Therefore, ocular surface of the patients with PDR should be examined regularly by conventional approaches and confocal microscopy to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of keratopathy.

Effect of pathological myopia on biomechanical properties: a study by ocular response analyzer

Veysi Öner, Mehmet Taş, Erdal Özkaya and Yavuz Oruç — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the ocular response analyzer (ORA) measurements of patients with pathological myopia in comparison with those of emmetropic control subjects, and to investigate the correlation between these ORA measurements and spherical equivalent (SE). METHODS: Measurements of 53 eyes of 53 subjects with pathological myopia (SE>-6.00 D) were compared with those of 60 eyes of 60 emmetropic controls. Corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), noncontact tonometer intraocular pressure (IOPg), and corneal-compensated IOP (IOPcc) were obtained for each subject. The refractive error value was determined as SE via a cycloplegic refraction test. RESULTS: The mean age was 54.1±18.9y (ranging from 5 to 88) in the pathological myopic group and 56.2±19.0y (ranging from 6 to 89) in the control group. There were no significant differences between the groups concerning age and sex. CH and CRF were significantly lower in the pathological myopic group than in the control group (P<0.001, P=0.005, respectively). IOPcc and IOPg were significantly higher in the pathological myopic group than in the control group (P<0.001, P=0.009, respectively). There were significantly positive correlations between CH and SE (r=0.565, P<0.001) and between CRF and SE (r=0.364, P=0.007). There were significantly negative correlations between IOPcc and SE (r=-0.432, P=0.001) and between IOPg and SE (r=-0.401, P=0.003). CONCLUSION: The present study displayed that pathological myopia affected biomechanical properties measured by ORA. The results of corneal biomechanical properties measured by ORA may need to be appreciated by taking refraction into account. Further, pathological myopia might be related with the increased IOP.

Refractive errors in high myopic eyes after phacovitrectomy for macular hole

Donghyun Jee,Yi-Ryeung Park,Kyoung In Jung,Eunchul Kim and Tae Yoon La — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the refractive prediction error in high myopic eyes after phacovitrectomy. METHODS: This retrospective comparative case series included 91 eyes (18 high myopic eyes and 73 non-high myopic eyes) of 91 patients who underwent successful phacovitrectomy (phacoemulsification, intraocular lens implantation, and pars plana vitrectomy). The high myopic eyes were defined as the eye with more than 26.0 mm of axial length. The postoperative prediction error of mean error and mean absolute error were evaluated at 4mo postoperatively. Axial length and keratometry measurement were performed preoperatively and 4mo postoperatively using the IOL Master. RESULTS: The refractive outcome after phacovitrectomy showed significantly greater myopic shift in the high myopic eyes [-1.08±0.87 diopters (D)] than that in the non-high myopic eyes (-0.43±0.63 D, P=0.004). Axial length and keratometric value in the high myopic eyes were significantly increased (P=0.043, 0.037 respectively), whereas those in the non-high myopic group were not significantly increased (P=0.135, 0.347 respectively). The change of the axial length in the myopic eye (0.46±0.28 mm) was greater than that in the non-high myopic eye (0.11 ± 0.34 mm; P<0.001). CONCLUSION: High myopic eyes showed more myopic shift than non-high myopic eyes after phacovitrectomy. The cause of myopic shift in high myopic eyes seems to be attributed to actual elongation of the axial length in high myopia.

Intraexaminer repeatability and agreement in stereoacuity measurements made in young adults

Beatriz Antona,Ana Barrio,Isabel Sanchez,Enrique Gonzalez and Guadalupe Gonzalez — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the repeatability and agreement of stereoacuity measurements made using some of the most widely used clinical tests: Frisby, TNO, Randot and Titmus. METHODS: Stereoacuity was measured in two different sessions separated by a time interval of at least 24h but no longer than 1wk in 74 subjects of mean age 20.6y using the four methods. The study participants were divided into two groups: subjects with normal binocular vision and subjects with abnormal binocular vision. RESULTS: Best repeatability was shown by the Frisby and Titmus [coefficient of repeatability (COR): ±13 and ±12s arc respectively] in the subjects with normal binocular vision though a clear ceiling effect was noted. In the subjects with abnormal binocular vision, best repeatability was shown by the Frisby (COR: ±69s arc) and Randot (COR: ±72s arc). In both groups, the TNO test showed poorest agreement with the other tests. CONCLUSION: The repeatability of stereoacuity measures was low in subjects with poor binocular vision yet fairly good in subjects with normal binocular vision with the exception of the TNO test. The reduced agreement detected between the tests indicates they cannot be used interchangeably.

Visual pathways involvement in clinically isolated syndrome in children

Vladislav Voitenkov,Natalia Skripchenko and Andrey Klimkin — 2015/4/16 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate extent and nature of visual pathways involvement in children with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS). METHODS: Forty-seven patients (age 11-17y) with CIS, which later proved to be multiple sclerosis (MS) onset, and 30 controls underwent visual evoked potentials (VEP) investigation within 12d from the appearance of the first signs of disease. Latency and amplitude of P100 peak were compared with normative data and between groups. RESULTS: In 58% patients, including those without signs of retrobulbar neuritis, significant slowing of conduction along the central visual pathways (P100 latency lengthening) is seen. P100 amplitudes drop (signs of axonal damage) are registered less frequently (29% cases). CONCLUSION: The results indicate that visual pathways are often affected in the MS onset; mostly demyelination signs are seen. Despite MRI significance for MS diagnostic, VEPs proved to be still effective in early diagnosis of MS in children.

QT interval dispersion in the patients with central serous chorioretinopathy

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate QT dispersion (QTD) in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). METHODS: This clinical, comperative, case-control study included 30 patients with CSC at acute phase (Group 1) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects (Group 2, the control group). From all subjects, a 12-lead surface electrocardiography was obtained. The heart rate (HR), QT maximum (QTmax), QT minimum (QTmin), QT corrected (QTc), QTD and Tmean were manually measured and analyzed. Student’s t-test and Pearson’s method of correlation were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The patient and control groups were matched for age, smoking status (rate and duration) and gender. There were no significant differences with regard to these among the groups (P>0.05). The participants included 19 men (63.3%) and 11 women (36.7%) in Group 1, 20 men (66.7%) and 10 women (33.3%) in Group 2. QTmax, QTD and QTc were significantly higher than those of healthy controls (P<0.001 for QTmax, P=0.01 for QTD and P=0.001 for QTc). QTmin, Tmean and HR did not differ significantly between the study groups (P=0.28 for QTmin, P=0.56 for Tmean and P>0.05 for HR). No significant correlation was found between duration of the disorder and QTD values (r=0.13, P>0.05). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that CSC may be associated with an increase in QTD and that the patients might be at risk for ventricular arrhythmia.

Optical quality of toric intraocular lens implantation in cataract surgery

Xian-Wen Xiao,Jing Hao,Hong Zhang and Fang Tian — 2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the optical quality after implantation of toric intraocular lens with optical quality analysis system. METHODS: Fifty-two eyes of forty-four patients with regular corneal astigmatism of at least 1.00 D underwent implantation of AcrySof toric intraocular lens, including T3 group 19 eyes, T4 group 18 eyes, T5 group 10 eyes, T6 group 5 eyes. Main outcomes evaluated at 3mo of follow-up, included uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), residual refractive cylinder and intraocular lens (IOL) axis rotation. Objective optical quality were measured using optical quality analysis system (OQAS Ⅱ?, Visiometrics, Spain), included the cutoff frequency of modulation transfer function (MTFcutoff), objective scattering index (OSI), Strehl ratio, optical quality analysis system value (OV) 100%, OV 20% and OV 9% [the optical quality analysis system (OQAS) values at contrasts of 100%, 20%, and 9%]. RESULTS: At 3mo postoperative, the mean UDVA and CDVA was 0.18±0.11 and 0.07±0.08 logMAR; the mean residual refractive cylinder was 0.50±0.29 D; the mean toric IOL axis rotation was 3.62±1.76 degrees, the mean MTFcutoff, OSI, Strehl ratio, OV 100%, OV 20% and OV 9% were 22.862±5.584, 1.80±0.84, 0.155±0.038, 0.76±0.18, 0.77±0.19 and 0.78±0.21. The values of UDVA, CDVA, IOL axis rotation, MTFcutoff, OSI, Strehl ratio, OV100%, OV20% and OV9% depending on the power of the cylinder of the implantation were not significantly different (P>0.05), except the residual refractive cylinder (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The optical quality analysis system was useful for characterizing the optical quality of AcrySof toric IOL implantation. Implantation of an AcrySof toric IOL is an effective and safe method to correct corneal astigmatism during cataract surgery.

Effect of refractive error on temperament and character properties

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the effect of refractive error on temperament and character properties using Cloninger’s psychobiological model of personality. METHODS: Using the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), the temperament and character profiles of 41 participants with refractive errors (17 with myopia, 12 with hyperopia, and 12 with myopic astigmatism) were compared to those of 30 healthy control participants. Here, temperament comprised the traits of novelty seeking, harm-avoidance, and reward dependence, while character comprised traits of self-directedness, cooperativeness, and self-transcendence. RESULTS: Participants with refractive error showed significantly lower scores on purposefulness, cooperativeness, empathy, helpfulness, and compassion (P<0.05, P<0.01, P<0.05, P<0.05, and P<0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION: Refractive error might have a negative influence on some character traits, and different types of refractive error might have different temperament and character properties. These personality traits may be implicated in the onset and/or perpetuation of refractive errors and may be a productive focus for psychotherapy.

Effects of chronic smoking on color vision in young subjects

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effects of chronic smoking on color vision in young subjects. METHODS: This study included 91 smokers and 88 non-smokers (a total of 179 volunteers) without any ophthalmologic and systemical disorders. The subjects were between 18-40 years of age with a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/20, normal anterior and posterior segment examinations and normal intraocular pressure. The color vision of the subjects were evaluated with Farnsworth-Munsell 100 Hue test (FMHT). The total error scores and axis calculation were performed for each subject and the results correlated. RESULTS: Mean age and the standard deviation was 28±5y in the smokers group, and 26.7±5.5y in the control group (P=0.101). Sex distribution was similar in the two groups (P=0.365). There was no significant correlation between age and FMHT total error scores (P=0.069). Median of FMHT total error scores of smokers and non-smokers were 65 and 50.50, respectively. FMHT total error scores was found significantly higher in smokers than non-smokers (P=0.004). There was no statisticaly significant difference between smoker and non-smoker groups with respect to axis ratio calculation (P=0.611). There was no significant correlation with FMHT total error scores with neither smoking duration nor number of cigarettes smoked per day (P=0.405, P=0.454, respectively). CONCLUSION: This study suggested that chronic smoking affects the color vision of young smokers but this may not be sector selective.

Eye rubbing-induced changes in intraocular pressure and corneal thickness measured at five locations, in subjects with ocular allergy

Uchechukwu L. Osuagwu and Saud A. Alanazi — 2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effects of eye rubbing on corneal thickness (CT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements obtained 0-30min after habitual eye rubbing in symptomatic patients. METHODS: Measurements of IOP and CT were obtained at five locations (central, temporal, superior, nasal and inferior) before, and every 5min for 30min interval after 30s of eye rubbing, for 25 randomly selected eyes of 14 subjects with ocular allergy and 11 age-matched normals. Differences in measurements were calculated in each group [Baseline measurements minus measurements recorded at each time interval after eye rubbing (for IOP), and for each corneal location (for CT)] and comparison were then made between groups (allergic versus control) for differences in any observed effects. RESULTS: Within groups, baseline mean IOPs in the allergic patient-group (14.2±3.0 mm Hg) and in the control group (13.1±1.9 mm Hg) were similar at all times, after eye rubbing (P >0.05, for all). The maximum reduction in IOP was 0.8 mm Hg in the control subjects and the maximum increase was also 0.8 mm Hg in the allergic subjects. Between groups (allergic versus control), the changes in IOP remained under 1 mm Hg at all times (P=0.2) after 30min of eye rubbing. Between 0 and 30min of CT measurements after eye rubbing, the mean central CT (CCT), inferior CT (ICT), superior CT (SCT), temporal CT (TCT) and nasal CT (NCT) did not vary significantly from baseline values in the control and allergic-subject groups (P>0.05, for both). Between both groups, changes in CT were similar at all locations (P>0.05) except for the TC which was minimally thinner by about 4.4 μm (P=0.001) in the allergic subjects than in the control subjects, 30min following 30s of eye rubbing. CONCLUSION: IOP measured in allergic subjects after 30s of habitual eye rubbing was comparable with that obtained in normal subjects at all times between 0 and 30min. Although, CT in the allergic subjects were similar to those of the control subjects at all times, it varied between +10 and -7.5 μm following eye rubbing, with the temporal cornea showing consistent reductions in thickness in the subjects with allergy. However, this reduction was minimal and was considered to not be clinically relevant.

Concurrent removal of intravitreal lens fragments after phacoemulsification with pars plana vitrectomy prevents development of retinal detachment

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcomes of ‘‘concurrent vitrectomy’’ to retrieve dislocated lens fragment during phacoemulsification. METHODS: In a retrospective, observational case series, data of patients who underwent ‘‘concurrent’’ pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for dislocated lens fragments between the period 2000 and 2008 were reviewed. Data collected included patient demographics, pre-operative visual acuity, intra-operative occurrence of retinal breaks, duration of follow up, post-operative intraocular pressure, final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), presence of cystoid macular edema (CME) and occurrence of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). RESULTS: A total of 58 eyes of 58 patients were included in the study. At 12mo the mean postoperative BCVA was logMAR 0.17 (20/30) with a range of logMAR 0 to 0.69 (20/20 to 20/100), with 96.6% (56/58) of patients showing post-operative improvement in visual acuity (P=0.005). None of the patients developed postoperative retinal detachment, endophthalmitis or non-resolving uveitis at 12mo. CONCLUSION: Our study results suggest concurrent PPV for retained lens fragments after cataract surgery is beneficial and may decrease the risk of glaucoma and prevent development of RRD.

A short-term study of corneal collagen cross-linking with hypo-osmolar riboflavin solution in keratoconic corneas

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To report the 3mo outcomes of collagen cross-linking (CXL) with a hypo-osmolar riboflavin in thin corneas with the thinnest thickness less than 400 μm without epithelium. METHODS: Eight eyes in 6 patients with age 26.2±4.8y were included in the study. All patients underwent CXL using a hypo-osmolar riboflavin solution after its de-epithelization. Best corrected visual acuity, manifest refraction, the thinnest corneal thickness, and endothelial cell density were evaluated before and 3mo after the procedure. RESULTS: The mean thinnest thickness of the cornea was 408.5±29.0 μm before treatment and reduced to 369.8±24.8 μm after the removal of epithelium. With the application of the hypo-osmolar riboflavin solution, the thickness increased to 445.0±26.5 μm before CXL and recover to 412.5±22.7 μm at 3mo after treatment, P=0.659). Before surgery, the mean K-value of the apex of the keratoconus corneas was 57.6±4.0 diopters, and slightly decreased (54.7±4.9 diopters) after surgery (P=0.085). Mean best-corrected visual acuity was 0.55±0.23 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution, and increased to 0.53±0.26 logarithm after surgery (P=0.879). The endothelial cell density was 2706.4±201.6 cells/mm2 before treatment, and slightly decreased (2641.2±218.2 cells/mm2) at last fellow up (P=0.002). CONCLUSION: Corneal collagen cross-linking with a hypo-osmolar riboflavin in thin corneas seems to be a promising treatment. Further study should be done to evaluate the safety and efficiency of CXL in thin corneas for the long-term.

Comparison of retinal nerve fiber layer and macular thickness measurements with Stratus OCT and OPKO/OTI OCT devices in healthy subjects

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and macular thickness measurements obtained with the Stratus optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OPKO/OTI OCT devices. METHODS: Included in the study were 59 eyes of 30 participants. All measurements for each eye were done on the same day with both devices. Student’s paired t-tests were used to compare the central macular thickness and RNFL measurements of the Stratus OCT and OPKO/OTI OCT. Pearson correlation was used to assess the relationship between the devices. Coefficient of variation (COV) was calculated to assess intersession repeatability. RESULTS: Using both the Stratus OCT and OPKO/OTI OCT, respectively, the measured mean average RNFL thicknesses were 98.9±11.1 μm and 115.1±9.6 μm (P=0.001), and the measured mean central retinal thicknesses (CRT) were 196.2±18.8 μm and 204.5±21.1 μm (P<0.001). Measured by the two devices, the RNFL thickness values were correlated in all quadrants, as were the retinal thickness values except the inferior outer sector. COV for average RNFL and CRT thickness were 2.9% and 4.6% for Stratus OCT, and 2.1% and 4.2% for OPKO/OTI OCT, respectively. CONCLUSION: We found good reproducibility of RNFL and retina thickness measurements for both Stratus OCT and OPKO/OTI OCT devices. However, even though the two OCT systems provided statistically correlated results, the values for both RNFL and macular thickness were statistically different. RNFL and macular thickness measurements with the OPKO/OTI OCT were higher than that of the Stratus OCT; therefore, the two OCT systems cannot be used interchangeably for the measurements of RNFL and macular thickness.

A knotless, one-haptic fixation of posterior chamber intraocular lenses:one-year results

Pipat Kongsap — 2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the results of a modified technique for scleral fixation of a posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) in eyes which had deficient of posterior capsular support. METHODS: This retrospective study was comprised of ten patients with deficient posterior capsular support who underwent one-haptic fixation of posterior chamber IOLs, between February 2010 and October 2011. IOL as implanted with one haptic supported on the capsular remnant and the other haptic drawn into the sulcus by anchoring suture without a knot. All patients were evaluated for pre- and postoperative visual acuity, lens centration, intra-and postoperative complications. RESULTS: A knotless, one-haptic fixation of posterior chamber IOLs has successfully been performed on ten eyes. All cases had inadequate capsular support (i.e. a capsular tear ranged from 5 to 7 clock hours). The average age was 74.25±8.87y (SD). The average postoperative uncorrected visual acuity was 0.51 logMAR. Complications included hyphema in one eye, a mild inflammatory reaction in the anterior chamber in two eyes, and a transient rise in IOP in one eye. Neither IOL tilt nor dislocation was observed and there were no later complications. CONCLUSION: In the presence of insufficient capsular support, a knotless, one-haptic fixation of posterior chamber IOLs is a safe and viable option which reduces the operation time, and minimizes postoperative suture-related complications.

Surgical outcomes for unilateral superior oblique palsy in Chinese population:a retrospective study

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcome after surgery for unilateral superior oblique (SO) palsy in Chinese. METHODS: The medical records of 39 patients that underwent surgery for unilateral SO palsy between January 2003 and December 2012 at Caritas Medical Centre, Hong Kong, were retrospectively reviewed. All surgeries were performed by a single surgeon. Pre-operative assessments for vertical deviation, cyclo-deviation, and Knapp’s classification were obtained to determine the nature and degree of surgical correction. Vertical deviation was measured at 1wk; 1, 6mo and on last follow-up day post-operatively. Cyclo-deviation was measured on last follow-up day post-operatively. RESULTS: During the 10y period, 39 subjects were recruited. The most common etiology was congenital (94.9%). Knapp’s Type III (66.7%) and Type I (12.8%) classifications were the most common subtypes. To treat SO palsy, the most common surgical procedures were: isolated inferior oblique (IO) anteriorization (41.0%), isolated IO myectomy (10.3%), and isolated IO recession (10.3%). At 3.5±2.1y post-operatively, the vertical deviation was significantly reduced (15.1±6.2 PD versus 0.5±1.4 PD, P<0.0001) without significant improvement in cyclo-deviation (P=0.5). Initial vertical deviation was correlated with cyclo-torsion (r=0.4, P=0.007). Those with over-correction had greater initial vertical deviation (19.4±7.2 PD versus 13.2±4.3 PD, P=0.003). After a single operation, 84.6% of subjects achieved a vertical deviation within ±3 PD. CONCLUSION: The majority of subjects achieved corrected vertical deviation after a single surgery although there was no improvement in cyclo-deviation. Those with over-correction of primary position deviation had greater preoperative vertical deviation and it may be related to simultaneous multiple muscle surgery.

Reproducibility of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness measurements with cirrus HD-OCT in glaucomatous eyes

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the reproducibility of Cirrus high-definition optical coherence tomography (HD-OCT; Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA, USA) for analysis of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in glaucomatous eyes METHODS: Forty-five eyes (one eye from each glaucomatous patient) were imaged with Cirrus HD-OCT. Each eye was imaged three times by two separate operators. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), coefficient of variation (CV), and test-retest variability were evaluated for both intraobserver and interobsever measurements RESULTS: In intraobserver measurements, the average RNFL thickness ICC was 0.983. CV and test-retest variability were 2.3% and 4.4 μm respectively. In quadrants ICC ranged from 0.886 to 0.956, the lowest associated with nasal quadrant and CV ranged from 3.6% to 7.7%. In interobsever measurements, the average RNFL thickness ICC was 0.979. CV and test-retest variability were 2.4% and 4.5 μm respectively. In quadrants ICC ranged from 0.886 to 0.957, the lowest associated with nasal quadrant and CV ranged from 3.8% to 8.6%. CONCLUSION: The reproducibility of Cirrus OCT for RNFL thickness is sufficiently good to be useful clinically as a measure of glaucoma progression.

Effect of four different intraocular lenses on posterior capsule opacification

Rahmi Duman, Fatih Karel, Pelin Özyol and Can Ateş — 2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the impact of 4 different intraocular lenses (IOLs) on posterior capsule opacification (PCO) by comparing the neodymium: yttrium-aluminum-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomy rates. METHODS: This retrospective study included 4970 eyes of 4013 cataract patients who underwent phacoemulsification and IOL implantation between January 2000 and January 2008 by the same surgeon at one clinic. Four different IOLs were assessed. The outcome parameter was the incidence of Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomies. RESULTS: An Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy was performed in 153 (3.07%) of the 4970 eyes. The mean follow-up time was 84mo for all of the IOL groups. The percentage of eyes developing PCO was significantly greater for the acrylic hydrophilic IOLs than for the hydrophobic IOLs, although eyes with acrylic hydrophilic IOLs did not require Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy as soon as eyes with acrylic hydrophobic IOLs. There was no difference between the long-term PCO rates when 1- and 3-piece acrylic hydrophobic IOLs were compared or when IOLs made of the same material but with different haptic angles were compared. CONCLUSION: In this study, eyes with acrylic hydrophilic IOLs were more likely to develop PCO than those with acrylic hydrophobic IOLs. The lens design (1-piece versus 3-piece and varying haptic angles) did not affect the PCO rate.

Combined 23-gauge sutureless vitrectomy and clear corneal phacoemulsification for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair

Hoseok Moon,Hee Jin Sohn,Dea Yeong Lee,Jong Yeon Lee and Dong Heun Nam — 2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the outcomes of combined 23-gauge sutureless vitrectomy and clear corneal phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair. METHODS: This was a retrospective, consecutive, non-comparative, interventional case series of 30 eyes of 30 patients who underwent combined sutureless vitrectomy and clear corneal cataract surgery for the repair of RRD. The principal outcome measures were primary anatomical success rate, reasons for redetachment, final visual acuity, and surgical complications. RESULTS: Primary reattachment was achieved in 27 eyes (90.0%). The reasons for redetachment (3 eyes, 10%) were incomplete laser retinopexy, persistent chronic subretinal fluid, and proliferative vitreoretinopathy, respectively. The logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution visual acuity (mean±SD) improved from 0.76±0.74 preoperatively to 0.21±0.37 6 months’ postoperatively (P<0.0001). Postoperative hypotony was not detected, but 1 eye (3.3%) had increased intraocular pressure (30mmHg) with spontaneous resolution. No endophthalmitis developed during follow-up. Macular pucker was detected in 3 eyes (10.0%). CONCLUSION: Combined 23-gauge sutureless vitrectomy and clear corneal phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation for RRD repair was proven safe and effective. It may provide not only the known advantages of conventional combined surgery, but also additional advantages such as less conjunctival fibrosis and the maintenance of stable intraocular pressure with low risks of postoperative hypotony and intraocular pressure elevation.

Comparison of non-cycloplegic photorefraction, cycloplegic photorefraction and cycloplegic retinoscopy in children

2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the results of noncycloplegic photorefraction, cycloplegic photorefraction and cycloplegic refraction in preschool and non-verbal children. METHODS: One hundred and ninety-six eyes of 98 children (50 females, 48 males) were included in the study. Firstly, non-cycloplegic photorefraction was achieved with Plusoptix A09; secondly, cycloplegic photorefraction was carried out with Plusoptix A09 after 10 min cyclopentolate. Finally, 30min after instillation of twice cyclopentolate, cycloplegic refraction was obtained with autorefraction and/or standard retinoscopy. Spheric equivalent, spheric power, cylindric power and cylindrical axis measurements were statistically compared. RESULTS: The mean age was 28.8±18.5mo (range 12-72mo). The differences in spherical equivalent, spheric power and cylindrical power measured by the three methods were found statistically significant (P<0.05). The spherical equivalent and spheric power measured by cycloplegic photorefraction were statistically higher than the measurements of the other methods (P<0.05). The cylindrical power measured by cycloplegic refraction was statistically lower than the measurements of the photorefraction methods (P<0.05). There was no significant difference in cylindrical axis measurements between three methods (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: For the determination of refractive errors in children, the Plusoptix A09 measurements give incorrect results after instillation of cyclopentolate. Additionally, the cylindrical power measured by Plusoptix A09 with or without cycloplegia is higher. However, the non-cycloplegic Plusoptix A09 measures spheric equivalent and spheric power similar to cycloplegic refraction measurements in preschool and non-verbal children.

Using Markov Chains to predict the natural progression of diabetic retinopathy

Priyanka Srikanth — 2015/2/13 0:00:00
AIM: To study the natural progression of diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: This was an observational study of 153 cases with type 2 diabetes from 2010 to 2013. The state of patient was noted at end of each year and transition matrices were developed to model movement between years. Patients who progressed to severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) were treated. Markov Chains and Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: We modelled the transition of 153 patients from NPDR to blindness on an annual basis. At the end of year 3, we compared results from the Markov model versus actual data. The results from Chi-square test confirmed that there was statistically no significant difference (P=0.70) which provided assurance that the model was robust to estimate mean sojourn times. The key finding was that a patient entering the system in mild NPDR state is expected to stay in that state for 5y followed by 1.07y in moderate NPDR, be in the severe NPDR state for 1.33y before moving into PDR for roughly 8y. It is therefore expected that such a patient entering the model in a state of mild NPDR will enter blindness after 15.29y. CONCLUSION: Patients stay for long time periods in mild NPDR before transitioning into moderate NPDR. However, they move rapidly from moderate NPDR to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and stay in that state for long periods before transitioning into blindness.

Effects of posterior corneal astigmatism on the accuracy of AcrySof toric intraocular lens astigmatism correction

2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effects of posterior corneal surface measurements on the accuracy of total estimated corneal astigmatism. METHODS: Fifty-seven patients with toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and posterior corneal astigmatism exceeding 0.5 diopter were enrolled in this retrospective study. The keratometric astigmatism (KA) and total corneal astigmatism (TA) were measured using a Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera to assess the outcomes of AcrySof IOL implantation. Toric IOLs were evaluated in 26 eyes using KA measurements and in 31 eyes using TA measurements. Preoperative corneal astigmatism and postoperative refractive astigmatism were recorded for statistical analysis. The cylindrical power of toric IOLs was estimated in all eyes. RESULTS: In all cases, the difference of toric IOL astigmatism magnitude between KA and TA measurements for the estimation of preoperative corneal astigmatism was statistically significant. Of a total of 57 cases, the 50.88% decreased from Tn to Tn-1, and 10.53% decreased from Tn to Tn-2. In all cases, 5.26% increased from Tn to Tn+1. The mean postoperative astigmatism within the TA group was significantly lower than that in the KA group. CONCLUSION: The accuracy of total corneal astigmatism calculations and the efficacy of toric IOL correction can be enhanced by measuring both the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces using a Pentacam rotating Scheimpflug camera.

Evaluation of anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea using a dual Scheimpflug analyzer in keratoconus patients implanted with intrastromal corneal ring segments

2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate corneal parameters measured with a dual Scheimpflug analyzer in keratoconus patients implanted with intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS). METHODS: Fifty eyes of 40 keratoconus patients had Ferrara ICRS implantation from November 2010 to April 2014. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refraction, keratometry, asphericity, elevation, pachymetry, root mean square (RMS), spherical aberration and coma were studied. All patients were evaluated using a dual Scheimpflug system. RESULTS: The mean follow-up time after the procedure was 12.7mo. The mean UCVA improved from 0.82 to 0.31 (P<0.001); the mean BCVA improved from 0.42 to 0.05 (P<0.0001), the mean spherical refraction changed from -3.06±3.80 D to -0.80±2.5 D (P<0.0001) and the mean refraction astigmatism reduced from -4.51±2.08 D to -2.26±1.18 D (P<0.0001). The changes from preoperative to postoperative, in parameters of the anterior and posterior surface of the cornea, were statistically significant except the elevation posterior at the apex of the cornea and posterior asphericity. CONCLUSION: The implantation of Ferrara ICRS induces changes in both anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea.

Toric markers-assisted implantation of the scleral-fixated intraocular lens

Hu-Ping Song, Bing-Yu Tian and Jing Peng — 2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of toric intraocular lens markers-assisted implantation of the scleral-fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL). METHODS: From October 2010 to December 2013, all patients who had undergone secondary SFIOL implantation were assigned to group 1 and 2, in group 1 SFIOL was performed with the assist of radial keratotomy (RK)-marker, and in group 2 SFIOL was performed with the assisted of toric intraocular lens markers (T-and axis markers). Patients’ demographic data and information on baseline preoperative visual acuity, indication for surgery and latest postoperative visual acuity were collected and analyzed. The haptic and optic positions were determined by ultrasound biomicroscopy. The optic tilt angle and decentration distance were measured. RESULTS: The study evaluated 43 eyes of 43 patients ranging in age from 3 to 66y. Group 1 comprised 24 eyes (24 patients) and group 2, 19 eyes (19 patients). Uncorrected reoperative acuity was improved on all the eyes postoperatively. The improved postoperative acuity was significantly more in group 2 than that in group 1 (1.11±0.38 vs 0.82±0.45 logMAR; F=4.85, P=0.03). Ultrasonic biomicrograph examination showed that the rate of haptic asymmetry was significantly higher in group 1 (42%, 10/24) than that in group 2 (11%; 2/19) (Chi square=3.68, P=0.04). The mean tilted degree in group 1 was significantly higher than that in group 2 (P=0.04). Mean decentration distance in group 1 was greater than that in group 2 (P=0.03). CONCLUSION: During SFIOL the toric markers help the surgeon identify the placement of fixation more precisely than that with the use of RK marker.

A modified approach to actively remove high viscosity silicone oil through 23-gauge cannula

Zong-Ming Song, Xu-Ting Hu, Lei Wang, Zhi-Xiang Hu, Pei-Quan Zhao and Ding Chen — 2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To report a simple approach to actively remove high viscosity silicone oil through a 23-gauge cannula via pars plana. METHODS: Forty-eight eyes of 48 patients underwent silicone oil (5700 centistokes) removal (SOR) were enrolled. A section of blood transfusion set was prepared to connect a standard 23-gauge cannula and vitrectomy machine. Silicone oil was removed with suction of 500-mm Hg vacuum through the cannula. Main outcome measures were SOR duration, number of sutured sites, intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications. RESULTS: Silicone oil was successfully removed in all cases. The mean SOR time was 5.70±0.85min. Nine eyes (18.75%) needed suture partial sclerotomies. No intraoperative complications were noted. Transient hypotony (≤8 mm Hg) was seen in 3 eyes (6.25%) on postoperative day 1, but all resolved within 1wk. Retinal reattachment was achieved in all cases and no other postoperative complications were noted during 3-month following-up. BCVA at the final visit improved or stabilized in all patients comparing to the preoperative level. CONCLUSION: Active removal of high viscosity silicone oil through a 23-gauge instrument cannula jointed with blood transfusion set is a practical and reliable technique when considering two sides of efficacy and safety.

Ultra-wide field imaging system and traditional retinal examinations for screening fundus changes after cataract surgery

Jie Peng, Qi Zhang, Hai-Ying Jin, Wu-Yi Lu and Pei-Quan Zhao — 2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the results of non-mydriatic ultra-wide field imaging system, mydriatic slit-lamp lens (Volk +90 D) and mydriatic Goldmann three-mirror contact lens examinations in screening fundus lesions among patients after cataract surgery. METHODS: Non-mydriatic images were obtained with an Optomap panoramic 200Tx (Optomap 200Tx) 3d after surgery and graded by a blinded ophthalmologist. A mydriatic slit-lamp lens examination was performed by another blinded retinal specialist on the same day. A third blinded retinal specialist examined patients two weeks after surgery using a Goldmann three-mirror contact lens. RESULTS: In total, 160 patients (184 eyes) were examined, and 66, 69, and 75 cases of retinal lesion(s) were identified using the Optomap 200Tx, slit-lamp lens, and Goldmann three-mirror contact lens, respectively. In 13 cases, fundus changes were sight-threatening. The results obtained by Optomap 200Tx examination and by mydriatic slit-lamp lens examination have good consistency (P=0.375, Kappa=0.942). The mydriatic Goldmann three-mirror lens examination revealed more fundus lesions but are consistent with Optomap 200Tx (P=0.004, Kappa=0.897) and mydriatic slit-lamp lens examination (P=0.031, Kappa=0.932). CONCLUSION: Early post-operative fundus screening in cataract patients is extremely important and necessary to prevent further vision loss. Wide-field imaging is a feasible and convenient tool for fundus examination that can be used as a primary screening method among patients after cataract surgery.

Influence of CFH, HTRA1 and ARMS2 polymorphisms in the response to intravitreal ranibizumab treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration in a Spanish population

2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To determine whether gene polymorphisms of the major genetic risk loci for age-related macular degeneration (AMD): ARMS2 (rs10490923), the complement factor H (CFH) (rs1410996) and HTRA1 (rs11200638) influence the response to a treatment regimen with ranibizumab for exudative AMD. METHODS: This study included 100 patients (100 eyes) with exudative AMD. Patients underwent a treatment with ranibizumab injections monthly during three months. Reinjections were made when the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) decrease five letters (ETDRS) or central subfield retinal thickness gained 100 μm in optical coherence tomography image. Genotypes (rs10490923, rs1410996 and rs11200638) were analyzed using TaqMan probes or polymerase chain reaction-restricted fragment length polymorphisms analysis. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in allelic distribution of CFH (rs1410996), ARMS2 (rs10490923) and HTRA1 (rs11200638) polymorphisms regarding to response to ranibizumab treatment. CONCLUSION: Ranibizumab treatment response is not related to CFH (rs1410996), ARMS2 (rs10490923) and HTRA1 (rs11200638) poymorphisms.

Comparison of scleral buckling using wide-angle viewing systems and indirect ophthalmoscope for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Xiu-Juan Li, Xiao-Peng Yang and Xiao-Bei Lyu — 2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effects of scleral buckling using wide-angle viewing systems (WAVS) with that using indirect ophthalmoscope for the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. METHODS: The study was a retrospective analyses of the medical records of 94 eyes (94 patients) with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Among them, 47 eyes underwent scleral buckling using WAVS with endoilluminator (Group W), and 47 eyes underwent scleral buckling using indirect ophthalmoscope (Group I). Surgical durations, primary success rate, best-corrected visual acuities (BCVA), delayed subretinal fluid absorptions and surgical complications were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: At baseline, there were no statistical differences between the two groups in patient's age (P=0.997), gender (P=0.853), symptom duration (P=0.216), BCVA (P=0.389), refractive error (P=0.167), intraocular pressure (P=0.595), the number of retinal breaks (P=0.832), the extent of retinal detachment (P=0.246), subretinal demarcation line (P=0.801), and macular detachment (P=0.811). The follow-up period was 12mo. The surgical durations in Group W (with or without encircling buckling) were significant shorter than those in Group I (P?<0.001 respectively). The primary success rate was 94.27% in Group W, which was similar to that in Group I (92.38%, P?=?0.931). The BCVA in Group W was better than that in Group I (P<0.001) at 1-month follow-up visit. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups at 3-month (P=0.221), 6-month (P=0.674), and 12-month (P=0.363) follow-up visits respectively. Delayed subretinal fluid absorptions were more common in Group I than in Group W at 1-month (P=0.045) follow-up visit, but there were no significant differences between the two groups at 3-month (P=0.111), 6-month (P=1.000) and 12-month follow-up visits respectively. CONCLUSION: Scleral buckling using WAVS can be an alternative choose for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment.

Analyses on the misdiagnoses of 25 patients with unilateral optic nerve sheath meningioma

Jun-Feng Mao, Xiao-Bo Xia, Xiang-Bo Tang, Xue-Yong Zhang and Dan Wen — 2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate clinical features of optic nerve sheath meningioma (ONSM) that was misdiagnosed, and to find methods to reduce the misdiagnoses. METHODS: Retrospective series study. Twenty-five misdisgnosed patients with unilateral ONSM were collected from Jan. 2008 to Jan. 2015 and the clinical records reviewed. RESULTS: Patients were misdiagnosed with acute papillitis most frequently (n=17), immediately followed by optic atrophy (n=8), ischemic optic neuropathy (n=5), acute retrobulbar optic neuritis (n=5), optic disc vasculitis (n=3). For each patient, the minimum frequency of misdiagnoses was once and the maximum was 4 times. As for the lasting time of being misdiagnosed, the shortest was 1.5mo and the longest was 45mo. Twenty-one cases (84%) were once treated with glucocorticoids, and its side effects was found in seventeen patients. Twenty patients (80%) complained with varying degree of vision loss. When a definite diagnosis was made, sixteen cases (64%) showed slight exophthalmos and eighteen cases (72%) had the tubular ONSM. CONCLUSION: ONSM without loss obvious exophthalmos is easily misdiagnosed in clinic, and for most of these ONSMs are tubular.

Effects of upper lid blepharoplasty on visual quality in patients with lash ptosis and dermatochalasis

2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effects of upper lid blepharoplasty on visual quality. METHODS: Seventy-three eyelids of 39 patients were subjected to upper lid blepharoplasty. Pre- and post-operative contrast sensitivity, visual acuity, vertical palpebral aperture and the degree of lash ptosis were measured. RESULTS: The mean log contrast sensitivities under photopic (P=0.017) and scotopic conditions (P=0.009) were improved after surgery, and these differences were significant. The degree of lash ptosis was also decreased after blepharoplasty (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: In our study, a significant increase in contrast sensitivity was found after surgery. These results suggest that upper lid blepharoplasty can be helpful for improving visual quality.

Retinal vessels caliber changes after strabismus surgery: results of 6mo follow-up

2016/9/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of strabismus surgery on retinal vessels calibers with digital color fundus photographs. METHODS: Two hundred consecutive strabismus patients underwent surgery, and 118 patients (female/male, 55/63) who finished 6-month follow-up were finally included in this study. Optic disc-centered digital color fundus photographs of both eyes of all patients were taken prior to surgery and 6mo post surgery. The retinal vascular caliber of 116 operated eyes were measured using the computer program IVAN. The operated eyes were divided into 3 groups according to the surgical methods, recession of one muscle, one muscle recession and one muscle folding, one muscle resection and one muscle recession. The effect of number of altered muscles on retinal vessels was analyzed using statistic software SPSS 16.0. RESULTS: The mean age was 12.4±8.6y. Averaged central retinal artery equivalent (CRAE) of all patients was 120.31±23.02 μm preoperatively, and 122.87±15.93 μm six months after surgery. Averaged central retinal vein equivalent (CRVE) was 171.11±31.73 μm preoperatively and 175.02±21.00 μm postoperatively. There was no significant difference of averaged CRAE (P=0.22) or CRVE (P=0.19) before and after operation. Averaged arteriole to venule ratio (AVR) was 0.71±0.07 before surgery and 0.70±0.07 after surgery. Comparison of preoperative and postoperative retinal vessels calibers among different surgical groups did not show significant differences. Also, there was no advantage of rectus muscle folding to muscle resection. CONCLUSION: Up to 6mo after strabismus surgery, the retinal vascular calibers were not altered. No more than two muscles in one surgery are safe for retinal perfusion.

Correlation between visual function and refractive, topographic, pachymetric and aberrometric data in eyes with keratoconus

Neslihan Bayraktar Bilen, Ibrahim F. Hepsen and Carlos G. Arce — 2016/8/15 15:51:38
AIM: To analyze the relationship between two visual functions and refractive, topographic, pachymetric and aberrometric indicators in eyes with keratoconus. METHODS: Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and letter contrast sensitivity (CS) were correlated with refraction, corneal topography, pachymetry, and total corneal wavefront data prospectively in 71 eyes with keratoconus. The topographic indices assessed were simulated keratometry for the flattest and steepest meridians (SimK1 and SimK2), posterior steeper K (Ks), elevation value in best-fit sphere (BFS) maps, squared eccentricity (Є2), aspheric asymmetric index (AAI), pachymetry, thickness progression index (TPI), the amount of pachymetric decentralization (APD), and GalileiTM-keratoconus indices. RESULTS: The mean CDVA (expressed as logMAR) were 0.25±0.21. The mean CS was 1.25±0.46. The spherical refraction correlated well with CDVA (r=-0.526, P<0.001). From topographic indices, SRI correlated with CS (r=-0.695), and IAI with CS (r=-0.672) (P<0.001 for all). Root mean square (RMS) was 4.3±1.81 µm, spherical aberration (SA) was -0.4±0.67 µm, vertical and horizontal coma were -2.1±1.47 and -0.4±0.72 µm. All wavefront data (except horizontal coma), AAI, Є2 and maximum BFS correlated significantly with the visual function (P≤0.001 for all). CONCLUSION: In this study, CS is more affected than CDVA as a visual function. The quantity and quality of vision is significantly correlated with well-known and new topographic indices. There is not a significant correlation between visual function and pachymetric parameters. The significantly correlated indices can be used in staging keratoconus and to follow the outcome of a treatment.

Optic disc area in different types of glaucoma

Oya Tekeli, Esra Savku and Ahmed Abdullayev — 2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the possible relationship of optic disc area with retina nerve fiber layer in different glaucoma subtypes. METHODS: One eye each was chosen from 45 patients with ocular hypertension, 45 patients with primary open angle glaucoma, 45 patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and 45 healthy controls followed in our hospital. The records of the patients were reviewed retrospectively. Optic disc area and circumpapillary retina nerve fiber layer measurements were obtained using optical coherence tomography. Central corneal thickness was measured by ultrasound pachymetry. RESULTS: The median disc area in the patients with primary open angle glaucoma was significantly higher than the patients with ocular hypertension (2.19 vs 1.90 mm2, P=0.030). The median retina nerve fiber layer was thinner in the patients with primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma than the patients with ocular hypertension for superior, inferior and temporal quadrants. After adjustment for age, no difference in central corneal thickness was found between the groups. Greater disc area was associated with thicker retinal nerve fiber layer for superior, inferior and nasal quadrants in the patients with primary open angle glaucoma. There was no correlation between disc area and central corneal thickness measurements of the groups. CONCLUSION: Disc size affects the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness in eyes with primary open angle glaucoma and is a possible risk factor for glaucomatous optic nerve damage.

Nitric oxide and tumour necrosis factor alpha in the process of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma

2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To establish the role of nitric oxide (NO), ascorbic acid and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the pathogenesis of pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (XFG). METHODS: Our study included 120 patients who were referred for cataract surgery. All patients were divided into four groups according to clinical findings: XFG, early and late pseudoexfoliation syndrome (XFS), and cataract (without pseudoexfoliation). Serum and aqueous humour levels of the ascorbic acid, NO and TNF-α were measured. The concentrations of the ascorbic acid and NO were measured by an appropriate spectrophotometric method. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine TNF-α level. RESULTS: Aqueous humour concentration of ascorbic acid was significantly lower in patients with late XFS (0.61±0.11 mmol/L) and XFG (0.48±0.15 mmol/L) compared to patients with early XFS (0.9±0.15 mmol/L) and cataract (1.16±0.22 mmol/L), while there was no difference in serum concentration in all examined groups. Aqueous humour concentration of NO was significantly higher in patients with XFG (77.7±11.4 μmol/L) compared to patients with early XFS (50.27±9.34 μmol/L) and cataract (49.77±7.1 μmol/L), while serum concentration was increased in the early stage of XFS (73.26±8.29 μmol/L). Aqueous humour level of proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α was increased in patients with XFS (early 460.04±18.32 pg/mL; late 502.42±53.23 pg/mL) and XFG (510.34±43.07 pg/mL), while there was no difference in serum level in all examined groups of patients. CONCLUSION: Reduced ascorbic acid and elevated NO and inflammation related cytokine TNF-α level in aqueous humour of the patients with developed XFG suggest that oxidative stress induces local inflammation.

Association between choroidal thickness and anterior chamber segment in eyes with narrow or open-angle

2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the relationship between choroidal thickness and anterior chamber segment in subjects with eyes with narrow or open-angle. METHODS: The subfoveal choroidal thickness was measured with enhanced depth-imaging optical coherence tomography and anterior chamber parameters were measured with ultrasound biomicroscopy in one eye of 23 subjects with open-angle eyes and 38 subjects with narrow-angle eyes. The mean age was 59.52±7.04y for narrow-angle subjects and 60.76±7.23y for open-angle subjects (P=0.514). Multivariate linear regression analysis was performed to assess the association between choroidal thickness and narrow-angle parameters. RESULTS: There were no differences in subfoveal choroidal thickness between open- and narrow-angle subjects (P=0.231). Anterior chamber parameters, including central anterior chamber depth, trabecular iris angle, iris thickness 500 µm from the scleral spur (IT500), and ciliary body thickness at 1 mm and 2 mm from the scleral spur (CBT1, CBT2) showed significant differences between the two groups (P<0.05). Subfoveal choroidal thickness showed negative correlation (β=-0.496, P=0.016) only with anterior chamber depth in the open-angle group and with age (β=-0.442, P=0.003) and IT500 (β=-0.399, P=0.008) in the narrow-angle group. However, subfoveal choroidal thickness was not correlated with trabecular iris angle, anterior chamber depth, ciliary body thickness, or central corneal thickness in the narrow-angle group. CONCLUSION: Choroidal thickness does not differ in the two groups and has not correlated with anterior chamber parameters in narrow-angle subjects, suggesting a lack of relationship between choroidal thickness and primary angle-closure glaucoma.

Systemic changes and adverse effects induced by retinopathy of prematurity screening

2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To estimate the potential systemic events during and after retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening. METHODS: A prospective and descriptive designed study was conducted to detect the physiologic and pathological changes 24h before, during, and 72h after ROP screening. Control blood pressure (BP), saturation, pulse rate, and body temperature were routinely taken at various time internals before and after screening. Adverse effects pertain to cardiovascular system, respiratory system, gastric system, urinary system and nervous system were retrospect 0-72h after ROP screening at a 24-hour interval. RESULTS: Totally 1254 prematurity babies receiving ROP screening during Jan. 1st 2013 to Dec. 31th 2013 were enrolled in our survey. Compared to control vital sign data taken before the examination, there was a fluctuation in the diastolic BP with the increased 3.03 mm Hg (P=0.04) after 3 doses of mydriatic drops. Immediately after the examination, there was a further 12.64 mm Hg (P<0.01) increase in systolic BP and a 7.24 mm Hg (P<0.01) in diastolic BP. The mean pulse rate during examination was 22.4 bpm (P<0.01) higher than the 133.3±9.0 bpm control level. The oxygen saturation shared an average drop of 5% (P<0.01) during screening. In prematurity with postconceptional age less than 31wk, the incidence of apnea (23.5%), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) (8.7%), gastric residual (25.4%) and upper digestive tract hemorrhage (6.4%) also demonstrated a significant rise (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: In our study sample, ROP screening was associated with NEC, gastric residual and upper digestive tract hemorrhage. These gastrointestinal side effects, along with breath activity pattern change and vital signs indicators fluctuation, may be results of additional stress responses.

Fixed bimonthly aflibercept in naïve and switched neovascular age-related macular degeneration patients: one year outcomes

Alasdair N Warwick, Hannah H Leaver, Andrew J Lotery and Srini V Goverdhan — 2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To determine real life clinical outcomes in poorly responsive and treatment-naïve neovascular age related macular degeneration (nvAMD) patients using bimonthly fixed dosing aflibercept regimen. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of 165 eyes with nvAMD started on aflibercept at Southampton Eye Unit between June 2013 and June 2014. Patients were either switched from pro re nata (PRN) ranibizumab/bevacizumab due to poor response (107 eyes), or treatment-naïve (58 eyes). Patients initially received 3-monthly intravitreal aflibercept injections followed by 2-monthly fixed doses. Clinic visits were scheduled at month 0, 4, 10 and 12. Mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) from baseline were assessed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The proportion of patients maintaining BCVA (<15 letters loss) at 12mo was also evaluated. RESULTS: Mean BCVA change at month 12 was +3.29 and +4.67 letters in the switched and naïve aflibercept groups respectively (P<0.01). BCVA was maintained in 95.3% of switched and 96.6% of naïve patients. CRT at month 12 showed a decrease of -6.16 µm in the switched group and -35.36 µm in the naïve group (P<0.01). Patients previously treated with ranibizumab/bevacizumab had on average received 7.4 ranibizumab/bevacizumab injections over 12.6mo, attending 10 clinic visits. The fixed dosing aflibercept regimen required an average of 7.1 injections (naïve group), 7.5 injections (switched group) and 4 clinic visits per year. CONCLUSION: Fixed bimonthly aflibercept is effective in both treatment-naïve and poorly responsive nvAMD patients. Adopting a fixed dosing regimen can reduce patient burden without compromising on outcomes.

Clinical outcomes of 25-gauge vitrectomy surgery for vitreoretinal diseases: comparison of vitrectomy alone and phaco-vitrectomy

Mucella Arikan Yorgun, Yasin Toklu, Melek Mutlu and Umut Ozen — 2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical outcomes of combined 25-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and phacoemulsification/posterior chamber intraocular lens (PC-IOL) implantation with vitrectomy alone surgery in patients with various vitreoretinal diseases. METHODS: A total of 306 eyes (145 with PPV alone and 161 with phaco-vitrectomy) were enrolled in this retrospective analysis. The surgical approach was 25-gauge PPV combined with phacoemulsification and PC-IOL implantation at the same time in eyes in phaco-vitrectomy group and only PPV in eyes in vitrectomy alone surgery group. The main outcome measures were postoperative clinical outcomes included anterior chamber inflammation, changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). RESULTS: The most common postoperative complication was anterior chamber reaction which has higher incidence in phaco-vitrectomy group (P<0.001). The mean postoperative 1st day IOP of vitrectomy alone group was significantly lower than that of phaco-vitrectomy group (16.3±5.8 mm Hg vs 17.8±8.1 mm Hg, respectively, P=0.02). Hypotony (IOP(8 mm Hg) was not different between groups in the postoperative 1st day (P>0.05). The mean preoperative visual acuity was not different between groups (1.6±0.9 logMAR vs 1.8±0.9 logMAR, respectively, P>0.05). However, the mean visual acuity was decreased in vitrectomy alone group at the final visit compared to phaco-vitrectomy group (1.2±0.8 logMAR, 0.9±0.7 logMAR, respectively P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Twenty-five gauge PPV combined with phacoemulsification surgery is a safe and efficient procedure, which can be preferred in phacic patients with a variety of vitreoretinal diseases compared to vitrectomy alone. Despite improved outcomes, this approach is not free of limitations as anterior chamber complications especially with combined surgery.

Effect of head tilt on repeatability of optic nerve head parameters using cirrus spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the repeatability of measuring optic nerve head (ONH) parameters using the Cirrus optical coherence tomography (OCT), as well as to assess the effect of head tilt on these measurements. METHODS: Thirty healthy participants with no evidence of glaucoma were recruited for the study. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, standard automated perimetry and ocular examination were performed for each participant. One eye was then randomly selected and scanned undilated with the Cirrus OCT in 3 positions (neutral, 30° right tilt and 30° left tilt). RESULTS: Data collected from 29 eyes were used for analysis. One patient was omitted due to poor scan quality. The repeatability of the ONH parameters was analyzed using analysis of variance, coefficient of variation (COV) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Analysis of variance showed no statistically significant difference between 3 scans in a single position. There was good agreement between measurements (ICC 0.919-0.996, COV 1.94%-5.48%). Even with the presence of head tilt, repeated scans in the 3 positions showed good agreement as well (ICC 0.888-0.996, COV 2.04%-5.39%). CONCLUSION: Serial measurements of ONH parameters using the Cirrus OCT are found to have good repeatability. The ONH parameters with Cirrus OCT also maintain good repeatability despite head tilt.

Study of the prevalence and association of ocular chlamydial conjunctivitis in women with genital infection by Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium and Candida albicans attending outpatient clinic

Rania Abdelmonem Khattab and Maha Mohssen Abdelfattah — 2016/8/15 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the association between chlamydial conjunctivitis and genital infection by Chlamydia trachomatis, Mycoplasma genitalium and Candida albicans, in addition to the possible relationship between cultured bacterial pathogens and oculogenital chlamydial infection. METHODS: This study was performed on 100 (50 symptomatic and 50 asymptomatic) women attending the Gynecological and Obstetric outpatient clinic of Alzahra hospital, Alazhar University. Simultaneously a conjunctival swab was taken from these patients. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was done on DNA extracted from both vaginal and conjunctival swab samples. Culture for both vaginal and conjunctival swabs was also done. RESULTS: Candida albicans was the predominant organism isolated by culture in 20% and 40% of conjunctival and vaginal swabs respectively. By the PCR method, ocular Chlamydia trachomatis was present in 60% of symptomatic women, while genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection was present in 30% of symptomatic women. The results of this method also indicated that 25/50 (50%) vaginal swabs were positive with PCR for Candida albicans versus 15/50 (30%) were PCR positive in conjunctival swab. Mycoplasma genitalium was present in only 10% of vaginal swabs. Concomitant oculogenital PCR positive results for Chlamydia trachomatis and Candida albicans were 30% and 28% respectively. CONCLUSION: Ocular Chlamydia trachomatis was associated with genital Chlamydia trachomatis in a high percentage of women followed by Candida albicans. Cultured bacterial organisms do not play a role in enhancement of Chlamydia trachomatis infection.

Comparison of corneal biomechanical properties in normal tension glaucoma patients with different visual field progression speed

2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the corneal biomechanical properties difference by ocular response analyzer (ORA) in normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients with different visual field (VF) progression speed. METHODS: NTG patients with well-controlled Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT) who routinely consulted Kitasato University Hospital Glaucoma Department between January 2010 and February 2014 were enrolled. GAT and ORA parameters including corneal compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc), Goldmann estimated intraocular pressure (IOPg), corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF) were recorded. VF was tested by Swedish interactive threshold algorithm (SITA)-standard 30-2 fields. All patients underwent VF measurement regularly and GAT did not exceed 15 mm Hg at any time during the 3y follow up. Patients were divided into four groups according to VF change over 3y, and ORA findings were compared between the upper 25th percentile group (slow progression group) and the lower 25th percentile group (rapid progression group). RESULTS: Eighty-two eyes of 56 patients were studied. There were 21 eyes (21 patients) each in rapid and slow progression groups respectively. GAT, IOPcc, IOPg, CH, CRF were 12.1±1.4 mm Hg, 15.8±1.8 mm Hg, 12.8±2.0 mm Hg, 8.4±1.1 mm Hg, 7.9±1.3 mm Hg respectively in rapid progression group and 11.5±1.3 mm Hg, 13.5±2.1 mm Hg, 11.2±1.6 mm Hg, 9.3±1.1 mm Hg, 8.2±0.9 mm Hg respectively in slow progression group (P=0.214, <0.001, 0.007, 0.017, 0.413, respectively). In bivariate correlation analysis, IOPcc, IOPcc-GAT and CH were significant correlated with m△MD (r=-0.292, -0.312, 0.228 respectively, P=0.008, 0.004, 0.039 respectively). CONCLUSION: Relatively rapid VF progression occurred in NTG patients whose IOPcc are rather high, CH are rather low and the difference between IOPcc and GAT are relatively large. Higher IOPcc and lower CH are associated with VF progression in NTG patients. This study suggests that GAT measures might underestimate the IOP in such patients.

Diurnal changes in retinal nerve fiber layer thickness with obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome

2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in the morning and evening in Thai patients with varying degrees of obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, potential OSAHS patients at Siriraj Hospital underwent polysomnography to determine the severity of OSAHS and an eye examination (including best corrected visual acuity, slit-lamp examination, and Goldmann applanation tonometry). RNFL thickness was recorded once in the morning and once in the evening, using spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Thickness was expressed as an average and given for each quadrant. Patients with ocular or systemic diseases that might affect RNFL thickness were excluded. RESULTS: Forty-one eyes of 41 patients were classified into 4 OSAHS groups. The average and mean RNFL thickness in most of the four quadrants of the severe OSAHS group trended toward being less than those in the comparable quadrants of the other groups in both the morning and evening. In the moderate OSAHS group, the average RNFL thickness and temporal and superior quadrant thickness in the morning were significantly higher than in the evening (P=0.01, P=0.01, and P=0.03, respectively). In the severe OSAHS group, the inferior quadrant thickness in the morning was significantly higher than in the evening (P=0.03). CONCLUSION: The RNFL thickness in the morning was higher than in the evening in moderate OSAHS.

Epidemiology and risk factors of retinoblastoma in Chongqing area

Yu-Qiong Yang, Jia Li and Hong-Feng Yuan — 2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the risk factors of retinoblastoma in Chongqing and offer the bases for scientific measures. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-three retinoblastoma patients were taken as case group, and 133 children were taken as control group in 1:1 ratio. The relevant factors were collected from a questionnaire survey which was made by our research group. First, Chi-square and t-test were used to discuss the various factors, and then the logistic regression analysis was made by statistics software SPSS17.0 based on the result of 266 people. RESULTS: Single factor analysis results showed the differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P<0.05) in 17 factors which were education level of their parents, occupation of their parents, exposure to harmful chemicals of their parents 6mo before pregnancy, the history of pelvic inflammatory disease of mother before pregnancy, childbearing history of their parents, pregnant age of their parents, the medication history of father 6 mo before pregnancy, living place of their parents, the pollution living place of mother, hobbies of their parents. Multivariate analysis showed that the living place of parents, mother who feed pets before pregnancy, and exposure to harmful chemicals of father before pregnancy were the independent risk factors of retinoblastoma (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The living place of parents, mother who feed pets before pregnancy, exposure to harmful chemicals of father before pregnancy were the risk factors of retinoblastoma which affects the occurrence of retinoblastoma in a certain extent.

Risk factors of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment in Chinese patients

2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To comprehensively analyze the risk factors of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) associated with choroidal detachment (CD). METHODS: A total of 265 eyes of 265 consecutive cases of RRD were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had systemic and ophthalmologic examination. CD was diagnosed by indirect ophthalmoscopy, B-scan ultrasonography, and ultrasound biomicroscope (UBM). Each parameter was compared between patients of RRD and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment associated with choroidal detachment (RRDCD). Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent risk factors of CD. RESULTS: There were 52 eyes (19.62%) with CD. Pseudophakia was more commonly seen in RRDCD (21.15% vs 6.10%, P=0.002). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was lower (8.60±3.62 vs 12.96±3.55, P<0.001), best-corrected visual acuity was worse [3.00 (2.00 to 3.00) vs 1.92 (1.22 to 3.00), P=0.001], and refractive error was more myopic [-4 (-9 to -2) vs -2 (-6 to 0), P=0.007] in RRDCD. Eyes with RRDCD had larger extent of retinal detachment (P=0.007). In RRDCD, 34.62% of eyes presented with multiple holes (P=0.044) and 25.00% with macular holes (P=0.012), compared with 20.66% and 14.08% in RRD. High myopia (P=0.039), low IOP (P=0.017), and larger extent of retinal detachment (P<0.001) were significant and independent risk factors for developing CD. CONCLUSION: For CD in RRD, related factors include BCVA, IOP, lens status, refractive error, extent of retinal detachment, number of holes, and macular hole. Larger extent of retinal detachment, high myopia, and low IOP are significant and independent risk factors.

Predictive factors for postoperative visual function of primary chronic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after scleral buckling

Wei Fang, Jiu-Ke Li, Xiao-Hong Jin, Yuan-Min Dai and Yu-Min Li — 2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate predictive factors for postoperative visual function of primary chronic rhegmatgenous retinal detachment (RRD) after sclera buckling (SB). METHODS: Totally 48 patients (51 eyes) with primary chronic RRD were included in this prospective interventional clinical cases study, which underwent SB alone from June 2008 to December 2014. Age, sex, symptoms duration, detached extension, retinal hole position, size, type, fovea on/off, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), baseline best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), operative duration, follow up duration, final BCVA were measured. Pearson correlation analysis, Spearman correlation analysis and multivariate linear stepwise regression were used to confirm predictive factors for better final visual acuity. Student’s t-test, Wilcoxon two-sample test, Chi-square test and logistic stepwise regression were used to confirm predictive factors for better vision improvement. RESULTS: Baseline BCVA was 0.8313±0.6911 logMAR and final BCVA was 0.4761±0.4956 logMAR. Primary surgical success rate was 92.16% (47/51). Correlation analyses revealed shorter symptoms duration (r=0.3850, P=0.0053), less detached area (r=0.5489, P<0.0001), fovea (r=0.4605, P=0.0007), no PVR (r=0.3138, P=0.0250), better baseline BCVA (r=0.7291, P<0.0001), shorter operative duration (r=0.3233, P=0.0207) and longer follow up (r=-0.3358, P=0.0160) were related with better final BCVA, while independent predictive factors were better baseline BCVA [partial R-square (PR2)=0.5316, P<0.0001], shorter symptoms duration (PR2=0.0609, P=0.0101), longer follow up duration (PR2=0.0278, P=0.0477) and shorter operative duration (PR2=0.0338, P=0.0350). Patients with vision improvement took up 49.02% (25/51). Univariate and multivariate analyses both revealed predictive factors for better vision improvement were better baseline vision [odds ratio (OR) =50.369, P=0.0041] and longer follow up duration (OR=1.144, P=0.0067). CONCLUSION: Independent predictive factors for better visual outcome of primary chronic RRD after SB are better baseline BCVA, shorter symptoms duration, shorter operative duration and longer follow up duration, while independent predictive factors for better vision improvement after operation are better baseline vision and longer follow up duration.

Effects of two different doses of intravitreal bevacizumab on subfoveal choroidal thickness and retinal vessel diameter in branch retinal vein occlusion

Jongyeop Park, Seungwoo Lee and Yengwoo Son — 2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects of two different doses of intravitreal bevacizumab on subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFChT) and retinal vessel diameter in patients with branch retinal vein occlusion. METHODS: An interventional, restrospective study of 41 eyes of 41 patients who had completed 12mo of follow-up, divided into group 1 (1.25 mg of bevacizumab, 21 eyes of 21 patients) and group 2 (2.5 mg of bevacizumab, 20 eyes of 21 patients). Complete ophthalmic examination, fluorescein angiography, enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography and measurement of retinal vessel diameter with IVAN software were performed at baseline and follow-up. RESULTS: The SFChT changed from 279.1 (165-431) µm at baseline to 277.0 (149-413) µm at 12mo in group 1 (P=0.086), and from 301.4 (212-483) µm to 300.3 (199-514) µm in group 2 (P=0.076). The central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE) changed from 128.8±11.2 μm at baseline to 134.5±8.4 μm at 12mo in group 1, and from 134.6±9.0 μm to 131.4±12.7 μm in group 2 (P=0.767). The central retinal venular equivalent (CRVE) changed from 204.1±24.4 μm at baseline to 196.3±28.2 μm at 12mo in group 1, and from 205.8±16.3 μm to 194.8±18.2 μm in group 2 (P=0.019). The mean central macular thickness (P<0.05) and average best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA; P<0.05) improved in both groups CONCLUSION: Changes in the SFChT are not statistically significant and not different according to the doses of bevacizumab. The CRAE did not show significant change, however, the CRVE showed significant decrease regardless of the dose.

Comparison of corneal flaps created by Wavelight FS200 and Intralase FS60 femtosecond lasers

Qian Liu, Yue-Hua Zhou, Jing Zhang, Yan Zheng, Chang-Bin Zhai and Jing Liu — 2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To assess and compare the morphology of corneal flaps created by the Wavelight FS200 and Intralase FS60 femtosecond lasers in laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: Four hundred eyes of 200 patients were enrolled in this study and divided into Wavelight FS200 groups (200 eyes) and Intralase FS60 groups (200 eyes). Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography (RTVue OCT) was used to measure the corneal flap thickness of 36 specified measurements on each flap one week after surgery. Results were used to analyze the regularity, uniformity and accuracy of the two types of LASIK flaps. RESULTS: The mean thickness of corneal flap and central flap was 105.71±4.72 μm and 105.39±4.50 μm in Wavelight FS200 group and 109.78±11.42 μm and 109.15 ±11.59 μm in Intralase FS60 group, respectively. The flaps made with the Wavelight FS200 femtosecond laser were thinner than those created by the Intralase FS60 femtosecond laser (P=0.000). Corneal flaps in the 2 groups were uniform and regular, showing an almost planar configuration. But the Wavelight FS200 group has more predictability and uniformity of flap creation. The mean deviation between achieved and attempted flap thickness was smaller in the Wavelight FS200 group than that in the Intralase FS60 group, which were 5.18±3.71 μm and 8.68±7.42 μm respectively. The deviation of more than 20 µm was 0.2% measurements in Wavelight FS200 group and 8.29% measurements in Intralase FS60 group. CONCLUSION: The morphologies of flaps created by Wavelight FS200 are more uniform and thinner than those created by Intralase FS60.

Post-operative strabismus control and motor alignment for basic intermittent exotropia

Fiona Chew Lee Min, Bhambi Uellyn Gesite-de Leon and Boon Long Quah — 2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To assess strabismus control and motor ocular alignment for basic exotropia surgery at 5y follow-up. METHODS: The medical records of 80 consecutive patients aged less than 17 years of age, who underwent surgery for basic exotropia by a single surgeon between years 2000 to 2009 and completed a minimum of 5y follow-up post-operatively were reviewed. Pre- and post-operative characteristics were documented at 1wk, 6mo, 1, 3 and 5y follow-up. Subjects at 5-year follow-up were assigned to the success group if they had a post-operative angle of deviation within 10 prism diopters of exotropia or within 5 prism diopters of esotropia for distance on prism cover test, and had moderate to good strabismus control. The remaining subjects were assigned to the failure group. RESULTS: Post-operative surgical success at one week was 75%, which decreased to 41% at 5y follow-up. The success group was noted to have more patching pre-operatively (P=0.003). The duration of patching a day (P=0.020) and total duration of patching pre-operatively (P=0.030) was higher in the success group. Surgical success at 1y (P=0.004) and 3y (P=0.002) were associated with higher surgical success at 5y follow-up. CONCLUSION: Post-operative motor alignment and strabismus control for basic exotropia surgery at 1y and beyond is associated with higher exotropia surgery success at 5-year follow-up. There is an association between pre-operative patching and 5-year surgical success of basic intermittent exotropia surgery.

Comparison of therapeutic effects of topical azithromycin solution and systemic doxycycline on posterior blepharitis

Mehdi Zandian, Neda Rahimian and Sanaz Soheilifar — 2016/7/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effect of azithromycin drop and doxycycline capsule on treatment of posterior blepharitis. METHODS: Fifty patients (100 eyes) with moderate posterior blepharitis, randomly divided into two therapeutic groups; all the patients got warm eyelid compress and massage three times a day for 3wk. In addition the first group got azithromycin 1% drop, twice daily for 1wk and then one drop daily for 2wk. The second group got oral doxycycline 100 mg daily for 3wk. At the end of the research, patients’ signs and symptoms were compared together. ANOVA, Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Topical therapy with azithromycin and oral therapy with doxycycline relieved signs and symptoms after 3wk. There were no significant differences between symptoms healing rate and foreign body sensation healing in these two groups (P>0.05). However, azithromycin drop was more effective in reduction of eye redness and doxycycline was more effective in meibomian glands plugging healing and reducing the corneal staining. CONCLUSION: Topical azithromycin could have similar effects as oral doxycycline on posterior blepharitis in improving subjective symptoms. However, doxycycline can reduce objective signs such as ocular surface staining and meibomian gland plugging more than azithromycin.

Long-term outcomes of wedge resection at the limbus for high irregular corneal astigmatism after repaired corneal laceration

Jun Du, Guang-Ying Zheng, Cheng-Lin Wen, Xiao-Fang Zhang and Yu Zhu — 2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical value of wedge resection at corneal limbus in patients with traumatic corneal scarring and high irregular astigmatism. METHODS: Patients with traumatic corneal astigmatism received wedge resection at least 6mo after suture removal from corneal wound. The uncorrected distance visual acuities (UCVA) and best corrected distance visual acuities (BCVA), pre- and post-operation astigmatism, spherical equivalent (SE), safety and complications were evaluated. RESULTS: Ten eyes (10 patients) were enrolled in this study. Mean follow-up time after wedge resection was 37.8±15.4mo (range, 20-61mo). The mean UCVA improved from +1.07±0.55 logMAR to +0.43±0.22 logMAR (P=0.000) and the mean BCVA from +0.50±0.30 logMAR to +0.15±0.17 logMAR (P=0.000). The mean astigmatism power measured by retinoscopy was -2.03±2.27 D postoperatively and -2.83±4.52 D preoperatively (P=0.310). The mean SE was -0.74±1.61 D postoperatively and -0.64±1.89 D preoperatively (P=0.601). Two cases developed mild pannus near the sutures. No corneal perforation, infectious keratitis or wound gape occurred. CONCLUSION: Corneal-scleral limbal wedge resection with compression suture is a safe, effective treatment for poor patients with high irregular corneal astigmatism after corneal-scleral penetrating injury. Retinoscopy can prove particularly useful for high irregular corneal astigmatism when other measurements are not amenable.

Surgical management of fungal endophthalmitis resulting from fungal keratitis

Yan Gao, Nan Chen, Xiao-Guang Dong, Gong-Qiang Yuan, Bin Yu and Li-Xin Xie — 2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To report the fungal organisms, clinical features, surgical treatment strategies, and outcomes of patients with culture-proven exogenous fungal endophthalmitis (EFE) secondary to keratitis, and evaluate the role of surgery in the treatment. METHODS: The clinical records of 27 patients (27 eyes) with culture-proven EFE resulting from fungal keratitis treated at Shandong Eye Institute from January 2007 to January 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Information about fungal culture results, clinical features, surgical procedures, and final visual acuity was obtained. RESULTS: There were 39 positive culture results from samples of cornea, hypopyon, vitreous and lens capsule, accounting for 56%, 26%, 15% and 2.5%, respectively. Fusarium was identified in 44% (12/27) of the eyes, followed by Aspergillus in 22% (6/27). Posterior segment infection was involved in 78% (21/27) of the patients. The corneal infection was larger than 3 mm ×3 mm in 89% (24/27) of the patients, and 22% (6/27) of them had the entire cornea, and even the sclera involved. Three eyes had silicone oil tamponade, and two eyes had retinal detachment. Twenty-two eyes (81.5%) underwent penetrating keratoplasty (PKP), and over half of them (54.5%) were operated within 3d from the onset of antifungal therapy. Fourteen eyes (52%) underwent intracameral antifungal drug injection, and three of them required repeated injections. Fifteen eyes (55.6%) underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). The rate of the eyes undergoing PPV as the initial surgical procedure was 60% (9/15), lower than 77% in PKP. Intravitreal injection was given in 59% of the eyes (16/27), and 75% of them required repeated injections. The final visual acuity was 20/100 or better in 37% of the eyes, and better than counting fingers in 55.6% of the eyes. Five eyes (18.5%) were eviscerated. In the two eyes with concurrent retinal detachment, one achieved retinal reattachment, and the other was eviscerated. In the three eyes with silicone oil tamponade, two eyes received silicone oil removal, and the other one was eviscerated. CONCLUSION: Fusarium and Aspergillus are the dominant pathogens in EFE resulting from keratitis. Aggressive antifungal surgeries including multiple intravitreal injections, PKP and core vitrectomy (especially in the initial surgery) are helpful procedures to improve prognosis of severe EFE secondary to keratitis.

Effect of biometric characteristics on biomechanical properties of the cornea in cataract patient

2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the impact of biometric characteristics on the biomechanical properties of the human cornea using the ocular response analyzer (ORA) and standard comprehensive ophthalmic examinations before and after standard phacoemulsification. METHODS: This study comprised 54 eyes with cataract with significant lens opacification in stages I or II that underwent phacoemulsification (2.8 mm incision). Corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg), and corneal-compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc) were measured by ORA preoperatively and at 1mo postoperatively. Biometric characteristics were derived from corneal topography [TMS-5, anterior equivalent (EQTMS) and cylindric (CYLTMS) power], corneal tomography [Casia, anterior and posterior equivalent (EQaCASIC, EQpCASIA) and cylindric (CYLaCASIA, CYLpCASIA) power], keratometry [IOLMaster, anterior equivalent (EQIOL) and cylindric (CYLIOL) power] and autorefractor [anterior equivalent (EQAR)]. Results from ORA were analyzed and correlated with those from all other examinations taken at the same time point. RESULTS: Preoperatively, CH correlated with EQpCASIA and CYLpCASIA only (P=0.001, P=0.002). Postoperatively, IOPg and IOPcc correlated with all equivalent powers (EQTMS, EQIOL, EQAR, EQaCASIA and EQpCASIA) (P=0.001, P=0.007, P=0.001, P=0.015, P=0.03 for IOPg and P<0.001, P=0.003, P<0.001, P=0.009, P=0.014 for IOPcc). CH correlated postoperatively with EQaCASIA and EQpCASIC only (P=0.021, P=0.022). CONCLUSION: Biometric characteristics may significantly affect biomechanical properties of the cornea in terms of CH, IOPcc and IOPg before, but even more after cataract surgery.

Peripheral retinal non-perfusion and treatment response in branch retinal vein occlusion

2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the association between the size of peripheral retinal non-perfusion and the number of intravitreal ranibizumab injections in patients with treatment-naive branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) and macular edema. METHODS: A total of 53 patients with treatment-naive BRVO and macular edema were included. Each patient underwent a full ophthalmologic examination including optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging and ultra wide-field fluorescein angiography (UWFA). Monthly intravitreal ranibizumab injections were applied according to the recommendations of the German Ophthalmological Society. Two independent, masked graders quantified the areas of peripheral retinal non-perfusion. RESULTS: Intravitreal injections improved best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) significantly from 22.23±16.33 Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters to 36.23±15.19 letters (P<0.001), and mean central subfield thickness significantly reduced from 387±115 µm to 321±115 µm (P=0.01). Mean number of intravitreal ranibizumab injections was 3.61±1.56. The size of retinal non-perfusion correlated significantly with the number of intravitreal ranibizumab injections (R=0.724, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Peripheral retinal non-perfusion in patients with BRVO associates significantly with intravitreal ranibizumab injections in patients with BRVO and macular edema.

High frequency of latent Chlamydia trachomatis infection in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the frequency of detection of ocular and extraocular Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection in non-high myopes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). METHODS: This was a single-center, nonrandomized, prospective, case-control study. One hundred and four patients were divided into a study group with RRD (n=63) and a control group with traumatic retinal detachment (n=41). Samples of subretinal fluid (SFR), conjunctival, urethral/cervical swabs, and blood were collected. The frequency of detection of CT infection in SRF samples was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), direct fluorescence assay (DFA) and cell culture, whereas that in conjunctival swabs was determined by PCR and DFA, and those in urethral/cervical swabs and blood were determined by DFA. Yates Chi-square test (with Bonferroni correction) and two-tailed Student’s t-test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: SRF CT infection was detected more frequently in the study group (50.8%-71.4%) than in the control group (9.8%-12.2%) by all the methods used (P<0.01). The frequency of detection of conjunctival CT infection by DFA was higher in the RRD patients compared with the controls (81.0% vs 24.4%, P=0.004). The PCR detected conjunctival CT infection more often in the study group than in the controls (46.0% vs 9.8%, P=0.007). The DFA detected CT in blood specimens almost as frequently as in urogenital specimens, for the RRD patients (61.2% vs 63.5%) and the controls (7.3% vs 9.8%). CONCLUSION: CT infection is detected with high frequency in non-high myopes with RRD.

Orbital decompression surgery and horse chestnut seed extract improved superior orbital vein blood flow in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy

Yu-Jie Wu, Xin Wei, Man-Yi Xiao and Wei Xiong — 2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of orbital decomposition (OD) surgery in combination with horse chestnut seed extract (HCSE), as compared to OD alone, in patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). METHODS: Sixty-two orbits from 62 TAO patients were randomly assigned to OD or OD+HCSE at 1:1 ratio (31 received OD alone, 31 received OD+HCSE). Forty-two orbits from 21 healthy subjects were used as controls. Complete ophthalmic examination and color Doppler flow imaging (CDFI) were performed before surgery and 3mo post-surgery on all 62 orbits from the TAO patients. CDFI were also performed on the 42 control orbits. The effect of OD+HCSE and OD alone on TAO orbits was compared on several endpoints, including superior ophthalmic vein blood flow (SOVBF) parameters, subjective assessment, soft tissue involvement, lid retraction, diplopia, eye movement restriction, degree of exophthalmos, and intraocular pressure. The control orbits were used as reference for the SOVBF parameters. RESULTS: OD surgery with or without HCSE improved SOVBF, symptoms and soft tissue involvement, decreased degree of exophthalmos and intraocular pressure in orbits of TAO patients. The OD+HCSE combination led to significantly better improvement of SOVBF than OD alone. The differences between the reductions of SOVBF in the two groups are 1.26 cm/s in max-volecity and 0.52 cm/s in min-volecity (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: SOVBF is significantly reduced in the orbits affected with TAO, indicating that congestion may be an important factor contributing to TAO pathogenesis. OD surgery improves the SOVBF, and combination of HCSE medication and OD surgery further improved venous return than OD surgery alone.

Comparison axial length measurements from three biometric instruments in high myopia

Xiao-Gang Wang, Jing Dong, Yu-Lan Pu, Hui-Jun Liu and Qiang Wu — 2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the axial lengths (ALs) measured with Lenstar, IOLMaster and A-scan contact ultrasound (Ultrasound) in normal and high myopia (HM). METHODS: Eighty-four normal eyes and 49 HM eyes were included. Three consecutive measurements were performed on each eye in the following order: Lenstar, IOLMaster, and Ultrasound. The repeatabilities of the AL measurements for each instrument were assessed by calculating the pooled coefficients of variation (CVs) of 18 eyes in each group. Comparisons between the HM and normal groups were made with independent sample t-tests. The inter-device agreements were evaluated with Bland-Altman analyses and paired two-tailed t-tests. RESULTS: For normal group, the CVs of the AL measurements taken with the Lenstar, IOLMaster and Ultrasound were 0.001%, 0.01% and 0.14%, respectively. The corresponding CVs for the HM group were 0.005%, 0.02% and 0.15%, respectively. There was significant difference between the Lenstar and the IOLMaster in normal group (P=0.031) but not in HM group (P=0.100). In the two groups, the Lenstar and the IOLMaster produced higher values than did the Ultrasound (all P<0.001). All three instruments exhibited good agreement in terms of AL values. For the intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation using SRK II formula, the Lenstar and the IOLMaster showed 0.5 D higher than Ultrasound in both groups (all P<0.001). No significant difference existed between the Lenstar and the IOLMaster for the IOL power calculation in both normal (P=0.474) and HM group (P=0.103). CONCLUSION: The three devices exhibited excellent intra-visit repeatabilities in the AL measurements. The AL and IOL power difference between partial coherence interferometry and ultrasound instruments should be noticed.

Visual and ocular effects from the use of flat-panel displays

Esteban Porcar, Alvaro M. Pons and Amalia Lorente — 2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the prevalence of eye symptoms in a non-presbyopic population of video display unit (VDU) users with flat-panel displays. METHODS: One hundred and sixteen VDU users with flat-panel display from an urban population participated in the study; their ages ranging from 20 to 34y. There were 60 females and 56 males. An eye examination to rule out the presence of significant uncorrected refractive errors, general binocular dysfunctions and eye conditions was carried out. In order to determine and quantify the type and nature of eye symptoms, participants were asked to answer written questionnaire and the results were grouped by gender, age and number of hours a day spent using a VDU. RESULTS: Seventy-two percent of participants reported eye symptoms related to VDU use. Eye symptoms from moderate-to-severe were found in 23% of participants. The main symptom was moderate-to-severe tired eyes (14%); followed by sensitivity to bright lights (12%), blurred vision at far distances (10%), eyestrain or dry eye or irritated or burning eyes (9%), difficulty in refocusing from one distance to another or headache (8%) and blurred vision at near or intermediate distances (<4%). Eye symptoms were greater among females (P=0.005) and increased with VDU use, markedly above 6h spent using a VDU in a typical day (P=0.01). CONCLUSION: Significant eye symptoms relate to VDU use often occur and should not be underestimated. The increasing use of electronic devices with flat-panel display should prompt users to take appropriate measures to prevent or to relieve the eye symptoms arising from their use.

Clinical risk factors for the development of consecutive exotropia: a comparative clinical study

2016/6/16 0:00:00
AIM: To compare a group of patients with consecutive exotropia with patients who had ≤10 prism diopters (PD) esotropia or no deviation postoperatively in terms of probable clinical risk factors for the development of consecutive exotropia. METHODS: The study recruited fourteen patients who developed consecutive exodeviation during follow-up period after the correction of esotropia who were categorized as group 1 and thirty-one patients who had still ≤10 PD esotropia or no deviation at the final visit that were considered as group 2. Clinical risk factors leading the development of consecutive deviation were analyzed as the main outcome measures. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 4.57±3.11y in group 1 and 5.10±3.52y in group 2 (P=0.634). There was no significant difference of preoperative near and distant deviations among two groups (P=0.835, 0.928 respectively). The mean amount of medial rectus recession and lateral rectus resection was similar in both groups (P=0.412, 0.648 respectively). Convergence insufficiency and neurological diseases were more frequent in group 1 (P=0.007, 0.045). Accompanying neurological disease was found to be as a significant factor increasing the risk of the development of consecutive exotropia significantly [odds ratios (OR): 5.75 (1.04-31.93)]. CONCLUSION: Accompanying neurological disease appears to be a significant clinical risk factor for the development of consecutive exodeviation during postoperative follow-up after the correction of esotropia. However, larger studies are needed in order to interpret the results to the clinical practice and to ascertain other concurrent risk factors. KEYWORDS: consecutive exotropia; esotropia; medial rectus recession; neurological disorder; lateral rectus resection

Real-time polymerase chain reaction for the diagnosis of necrotizing herpes stromal keratitis

Jun-Xin Ma,Lin-Nong Wang,Ru-Xia Zhou,Yang Yu and Tong-Xin Du — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To design, optimize and validate a rapid, internally controlled real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for herpes simplex virus (HSV) in the diagnosis of necrotizing herpes stromal keratitis. METHODS: Tears alone or together with corneal epithelium scrapings from 30 patients (30 eyes) suspected of necrotizing herpes stromal keratitis were tested for HSV DNA by RT-PCR. The samples were collected during the first visit and then on the subsequent 7, 14, 28, 42, and 56d. The symptoms of the patients were scored before treatment to determine the correlation between HSV concentration in the corneal epithelium scrapings and clinical scores. RESULTS: The positive rate (46.4%) in the corneal epithelium group before the therapy was significantly higher than that (13.3%) in the tears group (P=0.006). There were 13 positive HSV patients before the therapy, the concentration of HSV DNA in corneal epithelium scrapings group was significantly higher than that in the tears group (paired t-test, P=0.0397). Multilevel mixed-effects model analysis showed that the difference between the corneal epithelium scrapings group and the tears group was statistically significant (P=0.0049). The Spearman rank correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between the HSV concentration in the corneal epithelium scrapings and clinical scores before the treatment (r=0.844, P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: RT-PCR appears to be a powerful molecular tool for the diagnosis of necrotizing herpes stromal keratitis.

Comparison of phacotrabeculectomy and sequential surgery in the treatment of chronic angle-closure glaucoma coexisted with cataract

Hai-Jun Li,Jie Xuan,Xiao-Min Zhu and Lin Xie — 2016/5/23 11:36:15
AIM: To compare the safety and effectiveness of phacotrabeculectomy versus sequential surgery in chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG) with coexisting cataract. METHODS: One hundred and sixty-two CACG patients (162 eyes) were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 87 patients (87 eyes) in group A had underwent phacotrabeculectomy with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and 75 patients (75 eyes) in group B had underwent sequential surgery with IOL implanted. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), complications and anterior chamber angle (ACA) were measured. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics of the two groups were similar. A mean follow-up period was 15±6mo (range 13 to 24mo), a mean IOP of 16.61±6.43 mm Hg in group A and 15.80±5.35 mm Hg in group B (P=0.84) at the last follow up. The Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed that the cumulative probability of success in both groups was similar (P=0.61). Anterior uveitis and hypotony were the most common complications in group A, whereas group B experienced shallow anterior chamber with trabeculectomy. With the exception of anterior uveitis, no complications occurred to 11 trabeculectomized eyes. All postoperative measurements of anterior chamber showed statistically significant differences in each group according to the preoperative data (P<0.05). However, fewer changes occurred in group B than in group A. CONCLUSION: Phacotrabeculectomy and sequential surgery exhibit similar IOP reduction, visual recovery, and complications when treating CACG patients with cataract. However, for a wider ACA, phacotrabeculectomy has demonstrated higher effectiveness than sequential surgery.

Efficacy of combined cataract extraction and endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation for the reduction of intraocular pressure and medication burden

2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To report on the efficacy of combined endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (ECP) and phacoemulsification cataract extraction (PCE) with intraocular lens placement for reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) and medication burden in glaucoma. METHODS: A retrospective case review of 91 eyes (73 patients) with glaucoma and cataract that underwent combined PCE/ECP surgery was performed. Baseline demographic and ocular characteristics were recorded, as well as intraocular pressure, number of glaucoma medications, and visual acuity postoperatively with 12-month follow-up. Treatment failure was defined as less than 20% reduction in IOP from baseline on two consecutive visits (at 1, 3, 6, or 12mo postoperatively), IOP ≥21 mm Hg or ≤5 mm Hg on two consecutive visits, or additional glaucoma surgery performed within 12mo after PCE/ECP. RESULTS: Overall, mean medicated IOP was reduced from 16.65 mm Hg at baseline to 13.38 mm Hg at 12mo (P<0.0001). Mean number of glaucoma medications was reduced from 1.88 medications at baseline to 1.48 medications at 12mo (P=0.0003). At 3mo postoperatively, the success rate was 73.6% (95%CI: 63.3, 81.5), 57.1% at 6mo (95% CI: 46.3, 66.6), and 49.7% at 12mo (95%CI: 38.9, 59.6). Patient demographic characteristics were not associated with treatment success. The only ocular characteristic associated with treatment success was a higher baseline IOP. CONCLUSION: Combined PCE/ECP surgery is an effective surgical option for the reduction of IOP and medication burden in glaucoma patients. Patients with higher baseline IOP levels are most likely to benefit from this procedure.

The refractive outcome of Toric Lentis Mplus implant in cataract surgery

Patrick J Chiam and Say A Quah — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the refractive outcome of Toric Lentis Mplus intraocular lens (IOL) implant. METHODS: This is a retrospective case series. Consecutive patients with corneal astigmatism of at least 1.5 D had Toric Lentis Mplus IOL implant during cataract surgery. The exclusion criteria included irregular astigmatism on corneal topography, large scotopic pupil diameter (>6 mm), poor visual potential and significant ocular comorbidity. Postoperative manifest refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), best-corrected distance visual acuity (BCVA), uncorrected intermediate visual acuity (UIVA) at 3/4 m and uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA) were obtained. RESULTS: There were 70 eyes from 49 patients in this study. Patients were refracted at a median of 8.9wk (range 4.0 to 15.5) from the operation date. Sixty-five percent of eyes had 6/7.5 (0.10 logMAR) or better, and 99% 6/12 (0.30 logMAR) or better postoperative UDVA. Eighty-nine percent could read Jaeger (J) 3 (0.28 logMAR) and 95% J5 (0.37 logMAR) at 40 cm. The median magnitude of astigmatism decreased from 1.91 D to 0.49 D (Wilcoxon, P<0.001) after the operation. The range of the cylindrical error was reduced from 1.5-3.95 D (keratometric) preoperatively to 0.00-1.46 D (subjective refraction transposed to corneal plane) postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Toric Lentis Mplus IOL has good predictability in reducing preexisting corneal astigmatism.

Comparison of two different methods of preoperative marking for toric intraocular lens implantation: bubble marker versus pendulum marker

Javed Hussain Farooqui,Archana Koul,Ranjan Dutta and Noshir Minoo Shroff — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the accuracy of two different methods of preoperative marking for toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, bubble marker versus pendulum marker, as a means of establishing the reference point for the final alignment of the toric IOL to achieve an outcome as close as possible to emmetropia. METHODS: Toric IOLs were implanted in 180 eyes of 110 patients. One group (55 patients) had preoperative marking of both eyes done with bubble marker (ASICO AE-2791TBL) and the other group (55 patients) with pendulum marker (Rumex(3-193). Reference marks were placed at 3-, 6-, and 9-o'clock positions on the limbus. Slit-lamp photographs were analyzed using Adobe Photoshop (version 7.0). Amount of alignment error (in degrees) induced in each group was measured. RESULTS: Mean absolute rotation error in the preoperative marking in the horizontal axis was 2.42±1.71 in the bubble marker group and 2.83±2.31in the pendulum marker group (P=0.501). Sixty percent of the pendulum group and 70% of the bubble group had rotation error ≤3 (P=0.589), and 90% eyes of the pendulum group and 96.7% of the bubble group had rotation error ≤5 (P=0.612). CONCLUSION: Both preoperative marking techniques result in approximately 3 of alignment error. Both marking techniques are simple, predictable, reproducible and easy to perform.

The association analysis polymorphism of CDKAL1 and diabetic retinopathy in Chinese Han population

2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To identify the contribution of CDKAL1 to the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Chinese population. METHODS: A case-control study was performed to investigate the genetic association between DR and polymorphic variants of CDKAL1 in Chinese Han population with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A well-defined population with T2DM, consisting of 475 controls and 105 DR patients, was recruited. All subjects were genotyped for the genetic variant (rs10946398) of CDKAL1. Genotyping was performed by iPLEX technology. The association between rs10946398 and T2DM was assessed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression (MLR) analysis. RESULTS: There were significant differences in C allele frequencies of rs10946398 (CDKAL1) between control and DR groups (45.06% versus 55.00%, P<0.05). The rs10946398 of CDKAL1 was found to be associated with the increased risk of DR among patients with diabetes. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that rs10946398 of CDKAL1 is independently associated with DR in a Chinese Han population.

Infrared autofluorescence, short-wave autofluorescence and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography of optic disk melanocytomas

2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the findings of infrared fundus autofluorescence (IR-AF) and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in eyes with optic disc melanocytoma (ODM). METHODS: IR-AF findings and those of other ophthalmologic imaging examinations, including short-wave autofluorescence (SW-AF), fluorescein angiography (FA), fundus color photography, and SD-OCT of 8 eyes of 8 consecutive cases with ODM were assessed. RESULTS: The ODMs in all cases (100%) presented similar IR-AF, SW-AF, and FA findings. On IR-AF images, ODMs showed outstanding hyper-AF with well-defined outline. On SW-AF images, the area of ODMs presented as hypo-AF. FA images revealed the leaking retinal telangiectasia on the surface of the ODMs. On SD-OCT images in 8 cases (100%), the ODMs were sloped with highly reflective surface, which were disorganized retina and optic nerve layers. In 7 cases (87.5%), peripapillary choroids were involved. The melanocytomas of 8 cases (100%) presented as optically empty spaces. Vitreous seeds were found in one case (12.5%). CONCLUSION: IR-AF imaging may provide a new modality to evaluate the pathologic features of ODMs, and together with SW-AF imaging, offers a new tool to study biological characteristics associated with ODMs. SD-OCT is a valuable tool in delimitating the tumor extension and providing morphological information about the adjacent retinal tissue.

Axial length in unilateral idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy

Hoseok Moon,Dae Yeong Lee and Dong Heun Nam — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the axial length (AXL) in unilateral idiopathic central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). METHODS: This retrospective case-control study was comprised of a consecutive case series of 35 patients with acute unilateral idiopathic CSC, and age- and sex-matched 50 control eyes. AXL of both eyes of unilateral CSC patients and the control eyes were investigated. AXL was measured by ultrasonic biometry, and the adjusted AXL was calculated for CSC eyes as measured AXL plus differences of foveal thickness between CSC and normal fellow eyes in millimeters. The main outcome measures were comparison of AXL between CSC, fellow and control eyes. RESULTS: The mean age of 35 CSC patients was 45.5y, and 31 males were included. The adjusted AXL of CSC eyes was 23.52 mm, and the AXL of fellow eyes was 23.46 mm, and of control eyes 23.94 mm. The AXL of both CSC and fellow eyes were significantly shorter than control eyes (CSC vs control, P=0.044; fellow vs control, P=0.026). There was no statistically significant difference in AXL between CSC and fellow eyes. CONCLUSION: In unilateral idiopathic CSC, the AXL of CSC and fellow eyes are shorter than that of control eyes. Short AXL may be related with choroidal circulation abnormality in CSC.

Increased melatonin levels in aqueous humor of patients with proliferative retinopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Erdinc Aydin and Semsettin Sahin — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To report the association between melatonin levels in aqueous humor and serum, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) grade in type 2 diabetic patients. METHODS: Aqueous humor and plasma samples from 26 patients with DR (in nonproliferative and proliferative stages) and 14 control subjects were collected during cataract surgery after 6 p.m. Melatonin concentrations were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Melatonin levels were significantly higher in the aqueous humor of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) [18.57±2.67 pg/mL (range 15.20-23.06) vs 13.63±2.71 pg/mL (range 10.20-20.20), P=0.0001], but not in those with nonproliferative retinopathy (NPDR) [13.79±2.56 pg/mL (range 9.80-20.10) vs 13.63±2.71 pg/mL (range 10.20-20.20), P=0.961] compared to controls. There was decrement in the plasma melatonin level of patients with PDR, but no significant differences between the plasma melatonin levels of the study groups [5.37±1.74 pg/mL (range 2.85-8.65) vs 6.11±1.90 pg/mL (range 3.13-9.41), P=0.293], or between control and DR groups [NPDR 6.11±1.90 pg/mL (range 3.13-9.41) vs control 6.15±1.91 pg/mL (range 2.18-9.86); PDR (5.37±1.74 pg/mL (range 2.85-8.65) vs control 6.15±1.91 pg/mL (range 2.18-9.86), P=0.808, P=0.264]. CONCLUSION: Elevated melatonin levels in aqueous humor in PDR may indicate the level to be associated with DR severity.

Choroidal thickness measurements with optical coherence tomography in branch retinal vein occlusion

2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate central macular thickness (CMT) and mean choroidal thickness (MCT) in eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO), before and after ranibizumab treatment using spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). METHODS: Forty-two patients with unilateral BRVO and macular edema were included in this study. There were 25 men and 17 women. Using SD-OCT, choroidal thickness was measured at 500 µm intervals up to 1500 µm temporal and nasal to the fovea. MCT was calculated based on the average of the 7 locations. All the eyes with BRVO were treated with intravitreal ranibizumab (0.5 mg/0.05 mL). Comparisons between the BRVO and fellow eyes were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test. Pre-injection and post-injection measurements were analyzed using Wilcoxon test and repeated measure analysis. RESULTS: At baseline, there was a significant difference between the BRVO and fellow eyes in MCT [BRVO eyes 245 (165-330) µm, fellow eyes 229 (157-327) µm] and CMT [BRVO eyes 463 (266-899) µm, fellow eyes 235 (148-378) µm (P=0.041, 0.0001, respectively)]. Following treatment, CMT [295 (141-558) µm] and MCT [229 (157-329) µm] decreased significantly compared to the baseline measurements (P=0.001, 0.006, respectively). Also BCVA (logMAR) improved significantly (P=0.0001) in the BRVO eyes following treatment. After treatment CMT [BRVO eyes 295 (141-558) µm, fellow eyes 234 (157-351) µm] and MCT [BRVO eyes 229 (157-329) µm, fellow eyes 233 (162-286) µm] values did not reveal any significant difference in BRVO eyes and fellow eyes (P=0.051, 0.824, respectively). CONCLUSION: In eyes with BRVO, CMT and MCT values are greater than the fellow eyes, and decrease significantly following ranibizumab injection.

Clinical features and in vivo confocal microscopy assessment in 12 patients with ocular cicatricial pemphigoid

Qin Long,Ya-Gang Zuo,Xue Yang,Ting-Ting Gao,Jie Liu and Ying Li — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the clinical features and microstructural characteristics assessed by in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) in patients with ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP). METHODS: A descriptive, uncontrolled case series study. Patients diagnosed with OCP were examined by clinical history, slit-lamp biomicroscopy features and IVCM images. The results of direct immunofluorescence (DIF) biopsies and indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) were also recorded. Local and systemic immunosuppressive therapy were administered and adjusted according to response. RESULTS: A total of 12 consecutive OCP patients (7 male, 5 female; mean age 60.42±10.39y) were recruited. All patients exhibited bilateral progressive conjunctival scarring and recurrent chronic conjunctivitis was the most frequent clinical pattern. The mean duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis of OCP was 2.95±2.85y (range: 5mo to 10y). The Foster classification varied from stage I to IV and 20 eyes (83%) were within or greater than Foster stage Ⅲ on presentation. Two of the 12 patients (17%) demonstrated positive DIF; 3 of the 12 (25%) patients reported positive IIF. The mean duration of the follow-up period was 20.17±11.88mo (range: 6 to 48mo). IVCM showed variable degrees of abnormality in the conjuctiva-cornea and conjuctival scarring was detected in all the involved eyes. Corneal stromal cell activation and dendritic cell infiltration presented as ocular surface inflammation, ocular surface keratinization along with the destroyed Vogt palisades was noted in eyes with potential limbal stem cell deficiency. After treatment, remission of ocular surface inflammation was achieved in all the patients, 18 eyes (75%) remained stable, 6 eyes (25%) had recurrent conjunctivitis and cicatrization in 2 eyes (8%) was progressing. CONCLUSION: As an autoimmune disease, OCP manifests as variable degrees of clinical and laboratory abnormalities with both local and systemic immunosuppressive treatment playing important roles in disease therapy. IVCM can be as a valuable non-invasive technique to assess ocular surface changes in a cellular level with a potential value for providing diagnostic evidence and monitoring therapeutic effects during follow-up.

Ocular trauma treated with pars plana vitrectomy: early outcome report

2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate demographic variables and visual outcomes, among patients with ocular injuries involving the posterior segment, managed with pars plana vitrectomy. METHODS: The records of patients were studied retrospectively from March to September 2010, to determine the age, gender, place of occurrence of trauma, visual acuity, anatomical site, nature of injury, wound length, the presence of an afferent pupillary defect, and the timing of vitrectomy. The Ocular Trauma Score was measured. The minimum follow-up from presentation was 6mo. RESULTS: Ninety patients (77 males, 13 females), with a mean age of 32.7±15.8y were included over the 6-month period. The majority of cases occurred in the workplace (47 patients), followed by home (14 patients). The mean visual acuity (logMAR) of patients significantly improved from 2.36±0.72 preoperatively to 1.50±1.14 postoperatively. Twenty-three patients had preoperative vision better than 2.0 logMAR, the postoperative visual acuity was significantly better among these patients than patients with worse than 2.0 logMAR (P<0.001). Visual improvement between groups with early vitrectomy (<7d) and delayed vitrectomy (>7d) was not significantly different (P=0.66). Postoperative visual acuity was not significantly different between patients with injury in Zone I and II (P=0.64), but patients with injury in Zone III had significantly poorer visual acuity (P=0.02). Patients with relative afferent pupillary defect had significantly poorer postoperative visual acuity (P=0.02). Preoperative visual acuity, the difference of preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, and postoperative visual acuity were significantly different between groups with different ocular trauma scores (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Trauma is more likely to occur in men under 40y of age and in the workplace. The favorable final visual outcome is associated with the absence of afferent pupillary defect, ocular trauma score and presenting visual acuity as well as the zone of injury, and not associated with the timing of vitrectomy.

An overlooked effect of systemic anticholinergics: alteration on accommodation amplitude

2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of oral solifenacin succinate, tolterodine-L-tartarate and oxybutinin hydrochloride (HCl) on accommodation amplitude. METHODS: Female overactive bladder syndrome (OAB) patients who were planned to use oral anticholinergics, patients that uses solifenacin succinate 5 mg (Group I, n=25), tolterodine-L-tartarate 4 mg (Group II, n=25), and oxybutinin HCl 5 mg b.i.d (Group III, n=25) and age matched healthy female subjects (Group IV, n=25) were recruited and complete ophthalmological examination and accommodation amplitude assessment were done at baseline and 4wk after initiation of treatment. RESULTS: The mean age of 100 consecutive female subjects was 51.6±5.7 (40-60)y and there were no statistically significant difference with regard to the mean age (P=0.107) and baseline accommodation amplitude (P=0.148) between study groups. All treatment groups showed a significant decrease in accommodation amplitude following a 4-week course of anticholinergic treatment (P=0.008 in Group I, P=0.002 in Group II, P=0.001 in Group III), but there was no statistically significant difference in Group IV (P=0.065). CONCLUSION: A 4-week course of oral anticholinergic treatment have statistically significant effect on accommodation amplitude. Clinicians should avoid both overestimating this result, as this would unnecessarily restrict therapeutic possibilities, and also underestimating it which may lead to drug intolerance.

Binocular vision and abnormal head posture in children when watching television

Di Zhang,Wei-Hong Zhang,Shu-Zhen Dai,Hai-Ying Peng and Li-Ya Wang — 2016/5/23 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the association between the binocular vision and an abnormal head posture (AHP) when watching television (TV) in children 7-14y of age. METHODS: Fifty normal children in the normal group and 52 children with an AHP when watching TV in the AHP group were tested for spherical equivalents, far and near fusional convergence (FC) and fusional divergence (FD) amplitudes, near point of convergence, far and near heterophoria, accommodative convergence/ accommodation ratio and stereoacuity. The values of these tests were compared between the two groups. The independent t test was applied at a confidence level of 95%. RESULTS: The far and near FC amplitudes and far FD amplitudes were lower in the AHP group (the far FC amplitudes: break point 13.6±5.4△, recovery point 8.7±5.4△. The near FC amplitudes: break point 14.5±7.3△, recovery point 10.3±5.1△. The far FD amplitudes: break point 3.9±2.7△, recovery point 2.6±2.3△) compared with those in the normal group (the far FC amplitudes: break point 19.1±6.2△, recovery point 12.4±4.5△. The near FC amplitudes: break point 22.3±8.0△, recovery point 16.1±5.7△. The far FD amplitudes: break point 7.0±2.1△, recovery point 4.6±1.9△). Other tests presented no statistically significant differences. CONCLUSION: An association between the reduced FC and FD amplitudes and the AHP in children when watching TV is proposed in the study. This kind of AHP is considered to be an anomalous manifestation which appears in a part of puerile patients of fusional vergence dysfunction.

Short term effects of small incision lenticule extraction surgery on corneal endothelium

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effects of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery on the corneal endothelium at 1d to 1mo postoperatively. METHODS: A retrospective, observational study was conducted on 47 patients (47 eyes) who received SMILE surgery. Patients were grouped according to contact lens wear condition. The corneal endothelium was examined preoperatively and at 1d, 1wk and 1mo postoperatively. The corneal endothelium was analyzed for endothelial cell density (ECD), percentage of hexagonal cells, and coefficient of variation (CV) of cell size. RESULTS: There were no significant decrease in the ECD, percentage of hexagonal cells or increase in CV at 1d, 1wk and 1mo postoperatively (P>0.05). However, there was a small increase of ECD by 2.88% in contact lens wearers (78.26±113.62 cell/mm2, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: SMILE has no significant adverse effects on the corneal ECD and morphology during 1mo follow-up time.

Optimal incision sites to reduce corneal aberration variations after small incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the effect of steep meridian small incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery on anterior, posterior and total corneal wavefront aberration. METHODS: Steep meridian small incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery was performed in age-related cataract patients which were divided into three groups according to the incision site: 12 o’clock, 9 o’clock and between 9 and 12 o’clock (BENT) incision groups. The preoperative and 3-month postoperative root mean square (RMS) values of anterior, posterior and total corneal wavefront aberration including coma, spherical aberration, and total higher-order aberrations (HOAs), were measured by Pentacam scheimpflug imaging. The mean preoperative and postoperative corneal wavefront aberrations were documented. RESULTS: Total corneal aberration and total lower-order aberrations decreased significantly in three groups after operation. RMS value of total HOAs decreased significantly postoperatively in the 12 o’clock incision group (P<0.001). Corneal spherical aberration was statistically significantly lower after steep meridian small incision phacoemulsification cataract surgery in BENT incision group (P<0.05) and Pearson correlation analysis indicated that spherical aberration changes had no significant relationship with total astigmatism changes in all three corneal incision location. CONCLUSION: Corneal incision of phacoemulsification cataract surgery can affect corneal wavefront aberration. The 12 o’clock corneal incision eliminated more HOAs and the spherical aberrations decreased in BENT incision group obviously when we selected steep meridian small incision. Cataract lens replacement using wavefront-corrected intraocular lens combined with optimized corneal incision site would improve ocular aberration results.

Evaluation of the Ex-PRESS® P-50 implant under scleral flap in combined cataract and glaucoma surgery

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of glaucoma drainage device Ex-PRESS® P-50 for combined cataract surgery and glaucoma. METHODS: Patients having cataract and open angle glaucoma or patients with open advanced glaucoma which needed two or more antiglaucoma medications were included. Combined cataract surgery and glaucoma with Ex-PRESS® P-50 model placed under scleral flap was performed. RESULTS: Out of 40 eyes of 40 patients (55% male and 45% female) completed the study during one-year follow-up. The mean of age was 76.6±11.02y. The intraocular pressure (IOP) decreased significantly during the 12-month follow-up from 23.5 mm Hg to 16.8 mm Hg (Wilcoxon signed ranks test, P<0.001). A 59.5% of patients did not need any topical treatment, 10.8% of them needed one active principle, 27% needed two active principles, and 2.7% of them needed three active principles for successful IOP control (<21 mm Hg). CONCLUSION: Combined surgery of phacoemulsification with ExPRESS® P-50 lowers IOP from the preoperative baseline and reduces significantly the number of antiglaucoma active principles for IOP control after the operation.

6-weekly bevacizumab versus 4-weekly ranibizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration: a 2-year outcome

Patrick J Chiam,Vivian W Ho,Nicholas M Hickley and Venkat Kotamarthi — 2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To compare visual acuity and central macular thickness (CMT) changes in neovascular age related macular degeneration patients treated with either 6 weekly bevacizumab regimen or 4 weekly ranibizumab on an as required basis. METHODS: Patients made an informed choice between bevacizumab 1.25 mg or ranibizumab 0.5 mg. The selected treatment was administered in the first 3 visits. Bevacizumab patients were followed-up 6 weekly and ranibizumab 4 weekly. Retreatment criteria was based on the reduction of >5 letters in the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the presence of retinal fluid on optical coherence tomography (OCT) or new retinal haemorrhage. RESULTS: Visual acuity at 2y bevacizumab patients gained 7.0 letters and ranibizumab 9.2 (P=0.31, 95% CI -6.4 to 2.0). At 2y 86% of bevacizumab and 94% ranibizumab patients had not lost 15 letters or more (P=0.13). Mean CMT decreased at 2y bevacizumab by 146 µm, ranibizumab 160 µm (P=0.72). Mean number of injections was at 2y bevacizumzb 11.9, ranibizumab 10.3 (P=0.023). CONCLUSION: Bevacizumab 6 weekly on an as required basis was not demonstrably non-inferior to ranibizumab 4 weekly pro re nata (prn) in terms of BCVA and change in CMT. In the bevacizumab group, one more injection was required in the second year compared to the ranibizumab group.

Serum vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 and adropin levels in age-related macular degeneration

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2) and adropin in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients. METHODS: Ninety-eight AMD patients were included in the study. Seventy-eight age- and sex-matched healthy volunteers were recruited as the control group. Fundus florescein angiography and optical coherence tomography were performed to assess the posterior segment details. Serum VEGFR-2 and adropin levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and compared between the study groups. RESULTS: AMD group had significantly increased foveal retinal thickness, serum LDL and HDL levels and significantly decreased subfoveal choroidal thickness (P =0.01, 0.047, 0.025 and <0.001, respectively). Serum VEGFR-2 level revealed a significant decrease in AMD patients compared to controls (26.48±6.44 vs 30.42±7.92 ng/mL, P<0.001). There was an insignificant increase in serum adropin level in AMD patients (6.17±3.19 vs 5.79±2.71 ng/mL, P=0.4) . Serum level of VEGFR-2 in AMD patients had a significant negative correlation with foveal retinal thickness (r=-0.226, P=0.025) and a significant positive correlation with subfoveal choroidal thickness (r=0.2, P=0.048). CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrated that the decreased serum VEGFR-2 level may be considered in the development of AMD. Adropin does not seem to play a role in the pathogenesis of AMD.

The diurnal variation pattern of choroidal thickness in macular region of young healthy female individuals using spectral domain optical coherence tomography

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the pattern of diurnal variations of choroidal thickness of macular region of healthyindividuals. METHODS: A prospective study of 32 healthy female subjects was conducted. Each subject underwent 1) a questionnaire on daily schedule, 2) the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index questionnaire (PSQI), and 3) ocular examinations including an eye dominance test, fundus photography, and sequential optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, on two separate days at five fixed 3h time intervals. Choroidal thickness was measured by two masked graders. RESULTS: A significant diurnal variation of choriodal thickness at fovea (P<0.001), at 500 μm nasal (P<0.001), temporal to fovea (P=0.01) or 1500 μm nasal to fovea (P=0.001) was observed. The median choroidal thickness peaked at 11:00 at fovea (P=0.01), at 500 μm nasal (P=0.009) and temporal (P=0.03) to fovea. The median amplitude of foveal choroidal thickness was 20.5 μm (13, 31) and 20.0 μm (12.5, 28.2) for the first and second series of measurements, respectively. The greater amplitude of foveal choroidal thickness was associated with thickner initial foveal choroidal thickness [0.05 (0.03, 0.08), P=0.01], dominant eye [10.51 (4.02, 14.60), P=0.04] in the multivariate linear regression. CONCLUSION: Our data show a significant diurnal variation of the choroidal thickness at fovea, at 500 μm nasal and temporal to fovea and 1500 μm nasal to fovea. Thicker initial foveal choroidal thickness and being dominant eye may influence the amplitude of foveal choroidal thickness.

Late clinical characteristics of infants with retinopathy of prematurity and treated with cryotherapy

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the clinical characteristics and late results of patients with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with “6h cryotherapy”. METHODS: Out of 1252 infants screened for ROP, 52 patients were treated with temporal 6h cryotherapy from 1997 to 2005 were recalled to our clinic. Among these 23 patients were available and 46 eyes of 23 infants were included to evaluate for visual acuity, refractive error, ocular alignment, nystagmus, retinal examination (abnormal branching of retinal vessels, retinal thinning, latis degenerations, tortuosity of vessels, straightening of temporal vessels, narrowing of the angle of vessel in the juxtapapillary entrance, pigment changes, macular heterotopia), optic atrophy and optic disc cupping, axial length at birth and axial length at 1y. RESULTS: The median age at examination was 7 (5-18)y. In 32.6% of patients, the visual acuity was ≤20/200 and the mean best corrected visual acuity was 20/35 as measured with a Snellen chart. Mean spherical refractive error was -1.76±2.69 D. The degree of myopia at the last examination was found to be correlated with the elongation of the eye in the first year of life. Exotropia was present in 17.4% (n=8) of infants and esotropia in 13% (n=6). The most common retinal abnormality was abnormal branching of retinal vessels (82.6%) followed by retinal thinning (52.2%). CONCLUSION: The late clinical outcomes of infants with ROP treated in our clinic with cryotherapy seems to comparable with results of laser treatment.

Effects of scleral encircling surgery on vitreous cavity length and diopter

Zi-Cheng Zhu,Gen-Jie Ke,Yue-Chun Wen and Zhang-You Wu — 2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To observe the changes of vitreous cavity length and diopter after scleral encircling (SE) produce. METHODS: This prospective study included 68 eyes of 68 non-consecutive patients with macula-off retinal detachment who were operated by SE surgery. The corneal refractive power, ocular axial length and diopter were measured by keratometer, A-mode ultrasonic meter and computed dioptometer. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in corneal refractive power among preoperative and postoperative 1, 3 and 6 mo (0.57±0.54 D at pre-surgery;0.72±0.26 D at 1mo; 0.71±0.34 D at 3mo; 0.69±0.31 D at 6mo; all P>0.05 ). Axial lengths were obviously lengthened, especially in vitreous cavity length (17.87±3.09 mm, 19.69±3.12 mm, 18.97±3.56 mm, 18.76±3.47 mm, 18.68±3.42 mm at pre-surgery, 1wk, 1, 3 and 6mo postoperatively, P <0.05) and diopter also increased at beginning and then recovered gradually. After 1 and 3 mo, axial length (vitreous cavity length) and myopia were more and in higher degree than before surgery. CONCLUSION: The change of postoperative vitreous cavity length is the main factor that results in the changes of axial length and then makes the change of diopter.

Early changes to dry eye and ocular surface after small-incision lenticule extraction for myopia

Pei-Jin Qiu and Ya-Bo Yang — 2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the early changes in dry eye symptoms, tear function and ocular surface following small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for myopia. METHODS: Ninety-seven consecutive patients (193 eyes) who underwent SMILE for myopia were observed in this longitudinal and retrospective study. Parameters evaluated included: subjective dry eye symptoms (dryness, foreign body sensation and photophobia), tear film breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer Ⅰ test (SⅠT) without anesthesia, tear meniscus height (TMH) and corneal fluorescein staining. Each parameter was evaluated before, and subsequently at 1d, 1wk, 1 and 3mo after surgery. RESULTS: Compared with preoperative data, dryness was noted to be significantly increased at 1wk and 1mo postoperatively (P<0.01). Symptoms of photophobia and foreign body sensation demonstrated significant differences at 1d and 1wk as compared with preoperative scores respectively (P<0.01). These values were decreased at 1 and 3mo post-surgery (P>0.05). Conversely the corneal staining scores were higher than the preoperative data at 1d, 1wk and 1mo (P<0.01), but were close to the preoperative level at 3mo postoperatively. There was a significant decrease in TMH at 1wk and 1mo (P<0.01), but the value was close to the preoperative level at 3mo postoperatively (P=0.16). The examination outcomes of SⅠT were significantly increased at 1d then reduced at 1wk after surgery (P<0.01). Each value subsequently returned to the baseline value at 1 and 3mo (P>0.05). TBUT was significantly decreased at all postoperative time points (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: SMILE resulted in mild dry eye symptoms, tear film instability and ocular surface damages; however, these complications can recover in a short period of time.

Posterior scleral reinforcement for the treatment of pathological myopia

2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects of posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR) in the treatment of pathological myopia. METHODS: The study included 52 eyes in 43 patients with pathological myopia who underwent PSR (PSR group), and 52 eyes in 36 age- and myopia-matched patients who did not undergo such treatment as control group. Axial length, refraction error, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and macular scans by optical coherence tomography (OCT) were recorded at baseline, 6mo, 1, 3 and 5y after the surgery, and the complications were noted. RESULTS: There were no statistical differences in axial length, refractive error, or BCVA between the PSR group and the control group at baseline. At the end of the follow-up, the mean axial length was 29.79±1.26 mm in the PSR group, which was significantly shorter than that in the control group (30.78±1.30 mm) (P＜0.01), and the mean refractive error was -16.86±2.53 D in the PSR group, which was significantly lower than that in the control group (-19.18±2.12 D) (P＜0.01). A statistically significant difference in BCVA was found between the PSR group (0.51?±0.25 logMAR) and the control group (0.62?±0.26 logMAR) at the postoperative 5-year follow-up (P＜0.01). There were no serious complications during the 5-year follow-up period. CONCLUSION: PSR can prevent axial elongation and myopia progression in eyes with pathological myopia.

Kappa angles in different positions in patients with myopia during LASIK

Hui Qi,Jing-Jing Jiang,Yan-Ming Jiang,Li-Qiang Wang and Yi-Fei Huang — 2016/4/15 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the difference in kappa angle between sitting and supine positions during laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: A retrospective study was performed on 395 eyes from 215 patients with myopia that received LASIK. Low, moderate, and high myopia groups were assigned according to diopters. The horizontal and vertical components of kappa angle in sitting position were measured before the operation, and in supine position during the operation. The data from the two positions were compared and the relationship between kappa angle and diopters were analyzed. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty-three eyes (56.5%) in sitting position and 343 eyes (86.8%) in supine position had positive kappa angles. There were no significant differences in horizontal and vertical components of kappa angle in the sitting position or horizontal components of kappa angle in the supine position between the three groups (P>0.05). A significant difference in the vertical components of kappa angle in the supine position was seen in the three groups (P<0.01). Differences in both horizontal and vertical components of kappa angles were significant between the sitting and supine positions. Positive correlations in both horizontal and vertical components of kappa angles (P<0.05) were found and vertical components of kappa angle in sitting and supine positions were negatively correlated with the degree of myopia (sitting position: r=-0.109; supine position: r=-0.172; P<0.05). CONCLUSION: There is a correlation in horizontal and vertical components of kappa angle in sitting and supine positions. Positive correlations in both horizontal and vertical components of kappa angle in sitting and supine positions till the end of the results. This result still needs further observation. Clinicians should take into account different postures when excimer laser surgery needs to be performed.

Indications for and techniques of keratoplasty at Vietnam National Institute of Ophthalmology

Pham Ngoc Dong,Truong Nhu Han,Anthony J. Aldave and Hoang Thi Minh Chau — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To report the indications for and techniques of corneal transplantation at Vietnam National Institute of Ophthalmology (VNIO) over a period of 12y (2002-2013). METHODS: Records of patients who had undergone corneal transplantation at VNIO from January 1, 2002 to January 1, 2014 were reviewed to determine the indication for and type of corneal transplant performed. Patient age, gender, indication for corneal transplantation and surgical technique were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: Corneal transplantation were underwent in 1390 eyes of 1278 patients with a mean age of 44.9±18.1y during the period under review. The most common indication was infectious corneal ulcer (n=670; 48.2%), followed by corneal scar (n=333, 24.0%), corneal dystrophy (n=138, 9.9%) and failed graft (n=112, 8.1%). Nearly all procedures performed were penetrating keratoplasty (n=1300, 93.5%), with a few lamellar keratoplasty procedures performed: lamellar keratoplasty (n=52, 3.7%), Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (n=27, 1.9%) and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (n=11, 0.8%). CONCLUSION: While the most common indication for keratoplasty was infectious keratitis, nearly all indications for corneal transplantation were managed with penetrating keratoplasty. However, lamellar keratoplasty techniques, including deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty and Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty, are being performed with increasing frequency for isolated stromal and endothelial disorders, respectively.

Bacterial spectrum and resistance patterns in corneal infections at a Tertiary Eye Care Center in South China

Nan Wang,Qiang Huang,Yi-Wei Tan,Li-Ping Lin and Kai-Li Wu — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the spectrum and antibiotic susceptibility of bacteria isolated from patients with suspected corneal infections in Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in South China over the past four years retrospectively. METHODS: Totally 1943 corneal scrapes from patients with corneal infections from 2010 to 2013 were cultured and processed using standard microbiological procedures to identify bacterial isolates. Simultaneously, the bacterial isolates were tested for antibiotic susceptibility to 8 antibiotics (ceftazidime, cefuroxim, cefazolin, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, neomycin, tobramycin, chloramphenicol) using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion technique. RESULTS: Of the total 1943 scrapes, 397 (20.43%) were culture-positive, of which 294 (74.06%) were gram-positive (GP) and 103 (25.94%) were gram-negative (GN) bacteria. Of the GP organisms, the most prevalent genera were Staphylococcus spp. (56.17%, n=223), Kocuria spp. (5.29%, n=21) and Micrococcus spp. (1.26%, n=5). On the other hand, the most prevalent genera were Pseudomonas spp. (12.85%, n=51), Burkholderia spp. (2.02%, n=8) and Acinetobacter spp. (1.51%, n=6) for the GN organisms. Among five antibiotics that have eye drop products, the resistant to neomycin of GP (7.82%, 95% CI: 4.72%-10.92%) and GN isolates (9.71%, 95% CI: 4.01%-15.41%) was lowest, while the resistant to chloramphenicol was highest (GP: 34.35%, 95% CI: 28.92%-39.78%; GN: 60.19%, 95% CI: 50.74%-69.64%). CONCLUSION: Staphylococcus spp. was the most common bacterial pathogens isolated from patients with corneal infections in this setting. High percentages of GP and GN bacteria were mostly susceptible to neomycin and highly resistant to chloramphenicol.

Descemet-membrane endothelial keratoplasty in patients with retinal comorbidity-a prospective cohort study

2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate indications, surgical challenges, and outcome of Descemet-membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in patients with retinal comorbidities (RC). METHODS: In a prospective cohort study, 8 eyes of 8 DMEK-patients with known RC were compared to 38 eyes of 38 DMEK-patients without RC. The duration of surgery, the degree of difficulty graded by the surgeon, and the complications through DMEK-surgery were analyzed for each patient. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), the endothelial cell count, the intraocular pressure, and the subjective satisfaction was evaluated after a 6-month follow-up. Data were compared applying the non-parametric Wilcoxon-, Chi-square- and Fisher´s-exact-test with P≤0. 05 as level of significance. RESULTS: RC-patients had dry age-related macular degeneration (n=4) or history of pars-plana vitrectomy (n=4). The main indication for DMEK was pain due to bullous keratopathy for the RC-patients (n=7, 88%) and visual impairment due to Fuchs endothelial keratoplasty for the non-RC-patients (n=33, 87%). The BCVA increased for both groups (P=0.01, P<0.001) and all corneas cleared. For the RC-patients, the subjective satisfaction improved significantly (P=0.02). Oil-filling and missing support of the vitreous body complicated surgery in vitrectomized eyes. CONCLUSION: DMEK is a favorable technique to treat endothelial disorders even if patients suffer from a retinal comorbidity. By enhancing the corneal clarity, it enables retinal examination or intraocular surgery and increases the patients´ satisfaction. However, in vitrectomized or silicone-oil filled eyes, the duration of surgery and degree of complexity are increased. An experienced surgeon should perform DMEK in these patients. Clinical trial registration number: DRKS00007566.

Comparison of Diaton transpalpebral tonometer with applanation tonometry in keratoconus

Robert PL Wisse,Natalie Peeters,Saskia M Imhof and Allegonda van der Lelij — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the added value of using a Diaton transpalpebral tonometer (DT) to measure IOP in keratoconus. Most type of tonometers use corneal applanation or biomechanical resistance to measure intraocular pressure (IOP); however, these factors can be altered by keratoconus. Specifically, we examined whether DT can detect false-negative low Goldmann applanation tonometry (AT) measurements. METHODS: Patients with keratoconus were recruited from our tertiary academic treatment center. Measurements included AT and DT (in random order) and Scheimpflug imaging. An age- and gender-matched group of control subjects with no history of corneal disease or glaucoma was also recruited. RESULTS: In total, 130 eyes from 66 participants were assessed. In the keratoconus group, mean AT was 11.0 ± 2.6, mean DT 11.2±5.5 (P=0.729), and the two measures were correlated significantly (P=0.006, R=0.323). However, a Bland-Altman plot revealed a wide distribution and poor agreement between both measurements. Previous corneal crosslinking, corneal pachymetry, and Krumeich classification had no effect on measured IOP. CONCLUSION: Measurements obtained using a Diaton tonometer are not affected by corneal biomechanics; however, its poor agreement with Goldmann AT values calls into question the added value of using a Diaton tonometer to measure IOP in keratoconus.

A comparable study of clinical and optical outcomes after 1.8, 2.0 mm microcoaxial and 3.0 mm coaxial cataract surgery

Yi-Bo Yu,Ya-Nan Zhu,Wei Wang,Yi-Dong Zhang,Yin-Hui Yu and Ke Yao — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical and optical outcomes after clear corneal incision cataract surgery (CICS) with three different incision sizes (1.8, 2.0 and 3.0 mm). METHODS: Eyes of 150 patients with age-related cataract scheduled for coaxial cataract surgery were randomized to three groups: 1.8, 2.0, or 3.0 mm CICS. Intraoperative data and postoperative outcomes including surgically induced astigmatism (SIA), the corneal incision thickness, wavefront aberrations and modulation transfer function (MTF) of cornea were obtained. RESULTS: There were no significant differences among the three groups in demographic characteristics and intraoperative outcome. The 1.8 and 2.0 mm microincisions showed more satisfactory clinical outcomes than the 3.0 mm incision. The 1.8 mm incision showed significantly less SIA than the 2.0 mm incision until postoperative 1mo (P<0.05), but the difference was only 0.14-0.18 D. Combined with less increased incision thickness only at postoperative 1d (P=0.013), the 1.8 mm incision presented better uncorrected distance visual acuity (UCDVA) than the 2.0 mm incision only at 1d postoperatively (P=0.008). For higher-order aberrations and other Zernike coefficients, there were no significant differences between the 1.8 mm group and 2.0 mm group (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Converting from 3.0 mm CICS to 1.8 or 2.0 mm CICS result in better clinical and optical outcomes. However, when incision is 1.8 mm, the benefits from further reduction in size compared with 2.0 mm are limited. The necessity to reduce the incision size is to be deliberated.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty in patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma vs primary open angle glaucoma: a one-year comparative study

Arezoo Miraftabi,Naveed Nilforushan,Nariman Nassiri and Kouros Nouri-Mahdavi — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the efficacy of single-session 360-degree selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PXFG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). METHODS: This is a single-center, prospective, nonrandomized comparative study. Patients older than 18 years of age with uncontrolled PXFG or POAG eyes requiring additional therapy while on maximally tolerated IOP-lowering medications were included. The primary outcome measure changed in IOP from baseline. Success was defined as IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline without any additional IOP-lowering medication. All patients were examined at 1d, 1wk, 1, 3, 6, 9, 12mo after SLT. RESULTS: Nineteen patients (20 eyes) with PXFG and 27 patients (28 eyes) with POAG were included in the study. In the visual fields mean deviation was -2.88 (±1.67) in the POAG and -3.1 (±1.69) in the PXFG groups (P=0.3). The mean (±SD) IOP was 22.9 (±3.7) mm Hg in the POAG group and 25.7 (±4.4)?mm Hg in the PXFG group at baseline and decreased to 18.4 (±3.2) and 18.0 (±3.9) mm Hg in the POAG group (P<0.001 and P=0.02), and to 17.9 (±4.0) and 21.0 (±6.6) mm Hg in the PXFG group (P<0.001 and P=0.47) at 6 and 12mo, respectively. The number of medications was 2.6 (±0.8) in the POAG group and 2.5 (±0.8) in the PXFG group at baseline, and did not change at all follow-up visits in both groups (P=0.16 in POAG and 0.57 in PXFG). Based on Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, the success rate was 75% in the POAG group compared to 94.1% in the PXFG group (P=0.08; log rank test) at 6mo, and 29.1% and 25.0% at 12mo, respectively (P=0.9; log rank). CONCLUSION: The 360-degree SLT is an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic modality in patients with POAG and PXFG by reducing IOP without any change in number of medications. The response was more pronounced early in the postoperative period in patients with PXFG whereas there was no statistically significant difference at 12-month follow-up.

Elevated urine formaldehyde in elderly patients with primary open angle glaucoma

2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the risk factor of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), which is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. An abnormally high level of endogenous formaldehyde (FA) has recently been found correlated with cell death and neurodegenerative disease, raising the possibility of a putative correlation of abnormal endogenous FA with POAG. METHODS: Thirty-four elderly patients with POAG and sixteen healthy controls were enrolled. Glaucomatous visual defects were present at both the functional (visual field) and structural [retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness] levels. Morning urine samples were obtained and were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to detect the endogenous FA level in a double blind manner. RESULTS: Patients with POAG (P<0.05) had significantly higher urine FA levels. The urine FA level of patients with severe visual field defects [mean deviation (MD)≥12 dB] was significantly (P<0.001) greater than that of patients with mild to moderate defects (MD<12 dB). By optical coherence tomography (OCT), the superior and inferior RNFL thickness of POAG group was significantly (P<0.001) thinner than in controls. Furthermore, the superior and inferior thinning of the RNFL was correlated with the elevation of urine FA concentration. CONCLUSION: Endogenous FA level is positively correlated with the neuronal defects of POAG.

Comparison of ultrasound biomicroscopy and spectral-domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography in evaluation of anterior segment after laser peripheral iridotomy

Xiao-Yun Ma, Dan Zhu, Jun Zou, Wen-Jie Zhang and Yi-Lin Cao — 2016/3/11 9:55:50
AIM: To quantitatively assess narrow anterior chamber angle using spectral-domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (SD-AS-OCT) and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), and to evaluate the correlations and consistency between SD-AS-OCT and UBM. METHODS: Fifty-five eyes from 40 patients were examined. Patients were diagnosed with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) remission (11 eyes from 8 patients), primary angle closure (PAC, 20 eyes from 20 patients) and PAC suspect (24 eyes from 12 patients). Each eye was examined by SD-AS-OCT and UBM after laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI). The measurements of SD-AS-OCT were angle open distance (AOD), anterior chamber angle (ACA), trabecular iris angle (TIA), and trabecular iris space area (TISA). UBM measurements were AOD and TIA. Correlations of AOD500 and TIA500 between UBM and AS-OCT were assessed. All parameters were analysed by SPSS 16.0 and MedCalc. RESULTS: ACA, TIA and AOD measured by SD-AS-OCT reached a maximum at the temporal quadrant and minimum at the nasal quadrant. TISA reached the maximum at the inferior and minimum at the superior quadrant. Group parameters of AOD500 and AOD750 showed a linear positive correlation, and AOD750 had less variability. UBM outcomes of AOD500 and TIA500 were significantly smaller than those of SD-AS-OCT. The results of the two techniques were correlated at the superior, nasal and inferior quadrants. CONCLUSION: Both UBM and SD-AS-OCT are efficient tools for follow-up during the course of PACG. We recommended using parameters at 750 µm anterior to the sclera spur for the screening and follow-up of PACG and PAC. The two methods might be alternatives to each other.

Bevacizumab for neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Chinese patients in a clinical setting

2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the outcome of non-investigational treatment with intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients. METHODS: Retrospective chart review of 81 eyes with neovascular AMD followed-up for at least 12mo and received 3-monthly loading IVB injections. Re-treat was based upon the individual clinician’s judgment. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and optical coherence tomography measurements of central foveal thickness outcomes were evaluated at 12, 24mo. RESULTS: Eighty-one eyes (of 75 patients) completed 12mo of follow-up and 44 eyes (of 41 patients) completed 24mo of follow-up. The mean baseline logMAR BCVA significantly improved from 0.94±0.69 to 0.85±0.68 at 12mo (P<0.001) and from 0.91±0.65 to 0.85±0.60 (P=0.004) at 24mo. The proportion of eyes that lost <15 logMAR letters at 12mo was 90.1% and at 24mo was 81.8%. IVB was effective in improving visual acuity in both treatment naïve and previous photodynamic therapy (PDT)-treated subgroups. Treatment naive patients required significantly fewer injections than patients with prior PDT. Multiple regression analysis identified that poorer baseline visual acuity was associated with greater improvement in visual acuity (P=0.015). CONCLUSION: Fewer injections in clinical practice may result in suboptimal visual outcomes compared with clinical trials of IVB in neovascular AMD patients. Poor baseline visual acuity and prior PDT treatment may also improve vision after IVB. The safety and durability of effect was maintained at 24mo.

Comparison of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors, laser treatments and a combination of the both for treatment of central retinal vein occlusion

Yoav Y. Pikkel,Adi Sharabi-Nov,Itzchak Beiran and Joseph Pikkel — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare changes in visual acuity and macular edema in patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) treated with intravitreal injections of bevacizumab, macular grid photocoagulation combined with pan retinal photocoagulation (PRP), or both (bevacizumab+grid+PRP). METHODS: Our study is a retrospective cohort clinical study that examined patients that suffered from ischemic CRVO with macular edema. Study inclusion criteria were ischemic CRVO with macula edema and the availability of complete medical records for at least 12mo after treatment. Excluded were patients with diabetes or any other retinal disease. We reviewed the medical records of patients treated in one ophthalmology department-comparing changes in visual acuity and macular edema in patients treated with intravitreal injections of bevacizumab vs those that were treated with macular grid photocoagulation and PRP or both. The main outcome measures were the differences in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and in macular thickness, as assessed by optical coherence tomography, between the enrollment and the final follow up visits. RESULTS: Sixty-five patients met inclusion criteria. There were no statistically significant differences among the three groups in the mean changes in macular thickness as measured by ocular coherence tomography (131.5±41.2, 108.6±29.2, and 121.1±121.1, P=0.110), or in visual acuity (0.128±0.077, 0.088±0.057, and 0.095±0.065), for intravitreal injections, macular grid photocoagulation+PRP and a combination of the treatments, respectively, P=0.111. The proportions of patients with macular edema after treatment were: 26.1%, 28.6%, and 14.3%, respectively, P=0.499. CONCLUSION: Similar benefit was observed for intravitreal injections, laser photocoagulation, or a combined regimen in the treatment of CRVO. A non-statistically significant trend for reduction in macular edema was observed following combined treatment.

Retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness in children with obesity

2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness analysis of peripapillary optic nerve head (PONH) and macula as well as ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness in obese children. METHODS: Eighty-five children with obesity and 30 controls were included in the study. The thicknesses of the PONH and macula of each subject’s right eye were measured by high-resolution spectral-domain optic coherence tomography (OCT). RESULTS: The RNFL thicknesses of central macular and PONH were similar between the groups (all P>0.05). The GCIPL thickness was also similar between the groups. However, the RNFL thickness of temporal outer macula were 261.7±13.7 and 268.9±14.3 µm for the obesity and the control group, respectively (P=0.034). CONCLUSION: Obesity may cause a reduction in temporal outer macular RNFL thickness.

Corneal biomechanical changes and intraocular pressure in patients with thyroid orbitopathy

Zofia Pniakowska,Anna Klysik,Roman Gos and Piotr Jurowski — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the relevance of the objective parameters addressing the altered biomechanical properties of cornea for glaucoma monitoring in patients with mild or moderate thyroid associated orbitopathy (TAO), and in healthy individuals. METHODS: Twenty-five patients with TAO (group 1) and 25 healthy adults (group 2) were included to the study. Both groups were of a similar age and the ratio women:man. For each patient, the following parameters of both eyes were measured with ocular response analyzer (ORA): corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldmann correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg) and corneal compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc). In both groups participating in our study, all measurements were performed within minutes to reduce the diurnal effects. RESULTS: The mean age in group 1 was 56±11y and 76% were women, 24% were men. The mean age in group 2 was 64±11y and 68% were women, 32% were men. CH correlated negatively with IOPg in group 1 (r2=0.10, P<0.05). IOPg strongly correlated with IOPcc in both groups (group 1: r2=0.79, P<0.0001; group 2: r2=0.85, P<0.0001). There was positive correlation between CRF and IOPg in group 1 (r2=0.12, P<0.05) and in group 2 (r2=0.31, P<0.0001). Statistical analysis revealed no significant correlation between CRF and IOPcc in group 1 (r2=0.009, P>0.05) and also no significant correlation in group 2 (r2=0.04, P>0.05). CRF mean value in group 2 (11.51±1.72 mm Hg) was higher than in group 1 (10.85±1.45 mm Hg) (P<0.05). IOPg strongly correlated with IOPcc in both groups (group 1: r2=0.79, P<0.0001; group 2: r2=0.85, P<0.0001). There was also strong correlation between CRF and CH in both populations: group 1: (r2=0.58, P<0.0001), group 2: (r2=0.41, P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: Biomechanical parameters of cornea, as quantified by CH and CRF, and measured together with IOPcc, precisely reveal glaucoma staging in TAO and thus are reliable for diagnosing and follow-up in clinical practice.

Relationship between dacryoadenitis subtype of idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor and paranasal sinusitis

Jing Li,Xin Ge and Jian-Min Ma — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the clinical features of the dacryoadenitis subtype of idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor and its relationship with paranasal sinusitis. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 46 patients who received surgical treatment at the Department of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University for the dacryoadenitis subtype of idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor from October 2010 to December 2012. Each patient underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the orbits and the 4 paranasal sinuses. Disease status and the level of serum immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) was measured before and 6mo after surgery. RESULTS: The initial clinical feature of the idiopathic dacryoadenitis type of orbital inflammatory pseudotumor was redness or swelling of the eyelids. Masses were palpated in the area of the lacrimal gland in some patients. Of the 46 patients, 16 also suffered from sinusitis (34.8%), with 14 cases of ethmoid sinusitis, 8 cases of maxillary sinusitis, 9 cases of sphenoid sinusitis, and 8 cases of frontal sinusitis. Of the 16 patients with sinusitis, 4 patients had a medical history of rhinitis (range: 10mo to 15y previously), 10 patients had occasional nasal congestion, and 2 patients had no nasal congestion. Thirteen of the 46 patients had elevated serum IgG4 levels. Nine of these 13 patients had MRI signs of sinusitis. All patients (n=46) received oral glucocorticoid treatment for approximately 3mo after surgery. No sign of recurrence was found in the orbital MRI 6mo after surgery. Of the 16 patients with sinusitis, 9 cases of elevated serum IgG4 levels improved after treatment with decreased serum IgG4 level and 7 cases of normal serum IgG4 levels remained unchanged. CONCLUSION: Some patients with the dacryoadenitis subtype of idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor may also suffer from paranasal sinusitis. The incidence of paranasal sinusitis was much higher in patients with IgG4-elevated dacryoadenitis subtype orbital inflammatory pseudotumor than in those with normal IgG4 levels. Dacryoadenitis subtype orbital inflammatory pseudotumor and paranasal sinusitis may both the clinical manifestations of IgG4-related disease involved in different locations.

Comparison of visual acuity of the patients on the first day after sub-Bowman keratomileusis or laser in situ keratomileusis

Wei Zhao,Ting Wu,Ze-Hong Dong,Jie Feng,Yu-Feng Ren and Yu-Sheng Wang — 2016/3/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare recovery of the visual acuity in patients one day after sub-Bowman keratomileusis (SBK) or laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: Data from 5923 eyes in 2968 patients that received LASIK (2755 eyes) or SBK (3168 eyes) were retrospectively analyzed. The eyes were divided into 4 groups according to preoperative spherical equivalent: between -12.00 to -9.00 D, extremely high myopia (n=396, including 192 and 204 in SBK and LASIK groups, respectively); -9.00 to -6.00 D, high myopia (n=1822, including 991 and 831 in SBK and LASIK groups, respectively), -6.00 to -3.00 D, moderate myopia (n=3071, including 1658 and 1413 in SBK and LASIK groups, respectively), and -3.00 to 0.00 D, low myopia (n=634, including 327 and 307 in SBK and LASIK groups, respectively). Uncorrected logMAR visual acuity values of patients were assessed under standard natural light. Analysis of variance was used for comparisons among different groups. RESULTS: Uncorrected visual acuity values were 0.0115±0.1051 and 0.0466±0.1477 at day 1 after operation for patients receiving SBK and LASIK, respectively (P<0.01); visual acuity values of 0.1854±0.1842, 0.0615±0.1326, -0.0033±0.0978, and -0.0164±0.0972 were obtained for patients in the extremely high, high, moderate, and low myopia groups, respectively (P<0.01). In addition, significant differences in visual acuity at day 1 after operation were found between patients receiving SBK and LASIK in each myopia subgroup. CONCLUSION: Compared with LASIK, SBK is safer and more effective, with faster recovery. Therefore, SBK is more likely to be accepted by patients than LASIK for better uncorrected visual acuity the day following operation.

Argon laser photocoagulation versus intrastromal voriconazole injection in treatment of mycotic keratitis

Mohammad M. Khater,Mohammad S. El-Shorbagy and Adel A. Selima — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare argon laser photocoagulation and intrastromal injection of voriconazole as adjunctive treatment modalities in cases of resistant mycotic corneal ulcers. METHODS: Two groups each of them included 20 cases of resistant mycotic corneal ulcers. Both groups treated with local and systemic specific antimicrobial drugs guided with culture and sensitivity results. In one group argon laser photocoagulation was used as an adjunctive therapy to the specific antifungal drugs and in the other group, intrastromal injection of voriconazole was done besides the specific antifungal drugs. The 40 cases included in the study were proven according to culture and sensitivity to be 28 cases with pure fungal results and 12 cases with mixed (fungal and bacterial). In argon laser group, argon laser irradiation of the corneal ulcer was performed using argon laser 532 nm wavelength (Carl Zeiss LSL 532s AG; Meditec, Inc.) after fluorescein staining. In the other group, voriconazole solution (500 μg/mL) was prepared and injected in the corneal stroma. All cases were followed up for 3mo after healing was achieved. RESULTS: Complete healing of the epithelial defect and resolution of stromal infiltration with no adverse effects were achieved in argon laser group in duration ranged from 2-4wk in 90% of cases. In voriconazole group 4 cases needed amniotic membrane graft due to thinning and 16 cases healed in duration ranged from 2-6wk (80% of cases). CONCLUSION: Argon laser photocoagulation is superior to intrastromal voriconazole injection in treatment of resistant fungal corneal ulcers.

Corneal biomechanical properties changes after coaxial 2.2-mm microincision and standard 3.0-mm phacoemulsification

Zhe Zhang,Hua Yu,Hui Dong,Li Wang,Ya-Ding Jia and Su-Hua Zhang — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the changes in corneal biomechanics measured by ocular response analyzer (ORA) after 2.2-mm microincision cataract surgery and 3.0-mm standard coaxial phacoemulsification. METHODS: The prospective nonrandomized study comprised eyes with cataract that had 2.2-mm coaxial microincision or 3.0-mm standard incision phacoemulsification. The corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), corneal-compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc) and Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg) were measured by ORA preoperatively and at 1d, 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-week postoperatively. Results were analyzed and compared between groups. RESULTS: In both groups, CH decreased in the immediate postoperative period (P<0.05), returned to the preoperative level at one week (P=0.249) in the 2.2-mm group, and at two weeks in the 3.0-mm group (P=0.264); there was no significant change in CRF values. In 2.2-mm group, mean IOPcc and IOPg increased at 1d postoperatively (both P<0.05), and returned to preoperative level at one week (P=0.491 and P=0.923, respectively). In 3.0-mm group, mean IOPcc and IOPg increased at 1d and 1wk postoperatively (P=0.005 and P=0.029, respectively), and returned to preoperative level at 2wk (P=0.347 and P=0.887, respectively). CONCLUSION: Significant differences between preoperative and postoperative corneal biomechanical values were found for CH, IOPcc and IOPg. But the recovery time courses were different between the two groups. The 2.2-mm coaxial microincision cataract surgery group seemed recovery faster compared to the 3.0-mm standard coaxial phacoemulsification group.

Ocular biomechanical measurements on post-keratoplasty corneas using a Scheimpflug-based noncontact device

2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To analyse ocular biomechanical properties, central corneal thickness (CCT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) in post-keratoplasty eyes, as compared to normal subjects, with a new Scheimpflug-based technology. Moreover, biomechanical data were correlated with the size and age of the donor and recipient corneas. METHODS: Measurements were conducted on 46 eyes of 46 healthy patients without any corneal pathology (age: 53.83±20.8y) and 30 eyes of 28 patients after penetrating keratoplasty (age: 49.43±21.34y). Ten biomechanical parameters, the CCT and IOP were recorded by corneal visualization scheimpflug technology (CorVis ST) using high-speed Scheimpflug imaging. Keratometry values were also recorded using Pentacam HR system. Scheimpflug measurements were performed after 43.41±40.17mo (range: 11-128mo) after the keratoplasty and after 7.64±2.34mo (range: 5-14mo) of suture removal. RESULTS: Regarding the device-specific biomechanical parameters, the highest concavity time and radius values showed a significant decrease between these two groups (P=0.01 and P<0.001). None of other biomechanical parameters disclosed a significant difference. The CCT showed a significant difference between post-keratoplasty eyes as compared to normal subjects (P=0.003) using the CorVis ST device. The IOP was within the normal range in both groups (P=0.84). There were no significant relationships between the keratometric data, the size of the donor and recipient, age of the donor and recipient and biomechanical properties obtained by CorVis ST. CONCLUSION: The ocular biomechanics remain stable after penetrating keratoplasty according to the CorVis ST measurements. Only two from the ten device-specific parameters have importance in the follow-up period after penetrating keratoplasty.

Effect of 2% fluorescein on Scheimpflug central corneal thickness measurements

Stella Briggs and Marwa Bin Moammar — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To assess central corneal thickness (CCT) changes measured with Scheimpflug device following instillation of 2% fluorescein in normal subjects. METHODS: This was a prospective randomized study of 60 hospital volunteers. After baseline CCT measurements of both eyes of 40 subjects were obtained using Scheimpflug system, a drop of preservative-free 2% fluorescein, was instilled in one eye and in other eye, one drop of normal saline (control). Measurements were repeated after 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60min (continuous assessment group). Twenty subjects had baseline CCT taken, then fluorescein was instilled in one eye and measurements were taken at 1min. Ten eyes had saline rinse after 1min and 10 other eyes did not, measurements were repeated at 2min (eye rinse group). RESULTS: The mean baseline CCT for continuous assessment group was 546.2 ±32.1 μm (range, 489.0-606.0), control eyes was 546.6±30.7 μm (range, 489.0-602.0). At 1min after fluorescein instillation, CCT significantly increased by 37.0±34.0 μm (P<0.001), then decreased gradually, reaching baseline at 60min. CCT variations were not significant in control group (P>0.05). For eye rinse group, CCT mean differences between baseline and 2min were 18.2 μm (95 % CI: -54.7 to 18.3) with rinse and 26.5 μm (95% CI: -62.9 to 9.9) without rinse; paired sample tests were not significant (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: The presence of fluorescein increased CCT value to a clinically relevant level of 6.8%. Eye rinse did not significantly reduce the effect at 2min post fluorescein timepoint.

Therapeutic effect analysis on the treatment of congenital glaucoma through modified combined trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy

Zhen-Kai Wu,Jing Wu,Qian Tan,Jian Jiang,Wei-Tao Song and Xiao-Bo Xia — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic effect and the safety of the treatment of congenital glaucoma through modified combined trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy. METHODS: The clinical data of 27 cases (altogether 42 eyes), which included 7 cases of infants (10 eyes) and 20 cases of teenagers (32 eyes), of congenital glaucoma undertook modified combined trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy were analyzed retrospectively. The parameters evaluated included the post operation visual acuity, the anterior chamber, the filtering bleb, the intraocular pressure, the C/D ratio, visual field, the retinal nerve fiber layer changes and the complications. RESULTS: The follow-up period was 1 to 29mo, averaging 13.3±7.7mo. Upon the last visit after the operation, functional filtering blebs developed in all the involved eyes. The intraocular pressure was controlled under 21 mm Hg, which was decreased by 60% when compared with that before the operation, without using any medication. There were no significant changes in the post operation visual acuity and the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness before and after the operation in teenager group (P＞0.05), and both the post operation C/D ratio and the visual field mean defect (MD) were reduced compared with those before the operation (P<0.05). There were no severe complications in any of the patients. CONCLUSION: The modified combined trabeculotomy-trabeculectomy can effectively reduce the intraocular pressure and control the development of glaucoma in cases of congenital glaucoma. It is a safe and effective operative method for the treatment of congenital glaucoma.

Oxidant/antioxidant balance in the aqueous humor of patients with glaucoma

2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS), and the oxidative stress index (OSI) of the aqueous humor (AH) in patients with glaucoma. METHODS: The prospective study was composed of a study group (n=31) and a control group (n=31). Fifteen patients in the study group were diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), and 16 patients were diagnosed with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PEG). The control group was composed of non-glaucomatous patients with cataracts. AH samples were collected and analyzed for TAS, TOS, and OSI levels. RESULTS: Mean AH TAS level was significantly higher in patients with glaucoma than that in the control group (P<0.01). Mean TOS and OSI levels tended to increase in patients with glaucoma. No significant differences in TAS, TOS, or OSI levels were observed between patients with POAG and PEG. CONCLUSION: High levels of TAS were observed in patients with glaucoma, which was likely a response to the increased oxidative stress observed in these patients.

Predicting anatomical results of surgical treatment of idiopathic macular hole

2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the parameters most informative in predicting the anatomical results of surgical treatment of idiopathic full-thickness macular hole (IMH). METHODS: One hundred and sixty-two consecutive patients (170 eyes) after primary operation for IMH were enrolled. Outcomes were classified as anatomical success when both IMH closure and restoration of the outer retinal structure were achieved. “Prospective” group included 108 patients (115 eyes) followed with optical coherence tomography (OCT) and microperimetry for 1y after surgery. Potential prognostic criteria, except microperimetry data, were tested in “retrospective” group (54 patients, 55 eyes). Prognostic value of each parameter was determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Combined predictive power of the best prognostic parameters was tested with the use of linear discriminant analysis. RESULTS: IMH closure was achieved in 106 eyes (92%) in the prospective group and 49 eyes (89%) in the retrospective group. Despite anatomical closure, the outer retinal structure was not restored in two eyes in the first group and in one eye in the second group. Preoperative central subfield retinal thickness demonstrated the best discriminatory capability between eyes with anatomical success and failure: area under the ROC-curve (AUC) 0.938 (95% CI: 0.881-0.995), sensitivity 64% at fixed specificity 95% (cut-off value 300 µm) in the prospective group; sensitivity 57% and specificity 90% in the retrospective group. Other continuous parameters except tractional hole index (AUC: 0.796, 95% CI: 0.591-1.000) had significantly lower AUCs (P<0.05). The best combination of the parameters, established by discriminant analysis in the prospective group, could not confirm its predictive value in the retrospective group. CONCLUSION: Preoperative central subfield retinal thickness is a strong and probably the best predictor of anatomical results of IMH surgical treatment.

Posterior scleral reinforcement combined with vitrectomy for myopic foveoschisis

2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects of posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR) combined with vitrectomy for myopic foveoschisis. METHODS: Thirty-nine highly myopic eyes of 39 patients with myopic foveoschisis underwent PSR combined with vitrectomy. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refraction error, and the foveal thickness by optical coherence tomography (OCT) were recorded before and after the surgery, and complications were noted. RESULTS: The follow-up period was 12mo, and the main focus was on the results of the 12-month follow-up visit. The mean preoperative BCVA was 0.96±0.43 logMAR. At the final follow-up visit, the mean BCVA was 0.46±0.28 logMAR, which significantly improved compared with the preoperative one (P=0.003). The BCVA improved in 33 eyes (84.62%), and unchanged in 6 eyes (15.38%). At the end of follow-up, the mean refractive error was -15.13±2.55 D, and the improvement was significantly compared with the preoperative one (-17.53±4.51 D) (P=0.002). Twelve months after surgery, OCT showed complete resolution of the myopic foveoschisis and a reat¬tachment of the fovea in 37 eyes (94.87%) and partial resolution in the remained two eyes (5.13%). The foveal thickness was obviously reduced at 12-month follow-up visit (196.45±36.35 μm) compared with the preoperative one (389.32±75.56 μm) (P=0.002). There were no serious complications during the 12mo follow-up period. CONCLUSION: PSR combined with vitrectomy is a safe and effective procedure for myopic foveoschisis with both visual and anatomic improvement.

Screening for retinopathy of prematurity: a report from upper Egypt

Mahmoud M. Nassar — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To detect the incidence of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in a tertiary referral neonatal intensive care unit in upper Egypt and to describe the obstacles faced during implementing the screening protocol for the first time. METHODS: Consecutive infants were enrolled at birth and screened for ROP. We used the UK ROP guideline (May 2008) for infant selection, follow up and treatment. Repeat examinations were performed until retinal vascularisation was complete. RESULTS: Fifty-two infants were enrolled: 24 males and 28 females. Mean gestational age was 31.3wk (±2.8 SD) and mean birth weight was 1234.6 g (±221.1 SD). Incidence of ROP was 36.5% (stages 1, 2, 3 and 4a were 9.6%, 9.6%, 15.4% and 1.9% respectively), no stages 4b or 5 were found in this series. Six infants (11.5%) died during screening without ROP, 25 infants (48.1%) were discharged from screening with retinal vascularisation reaching zone III, 5 infants (9.6%) were treated with indirect diode with or without additional cryotherapy and 16 infants (30.8%) were lost to follow up. In this series gestational age rather than birth weight was found significantly correlated and predictive (P<0.05) with ROP stages. CONCLUSION: ROP in a single site in Upper Egypt appears to have comparable incidence to other areas worldwide. The main screening obstacle was missing cases due to the absence of a national ROP screening protocol.

Is myopia a protective factor against central serous chorioretinopathy?

2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate if any association exists between central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) and the refractive status of the eye. METHODS: This retrospective, institutional, case control study included 499 patients, wherein 262 patients diagnosed as acute CSCR, were compared with an age and gender matched control group of 237 patients. All patients were evaluated with a detailed systemic and ocular history, objective and subjective refractions for both eyes and complete ocular examination by a retina specialist, at all visits. Optical coherence tomography confirmed the diagnosis of CSCR. RESULTS: The mean age was found to be 40±7y in the study group (Group 1) compared to 38±10y in the control group (Group 2). Most common refractive status in the study group, was emmetropia seen in 191 patients (72.9%), followed by hypermetropia seen in 47 patients (17.9%) and astigmatism seen in 21 patients (8.0%). Only 3 subjects (1.1%) had myopia, which was less than or equal to 1.0 D, compared to 70 subjects (29.5%) in the control group, suggesting a statistically significant lower incidence of CSCR among the myopic patients (P< 0.0001). With respect to the systemic factors, 26 (9.9%) patients were using systemic steroids in the study group (Group 1) compared to none in the control group (Group 2) suggesting a statistically significant association of CSCR with systemic steroid use (P<0.05). No other significant systemic risk factors were noted. CONCLUSION: Though CSCR is a multifactorial disease, myopia serves as a protective factor for CSCR. Thus, myopic eyes are less likely to develop CSCR. Since both retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choriocapillaris are postulated in the pathogenesis of CSCR, chorio-retinal thinning and atrophy seen in myopic eyes are less likely to cause CSCR.

Optical coherence tomography characteristics of responses to intravitreal bevacizumab in idiopathic choroidal neovascularization

Syed Nasir Ali Shah,Qian-Yan Kang,Xiao-Juan Fan and Yue-Ming Sun — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate factors associated with responses to intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in naive idiopathic choroidal neovascularization (iCNV) by high domain optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed clinical data of 40 eyes of iCNV patients who received a single or multiple IVB on an as-needed basis (1.25 mg/0.05 mL). One month after the first injection, subretinal fluid (SRF) volume was evaluated and the eyes were divided into 3 groups based on responses to IVB. Good, moderate, and poor responses were defined as 61%-99%, 30%-60%, and <30% resolution of SRF on OCT after IVB in iCNV, respectively. OCT findings were analyzed to find factors associated with difference in response levels. Comparisons were made using Wilcoxon’s matched-pairs signed-rank test, the Mann-Whitney U test for means with continuous data and Fisher’s exact test for categorical data. RESULTS: The mean number of IVB was 1.28±1.50 and mean follow up time was 3.60±1.20mo. At postoperative 1mo, there were 8 (20%) eyes in good response, 20 (50%) in moderate response and 12 (30%) eyes in poor response group and at last visit there were 28 good responders (70%), 8 (20%) moderate responders and 4 (10%) poor responders. Statistically significant difference was detected between good responders and non good responders in choroidal neovessels thickness (P=0.029), SRF height (P=0.049) and SRF volume (P=0.031) at post treatment 1mo. CONCLUSION: OCT is a valuable diagnostic tool. Decrease in choroidal neovessels thickness, SRF height and volume predicts favorable response of iCNV to IVB therapy.

Role of IgG4 serology in identifying common orbital lymphoproliferative disorders

Jing Li,Jian-Min Ma and Xin Ge — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To explore the role of IgG4 serology in identifying common orbital lymphoproliferative disorders. METHODS: Eighty-one patients with orbital lymphoproliferative diseases were treated in the Department of Ocular Oncology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University between September 2010 and December 2012. Serum IgG4 levels were measured in 46 cases of idiopathic orbital inflammatory pseudotumor (IOIP), 17 benign lymphoepithelial lesion (BLEL), 12 cases of orbital mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), and 6 cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBL) using immuno-scatter turbidmetry (ISTM). RESULTS: The frequency of elevated IgG4 levels in patients with IOIP, BLEL, MALT, and DLBL was 30.43% (14/46), 76.47% (13/17), 8.33% (1/12), and 0.00 (0/6), respectively. Among the patients with elevated serum IgG4 levels, all IgG-IOIP patients were male, and 92.31% of the IgG4-BLEL patients were female (12/13). The mean serum IgG4 level of IgG4-IOIP patients was lower than that of individuals with IgG4-BLEL, but the variation in serum IgG4 levels was larger in IgG4-IOIP than IgG4-BLEL patients. Only one case of IgG4-MALT with elevated serum IgG4 levels had a medical history >10y, which was significantly longer than the MALT patients with normal serum IgG4 levels. There was no significant elevation of serum IgG4 levels in patients with DLBL. CONCLUSION: Detecting serum IgG4 levels plays an important role in the differential diagnosis of orbital lymphoproliferative diseases.

Epidemiological aspects of ocular superglue injuries

2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To report the frequency, associated risk factors and characteristics of cases referred to Farabi Eye Hospital with ocular superglue injuries. METHODS: In a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted between December 2012 and February 2013, patients with ocular superglue injuries were evaluated. Age, sex, educational level, location, time, mechanism, type, site and time of eye injury were gathered through interview using a customized questionnaire. All participants had given consent to undergo thorough eye examination. RESULTS: Over the course of three months, 105 patients with ocular superglue injuries enrolled in the study, including 56(53.3%) men and 49(46.7%) women with the mean age of 24.7±11.6 (range, 2 to 53)y. The right eye, left eye and both eyes were involved in 52%, 42% and 6% of the patients, respectively. Most of injuries had occurred at home (72.4%) and at night (55%). More than half of patients (52.4%) did not take any primary aids following the ocular injury. Patient carelessness (78.1%), childhood curiosity and lack of parental supervision (11.4%), storing superglue in inappropriate places and inadvertently using superglue as eye drops due to poor vision (2.9%), inadequate awareness of superglue applications [used to stick on artificial nails (3.8%), artificial eyelashes (1.9%) and broken tooth (1%)] and being assaulted with glue (1%) were common risk factors. CONCLUSION: The frequency of ocular superglue injuries in patients referred to Farabi Eye Hospital is relatively high. This finding underlines the importance of public education and awareness about superglue injuries to the eye and taking protective measures and safety strategies in order to prevent these injures.

Use of the Crawford tube for symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction

Nyu-Xia Tong,Ying-Ying Zhao and Xiu-Ming Jin — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Crawford tube in treating symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction. METHODS: A protocol was adopted for the management of symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction. Patients who suffered symptomatic epiphora without nasolacrimal obstruction in both eyes were included in the study. One eye was treated with Crawford tube intubation and the other eye was treated with medication therapy. Degree of watering, patient satisfaction, and symptomatic improvement were carefully evaluated by one of the authors at the end of the follow-up period, after Crawford tube removal, to ascertain functional results. RESULTS: Thirty-seven adult patients (37 eyes) underwent Crawford tube intubation for functional epiphora. The mean follow-up time after removal of the tube was 14.8±4.8mo. The procedure was an overall success in 28 eyes (75.7%), with symptoms improving significantly. Two eyes (5.4%) were relieved of indoor epiphora, two (5.4%) had minimal epiphora outdoors, but only with wind or cold, and five (13.5%) continued to experience tearing both indoors and outdoors. Thirty of the patients (81%) expressed satisfaction with the procedure. CONCLUSION: Crawford tube insertion is an effective, safe, simple, and relatively noninvasive treatment strategy for functional lacrimal system obstruction.

Multifocal electroretinogram in non-pathological myopic subjects: correlation with optical coherence tomography

Ai-Ping Song,Tao Yu,Jian-Rong Wang,Wei Liu,Yan Sun and Su-Xiang Ma — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the changes of retinal function in non-pathological myopic subjects using multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and to correlate the data with the central macular thickness obtained using optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: One hundred and thirteen subjects (113 eyes) with age range from 18 to 35y were enrolled in the study. The subjects were divided into four groups according to spherical equivalent (SE) and axial length (AL): emmetropia group (EG, n=31; SE: +0.75 to -0.50 D; AL: 22 to 24 mm), low and medium myopia group (LMMG, n=26; SE: ＞-0.50 to -6.00 D; AL: ＞24 to 26 mm), high myopia group (HMG, n=34; SE: ＞-6.00 to -10.00 D; AL: ＞26 to 28 mm) and super high myopia group (SHMG, n=22; SE: ＞-10.00 D; AL:＞28 mm). The P1 amplitude density, P1 amplitude, and P1 implicit time of the first-order kernel mfERG responses were obtained and grouped into five rings. The central subfield macular thickness (CST) was obtained using macular cube 512×218 scan of Cirrus HD-OCT. RESULTS: With the increasing of eccentricity, the first positive peak (P1) amplitude density (P=0.0000, 0.0001, 0.0021 in ring 1-3 respectively) and P1 amplitude (all P=0.0000 in ring 1-5) of each group decreased. With the increasing of myopia, P1 implicit time gradually extended (all P=0.0000 in ring 1-3). The average CST in four diagnostic groups was 241.56±12.72 μm, 244.56±12.19 μm, 254.33±11.61 μm, 261.75±11.83 μm respectively. With the increasing of myopia, CST increased (P<0.001). There was negative relationship between CST and P1 amplitude, P1 amplitude density (r=-0.402, P<0.001; r=-0.261, P=0.003). There was positive relationship between CST and P1 implicit time (r=0.34, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: With the increasing of myopia, P1 amplitude density and P1 amplitude of the first-order reaction gradually reduced. This showed potential decline in retinal function in myopia. To some extent it may reflect the functional disorder or depression of the visual cells. The exact mechanism needs further study.

Comparison of two types of visual quality analyzer for the measurement of high order aberrations

Jing Hao,Lin Li,Fang Tian and Hong Zhang — 2016/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the difference and agreement of KR-1W and iTrace for measurement of high order aberrations. METHODS: KR-1W and iTrace were respectively used in a group of healthy people (40 volunteers, 32 eyes) to measure the high order aberration (HOA) of corneal, internal and total ocular. The clinical difference and agreement of two instruments were respectively evaluated by paired-samples t-test and Bland-Altman analysis. RESULTS: The paired-samples t-test showed that the corneal HOA measured by the two instruments had no statistical differences (P＞0.05); but the internal and total ocular HOA had significant statistical differences (P＜0.05), and the mean results measured by iTrace were higher than that of KR-1W. However, Bland-Altman analysis revealed that the HOA of corneal and internal were all in 95% limits of agreement; and just one point of total ocular HOA was beyond the 95% limits of agreement. CONCLUSION: KR-1W and iTrace were consistent well in the measurement of corneal, internal and total ocular HOA, especially for the cornea.

Changing trends in corneal graft surgery: a ten-year review

2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To review indications and corneal tissue use for penetrating and lamellar surgery between 2002 and 2011. METHODS: The surgical reports of corneal grafts performed during 2002-2011, using tissues supplied by the Eye Bank of Piedmont (Italy), were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographic data, date of intervention, indication for surgery, and surgical technique used were recorded. Surgical techniques included penetrating keratoplasty (PK), deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and endothelial keratoplasty (EK). The χ2 test was used to compare the distribution of indications and types of surgical technique used, for corneal grafts done during 2002-2006 versus those done during 2007-2011. RESULTS: The number of corneal grafts increased by 30.7% from 2002-2006 to 2007-2011 (from 1567 to 2048). Comparing the two periods, both main indications and surgical techniques changed significantly. In 2007-2011, the proportion of interventions for aphakic/pseudophakic bullous keratopathy (from 16.8% to 21.3%), graft failure (from 16.4% to 19.1%) and Fuchs endothelial dystrophy (from 12.8% to 16.7%) all increased significantly (P<0.05), while those for keratoconus decreased significantly (from 35.6% to 27.3%; P<0.001). In 2007-2011, the proportion of PK decreased significantly (from 92.4% to 57.2%; P<0.001) while that of EK and DALK went from 0.4% to 30.2% (P<0.001) and from 7.2% to 12.6% (P<0.001) respectively. CONCLUSION: During 2002-2011 the number of interventions increased significantly for corneal endothelial diseases and graft failure. The growing demand for interventions for these diseases corresponded to the widespread adoption of EK techniques. The use of DALK also increased, but more moderately than EK procedures.

Corneal infection in Shandong peninsula of China: a 10-year retrospective study on 578 cases

Xiao-Jing Pan,Tao Jiang,Hai Zhu,Peng-Peng Liu,Zhan-Yu Zhou and Alexander J. Mao — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the epidemiological characteristics, clinical signs, laboratory findings, and outcomes in patients with corneal infection in Shandong peninsula of China. METHODS: The medical records of 578 inpatients (578 eyes) with corneal infection were reviewed retrospectively for demographic characteristics, risk factors, seasonal variation, clinical signs, laboratory findings, and treatment strategy. Patient history, ocular examination findings using slit-lamp biomicroscopy, laboratory findings resulted from microbiological cultures, and treatment. RESULTS: Fungal keratitis constituted 58.48% of cases of infectious keratitis among the inpatients, followed by herpes simplex keratitis (20.76%), bacterial keratitis (19.03%) and acanthamoeba keratitis (1.73%). The most common risk factor was corneal trauma (71.80%). The direct microscopic examination (338 cases) using potassium hydroxide (KOH) wet mounts was positive in 296 cases (87.57%). Among the 298 fungal culture-positive cases, Fusarium species were the most common isolates (70.47%). A total of 517 cases (89.45%) received surgical intervention, including 255 (44.12%) cases of penetrating keratoplasty, 74 (12.80%) cases of lamellar keratoplasty which has become increasingly popular, and 77 cases (13.32%) of evisceration or enucleation. CONCLUSION: At present, infectious keratitis is a primary corneal disease causing blindness in China. With Fusarium species being the most commonly identified pathogens, fungal keratitis is the leading cause of severe infectious corneal ulcers in Shandong peninsula of China.

Comparison of anterior section parameters using anterior segment optical coherence tomography and ultrasound biomicroscopy in myopic patients after ICL implantation

Jing Zhang,Hui-Hui Luo,Jing Zhuang and Ke-Ming Yu — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the agreement of anterior chamber depth (ACD) and central vault measurements obtained by anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) of post surgical high myopic eyes with posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens (Visian ICL; STAAR Surgical) implantation. METHODS: Fifty-two phakic eyes of 28 high myopic patients who underwent implantable Collamer lens (ICL) surgery for the correction of high myopia were studied. The postoperative ACD, the distance between the corneal endothelium and the anterior surface of ICL (cornea-ICL) and the central vault were measured with the AS-OCT system and the UBM system. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Bland-Altman plot were used to evaluate the repeatability and agreement of two devices. RESULTS: The mean ACD, cornea-ICL and central vault in the 52 phakic eyes after ICL surgery was 3.19±0.28 mm, 2.47±0.28 mm, 0.50±0.19 mm by AS-OCT and 3.13±0.25 mm, 2.49±0.25 mm, 0.44±0.19 mm by UBM, respectively. Pairwise comparison of ACD and central vault measurements showed significant differences between AS-OCT and UBM (P<0.05). However, no statistically significant difference was found between these imaging techniques in cornea-ICL (P>0.05). The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) between AS-OCT and UBM measurements for ACD, cornea-ICL and vault was 0.88, 0.80 and 0.89, respectively (P<0.001). The ICC was 0.89-0.94 for the measurements of AS-OCT and UBM. Bland-Altman analysis showed the 95% limits of agreement of ACD, cornea-ICL, central vault measurements between these two devices were -0.20 to 0.32 mm, -0.36 to 0.32 mm and -0.12 to 0.24 mm, respectively. CONCLUSION: Central ACD and vault measurements using AS-OCT demonstrated a slight significantly higher value than using UBM in phakic eyes after ICL surgery. These two devices should not be used interchangeably for measurements of central ACD and vault in patients after phakic intraocular lens implantation.

Management strategies in malignant glaucoma secondary to antiglaucoma surgery

Zuo-Hong Wu,Yu-Hong Wang and Ying Liu — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the outcomes of various interventions for malignant glaucoma (MG). METHODS: A retrospective, comparative analysis of case series were performed on 38 eyes of 35 MG patients treated in Aier Eye Hospital of Wuhan between Jan. 2009 and Dec. 2012. Numerous treatments were administered including medical therapy, neodymium: yttrium- aluminium-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy and hyaloidotomy as well as 3 surgical options. The characteristic, treatment option and outcome of MG in every individual patient were reviewed and analyzed among all patients who were followed up for an average of 27.1±9.1mo. RESULTS: Four eyes of 3 patients achieved complete resolution with medical therapy. Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy and hyaloidotomy were performed on 2 eyes, both of which achieved resolution after initial intervention. Thirty-two eyes were given surgical treatments with anterior vitrectomy- reformation of anterior chamber in 13 eyes, phacoemulsification- intraocular lens implantation in 10 eyes and phacoemulsification- intraocular lens implantation- anterior vitrectomy in 9 eyes. Resolution of MG was seen in almost all patients. The mean intraocular pressure decreased from 41.87±9.44 mm Hg at presentation to 15.84±3.73 mm Hg at the last visit. The mean anterior chamber depth improved from 0.28±0.27 mm to 2.28±0.19 mm. Twenty eyes with preoperative visual acuity better than counting figure/ 50 cm had various visual improvements. Complications occurred in 3 eyes of 3 patients including bleeding at the entry site of vitrectomy into vitreous cavity, corneal endothelial decompensation and allergic to atropine respectively. CONCLUSION: MG occurs as a result of multiple mechanisms involved simultaneously or sequentially.Medical therapy is advocated as the initial treatment, laser therapy is beneficial in pseudophakic eyes, and different surgical regimen is recommended based on different pathogenesis of MG when non-response occurs to nonsurgical management. MG can be managed successfully by appropriate and timely interventions with good visual outcome.

Bimatoprost/timolol fixed combination (BTFC) in patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension in Greece

Tryfon G. Rotsos,Vasso G. Kliafa,Kevin J. Asher and Dimitrios Papaconstantinou — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of the fixed combination of bimatoprost 0.03% and timolol 0.5% (BTFC) in patients in Greece with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT) whose previous therapy provided insufficient lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP). METHODS: A multicenter, prospective, open-label, non-interventional, observational study of the use of BTFC in clinical practice was conducted at 41 sites in Greece. The primary endpoint was the reduction in IOP from baseline at study end, approximately 12wk after initiation of BTFC therapy. RESULTS: A total of 785 eligible patients were enrolled in the study and 97.6% completed the study. The mean±SD IOP reduction from baseline at 12wk after initiation of BTFC was 6.3±2.8 mm Hg (n=764; P<0.001). In patients (n=680) who replaced their previous IOP-lowering monotherapy (a single drug, or a fixed combination of 2 drugs in a single ophthalmic drop) with once-daily BTFC, the mean±SD IOP reduction from baseline at 12wk was 6.2±2.8 mm Hg (P<0.001). IOP was reduced from baseline in 99.2% of patients, and 58.0% of patients reached or exceeded their target IOP. Substantial mean IOP reductions were observed regardless of the previous therapy. BTFC was well tolerated, with 96.0% of patients who completed the study rating the tolerability of BTFC as “good” or “very good.” Adverse events were reported in 8.3% of patients; only 0.6% of patients discontinued the study due to adverse events. CONCLUSION: In clinical practice in Greece, BTFC is well tolerated and effectively lower the IOP in patients with POAG or OHT who requires additional IOP lowering on their previous therapy.

Comparison of intraocular pressure measurements with different contact tonometers in young healthy persons

Saulius Galgauskas,Rasa Strupaite,Ernesta Strelkauskaite and Rimvydas Asoklis — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the correlation of Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT), I-Care tonometer and Tono-Pen tonometer results in young healthy persons, and to investigate the influence of central corneal thickness (CCT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements recorded with these tonometers. METHODS: We conducted a pilot clinical study in 78 eyes of 78 subjects aged 22-28 years old (44 women and 34 men; mean age 23.8±1.19y). IOP was measured using GAT, I-Care and Tono-Pen tonometers, followed by measurements of CCT. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0. RESULTS: The mean IOPs and standard deviation (±SD) for GAT, I-Care and Tono-Pen were 15.62±2.281 mm Hg, 16.29±2.726 mm Hg and 16.32±2.393 mm Hg, respectively. The mean CCT was 555.15±29.648 μm. Clear positive correlations between GAT and I-Care, GAT and Tono-Pen, and I-Care and Tono-Pen tonometers were found (r=0.867, P<0.001; r=0.861, P<0.001; r=0.915, P<0.001, respectively). In comparison between devices, Bland–Altman analysis showed a significant mean difference (MD) in the measurements by GAT and I-Care of ?0.679 mm Hg and by GAT and Tono-Pen of ?0.705 mm Hg ( P<0.001), but there was no significant difference between I-Care and Tono-Pen ( P>0.05). Both non-gold standard tonometers were affected by CCT; that is, both I-Care and Tono-Pen tonometer values were significantly higher with higher CCT means (>555 μm; MD=?1.282, P<0.001; MD=?0.949, P<0.001, respectively) compared with GAT. CONCLUSION: Both I-Care and Tono-Pen tonometers overestimated IOP compared with the GAT values. Either the I-Care or Tono-Pen tonometer could be used instead of GAT because there was no significant difference between their results. Higher CCT values (>555 μm) were associated with overestimated IOP values.

Macular edema after cataract surgery in diabetic eyes evaluated by optical coherence tomography

Xiao-Yong Chen,Wen-Jun Song,Hong-Yuan Cai and Lin Zhao — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To assess quantitative changes of the macula in diabetic eyes after cataract surgery using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and to estimate the incidence of development or worsening of macular edema (ME) in diabetic eyes with or without pre-existing ME. METHODS: In this prospective, observational study, 92 eyes of 60 diabetic patients who underwent cataract surgery were evaluated before surgery and 1, 3mo after surgery using OCT. Macular thickness was measured with OCT at nine macular subfields defined by the 9 zones early treatment of diabetic retinopathy study (ETDRS), as well as total macular volume obtained by OCT at 1, 3mo after surgery were compared with baseline features obtained before surgery. In addition, the incidence of development or worsening of ME was analyzed in diabetic eyes with or without pre-existing ME. RESULTS: The central subfield mean thickness increased 21.0 μm and 25.5 μm at 1, 3mo follow-up, respectively (P<0.01). The average thickness of inner ring and outer ring increased 14.2 μm and 9.5 μm at 1mo, 18.2 μm and 12.9 μm at 3mo. Central-involved ME developed in 12 eyes at 3mo, including 4 eyes with pre-existing central-involved and 8 eyes with pre-existing non-central involved ME. Pre-existing diabetic macular edema (DME) was significantly associated with central-involved ME development (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: A statistically significant increase could be detected in the central subfield as well as perifoveal and parafoveal sectors though the increase was mild. And eyes with pre-operative DME prior to cataract surgery are at higher risk for developing central-involved ME.

Predictors of short-term outcomes related to central subfield foveal thickness after intravitreal bevacizumab for macular edema due to central retinal vein occlusion

Mei-Zi Wang,Kang Feng,Yao Lu,Fang Qian,Xin-Rong Lu,Si-Wen Zang and Lin Zhao — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the predictive factors for short-term effects of intravitreal bevacizumab injections on central subfield foveal thickness (CSFT) in patients with macular edema (ME) secondary to central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). METHODS: This was a retrospective study in 60 eyes treated with intravitreal bevacizumab injections for ME due to CRVO. Follow-up was three months. The Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) score and CSFT measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were used to observe the changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Baseline BCVA, CSFT, age, CRVO duration and the presence of cystoid macular edema (CME) or subretinal fluid (SRF) were analyzed as potential predictive factors of the effects of intravitreal bevacizumab injections. RESULTS: BCVA improved from 0.9 logMAR at baseline to 0.6 logMAR at 3mo, which was associated with a significant reduction in CSFT from 721 µm to 392 μm 3mo after injection. About 50% of CME cases and more than 90% of SRF cases responded to treatment with a complete resolution at 3mo. Age (P=0.036) and low baseline CSFT (P=0.037) were associated with a good 3-month prognosis. Patients >60 years old achieved better CME resolution (P=0.031) and lower CSFT at 3mo (305 μm vs 474 μm, P=0.003). CONCLUSION: Intravitreal bevacizumab significantly improved visual acuity and CSFT in patients with CRVO after 3mo. Older age and lower baseline CSFT were good predictors of short-term CSFT outcomes. The retinal thickness response to bevacizumab might depend on the resolution of CME rather than SRF.

Reflectivity and thickness analysis of epiretinal membranes using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

Ajay E. Kuriyan,Delia Cabrera DeBuc and William E. Smiddy — 2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To compare thickness and reflectivity spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) findings in patients with idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs), before and after ERM peeling surgery, with normal controls. METHODS: A retrospective study analyzed SD-OCTs of eyes with ERMs undergoing ERM peeling surgery by one surgeon from 2008 to 2010 and normal control eyes. SD-OCTs were analyzed using a customized algorithm to measure reflectivity and thickness. The relationship between the SD-OCT findings and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) outcomes was also studied. RESULTS: Thirty-four ERM eyes and 12 normal eyes were identified. Preoperative eyes had high reflectivity and thickness of the group of layers from the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the group of layers from the ILM to the external limiting membrane (ELM). The values of reflectivity of these two groups of layers decreased postoperatively, but were still higher than normal eyes. In contrast, preoperative eyes had lower reflectivity of two 10×15 pixel regions of interest (ROIs) incorporating: 1) ELM + outer nuclear layer (ONL) and 2) photoreceptor layer (PRL) + RPE, compared to controls. The values of reflectivity of these ROIs increased postoperatively, but were still lower than normal controls. A larger improvement in BCVA postoperatively was correlated with a greater degree of abnormal preoperative reflectivity and thickness findings. CONCLUSION: Quantitative differences in reflectivity and thickness between preoperative, postoperative, and normal SD-OCTs allow assessment of changes in the retina secondary to ERM. Our study identified hyperreflective inner retina changes and hyporeflective outer retina changes in patients with ERMs. SD-OCT quantitative measures of reflectivity and/or thickness of specific groups of retinal layers and/or ROIs correlate with improvement in BCVA.

Study of retinal vessel oxygen saturation in ischemic and non-ischemic branch retinal vein occlusion

2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To explore how oxygen saturation in retinal blood vessels is altered in ischemic and non-ischemic branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). METHODS: Fifty BRVO eyes were divided into ischemic (n=26) and non-ischemic (n=24) groups, based on fundus fluorescein angiography. Healthy individuals (n=52 and n=48, respectively) were also recruited as controls for the two groups. The mean oxygen saturations of the occluded vessels and central vessels were measured by oximetry in the BRVO and control groups. RESULTS: In the ischemic BRVO group, the occluded arterioles oxygen saturation (SaO2-A, 106.0%±14.3%), instead of the occluded venule oxygen saturation (SaO2-V, 60.8%±9.4%), showed increases when compared with those in the same quadrant vessels (SaO2-A, 86.1%±16.5%) in the contralateral eyes (P<0.05). The oxygen saturations of the central vessels showed similar trends with those of the occluded vessels. In the non-ischemic BRVO group, the occluded and central SaO2-V and SaO2-A showed no significant changes. In both the ischemic and non-ischemic BRVOs, the central SaO2-A was significantly increased when compared to healthy individuals. CONCLUSION: Obvious changes in the occluded and central SaO2-A were found in the ischemic BRVO group, indicating that disorders of oxygen metabolism in the arterioles may participate in the pathogenesis of ischemic BRVO.

Visual outcome after removal of silicone oil in patients undergoing retinectomy for complex retinal detachment

2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the functional outcome after removal of silicone oil (ROSO) in patients undergoing retinectomy for complex retinal detachment. METHODS: We performed a retrospective case note review of patients who underwent ROSO after retinectomy for complex retinal detachment. Patients with less than 6mo follow up and recurrent retinal detachment following ROSO were excluded. RESULTS: Thirty-six patients were included. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) pre-ROSO was 1.13 logMAR (SD 0.5). The mean BCVA 3mo following ROSO was 1.16 logMAR (SD 0.53), 6mo following ROSO 1.13 (SD 0.63), and 12mo following ROSO 1.18 (SD 0.69). At 12mo after ROSO, the BCVA improved in 38.9% of patients, remained unchanged in 25%, and deteriorated in 36.1%, although there was no statistical significant difference in BCVA after ROSO at 3, 6 and 12mo (P=0.93). The size of retinectomy ranged from 15° to 270° (SD 53) and did not influence the visual outcome (P=0.11). CONCLUSION: There was no statistically significanT difference in BCVA between pre- and post- ROSO following retinectomy for complex retinal detachment. There was no statistical difference in visual outcome related to the size of the retinectomy.

C-reactive protein and diabetic retinopathy in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the relationship between C-reactive protein (CRP) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) in a cohort of Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS: Community-based observational cohort study. There were 1131 participants recruited from November 2009 to September 2011 in Desheng community in urban Beijing. Patients diagnosed T2DM were recruited and underwent a standardized evaluation consisting of a questionnaire, ocular and anthropometric examinations and laboratory investigation. The presence and severity of DR were assessed by seven fields 30° color fundus photographs. Subjects were then classified into groups with no DR, any DR, or vision-threatening DR. CRP was analyzed from serum of study subjects. RESULTS: A total of 1007 patients with T2DM were included for analysis, including 408 (40.5%) men and 599 (59.5%) women. The median CRP level was 1.5 mg/L for women and 1.1 mg/L for men (P=0.004, OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.18-0.74). After adjusting for possible covariates, higher levels of CRP were associated with lower prevalence of any DR (P=0.02, OR 0.55, 95% CI 0.35-0.89), but not associated with vision-threatening DR (P=0.62, OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.28-2.14). After stratification by sex, the inverse association between CRP and DR was found to be statistically significant in men (P=0.006, OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.16-0.73), but not in women (P=0.58, OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.29-1.16). CONCLUSION: The data drawn from a Chinese population with T2DM suggest that increasing CRP levels may be inversely associated with development of DR.

Comparison of Snellen and Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study charts using a computer simulation

2015/12/29 0:00:00
AIM: To compare accuracy, reproducibility and test duration for the Snellen and the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) charts, two main tools used to measure visual acuity (VA). METHODS: A computer simulation was programmed to run multiple virtual patients, each with a unique set of assigned parameters, including VA, false-positive and false-negative error values. For each virtual patient, assigned VA was randomly chosen along a continuous scale spanning the range between 1.0 to 0.0 logMAR units (equivalent to 20/200 to 20/20). Each of 30 000 virtual patients were run ten times on each of the two VA charts. RESULTS: Average test duration (expressed as the total number of characters presented during the test ±SD) was 12.6±11.1 and 31.2±14.7 characters, for the Snellen and ETDRS, respectively. Accuracy, defined as the absolute difference (± SD) between the assigned VA and the measured VA, expressed in logMAR units, was superior in the ETDRS charts: 0.12±0.14 and 0.08±0.08, for the Snellen and ETDRS charts, respectively. Reproducibility, expressed as test-retest variability, was superior in the ETDRS charts: 0.23±0.17 and 0.11±0.09 logMAR units, for the Snellen and ETDRS charts, respectively. CONCLUSION: A comparison of true (assigned) VA to measured VA, demonstrated, on average, better accuracy and reproducibility of the ETDRS chart, but at the penalty of significantly longer test duration. These differences were most pronounced in the low VA range. The reproducibility using a simulation approach is in line with reproducibility values found in several clinical studies.

Changes of meibomian glands in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Tao Yu, Wei-Yun Shi, Ai-Ping Song, Yang Gao, Guang-Fu Dang and Gang Ding — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the morphological changes of meibomian glands in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). METHODS: Of 118 eyes (118 patients) with type 2 DM (DM group) and 100 eyes of 100 control subjects (control group) were enrolled. After completing an ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, the non-invasive tear film break-up time (NI-BUT) and the structure of the meibomian glands (MGs, meibography) were assessed by the Keratograph 5M system. Partial or complete loss of MG was scored for each eyelid from grade 0 (no loss) to grade 3 (lost area was >2/3 of the total MG area), which were also examined by laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM). The primary outcomes were meibomian gland acinar unit density (MGAUD), meibomian gland acinar longest diameter (MGALD) and meibomian gland acinar shortest diameter (MGASD). RESULTS: Compared with control group, the OSDI was significantly higher in DM group (Z=-5.916; P<0.001), while the NI-BUT was significantly lower (Z=-7.765; P<0.001). Keratograph showed that there were more MGs dropout in DM group than that in control group. The meiboscore was significantly higher in DM group compared with control group (Z=-3.937; P<0.001). LSCM revealed that there were cytological alterations of MGs in DM group compared with control group, which included enlargement of MG acinar units and decreased in density of MG acinar units. Specifically, there were lower MGAUD, larger MGALD and MGASD in DM group than control group (Z=-10.120, -9.4442, -7.771; P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Compared with the normal control participants, the patients with type 2 DM had more unstable tear films and severe symptoms of dry eye. Using Keratograph 5M system and LSCM, we found that the patients with type 2 DM had more significant morphological and cytological changes and dysfunction in MGs.

Cosmetic evaluation of surgical scars after external dacryocystorhinostomy

2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the surgical scars of external dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) cosmetically. METHODS: Totally 50 consecutive cases of primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (PANDO) were included in the study. Surgical scars were assessed by the patients and two independent observers at 2, 6 and 12wk postoperatively on the basis of visibility of the scars and still photographs respectively and were graded from 0-3. Kappa test was utilised to check the agreement of scar grading between the two observers. Wilcoxan signed ranks test was used to analyse the improvement of scar grading. RESULTS: Thirty-four (68%) patients graded their incision site as very visible (grade 3) at 2wk. At 6 and 12wk, incision site was observed as grade 3 by 7 (14%) and 1 (2%) patients respectively. Photographic evaluation of patients by 2 observers showed an average score of 2.75, 1.94 and 0.94 at 2, 6 and 12wk respectively. Change in scar grading from grade 3 to grade 0 in consecutive follow-up (2, 6 and 12wk) was found to be highly significant both for the patient as well for the observers (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The external DCR is a highly effective and safe procedure and in view of low percentage of cases who complained of marked scarring in the present study, thus scarring should not be the main ground for deciding the approach to DCR surgery, even in young cosmetically conscious patients.

Etiology, diagnosis, management and outcomes of epiphora referrals to an oculoplastic practice

Guang-Lin Shen, John D. Ng and Xiao-Ping Ma — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the etiology, diagnosis, management and outcome of epiphora referrals to an oculoplastic practice. METHODS: Retrospective chart review of patients referred for epiphora to an oculoplastic clinic between 2005 and 2009. Patient demographics, past history, ophthalmic examination, treatment and outcome were analyzed. RESULTS: There were 237 subjects with a primary complaint of epiphora. They included 130 (55%) females and 107 (45%) males with an average age of 55.9±25.9y. The most common cause of epiphora was lacrimal obstruction (46%); followed by multifactorial epiphora (22%), reflex tearing (22%) and eyelid malposition (11%). Differences in prevalence of etiology were noted in terms of age and gender distribution. Of the 182 (77%) patients who returned for follow up, 41 (23%) reported a complete resolution and 102 (56%) reported a significant improvement in their symptoms. CONCLUSION: Epiphora is a common condition with many causes. A thorough history and examination are required to provide the appropriate treatment tailored to the underlying cause.

Preoperative evaluation and outcome of corneal transplantation for limbal dermoids: a ten-year follow-up study

Meng Xin, Yue-Rong Gong, Shan-Hao Jiang, Chun-Hua Dai, Su-Xia Li and Wei-Yun Shi — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To summarize preoperative evaluation and outcome of corneal transplantation for limbal dermoids for ten years. METHODS: Eighty-five patients diagnosed with limbal dermoids and treated with corneal transplantation were analyzed retrospectively. All patients were further divided into two groups according to absence or presence of neovascularization surrounding the dermoids in the corneal stroma. Eighty-two eyes were treated with tumor excision combined with partial lamellar sclerokeratoplasty, and the other three eyes were performed by penetrating keratoplasty. The size and location of the tumor, the associated ocular and systemic anomalies, the depth of the corneal penetration of tumor tissues, the preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), graft survival and cosmetic outcome, and surgical complications were recorded respectively. RESULTS: The average age at surgery was 5.3y (range, 3mo-36y). The mean size of dermoids was 6.1±1.6 mm. The 43.5% of eyes (37/85) were present with hair at the surface of the dermoid and 72.9% of dermoids were located inferotemporal of the eye. Amplyopia was present in 34.1% of patients (29/85) and 9.4% of patients (8/85) had lipodermoids. Eighteen patients suffered from Goldenhar’s syndrome with an accessory ear. The 75% of patients in group 1 had involvement of the corneal deep stroma down to Descemet’s membrane without involving it, but 71.4% of patients had Descemet’s membrane involvement in group 2. Preoperative BCVA ranged from counting fingers to 20/20. Postoperatively 81.1% had a BCVA of 20/800 or better. There was no significant difference between the post-surgical BCVA of the two groups (t=1.584, P>0.05). The grafts of 70.5% patients were present as 1+ opacity, 21.1% as 2+ opacity, 8.2% as 3+ opacity and none as 4+ opacity. Surgical complications included graft rejection, microperforation, prolonged reepithelialization, steroid glaucoma, interface neovascularization, and interface hemorrhage. CONCLUSION: The dermoids with neovascularization surrounding them in the corneal stroma invaded deeper tissues in the cornea than those with no neovascularization surrounding them in the corneal stroma. Therefore, surgeons should take care to avoid corneal perforation during the corneal transplantation operation. The majority of patients markedly improved their cosmetic appearance after surgery.

Application of optical coherence tomography angiography in assessment of posterior scleral reinforcement for pathologic myopia

Jing Mo, An-Li Duan, Szy-Yann Chan, Xue-Fei Wang and Wen-Bin Wei — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR) on circulation of pathologic myopia eyes with posterior staphyloma by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). METHODS: The study included 30 pathologic myopia eyes with posterior staphyloma which underwent PSR (PSR group) for 6 to 18mo ago, and 30 age and myopia matched eyes without PSR surgery as control group. Macular, choriocapillaris and radial peripapillary capillary (RPC) flow density were measured by OCTA, and the measurements were compared between groups. RESULTS: OCTA found no significant differences in macular flow density between PSR and control groups. For the superficial flow, whole enface flow density (WED), fovea density (FD), and parafoveal density (PD) were 46.55%±5.19% vs 47.29%±4.12% (P=0.542), 31.45%±6.35% vs 31.17%±4.48% (P=0.841), and 48.82%±5.66% vs 49.21%±4.15% (P=0.756) in PSR and control groups, respectively. For the deep flow, WED, FD, and PD were 52.07%±5.78% vs 53.95%±4.62% (P=0.168), 29.62%±6.55% vs 29.50%±6.38% (P=0.940), and 56.93%±6.17% vs 58.15%±5.13% (P=0.407) in PSR and control groups, respectively. The choriocapillary flow density was 61.18±3.25% in PSR group vs 60.88%±2.56% in control group (P=0.692). Also, OCTA found no significant differences in RPCs flow density between PSR and control groups. The optic disc WED, inside disc flow density and peripapillary flow density were 48.47%±4.77% vs 48.11%±4.57% (P=0.813), 45.47%±11.44% vs 46.68%±9.02% (P=0.709), 54.32%±5.29% vs 52.47%±6.62% (P=0.349) in PSR and control groups, respectively. CONCLUSION: OCTA provides a non-invasive and quantitative approach for monitoring macular and papillary blood flow in pathologic myopia. PSR can not improve but may maintain the circulation of pathologic myopia eyes with posterior staphyloma.

Combination of Toric and multifocal intraocular lens implantation in bilateral cataract patients with unilateral astigmatism

Jing-Li Liang, Fang Tian, Hong Zhang and He Teng — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the binocular visual function in bilateral cataract patients with unilateral astigmatism after combined implantations of Toric with multifocal intraocular lens (IOL), and to compare with that of Toric and monofocal IOL implantation. METHODS: All the 30 patients with unilateral astigmatism suffered bilateral cataract were randomly divided into two groups: Toric plus multifocal IOL group and Toric plus monofocal IOL group. Uncorrected and corrected visual acuity at distance (5.0 m), intermediate distance (0.6 m), and near (0.33 m), contrast sensitivity, and stereopsis were assessed 6mo after surgery. Patients were also surveyed for visual disturbances and spectacle dependence. RESULTS: Binocular uncorrected visual acuity (LogMAR) of Toric/multifocal IOL eyes at distance, intermediate, near were 0.05±0.05, 0.24±0.10, and 0.14±0.06 respectively. The values of Toric plus monofocal IOL eyes were 0.06±0.07, 0.26±0.08, and 0.37±0.10 respectively. These values did not indicate significant differences between two groups with exception of near visual acuity. In the photopic condition (with or without glare), the contrast sensitivity of multifocal IOL eyes was significant lower than the monofocal IOL eyes in 18 cpd. In the mesopic condition, the contrast sensitivity of multifocal group was significant lower than monofocal group in 12 cpd, and in mesopic glare condition, this significant difference was found both in 6 cpd and 12 cpd. The stereopsis of Toric/multifocal IOL eyes decreased slightly (100±80 seconds of arc, t=2.222, P=0.136). Mean near vision for patient satisfaction was statistically significantly higher in Toric/multifocal IOL group patients versus than that in Toric/monofocal IOL group (80% vs 25.5%, P=0.000). Visual disturbance was not noticed in either group. CONCLUSION: Although the combination of Toric and multifocal IOL implantation results in compromising stereoacuity, it can still provide patients with high levels of spectacle freedom and good overall binocular visual acuity.

Panretinal photocoagulation versus panretinal photocoagulation plus intravitreal bevacizumab for high-risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy

2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effects of panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) compared with PRP plus intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) in patients with high-risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) according to the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study criteria. METHODS: The data were collected retrospectively from the eyes of high-risk PDR patients, which were divided into two groups. After treated with standard PRP, the eyes were randomly assigned to receive only PRP (PRP group) or PRP plus intravitreal injection of 1.25 mg of bevacizumab (PRP-Plus group). Patients underwent complete ophthalmic evaluation, including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and new vessel size in fluorescein angiography (FA) and optical coherence tomography for the assessment of central subfield macular thickness (CSMT) at baseline and at weeks 12 (±2), 16 (±2), 24 (±2) and 48 (±2). Main outcome measures also included vitreous clear-up time and neovascularization on the disc (NVD) regression time. Adverse events associated with intravitreal injection were investigated. RESULTS: Thirty consecutive patients (n=36 eyes) completed the 48-week follow-up. There was no significant difference between the PRP and PRP-Plus groups with respect to age, gender, type or duration of diabetes, area of fluorescein leakage from active neovascularizations (NVs), BCVA or CSMT at baseline. The mean vitreous clear-up time was 12.1±3.4wk after PRP and 8.4±3.5wk after PRP combined with IVB. The mean time interval from treatment to complete NVD regression on FA examination was 15.2±3.5wk in PRP group and 12.5±3.1wk in PRP-Plus group. No significant difference in CSMT was observed between the groups throughout the study period. However, the total area of actively leaking NVs was significantly reduced in the PRP-Plus group compared with the PRP group (P<0.05). Patients received an average of 1.3 injections (range: 1-2). Ten eyes (27.8%) underwent 2 injections. Two eyes had ocular complication of PDR progression to dense vitreous hemorrhage (VH). No major adverse events were identified. CONCLUSION: The adjunctive use of IVB with PRP is associated with a greater reduction in the area of active leaking NVs than PRP alone in patients with high-risk PDR. Short-term results suggest combined IVB and PRP achieved rapid clearance of VH and regression of retinal NV in the treatment of high-risk PDR. Further studies are needed to determine the effect of repeated intravitreal bevacizumab injections and the proper number of bevacizumab injections as an adjuvant.

Evaluation of fundus autofluorescence patterns in age-related macular degeneration

2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To study the various morphological patterns of fundus autofluorescence (FAF) images in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in Indian population. METHODS: Totally 179 eyes of 104 patients with clinical diagnosis of AMD were recruited into the study. Autofluorescence images were captured using confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope and the patterns of FAF were classified. RESULTS: Of 179 eyes, 27 (15.08%) were early AMD, 58 (32.41%) were intermediate AMD, 94 eyes (52.51%) were late AMD. Of 94 eyes with late AMD, 79 (84.04%) were neovascular AMD and 15 (15.96%) were central geographic atrophy. In eyes with early and intermediate AMD, 9 patterns of FAF were noted. Six patterns (normal, minimal change, focal increased, patchy increased, linear, reticular) were similar to that in the published classification. Two patterns (lacelike and speckled) described in the published classification were not found. Three new patterns (focal hypo-fluorescence, patchy hypo-fluorescence, mixed focal hypo-fluorescence and hyper-fluorescence) were detected. In eyes with neovascular AMD, 6 morphological patterns of FAF were noted. Two patterns (mixed hypo-fluorescence and hyper-fluorescence, central hypo-fluorescence with hyper-fluorescent rim) were similar to that in published classification. Two patterns (normal, near normal or normal background fluorescence in the centre of hypo-fluorescent area) described in the published classification were not found. Four new patterns (minimal change, hypo-fluorescent patch, central hypo-fluorescence with surrounding reticular, bull’s eye) were recognized. In eye with central geographic atrophy 5 morphological patterns were noted and these were similar to that in published classification. CONCLUSION: Phenotypic differences in the pattern of FAF exist in the study population compared to existing classification systems.

Effect of incision types for Artisan phakic intraocular lens implantation on ocular higher order aberrations

Young Min Park, Bong Joon Choi and Jong Soo Lee — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of incision types for Artisan phakic intraocular lens (PIOL) implantation on ocular higher-order aberrations (HOAs). METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of the patients who had undergone Artisan PIOL implantation for the correction of myopia and followed up for at least 6mo. Patients are classified into 2 groups considering the incision type: cornea group with patients undergone clear corneal incision; sclera group with patients undergone sclera tunnel incision. All patients with postoperative astigmatism of under 1 diopter (D) were included to minimize the effect of residual astigmatism on postoperative HOAs. Visual acuity, special equivalents, astigmatism, predictability (±1 D from target refraction), HOAs (coma, trefoil, spherical aberration), and corneal endothelial counts were analyzed preoperatively and 6mo postoperatively. RESULTS: At the postoperative 6mo, all patients of both groups achieved uncorrected visual acuity of 16/20 or better, and significantly decreased the spherical equivalents compared with preoperative values. The predictability of refractive correction was 96% in the former, and 94% in the latter. Unlike the sclera group, preoperative astigmatism decreased significantly in cornea group at postoperative 6mo. The HOAs increased significantly at postoperative 6mo compared to the preoperative values in both groups, and the root mean square (RMS) total and trefoil wavefront aberration of cornea group were significantly higher than those of sclera group. CONCLUSION: Although corneal incision significantly reduces preexisting astigmatism, the postoperative 6mo of total RMS and trefoil aberration change may deteriorate the visual quality after Artisan PIOL implantation.

Phakic posterior chamber intraocular lens for unilateral high myopic amblyopia in Chinese pediatric patients

Jing Zhang, Jin-Rong Li, Zi-Dong Chen, Min-Bin Yu and Ke-Ming Yu — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the outcomes of posterior chamber implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation in Chinese pediatric patients with unilateral high myopic amblyopia. METHODS: Eleven eyes of 11 amblyopic patients aged 11.02±3.34y underwent ICL (model V4, Staar Surgical Inc.) implantation to treat unilateral anisometropia were studied. Visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, contrast sensitivity, stereopsis, intraocular pressure (IOP), vaulting, corneal endothelial cell count and complications were evaluated. Patients completed follow-up at 3d, 1, 3mo and the last follow-up time (mean 8.18±2.82mo) after surgery. RESULTS: The mean myopic anisometropia was -13.70±3.25 D preoperatively and +0.69±2.63 D at 8mo postoperatively. The logMAR corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) of the amblyopic eye was 1.51±0.72 preoperatively and 0.75±0.40 at 8mo postoperatively. The logMAR CDVA at 3d, 1, 3 and 8mo postoperatively improved by a mean of 0.64, 1.55, 1.82 and 2.64 lines and gained more than 2 lines accounted for 18%, 45%, 45%, 64%, respectively. The contrast sensitivity of 0.5, 1 and 2 cpd in amblyopic eyes was significantly increased after surgery. No patient had near stereopsis recovery. The vaulting at 3 and 8mo was significantly lower than that at 1mo postoperatively. No other intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed, except an acute pupillary block glaucoma happened in a patient at two weeks postoperatively. CONCLUSION: This short-term results indicate that ICL implantation can be a promising alternative therapy for high myopic anisometropic amblyopia in pediatric patients who have failed with conventional treatments and not suitable to corneal refraction surgery.

Assessment of contrast sensitivity loss after intrastromal femtosecond laser and LASIK procedure

Elsa L.C. Mai, Ie-Bin Lian and David C. K. Chang — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the loss of contrast sensitivity (CS) function for INTRACOR or intrastromal femtosecond laser presbyopia procedure to conventional LASIK procedures. METHODS: Patients were recruited from a refractive surgery center for either INTRACOR or conventional LASIK. INTRACOR was performed on 8 eyes and LASIK was performed for 40 eyes in an overlapping period. Pre-operative evaluation and post-operative follow up for up to three months was done. Drops of CS in 4 spatial frequency (3 cpd, 6 cpd, 12 cpd and 18 cpd) right before and 3mo after the surgery were compared by Wilcoxon signed ranks test. RESULTS: For INTRACOR, CS threshold showed significant drop at both glare and non-glare condition, the drop was seen in all 4 spatial frequency. The averaged loss over the 4 spatial frequencies 3mo after surgery was 1.18 for non-glare and 0.71 for glare. For LASIK the CS threshold drop was most significant in 12 cpd for glare. CONCLUSION: INTRACOR procedure produces a gain of near vision for presbyopia patients but also introduces a high lost of contrast sensitivity plus worsen of vision quality. Pre-surgical patient selection and advise should be given with specific regards to night driving and glare conditions.

Essential infantile esotropia with inferior oblique hyperfunction: long term follow-up of 6 muscles approach

2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate long term follow-up (10y) of 6 muscle surgical approach in essential infantile esotropia (EIE). METHODS: A 6 muscle approach to EIE was retrospectively evaluated in patients with inferior oblique (IO) hyperfunction and lateral rectus (LR) pseudoparalysis, who underwent surgery at different ages. Different clinical characters were analyzed pre- and postoperatively, in patients who underwent a 6 muscles approach ≤4 years of age. All patients underwent a multiple muscles approach: bilateral medial recti (MR) recession (4-5 mm), bilateral LR resection (lower than 7 mm) and bilateral IO recession and anteroposition. Of 108 children with preoperative angle ≥+30 prism diopters (PD) and IO hyperfunction were selected from larger cohort of patients (n=213, 103 females and 110 males) after excluding patients with: angle variability, who underwent reoperation and with incomplete follow up. Preoperative assessment and complete orthoptic examination were performed. Follow-up was performed 3mo, 2, 5 and 10y after surgery. Statistical analysis was performes using SAS statistical software package (version 9.1, SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). RESULTS: Ten years follow up data analysis showed the following percentage of orthotropic patients: (0 PD): 3mo, 22.2%; 2y, 16.7%; 5y, 25.0% and 10y, 27.8%. A slight, significant (P<0.01), increase of 2y follow up residual deviation was found when compared to 3mo one. Stationary surgical results is reported during time, with a trend of mean residual deviation reduction (P=0.04). CONCLUSION: Our results confirm the reliability of multiple muscles surgical approach in the treatment of patients affected by EIE with OI hyperfunction.

Incidence of orbital, conjunctival and lacrimal gland malignant tumors in USA from Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results, 1973-2009

Waleed M. Hassan, Mohamed S. Bakry, Housam M. Hassan and Ahmad S. Alfaar — 2016/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the types and incidence of tumors affecting the orbit, conjunctiva and lacrimal glands and to study the trend line of these tumors in the United States from 1973 to 2009. METHODS: We used the publicly available Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database registries to determine the incidence rates. Age was adjusted to the 2000 US Standard Population. Patients were stratified according to age group, gender, race and histological grouping of tumor lesions. Three age groups were defined: 0-19, 20-49 and ≥50y. Annual percentage changes were calculated to examine trends. RESULTS: The overall age adjusted incidence rate was 3.39 (95%CI: 3.27-3.52) per million person-years. The tumors were more prevalent in age group ≥50 counting 9.51 (95%CI: 9.11-9.92) per million person-years. Most of the soft tissue sarcomas occurred in the young age with incidence rate of 0.35 (95%CI: 0.28-0.42) per million person-years. Lymphomas were the dominant subtype in the adult population with incidence rate of 5.74 (95%CI: 5.43-6.06) per million person-years. Incidence rates were higher in males than females with an overall rate ratio of 1.31 (95%CI: 1.21-1.41) mainly caused by the increase in carcinoma subtypes. White race had a higher tumor incidence with a rate ratio of 1.47(95%CI: 1.25-1.73) driven by the higher incidence of most histological subtypes. Orbital tumors showed a higher incidence rate followed by conjunctival and lacrimal gland tumors with incidence rates of 1.59, 1.37 and 0.43 per million person-years respectively. The trend line of overall incidence of tumors showed a significant increase (APC=3.11, 95%CI: 2.61-3.61) mainly due to increase of lymphomas. This increase was higher than the increase of lymphomas at other sites. CONCLUSION: Orbital, conjunctival and lacrimal gland malignant tumors differ among children and adults. Over the years there has been a noticeable increase in incidence rates of orbital and lacrimal gland tumors mainly caused by an increase in lymphomas and an apparent increase due to advances in diagnostic techniques. ICD-O-3 topographical coding should be improved to consider the different orbital bones and ocular structures.

Corneal sensitivity, ocular surface health and tear film stability after punctal plug therapy of aqueous deficient dry eye

2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of punctal occlusion using thermosensitive (smart plug) versus silicone plug for management of aqueous deficient dry eye on corneal sensitivity, ocular surface health and tear film stability. METHODS: A comparative prospective interventional case study included 45 patients with bilateral severe form of aqueous deficient dry eye. In each patient, the smart plug was inserted in the lower punctum of the right eye which was considered as study group 1 and silicone plug was inserted in the lower punctum of the left eye of the same patient which was considered as study group 2. All patients were subjected to careful history taking and questionnaire for subjective assessment of severity of symptoms. Corneal sensitivity, corneal fluorescein, rose bengal staining, Schirmer’s I test, tear film break up time and conjunctival impression cytology were performed pre and 1, 3 and 6mo post plug insertion. RESULTS: A statistically significant improvement in subjective and objective manifestations occurred following treatment with both types of plugs (P<0.01). The thermosensitive plug caused significant overall improvement, decrease in frequency of application of tear substitutes and improvement of conjunctival impression cytology parameters in the inserted side (P<0.01). Canaliculitis was reported in two eyes (4.4%) following punctal occlusion using thermosensitive plug (study group 1). Spontaneous plug loss occurred in 21 eyes (46.6%) in the silicone plug group (study group 2). CONCLUSION: Improvement of subjective and objective manifestations of aqueous deficient dry eye occurs following punctal plug occlusion. Thermosensitive plug has good patient's compliance with fewer complications and lower rates of loss compared to the silicone plug.

Comparison of iris-fixated foldable lens and scleral-fixated foldable lens implantation in eyes with insufficient capsular support

2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the outcomes of vision using two different intraocular lens (IOL) replacement techniques, iris-fixated foldable intraocular lens (IF-IOL) and scleral-fixated foldable intraocular lens (SF-IOL) in patients with insufficient capsular support. METHODS: Total 63 eyes (62 patients) with insufficient posterior capsule support underwent replacement of IF-IOL or SF-IOL between January 2008 and August 2011. Outcome measures included changes in visual acuity, slit lamp examination, refractive indices and corneal curvatures. RESULTS: The mean improvement of uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was greater in IF-IOL group compared to the SF-IOL group (0.43 D±0.19 D vs 0.35 D±0.18 D, P<0.05). Moreover, 12 (38.71%) eyes in IF-IOL group and 4 (12.50%) in SF-IOL group had a higher postoperative UCVA than preoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) while 9 (29.03%) eyes in IF-IOL group and 18 (56.25%) in SF-IOL group had a lower postoperative UCVA than preoperative BCVA. The myopic mean manifest sphere and mean cylinder magnitude were lower in the IF-IOL group than that in the SF-IOL group (-0.47 D±0.58 D vs 0.50 D±0.43 D, P<0.01; 0.84 D±0.53 D vs 1.23 D±0.70 D, P<0.05). No difference of corneal astigmatism and surgically induced astigmatism was found between the two groups. In addition, fewer complications were observed in IF-IOL eyes. CONCLUSION: IF-IOL implantation can give a significant improvement in vision with fewer complications than SF-IOL in patients with insufficient capsular support.

Blood pressure change during phacoemulsification and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery

2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate blood pressure (BP) changes during phacoemulsification (PC) and femtosecond laser (FSL)-assisted cataract surgery. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was performed for all patients who received traditional phacoemulsification surgery (PC group) and FSL-assisted cataract surgery (FS group) from July 2013 to December 2014. Totally 206 eyes from 133 patients receiving the two types of procedures were included. Patient characteristics (age, gender, and hypertension history), pre- and post-operative BPs were collected. RESULTS: The pro-operative systolic and diastolic BPs (mm Hg) were 124.89±20.48 vs 126.98±16.85, and 71.88±9.81 vs 73.56±10.03, in PC and FS groups, respectively. While the post-operative systolic and diastolic BPs (mm Hg) were 130.13±22.59 vs 134.77±17.52, and 73.41±11.62 vs 78.89±12.2, in PC and FS groups, respectively. Paired-sample t-tests showed obvious systolic and diastolic BP elevations in FS group after surgery (P=0.001 and 0.007) and no reliability in PC group (P=0.094 and 0.359). A linear regression model revealed systolic and diastolic BP elevations, which were related to longer surgical times for FS group (P=0.008 and 0.021). Age, gender, and hypertension history were not correlated with blood pressure elevation in either group. CONCLUSION: BP increases but at a limited level after FSL-assisted cataract surgery compared to traditional phacoemulsificationKEYWORDS: cataract surgery; blood pressure; femtosecond-assisted cataract surgery; phacoemulsification

Comparison of the anti-inflammatory effects of fluorometholone 0.1% combined with levofloxacin 0.5% and tobramycin/dexamethasone eye drops after cataract surgery

Pei-Qing Chen, Xue-Mei Han, Ya-Nan Zhu and Jia Xu — 2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the combination of fluorometholone 0.1% and levofloxacin 0.5% to tobramycin/dexamethasone eye drops in controlling inflammation and preventing infection after phacoemulsification with an intraocular lens implantation. METHODS: Sixty eyes from 60 patients undergoing cataract phacoemulsification were randomized into two groups; half of the patients were treated with fluorometholone (6 times/d) combined with levofloxacin (4 times/d), while the other half were treated with tobramycin/dexamethasone (4 times/d) eye drops for one week. Preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure, aqueous flare, corneal thickness, and signs and symptoms were recorded before the operation and 1wk following treatments. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in corneal thickness (P≥0.629), aqueous flare (P≥0.398), and signs and symptoms scores (P≥0.350) at each time point. Ocular hypertension was only observed in two eyes in the tobramycin/dexamethasone group. CONCLUSION: Fluorometholone combined with levofloxacin treatment shows comparable efficacy but without the tendency to increase intraocular pressure; thus, it might be a better regimen for postoperative use.

Comparison of ICare and IOPen vs Goldmann applanation tonometry according to international standards 8612 in glaucoma patients

2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare IOPen and ICare rebound tonometry to Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) according to International Standards Organization (ISO) 8612 criteria. METHODS: Totally 191 eyes (n=107 individuals) were included. Criteria of ISO 8612 were fulfilled: 3 clusters of IOP, measured by GAT, were formed. The GAT results were given as mean±standard deviation. RESULTS: GAT (19.7±0.5 mm Hg) showed a significant correlation to ICare (19.8±0.5 mm Hg) (r=0.547, P<0.001) and IOPen (19.5±0.5 mm Hg) (r=0.526, P<0.001). According to ISO 8612 criteria in all 3 IOP groups the number of outliers (of the 95% limits of agreement) exceeded 5% for ICare and IOPen vs GAT: No.1 (n=68) 29.4% and 22.1%, No.2 (n=62) 35.5% and 37.1%, No.3 (n=61) 26.2% and 42.6%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The strict requirements of the ISO 8612 are not fulfilled in a glaucoma collective by ICare and IOPen at present. As long as the Goldmann tonometry is applicable it should be used first of all for reproducible IOP readings. ICare and IOPen tonometry should be considered as an alternative tool, if application of Goldmann tonometry is not possible.

Missed retinal breaks in rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the causes and associations of missed retinal breaks (MRBs) and posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) in patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). METHODS: Case sheets of patients undergoing vitreo retinal surgery for RRD at a tertiary eye care centre were evaluated retrospectively. Out of the 378 records screened, 253 were included for analysis of MRBs and 191 patients were included for analysis of PVD, depending on the inclusion criteria. Features of RRD and retinal breaks noted on examination were compared to the status of MRBs and PVD detected during surgery for possible associations. RESULTS: Overall, 27% patients had MRBs. Retinal holes were commonly missed in patients with lattice degeneration while missed retinal tears were associated with presence of complete PVD. Patients operated for cataract surgery were significantly associated with MRBs (P=0.033) with the odds of missing a retinal break being 1.91 as compared to patients with natural lens. Advanced proliferative vitreo retinopathy (PVR) and retinal bullae were the most common reasons for missing a retinal break during examination. PVD was present in 52% of the cases and was wrongly assessed in 16%. Retinal bullae, pseudophakia/aphakia, myopia, and horse shoe retinal tears were strongly associated with presence of PVD. Traumatic RRDs were rarely associated with PVD. CONCLUSION: Pseudophakic patients, and patients with retinal bullae or advanced PVR should be carefully screened for MRBs. Though Weiss ring is a good indicator of PVD, it may still be over diagnosed in some cases. PVD is associated with retinal bullae and pseudophakia, and inversely with traumatic RRD.

Evaluation of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness profile in thyroid ophthalmopathy without optic nerve dysfunction

Kumari Mugdha, Apjit Kaur, Neha Sinha and Sandeep Saxena — 2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness profile in patients of thyroid ophthalmopathy with no clinical signs of optic nerve dysfunction. METHODS: A prospective, case-control, observational study conducted at a tertiary care centre. Inclusion criteria consisted of patients with eyelid retraction in association with any one of: biochemical thyroid dysfunction, exophthalmos, or extraocular muscle involvement; or thyroid dysfunction in association with either exophthalmos or extra-ocular muscle involvement; or a clinical activity score (CAS)>3/7. Two measurements of RNFL thickness were done for each eye, by Cirrus HD-optical coherence tomography 6mo apart. RESULTS: Mean age of the sample was 38.75y (range 13-70y) with 18 males and 22 females. Average RNFL thickness at first visit was 92.06±12.44 µm, significantly lower than control group (101.28±6.64 µm) (P=0.0001). Thickness of inferior quadrant decreased from 118.2±21.27 µm to 115.0±22.27 µm after 6mo (P=0.02). There was no correlation between the change in CAS and RNFL thickness. CONCLUSION: Decreased RNFL thickness is an important feature of thyroid orbitopathy, which is an inherent outcome of compressive optic neuropathy of any etiology. Subclinical RNFL damage continues in the absence of clinical activity of the disease. RNFL evaluation is essential in Grave’s disease and active intervention may be warranted in the presence of significant damage.

Macular changes of neuromyelitis optica through spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

Lu Cheng, Jing Wang, Xu He, Xun Xu and Zhen-Fen Ling — 2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the thickness of the retinal layers in the macula using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). METHODS: Spectralis SD-OCT, utilizing automated macular layer segmentation, was performed in 26 NMO patients and 26 healthy controls. Visual function including visual field tests and pattern visual evoked potential were recorded in study subjects. RESULTS: Forty-one eyes from 26 NMO patients and 52 eyes from 26 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included. Besides total macular volume, peri-paipillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness, the thickness of macular RNFL, ganglion cell layer (GCL) and inner plexiform layer (IPL) were also significantly reduced in NMO patients compared to those inhealthy controls (P<0.000). No differences were found in the thickness of macular inner nuclear layer (INL), outer plexiform layer (OPL), and outer nuclear layer (ONL) between the two groups. Reversely, the outer retinal layer (ORL) was shown to be thicker in NMO than controls (P<0.05). Compared with the peri-papillary RNFL thickness, the GCL thickness was demonstrated to correlate with visual function better. CONCLUSION: The study provides in vivo evidence of retinal neural loss in NMO patients and demonstrates a better structure-function correlation between retinal ganglion cell and visual function than peri-papillary RNFL does. In addition, no evidence of primary neural damage is found. Besides, the photoreceptor cells and retinal pigments epithelial (RPE) cells presumably proliferated in compensation in NMO after retinal neural loss.

Adult reference values of the computerized diplopia test

Ling-Yun Zhou, Tie-Juan Liu and Xue-Mei Li — 2016/11/9 0:00:00
AIM: To estimate the adult reference values for measured deviations by a computerized diplopia test and testify the validity. METHODS: Totally 391 participants were recruited and taken the computerized diplopia test. The plots and amplitude of deviations were recorded. The differences in different gender, age and visual acuity groups were analyzed respectively. Of 30 subjects were enrolled to testify the interobserver reliability. Another 46 subjects (including 26 normal subjects and 20 patients) were taken the test and theirs deviations were recorded to testify the validity of the reference value. RESULTS: The max horizontal and vertical deviations were 2.55° and 0.76° with normal corrected visual acuity while 3.88° and 1.46° for subjects with poor corrected vision. The differences between age groups was insignificant (Z=3.615, 4.758; P=0.461, 0.313 for horizontal and vertical respectively). The max horizontal deviation of female was smaller than male (Z=-2.177; P=0.029)，but the difference in max vertical deviation was insignificant (Z=-1.296; P=0.195). The mean difference between observers were both -0.1°, with 95% confidence limits (CI) of -1.4° and 1.6° in max horizontal deviations while -2.1° and 1.8° in max vertical deviation. The mean deviation of 26 normal subjects was 1.02°±0.84° for horizontal and 0.47°±0.30° for vertical which both within the range of reference values. The mean deviation of 20 patients was 13.51°±11.69° for horizontal and 8.34°±8.58° for vertical which both beyond the reference range. CONCLUSION: The max amplitude of horizontal and vertical deviation is pointed as the numerical parameters of computerized diplopia test. The reference values are different between normal corrected visual acuity and poor corrected vision. These values may useful for evaluating patients with diplopia in veriety conditions during clinical practice.

Effect of femtosecond and microkeratome flaps creation on the cornea biomechanics during laser in situ keratomileusis: one year follow-up

Qian Sun, Zheng-Zheng Deng, Yue-Hua Zhou, Jing Zhang and Xiao-Yan Peng — 2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the corneal biomechanical outcomes at one year after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with the flaps created by Ziemer and Moria M2 microkeratome with 110 head and -20 blade. METHODS: Totally 100 eyes of 50 consecutive patients were enrolled in this prospective study and divided into two groups for corneal flaps created by ZiemerFemto LDV and Moria M2 microkeratome with 110 head and -20 blade. Corneal biomechanical properties including cornea resistance factor (CRF) and cornea hysteresis (CH) were measured before and 1, 3, 6, 12mo after surgery by ocular response analyzer. Central cornea thickness and corneal flap thickness were measured by optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: The ablation depth (P=0.693), residual corneal thickness (P=0.453), and postoperative corneal curvature (P=0.264) were not significant different between Ziemer group and Moria 110-20 group after surgery. The residual stromal bed thickness, corneal flap thickness, CH and CRF at 12mo after surgery were significant different between Ziemer group and Moria 110-20 group (P<0.01);Ziemer group gained better corneal biomechanical results. The CRF and CH increased gradually from 1 to 12mo after surgery in Ziemer group, increased from 1 to 6mo but decreased from 6 to 12mo in Moria 110-20 group. Both CRF and CH at one year after surgery increased with the increasing of residual cornea thickness; pre-LASIK CRF, CRF also increased with residual stromal bed thickness, while CH decreased with the increasing of pre-LASIK intraocular pressure and cornea flap thickness (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: In one year follow-up, femtosecond laser can provide better cornea flaps with stable cornea biomechanics than mechanical microkeratome.

Trabeculectomy with Ex-PRESS implant versus Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation-a comparative study

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the surgical outcomes of trabeculectomy with Ex-PRESS implant and Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation. METHODS: Patients who underwent trabeculectomy with Ex-PRESS implants or AGV implantation separately were included in this retrospective chart review. Main outcome measures were surgical failure and complications. Failure was defined as intraocular pressure (IOP) >21 mm Hg or <5 mm Hg on two consecutive visits after 3mo, reoperation for glaucoma, or loss of light perception. Eyes that had not failed were considered as complete success if they did not required supplemental medical therapy. RESULTS: A total of 64 eyes from 57 patients were included: 31 eyes in the Ex-PRESS group and 33 eyes in the AGV group. The mean follow-up time was 2.6±1.1y and 3.3±1.6y, respectively. Patients in the AGV group had significantly higher baseline mean IOP (P=0.005), lower baseline mean visual acuity (VA) (P=0.02), and higher proportion of patients with history of previous trabeculectomy (P<0.0001). Crude failure rates were 16.1%, n=5/31 in the Ex-PRESS group and 24.2%, n=8/33 in the AGV group. The cumulative proportion of failure was similar between the groups, P=0.696. The proportion of eyes that experienced postoperative complications was 32.3% in the Ex-PRESS group and 60.1% in the AGV group (P=0.0229). CONCLUSION: Trabeculectomy with Ex-PRESS implant and AGV implantation had comparable failure rates. The AGV group had more post-operative complications, but also included more complex cases with higher baseline mean IOP, worse baseline mean VA, and more previous glaucoma surgeries. Therefore, the results are limited to the cohort included in this study.

Implantable collamer lens for residual refractive error after corneal refractive surgery

Xun Chen, Xiao-Ying Wang, Xi Zhang, Zhi Chen and Xing-Tao Zhou — 2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the safety, efficacy, predictability and stability of implantable collamer lens (ICL) for residual refractive error after corneal refractive surgery. METHODS: This study evaluated 19 eyes of 12 patients who underwent ICL implantation after corneal refractive surgeries. They were followed up for 1y to 5y of uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refractive error, flat and steep K value, axial length, intraocular pressure, corneal endothelial cell density, adverse events after ICL surgery. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 39.05±19.22 mo (range, 1-5y). Spherical equivalent refractive error changed from -7.45±3.02 D preoperatively to -0.85±1.10 D 1wk to 1mo after ICL implantation, with the safety and efficacy indices being 1.12 and 1.15, respectively. A total of 52.63% of eyes were within ±0.5 D of the predicted spherical equivalents, 73.68% were within ±1.0 D. A trend of mild regression towards myopia with axial elongation after 5y was observed. One eye with mild anterior capsule opacity and retinal detachment 1y after surgery were observed. CONCLUSION: ICL implantation is safe and effective for the correction of residual refractive error after corneal refractive surgeries, especially in moderate to high residual myopia.

An eighteen-month follow-up study on the effects of Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant in diabetic macular edema refractory to anti-VEGF therapy

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of dexamethasone implants in subjects affected by diabetic macular edema (DME) resistant to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy. METHODS: Thirty-two DME patients were enrolled. A 700 microgram slow release Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant (Ozurdex®) was placed in the vitreous cavity. All patients were followed for 18mo. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measured with Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) and central macular thickness (CMT) exams were carried out at baseline (T0) and after 1 (T1), 3 (T3), 4 (T4), 6 (T6), 9 (T9), 12 (T12), 15 (T15), and 18mo (T18) post injection. RESULTS: Repeated measures ANOVA showed an effect of treatment on ETDRS (P<0.0001). Post hoc analyses revealed that ETDRS values were significantly increased at T1, T3, T4, T9, and T15 (P<0.001) as compared to baseline value (T0). At T6, T12, and T18, ETDRS values were still statistically higher than baseline (P<0.001 vs T0). However, at these time points, we observed a trend to return to baseline conditions. ANOVA also showed an effect of treatment (P<0.0001). CMT decreased significantly at T1, T3, T4, T9, and T15 (P<0.001). At T6 (P<0.01), T12 and T18 (P<0.001) CMT was also significantly lower than T0 although a trend to return to the baseline conditions was also observed. CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate that Intravitreal Dexamethasone Implant is a good option to improve BCVA and CMT in DME patients resistant to anti-VEGF therapy. Our data also show that the use of drugs administered directly into the vitreous allows achieving appropriate and long-lasting concentration at the site of disease without systemic side effects.

Association of macular pigment optical density with early stage of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Chong-Yang She, Hong Gu, Jun Xu, Xiu-Fen Yang, Xue-Tao Ren and Ning-Pu Liu — 2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To detect the association between macular pigment optical density (MPOD), which reflects the antioxidant ability of retina, and diabetic retinopathy (DR) and to investigate the correlated factors of MPOD. METHODS: Totally 435 subjects of urban Chinese were recruited to the study and divided into 3 groups: non-diabetes mellitus controls (NDM), diabetic patients without retinopathy (DWR), and patients with early stage of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR). Demographic and lifestyle characteristics were ascertained by questionnaire. A food-frequency questionnaire, general physical and ophthalmic examinations were completed for all participants. MPOD was measured by heterochromatic flicker photometry. Foveal thickness was measured by optical coherence tomography. The difference of MPOD among 3 groups was analyzed by analysis of covariance. The correlation analyses of MPOD with the candidate influence factors were assessed using the generalized estimating equations (GEE) model. RESULTS: Of the 435 participants, 34 could not perform the MPOD measurements. Final analysis included 401 subjects, including 48 were in DR group, 134 in DWR group, and 219 in NDM group. MPOD was not significantly different among DR (0.49±0.21), DWR (0.45±0.21), and NDM (0.49±0.17) groups (P=0.24) after adjustment for fasting plasma glycemia, central foveal thickness, green vegetables, Chinese wolfberry, carotene and vitamin E. For all the 401 participants included, MPOD was positively associated with central foveal thickness (E=0.0007, P=0.001), Chinese wolfberry (E=0.0345, P=0.01), and green vegetables (E=0.0596, P<0.001) intake. CONCLUSION: The data suggest that MPOD level is not statistically significantly influenced by the onset of diabetes or early stage of DR in the studied population. MPOD level is positively associated with thicker central foveal thickness and higher intake of foods containing carotenoids.

Effect of focal laser photocoagulation in eyes with mild to moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To report the effect of focal laser photocoagulation on both the severity of hard exudates (HEs) and the rate of disease progression in eyes with mild to moderate non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 33 patients (60 eyes) who had been diagnosed with mild to moderate NPDR between January 2006 and December 2012. The patients were divided into 2 groups: Group A (38 eyes in 20 patients treated using focal laser photocoagulation) and Group B (treated without laser photocoagulation). We also reviewed the best corrected visual acuity measurements, and the fundus photographs taken at both baseline and follow-up visits. RESULTS: In Group A, HE severity grade had decreased significantly from baseline to the final visit (P<0.05), but this was not the case in Group B (P=0.662). The cumulative probabilities of retinopathy progression at 5y were 26% in Group A and 30% in Group B. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed no significant difference between the groups with regard to retinopathy progression (P=0.805). CONCLUSION: Focal laser photocoagulation reduced the levels of HEs in eyes with mild to moderate NPDR. However, the treatment was not able to decelerate the progression of DR.

Clinical research of fenofibrate and spironolactone for acute central serous chorioretinopathy

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effectiveness of combined fenofibrate and spironolactone with fenofibrate alone for treatment of central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). METHODS: Totally 60 patients (60 eyes) with a history of acute CSCR were randomed into two groups: group A with combination of fenofibrate (200 mg) and spironolactone (100 mg), and group B with only fenofibrate (200 mg). They were taken half an hour before meals and once per day for 8wk. The changes of the visual acuity, subjective symptom, ocular surface disease index (OSDI), the tear film and optical coherence tomography were observed at 2, 4, 6, and 8wk before and after treatment. RESULTS: The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, logMAR) was improved to 0.22 and 0.27 after treatment from baseline of 0.35 and 0.36 in groups A and B (P<0.05), respectively. After 8wk treatment, the central subfield thickness (CST), and subretinal fluid volumn (SFV) decreased significantly to 49.5% and 78.8% in group A and 37.0% and 57.2% in group B. There were significant differences of CST and SFV in both groups (all P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Fenofibrate combined with spironolactone may have more clinical efficacy in the treatment of CSCR than fenofibrate only.

Peripapillary choroidal thickness in Chinese children using enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography

Xi-Shi Wu, Li-Jun Shen, Ru-Ru Chen and Zhe Lyu — 2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the peripapillary choroidal thickness (PPCT) in Chinese children, and to analyze the influencing factors. METHODS: PPCT was measured with enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) in 70 children (53 myopes and 17 non-myopes) aged 7 to 18y, with spherical equivalent refractive errors between 0.50 and -5.87 diopters (D). Peripapillary choroidal imaging was performed using circular scans of a diameter of 3.4 mm around the optic disc. PPCT was measured by EDI-OCT in six sectors: nasal (N), superonasal (SN), superotemporal (ST), temporal (T), inferotemporal (IT) and inferonasal (IN), as well as global RNFL thickness (G). RESULTS: The mean global PPCT was 165.49±33.76 µm. The temporal, inferonasal, inferotemporal PPCT were significantly thinner than the nasal, superonasal, superotemporal segments PPCT were significantly thinner in the myopic group at temporal, superotemporal and inferotemporal segments. The axial length was significantly associated with the average global (β= -0.419, P=0.014), superonasal (β= -2.009, P=0.049) and inferonasal (β= -2.000, P=0.049) PPCT. The other factors (gender, age, SE) were not significantly associated with PPCT. CONCLUSION: PPCT was thinner in the myopic group at temporal, superotemporal and inferotemporal segments. The axial length was found to be negatively correlated to PPCT. We need more further studies about the relationship between PPCT and myopia.

Evaluation of patients with dry eye disease for conjunctival Chlamydia trachomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticum

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the possibility of the development of dry eye disease (DED) as a result of persistent infection with Chlamydia trachomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticum in the conjunctiva of patients. METHODS: This study was conducted on 58 patients of age range 20-50y, diagnosed with DED confirmed by Schirmer I test and tear breakup time. The non-dry eye control group included 27 subjects of the same age. Ocular specimens were collected as conjunctival scrapings and swabs divided into three groups: the first used for bacterial culture, the second and third taken to detect Chlamydia trachomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticum by direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) assay and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. RESULTS: Chlamydia trachomatis was detected in 65.5% and 76% of DED patients by DFA and PCR methods respectively. Ureaplasma urealyticum was found in 44.8% of DED infected patients using the PCR method. Both organisms were identified in only 37.9% of DED patients found to be infected. Control subjects had a 22% detection rate of Chlamydia trachomatis by DFA assay versus a 7% detection rate by PCR; while Ureaplasma urealyticum was detected in 3.7% of the controls by PCR method. The conjunctival culture revealed that gram positive microorganisms represented 75% of isolates with coagulase negative Staphylococci the most common (50%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus (20%), whereas gram negative microorganisms occurred in 25% of cases, isolating Moraxella spp. as the most frequent organism. CONCLUSION: Our results tend to point out that Chlamydia trachomatis and Ureaplasma urealyticum were detected in a moderate percentage of patients with DED, and could be a fair possibility for its development. PCR is more reliable in detecting Chlamydia trachomatis than DFA technique. The presence of isolated conjunctival bacterial microflora can be of some potential value.

Bicanalicular versus monocanalicular intubation after failed probing in congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the clinical outcomes of different intubation techniques in the cases of failed primary probing. METHODS: This retrospective study was performed on 338 patients with the diagnosis of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction with age 1-4y that had failed primary probing. Intubation was performed under light sedation in operating room and the stent was left 3mo in place. Clinical outcome was investigated 3mo after tube removal. RESULTS: Bicanalicular intubation method had higher complete and relative success rates compared to monocanalicular intubation (P=0.00). In addition, Monoka intubation had better outcomes compared to Masterka technique (P=0.046). No difference was found between genders but the higher the age, the better the outcomes with bicanalicular technique rather than monocanalicular. CONCLUSION: Overall success rate of bicanalicular intubation is superior to monocanalicular technique especially in older ages. Also, based upon our clinical outcomes, Masterka intubation is not recommended in cases of failed probing.

Outcomes of endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy for intractable lacrimal dacryostenosis and associated factors

2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the effects of patient age, canalicular obstruction, mode of anesthesia, and duration of nasolacrimal intubation on the outcomes of endoscopic endonasal dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR). METHODS: Totally 56 eyes of 46 patients with prolonged epiphora underwent minimally invasive endoscopic endonasal DCR. A successful surgical outcome was defined as a significant improvement in symptoms, adequate water passage from the puncta to the nasal cavity, and patency of the DCR ostium. All outcomes were assessed at least 6mo after extubation. Fisher’s exact test was used to discuss the factors, and then the logistic regression analysis was made by SAS 9.4 software. RESULTS: The overall success rate was 75.0%, and complete resolution was observed in 27 eyes. The success rate was higher for patients with ≥6mo intubation than for those with <6mo intubation. However, there were no significant differences in outcomes between groups stratified by age (<65 or ≥65y), presence or absence of canalicular obstruction, mode of anesthesia (local or general), and use or nonuse of a radiowave unit. One patient developed subcutaneous emphysema around the eye and nose and one developed subcutaneous hemorrhage after surgery. CONCLUSION: Endoscopic endonasal DCR can be considered safe and minimally invasive with reasonable success rates, particularly when the duration of nasolacrimal intubation is ≥6mo.

Prevalence and characteristics of ophthalmological extra-intestinal manifestations in Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Ying-Chao Li, Wei-Zhi Li, Chang-Rui Wu, Yun Feng, Li Ren, Chen Mi and Yang Li — 2016/10/13 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the prevalence of ophthalmological extra-intestinal manifestations (O-EIMs) in Chinese patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and to identify risk factors for the development of O-EIMs. METHODS: The study population consisted of Chinese patients with a definite diagnosis of Crohn’s disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) in a large teaching hospital between January 1995 and December 2014. Demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were extracted retrospectively. RESULTS: In this twenty-year cohort, 645 IBD patients (517 with UC, 128 with CD) were registered. Among them 122 (18.9%) exhibited at least one EIM. Of 13 patients (2.0%) developed O-EIMs, 7 of CD (5.5%) and 6 of UC (1.2%). Clinical ophthalmological manifestations included redness (76.9%), burning (61.5%), pain (38.5%), itching (15.4%) of eyes and vision change (7.7%). O-EIMs included episcleritis (7), uveitis (5) and dry eye (1). O-EIMs were more prevalent in female (odds ratio for male 0.61, 95% confidence interval 0.52-0.73, P<0.0001), and patients who had IBD diagnosis at young age (odds ratio for patients aged >30 years 0.76, 95% confidence interval 0.65-0.88, P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The frequency of O-EIMs in Chinese patients with IBD is lower than the rates reported in the studies of European and American countries. Episcleritis and uveitis are the most common O-EIMs. O-EIMs are more frequent in patients with CD and more prevalent in female and patients who have IBD diagnosis at young age.

Effect of phacoemulsification on intraocular pressure in patients with primary open angle glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma

2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effect of phacoemulsification on intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG). METHODS: A retrospective comparative case series conducted at the Glaucoma Department at the Association to Prevent Blindness in Mexico. The study enrolled consecutive patients having phacoemulsification with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and a diagnosis of POAG or PXG. Data about IOP values and number of glaucoma medications used was collected at baseline, 1, 3, 6 and 12mo postoperatively. RESULTS: The study enrolled 88 patients (88 eyes). After phacoemulsification, there was a statistically significant reduction in IOP values and glaucoma medications use compared to baseline in both POAG and PXG patients (P<0.001). In the POAG group, a 20% decrease in IOP values was evidenced, and a 56.5% reduction in the number of medications used at the one-year follow-up. The PXG group showed a 20.39%, and a 34.46% decrease in IOP and number of medications used, respectively. A significant difference in the mean ΔIOP (postoperative changes in IOP) was evidenced between groups (P=0.005). The reduction of the postsurgical IOP mean values in both groups, the POAG group showed a greater reduction in IOP values compared to the PXG group. CONCLUSION: In both types of glaucoma, phacoemulsification cataract surgery can result in a significant IOP reduction (20%) over a 12mo follow-up period. The number of medications used is also significantly reduced up to 12mo after surgery, especially in the PXG group.

Long-term efficacy and safety of ExPress implantation for treatment of open angle glaucoma

Geun Young Lee, Chong Eun Lee, Kyoo Won Lee and Sam Seo — 2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the long-term efficacy and safety of ExPress implantation and standard trabeculectomy in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG). METHODS: In this retrospective study, we compared 17 eyes treated by ExPress implantation with 23 eyes treated by trabeculectomy. Efficacy was assessed according to the relevant intraocular pressure (IOP) values and success rates during the first year of follow-up. Postoperative corneal endothelial cell loss was also compared. RESULTS: The number of antiglaucoma medications and the IOP reduction were similar between the 2 groups during the follow-up period. Although the mean IOP was similar, the IOP-fluctuation rate during the early postoperative period was significantly lower in the ExPress group than in the trabeculectomy group (P=0.038). A Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed no significant success-rate difference between the groups (P=0.810). The corneal endothelial cell loss rate, moreover, was significantly lower in the ExPress group (P=0.05). CONCLUSION: ExPress implantation compared with trabeculectomy showed similar IOP-reduction and success rates along with lower IOP fluctuation and endothelial cell loss rates. For this reason, it can be considered to be the treatment of choice for patients with advanced glaucoma or low corneal endothelial cell density.

Influence of corneal power on circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer and optic nerve head measurements by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography

Kazunori Hirasawa and Nobuyuki Shoji — 2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the influence of corneal power on circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (cpRNFL) and optic nerve head (ONH) measurements by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). METHODS: Twenty-five eyes of 25 healthy participants (mean age 23.6±3.6y) were imaged by SD-OCT using horizontal raster scans. Disposable soft contact lenses of different powers (from ?11 to +5 diopters including 0 diopter) were worn to induce 2-diopter changes in corneal power. Differences in the cpRNFL and ONH measurements per diopter of change in corneal power were analyzed. RESULTS: As corneal power increased by 1 diopter, total and quadrant cpRNFL thicknesses, except for the nasal sector, decreased by ?0.19 to ?0.32 μm (P<0.01). Furthermore, the disc, cup, and rim areas decreased by ?0.017, ?0.007, and ?0.015 mm2, respectively (P<0.001); the cup and rim volumes decreased by ?0.0013 and ?0.006 mm3, respectively (P<0.01); and the vertical and horizontal disc diameters decreased by ?0.006 and ?0.007 mm, respectively (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: For more precise OCT imaging, the ocular magnification should be corrected by considering both the axial length and corneal power. However, the effect of corneal power changes on cpRNFL thickness and ONH topography are small when compare with those of the axial length.

Long-term outcome of highly myopic foveoschisis treated by vitrectomy with or without gas tamponade

Li-Na Yun and Yi-Qiao Xing — 2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling with or without gas tamponade for highly myopic foveoschisis. METHODS: We performed an open-label, observer-blinded clinical trial of 85 patients with myopic foveoschisis between 2000 and 2012. Patients were randomly allocated to one of two groups, those who received vitrectomy and ILM peeling without gas tamponade (no-gas group) or those who with gas tamponade (gas group) and follow up at least 5y. RESULTS: Visual acuity of gas group improved from 0.82±0.33 to 0.79±0.73 in 6mo, improved to 0.71±0.67 in 1y and within this range in the following 4y. Visual acuity of no-gas group improved from 0.81±0.46 to 0.78±0.66 in 6mo, improved to 0.70±0.65 in 1y. The finial visual acuity of two groups were significantly increased compared with the baseline (P<0.05). The visual acuity was improved in 35 of 40 eyes (87.5%) in gas group and 29 of 33 eyes (87.9%) in no-gas group, while there were no significant differences between gas group and no-gas group in the visual acuity. The foveoschisis on optical coherence tomography (OCT) completely resolved in 5 of 40 eyes in 1mo, 14 eyes in 6mo and 40 eyes in 1y in the gas group. While the foveoschisis completely resolved in 4 of 33 eyes in 1mo, 10 eyes in 6mo and 33 eyes in 1y in the no-gas group. CONCLUSION: Vitrectomy and ILM peeling without gas tamponade appears to be as effective in the treatment of myopic foveoschisis as vitrectomy and ILM with gas tamponade. However, eyes treated with no-gas tamponade showed more rapid resolution of myopic foveoschisis.

Comparative analysis of cytomegalovirus retinitis and microvascular retinopathy in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical manifestation of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis and microvascular retinopathy (MVR) in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in China. METHODS: A total of 93 consecutive patients with AIDS, including 41 cases of CMV retinitis and 52 cases of MVR were retrospectively reviewed. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) status was recorded. HIV and CMV immunoassay were also tested. CD4+ T-lymphocyte count and blood CMV-DNA test were performed in all patients. Aqueous humor CMV-DNA test was completed in 39 patients. Ophthalmological examinations including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, by International Standard Vision Chart), intraocular pressure (IOP), slit-lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy were performed. RESULTS: In MVR group, the anterior segment examination was normal in all patients with a mean BCVA of 0.93±0.13. Blood CMV-DNA was 0 (0, 269 000) and 42 patients (80.77%) did not receive HAART. In CMV retinitis group, 13 patients (31.71%) had anterior segment abnormality. The mean BCVA was 0.64±0.35 and blood CMV-DNA was 3470 (0, 1 450 000). Nineteen patients (46.34%) had not received HAART. MVR group and CMV retinitis group the positive rates of aqueous CMV-DNA were 0 and 50%, respectively. Two patients with MVR progressed to CMV retinitis during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: In comparison of CMV, patients with MVR have relatively mild visual function impairment. Careful ophthalmological examination and close follow-up are mandatory, especially for patients who have systemic complications, positive CMV-DNA test and without received HAART.

Optical coherence tomography angiography of optic disc perfusion in non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy

Jia-Wen Ling, Xue Yin, Qian-Yi Lu, Yi-Yi Chen and Pei-Rong Lu — 2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the optic disc blood flow of non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) eyes with normal eyes. METHODS: The optic disc blood flow densities of diagnosed non-acute phase NAION eyes (21 eyes, 14 individuals) and normal eyes (19 eyes, 12 individuals) were detected via Optovue optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). The optic disc blood flow was measured via Image J software. Correlations between optic disc perfusion and visual function variables were assessed by linear regression analysis. RESULTS: The average percentage of the optic disc non-perfusion areas in the non-acute phase NAION patients (17.84%±6.18%) was increased, when compared to the normal control eyes (8.61%±1.65%), and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.01). Moreover, there was a proportional correlation between the visual field mean defect (MD) and the optic disc non-perfusion area percentage, and the relationship was statistically significant (t=3.65, P<0.01, R2=0.4118). In addition, the critical correlation between the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the optic disc non-perfusion area percentage was statistically significant (t=4.32, P<0.01, R2=0.4957). CONCLUSION: The optic disc non-perfusion area percentages detected via OCTA in NAION eyes were significantly increased when compared with the normal eyes. Both the BCVA and MD were correlated with the optic disc flow detected, revealing that OCTA may be valuable in the diagnosis and estimation of NAION.

Effects of higher-order aberrations on contrast sensitivity in normal eyes of a large myopic population

2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To study the relation between higher-order aberrations (HOAs) and contrast sensitivity (CS) in normal eyes among a population of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) candidates. METHODS: In 6629 eyes of 3315 LASIK candidates, CS were measured under dark environment at the spatial frequencies of 1.5, 3, 6, 12 and 18 cycles per degree (c/d), respectively, using an Optec 6500 visual function tester. Meanwhile, ocular HOAs were measured for a 6.0 mm pupil with a Hartmann-Shack wavefront analyzer. RESULTS: In the study, the subjects with an average spherical equivalent of -4.86±2.07 D were included. HOAs decreased from the third to the sixth order aberrations with predominant aberrations of third-order coma, trefoil and fourth-order spherical aberration. At low and moderate spatial frequencies, CS was negatively correlated with the third-order coma and trefoil aberrations, and decreased with increasing Z31, but increased with increasing Z3-3 and Z5-1. At high spatial frequencies, CS decreased with increasing Z3-3 and increased with increasing Z5-1. CONCLUSION: At a large pupil size of 6.0 mm, the third-order aberrations, but not the total aberrations, are the main factors affecting CS. Vertical coma is negatively correlated with CS.

Validity of autorefractor based screening method for irregular astigmatism compared to the corneal topography- a cross sectional study

2017/9/5 0:00:00
AIM: To present a method of screening for irregular astigmatism with an autorefractor and its determinants compared to corneal topography. METHODS: This cross-sectional validity study was conducted in 2013 at an eye hospital in Spain. A tabletop autorefractor (test 1) was used to measure the refractive status of the anterior surface of the cornea at two corneal meridians of each eye. Then corneal topography (test 2) and Bogan’s classification was used to group eyes into those with regular or no astigmatism (GRI) and irregular astigmatism (GRII). Test 1 provided a single absolute value for the greatest cylinder difference (Vr). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) were plotted for the Vr values measured by test 1 for GRI and GRII eyes. On the basis a Vr value of 1.25 D as cut off, sensitivity, specificity were also calculated. RESULTS: The study sample was comprised of 260 eyes (135 patients). The prevalence of irregular astigmatism was 42% [95% confidence interval (CI): 36, 48]. Based on test 2, there were 151 eyes in GRI and 109 eyes in GRII. The median Vr was 0.75 D (25% quartile, 0.5 D) for GRI and 1.75 D (25% quartile, 1.25 D) for GRII. The area under curve was 0.171 for GRI and 0.83 for GRII. The sensitivity of test I was 78.1% and the specificity was 76.1%. CONCLUSION: A conventional autorefractor can be effective as a first level screening method to detect irregular corneal astigmatism in places where corneal topography facilities are not available.

Old canalicular laceration repair: a retrospective study of the curative effects and prognostic factors

Fang Bai,Hai Tao,Yan Zhang,Peng Wang,Cui Han,Yi-Fei Huang and Ye Tao — 2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the epidemiology and surgical outcomes of old canalicular laceration and analyze the variables impacting on the prognosis of reparation. METHODS: A retrospective review of all old canalicular laceration repairs from Jan. 1, 2008 to Dec. 30, 2015 was performed. Analyzed data included demographics, mechanisms of injury, the time from injury to repair, causes for delayed repair, old associated injuries, the types of surgery, and the effects of repair using canaliculus anastomosis combined with bicanalicular stent intubation. RESULTS: Totally 148 patients with old canalicular laceration received surgical repair and were enrolled. The mean age at presentation was 32.52 years old (ranged from 3 to 63 years old). The 110 patients (74.32%) were male and 127 patients (85.81%) were adults (≥18 years old). The old upper, lower, and bicanalicular lacerations were found in 5 (3.38%), 39 (26.35%), and 104 patients (70.27%), respectively. The mechanism of old injury was primarily due to motor vehicle accidents (n=53, 35.81%). The mean time from injury to repair was 43.61mo (ranged from 1 to 360mo). Associated old ocular and orbit injuries were found in 65 patients (43.92%), and chronic dacryocystitis in 18 patients (12.16%). The main cause of delayed repair was that doctors or patients didn’t pay attention to the canalicular laceration because of the concurrent severe injuries (n=71, 47.97%). Totally 136 patients (91.89%) with old canalicular laceration underwent canaliculus anastomosis combined with bicanalicular stent intubation. In all of them, 20 patients (13.51%) were combined with dacryocystorhinostomy. In these cases, 132 patients (97.06%) attained anatomic success, 121 patients (88.97%) reported no epiphora (functional success), 11 patients (8.09%) reported significant epiphora anesis (functional improvement), and 4 (2.94%) reported no significant anesis (functional failure). Rates of anatomic success and functional success were significantly correlated with different canaliculus involved. However, rates of anatomic success and functional success were not significantly affected by the time from injury to repair. CONCLUSION: The canalicular anastomosis combined with bicanalicular stent intubation could act as an effective therapeutics for old canalicular laceration.

Effect of human autologous serum and fetal bovine serum on human corneal epithelial cell viability, migration and proliferation in vitro

Ming-Feng Wu,Tanja Stachon,Berthold Seitz,Achim Langenbucher and Nóra Szentmáry — 2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the concentration-dependent effects of autologous serum (AS) and fetal bovine serum (FBS) on human corneal epithelial cell (HCEC) viability, migration and proliferation. METHODS: AS was prepared from 13 patients with non-healing epithelial defects Dulbecco's modified eagle medium/Ham’s F12 (DMEM/F12) with 5% FBS, 0.5% dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO), 10 ng/mL human epidermal growth factor, 1% insulin-transferrin-selenium, then were incubated in serum media: DMEM/F12 supplemented by 5%, 10%, 15% or 30% AS or FBS. HCEC viability was analyzed using cell proliferation kit XTT, migration using a wound healing assay, proliferation by the cell proliferation enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) BrdU kit. Statistical analysis was performed using the generalized linear model, the values at 30% AS or 30% FBS were used as the baselines. RESULTS: HCEC viability was the highest at 30% AS or 15% FBS and the lowest at 10% AS or 30% FBS application. HCEC migration was the quickest through 30% AS or 30% FBS and the slowest through 5% AS or 5% FBS concentrations. Proliferation was the most increased through 15% AS or 5% FBS and the least increased through 30% AS or 30% FBS concentrations. HCEC viability at 10% and 15% AS was significantly worse (P=0.001, P=0.023) compared to baseline and significantly better at 15% FBS (P=0.003) concentrations. HCEC migration was significantly worse (P≤0.007) and HCEC proliferation significantly better (P<0.001) in all concentration groups compared to baseline. CONCLUSION: For the best viability of HCEC 30% AS or 15% FBS, for HCEC migration 30% AS or 30% FBS, for proliferation 15% AS or 5% FBS should be used. Therefore, we suggest the use of 30% AS in clinical practice.

Evaluation of visual quality of spherical and aspherical intraocular lenses by Optical Quality Analysis System

Yan Chen,Xue Wang,Chuan-Di Zhou and Qiang Wu — 2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the impact of spherical and aspherical intraocular lenses on the postoperative visual quality of age-related cataract patients using Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS). METHODS: Seventy-four eyes with age-related cataracts were randomly divided into spherical and aspherical lens implantation groups. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was measured preoperatively, one day, one week, two weeks, one month and two months after surgery. A biometric systems analysis using the OQAS objective scattering index (OSI) was performed. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in visual acuity (P>0.05) before and after spherical and aspheric lens implantation. There was a negative linear correction between the OSI value and BCVA (r=-0.634, P=0.000), and positive corrections between the OSI value and the lens LOCUS III value of nucleus color (NC), nucleus opacity (NO), cortex (C) and posterior lens capsular (P) (r=0.704, P=0.000; r=0.514, P=0.000; r=0.276, P=0.020; r=0.417, P=0.000, respectively). OSI values of spherical vs aspherical lenses were 11.5±3.6 vs 11.8±3.4, 4.1±0.9 vs 3.3±0.8, 3.5±0.9 vs 2.7±0.7, 3.3±0.8 vs 2.6±0.7, 3.2±0.7 vs 2.5±0.8, and 3.2±0.8 vs 2.5±0.8 before and 1d, 1, 2wk, 1 and 2mo after surgery, respectively. All time points varied significantly (P<0.01) between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Aspherical IOLs does not significantly affect visual acuity compared with spherical IOLs. The OSI value, was significantly lower in the aspherical lens group compared with the spherical lens. This study shows that objective visual quality of aspheric IOLs is better than that of the spherical lens by means of OQAS biological measurement method.

Viscocanalostomy combined with trabeculotomy and mitomycin C in the treatment of primary congenital glaucoma

Chao-Xu Qian,Yuan Zong,Qin Chen and Zhi-Lan Yuan — 2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term outcome of viscocanalostomy combined with trabeculotomy and mitomycin C in the treatment of primary congenital glaucoma. METHODS: This is a retrospective study. Forty-two eyes of 26 patients with primary congenital glaucoma were enrolled. Intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal diameter (mm) and cup/disc (C/D) were measured before and after the surgery respectively. Follow-up period was 30mo. RESULTS: The mean preoperative IOP was 30.6±7.35 mm Hg. Of the 42 eyes, 2 eyes were required conversion to trabeculectomy for the absence of Schlemm’s canal. Of remained 40 eyes, 38 eyes (95%) achieved successful IOP control. The average postoperative IOP was 11.69±4.18 mm Hg at 12mo. The mean reduction was 18.91 mm Hg (P<0.0001). Eighteen (75%) eyes presented a reduction in corneal diameter, and 25 (62.5%) eyes presented a C/D ratio reversal after the surgery. There was no serious complication in any patients over the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Viscocanalostomy combined with trabeculotomy and mitomycin C is useful in the management of primary congenital glaucoma.

Analyzing cytokines as biomarkers to evaluate severity of glaucoma

Yao Tong,Ya-Li Zhou,Yan Zheng,Manas Biswal,Pei-Quan Zhao and Zhao-Yang Wang — 2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze cytokines as biomarkers for evaluation of severity of glaucoma. METHODS: This was a prospective case-control study including 29 eyes with glaucoma. Besides, 28 eyes with senile cataract were used as control. Patients were classified into four groups: acute angle closure glaucoma (AACG), chronic angle closure glaucoma (CACG), primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and senile cataract. Undiluted vitreous samples were collected, then vitreous concentrations of 9 types of cytokines were determined by cytometric bead assay system: γ-interferon (IFNg), interleukin (IL)-10, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, interferon-γ-inducible protein (IP)-10, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) -α, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We also recorded the intraocular pressure (IOP) of patients in each group and Pearson correlated analysis was performed to analysis the correlation between each type of cytokine with IOP. RESULTS: Vitreous levels of IL-2, IL-5, MCP-1, TNF-α and IP-10 were significantly higher (P<0.05) in AACG group. Patients with AACG, CACG and POAG have higher IOP than senile cataract, but we didn’t find any significant correlation between IOP with any type of the cytokines. CONCLUSION: Inflammation and immune reaction have a strong link with the pathology of glaucoma especially AACG. Some cytokines may act as biomarkers to evaluate the severity of glaucoma. Anti-inflammatory treatments and controlling of IOP are necessary for the therapy of glaucoma.

Ocular surface evaluation in eyes with chronic glaucoma on long term topical antiglaucoma therapy

2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate ocular surface changes and its correlation with the central corneal subbasal nerve fibre layer in chronic glaucoma patients. METHODS: A prospective comparative study of ocular surface evaluation was performed in 50 eyes of 25 patients using two or more antiglaucoma medications for at least 6mo and 50 eyes of 25 normal subjects without any ocular problems as controls. The study parameters evaluated included visual acuity, intraocular pressure, ocular surface evaluation parameters [fluorescein break-up time (FTBUT), Schirmer’s I test, ocular surface staining scores and ocular surface disease index score (OSDI)], central corneal sensation (Cochet Bonnett aesthesiometer), central subbasal nerve fiber layer density (SBNFLD) by confocal microscopy. RESULTS: The mean values in the glaucoma cases and control groups respectively were as follows: OSDI score (35.89±16.07/6.02±3.84; P=0.001), Schirmer’s I test score (7.63±2.64 mm/12.86±1.93 mm; P=0.001), FTBUT (9.44±2.76s/11.8±1.88s; P=0.001), corneal (5.7±2.33/ 1.1±0.58; P=0.001) and conjunctival staining score (5.06±1.94/0.84±0.46; P=0.001), corneal sensitivity (4.68±0.44/5.07±0.37; P=0.076), mean subbasal nerve fiber number (3.58±0.99/5.40±1.70; P=0.001), SBNFL length (1101.44±287.56 μm/1963.70±562.56 μm; P=0.001) and density (6883.94±1798.03 μm/mm2/12 273.15±3516.04 μm/mm2; P=0.001). Dry eye severity of level 2 and 3 was seen in 66% of glaucoma group. Corneal (R2=0.86) and conjunctival staining (R2=0.71) and OSDI score (R2=0.67) showed statistically significant negative correlation with central corneal SBNFLD while FTBUT (R2=0.84), corneal sensitivity (R2=0.52) showed positive correlation to central corneal SBNFLD in the long term topical antiglaucoma medication group. CONCLUSION: Ocular surface changes and antiglaucoma therapy induced dry eye is found to be associated with decreased SBNFLD in eyes on long term topical antiglaucoma medications.

Peptidome profiling of human serum of uveal melanoma patients based on magnetic bead fractionation and mass spectrometry

Xiang-Yu Shi,Qing Li,Wen-Bin Wei and Li-Ming Tao — 2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To find new biomarkers for uveal melanoma (UM) by analyzing the serum peptidome profile. METHODS: Proteomic spectra in patients with UM before and after operation were analyzed and compared with those of healthy controls. Magnetic affinity beads were used to capture serum peptides and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometer were used to compile serum peptide profiles. RESULTS: A panel of 49 peptides were differentially expressed between UM patients and controls, of which 33 peptides were of higher intensities in patient group and 16 peptides were of higher intensities in control group. Based on combined use of these potential markers, peptides with mean molecular masses of 1467 and 9289.0 Da provide high sensitivity (83.3%), specificity (100%) and accuracy rate (93.0%) together to differentiate melanoma patients from healthy controls. At the time point of 6mo postoperatively, the levels of many peptides differentially expressed before surgery showed no more statistical difference between the patients and the control group. Fibrinogen α-chain precursors were identified as potential UM markers. CONCLUSION: We have shown that a convenient and fast proteomic technique, affinity bead separation and MALDI-TOF analysis combined with bioinformatic software, facilitates the identification of novel biomarkers for UM.

Frequency of diabetic retinopathy and associated risk factors in Khartoum, Sudan: population based study

2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the frequency and associated risk factors of diabetic retinopathy among Sudanese individuals with diabetes attending Makka Eye complex in Khartoum, Sudan. METHODS: The cross sectional hospital based study recruited 316 individuals with diabetes from Makkah Eye Complex Retina Clinic. Standard questionnaire was used to collect demographic data, medical history and life style characteristics. Blood samples were taken to measure HbA1c and lipid profile. Fundus and slit lamp examination were performed for screening of diabetic retinopathy. RESULTS: Among 316 participants, 187 (59.2%) were males and 129 (40.8%) were females. The mean age of participants was 58.7±10.5y. The overall frequency of retinopathy was 261 (82.6%). The percentages of the total participants with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) were 126 (39.9%) and non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) were 135 (42.7%). Importantly, duration of diabetes mellitus (DM) (72.2% of more than 10y), being on oral hypoglycaemic drugs (versus insulin), and hypertension were all significant risk factors for diabetic retinopathy (P=0.00, 0.01 and 0.00 respectively). Complications of diabetes like diabetic foot (17.7%), history of amputation (6.7%) and clinically significant macular edema (CSME) (47.4%) of the eyes were all significant risk factors (P<0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that duration of diabetes, hypertension and CSME were found to be absolute risk factors (P=0.007, 0.003 and 0.000 respectively). Duration of DM of more than 10y have more than double risk (OR=2.8), while having hypertension triples the risk of retinopathy (OR=3.1). CONCLUSION: High rates of diabetic retinopathy are noted among individuals with diabetes attending Makkah Eye hospital in capital Khartoum. Urgent strategies are needed to monitor and treat hypertension and optimize diabetes control in individuals with diabetes. More investment in diabetes services is urgently needed.

Effect of even and odd-order aberrations on the accommodation response

2017/6/14 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the potential effect that odd and even-order monochromatic aberrations may have on the accommodation response of the human eye. METHODS: Eight healthy subjects with astigmatism below 1 D, best corrected visual acuity 20/20 or better and normal findings in an ophthalmic examination were enrolled. An adaptive optics system was used in order to measure the accommodation response of the subjects’ eyes under different conditions: with the natural aberrations being present, and with the odd and even-order aberrations being corrected. Three measurements of accommodation response were monocularly acquired at accommodation demands ranging from 0 to 4 D (0.5 D step). RESULTS: The accommodative lag was greater for the accommodative demands of 1.5, 3, 3.5 and 4 D for the condition in which the even-order aberrations were corrected, in comparison to that obtained for the natural aberrations and corrected odd-order aberrations for the same accommodation demands. No statistically significant differences were found between the accommodation responses under the three conditions. CONCLUSION: The odd and even-order aberrations are not helping the visual system to accommodate, because their partial correction do not affect the accommodation performance.

Comparison of corneal biomechanics in Sjögren’s syndrome and non-Sjögren’s syndrome dry eyes by Scheimpflug based device

Qin Long,Jing-Yi Wang,Dong Xu and Ying Li — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the corneal biomechanics of Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) and non-SS dry eyes with Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology (CorVis ST). METHODS: Corneal biomechanics and tear film parameters, namely the Schirmer I test value, tear film break-up time (TBUT) and corneal staining score (CSS) were detected in 34 eyes of 34 dry eye patients with SS (SSDE group) and 34 dry eye subjects without SS (NSSDE group) using CorVis ST. The differences of the above parameters between the two groups were examined, and the relationship between corneal biomechanics and tear film parameters were observed. RESULTS: The differences in age, sex, intraocular pressure (IOP) and central corneal thickness (CCT) were not significant between the two groups (P>0.05). The tear film parameters had significant differences between the SSDE group and NSSDE group (all P<0.05). Patients in the SSDE group had significantly lower A1-time and HC-time, but higher DA (P=0.01, 0.02, and 0.02, respectively) compared with the NSSDE group. In the SSDE group, DA was negatively correlated with TBUT (rho=-0.38, P=0.03); HC-time was negatively correlated with CSS (rho=-0.43, P=0.02). In the NSSDE group, HC-time was again negatively correlated with CSS (rho=-0.39, P=0.02). CONCLUSION: There are differences in corneal biomechanical properties between SSDE and NSSDE. The cornea of SSDE tends to show less “stiffness”, as seen by a significantly shorter A1-time and HC-time, but larger DA, compared with the cornea of NSSDE. Biomechanical parameters can be influenced by different tear film parameters in both groups.

Iontophoresis-assisted corneal crosslinking using 0.1% riboflavin for progressive keratoconus

Hong-Zhen Jia,Xu Pang,Zheng-Jun Fan,Na Li,Gang Li and Xiu-Jun Peng — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To report the clinical results of iontophoresis-assisted epithelium-on corneal crosslinking (I-CXL) using 0.1% riboflavin in distilled water for progressive keratoconus. METHODS: In this prospective clinical study, we examined 94 eyes of 75 patients with progressive keratoconus who were treated with I-CXL using 0.1% riboflavin in distilled water. Best correct visual acuity (BCVA), Scheimpflug tomography, corneal topography, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, intraocular pressure, and endothelial cell density were evaluated at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24mo after I-CXL. RESULTS: After 24mo I-CXL, compared to the level at baseline, BCVA significantly improved 0.14±0.07 (P=0.010); mean keratometry significantly decreased 0.72±1.97 (P=0.021); maximum keratometry significantly reduced 2.30±5.01 (P=0.014); central keratoconus index significantly reduced 0.04±0.08 (P=0.007). The demarcation line was visible in 83.1% of eyes at 1mo after treatment, with a depth of 298.95±51.97 μm, and gradually indistinguishable. One eye had repeat treatment. Intraocular pressure and endothelial cell density did not change significantly. CONCLUSION: I-CXL using 0.1% riboflavin halts keratoconus progression within 24mo, resulting in a significant improvement in visual and topographic parameters. Moreover, the depth of the demarcation line is similar to that previously reported in standard epithelium-off CXL procedures.

Safety of hydroimplantation in cataract surgery in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

Tevfik Oğurel, Reyhan Oğurel, Zafer Onaran and Kemal Örnek — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety of hydroimplantation in cataract surgery in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome. METHODS: This prospective randomized study comprised 100 eyes of 100 consecutive patients who underwent cataract surgery and implantation of foldable intraocular lens (IOL). Each eye was assigned to group 1 or group 2. Hydroimplantation without using viscoelastic agent as group 1 (n=50), and hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (Eyevisc, Biotech, India) was used in group 2 (n=50). RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal endothelial cell count (ECC) between both groups at each visit and percentage change in CCT and ECC (P>0.05). The mean intraocular pressure (IOP) at postoperative 5h increased statistically significantly in group 2 (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in IOP between two groups, before and after surgery excluding the 24h postoperative IOP, but patients in group 2 had higher IOP than that in the group 1 at 24h after surgery (P=0.035). No case in either group experienced posterior capsular rupture, or zonular dialysis. Fixation of the globe during IOL implantation was better in group 1 than that in group 2. CONCLUSION: Hydroimplantation has advantages in terms of IOP changes and duration of the surgery and seems to be safe in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome.

Modified deep sclerectomy combined with Ex-PRESS filtration device versus trabeculectomy for primary open angle glaucoma

2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the efficacy of modified deep sclerectomy combined with Ex-PRESS shunt versus trabeculectomy in primary open angle glaucoma. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort comparative single-center study. Forty-nine eyes of 49 patients were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group A (22 patients) underwent classic trabeculectomy and group B (27 patients) underwent modified deep sclerectomy combined with insertion of Ex-PRESS model P50 drainage device. RESULTS: Mean age was 69±7y in group A and 64±8y in group B (P=0.03). The mean reduction was 11.1±5.7 mm Hg in group A compared to 15.8±5.7 mm Hg in group B at 6mo (P=0.006), and 9.8±4.9 mm Hg and 15.4±4.7 mm Hg respectively at 1y (P=0.0001). Regarding the postoperative glaucoma medication, significant difference was observed between the two groups (in favour of group B) only at 6mo (P=0.017). At the end of the follow-up period complete success rate in group A was 68.2% compared to 92.6% in group B (χ2 test, P=0.07) and qualified success rate was 100% in both groups. CONCLUSION: Modified deep sclerectomy combined with Ex-PRESS shunt may provide comparable IOP reduction with fewer complications in management of primary open angle glaucoma.

Aqueous proinflammatory cytokines in acute primary angle-closure eyes

2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate changes of proinflammatory cytokines in aqueous humor of patients with acute primary angle-closure (APAC) and age-related cataracts. METHODS: Twenty eyes of 20 APAC patients and 15 eyes of 15 age-related cataract patients were included in this cross-sectional study. Aqueous humor samples were collected prospectively. The levels of 20 proinflammatory cytokines were evaluated in the aqueous humor of the APAC and cataract patients using the multiplex bead immunoassay technique. Clinical data were collected for correlation analysis. RESULTS: Seven of the 20 proinflammatory cytokines included in the magnetic bead panel were detectable in both APAC eyes and cataract eyes: interleukin (IL)-10, IL-12, IL-15, IL-21, IL-6, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). IL-27 was only detectable in APAC eyes. Compared with the cataract eyes, the APAC eyes had significantly elevated concentrations of IL-12 (P=0.036), IL-15 (P=0.001), IL-6 (P=0.012), and IL-27 (only detectable in APAC eyes). Age was positively correlated with IL-12 (P=0.022) and IL-6 (P=0.037), and time elapsed between APAC onset and aqueous humor samples collection was positively correlated with IL-15 (P=0.037), IL-27 (P=0.040), and TNF-α (P=0.042). CONCLUSION: Several proinflammatory cytokines including IL-12，IL-15, IL-6 and IL-27, were elevated in the APAC eyes and may be implicated in its pathologic mechanism.

Implantation of trabecular micro-bypass stent using a novel “landing strip” technique

2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To describe a novel technique of creating a landing strip within the trabecular meshwork to guide trabecular micro-bypass stent (iStent) implantation in patients who underwent phacoemulsification. METHODS: Thirty-four eyes from 30 patients who underwent iStent implantation after phacoemulsification from May 2014 to February 2015 were included in our retrospective study. All iStents were implanted via the “landing strip” technique. A 25-gauge microvitreoretinal blade was used to bisect the trabecular meshwork to less than 1 clock-hour, effectively creating a landing strip. The iStent applicator was pressed along the landing strip and then the stent was released into the trabecular meshwork. RESULTS: Of the 34 eyes with iStent implantation, 27 (79.4%) eyes had primary open-angle glaucoma, 6 (17.6%) eyes had pseudoexfoliation glaucoma, and 1 (2.9%) eye had ocular hypertension. At 6-month follow-up (n=17), the mean number of hypotensive medications decreased from 2.2±1.2 at baseline to 0.8±1.3 (P=0.05) and mean intraocular pressure decreased from 19.7±4.1 mm Hg at baseline to 16.7±2.1 mm Hg (P=0.58). Two eyes (5.9%) required subsequent trabeculectomy. CONCLUSION: The “landing strip” technique appears to be an effective way to assist with iStent implantation.

Quality of life in glaucoma patients after selective laser trabeculoplasty

Myrjam De Keyser,Maya De Belder and Veva De Groot — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare quality of life and treatment satisfaction between patients who had selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and those on medication. METHODS: A prospective clinical trial on 143 glaucoma patients that received SLT and a control group that continued using anti glaucoma medication was conducted. Tear break-up time (BUT), punctuate keratitis, need for help, use of artificial tears and the treatment satisfaction survey of intraocular pressure (IOP) were measured at baseline, 6 and 12mo. RESULTS: SLT was able to reduce the mean number of medications needed from 1.56±0.81 to 0.42±0.66 at six months and to 0.33±0.69 at one year. Punctuate keratitis was observed significantly less often (12.24%) after SLT than before (35.94%; P=0.03). Use of artificial tears and BUT did not change significantly after SLT (P>0.05). At baseline, patients in the SLT group were significantly less convinced of medication effectiveness (P=0.006) and complained more about side effects (P=0.003). After SLT, these patients had significantly more confidence in their therapy (P<0.001), showed less side effects (P=0.006), complained less about changes in appearance of the eyes (P=0.003) and were less inconvenienced by the use of eye drops (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: SLT is able to improve treatment-related quality of life in glaucoma patients.

Removal of intraocular foreign body in anterior chamber angle with prism contact lens and 23-gauge foreign body forceps

Yan-Ming Huang,Hua Yan,Jin-Hong Cai and Hai-Bo Li — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To introduce a novel approach in removal of anterior chamber angle foreign body (ACFB) using a prism contact lens and 23-gauge foreign body forceps. METHODS: Data of 42 eyes of 42 patients who had undergone removal of ACFB using a prism contact lens and 23-gauge foreign body forceps from January 2008 to October 2013 were collected and analyzed. Twenty eyes in group A received the conventional approach by using toothed forceps through corneal limbus incision, and 22 eyes in group B underwent the novel method through the opposite corneal limbus incision. RESULTS: The success rate of ACFB once removal was 75% (15/20) in group A, and 100% (22/22) in group B. The average operation time of group A was significantly longer compared with group B (34.9±9.88min vs 22.13±8.85min; P<0.05). The average size of corneal limbus incision in group A was significantly larger than that of group B (4.85±1.89 mm vs 3.95±1.17 mm; P<0.05). The corneal limbus incision suturing were conducted in all eyes in group A, and only 5 eyes in group B. CONCLUSION: Removal of ACFB using a prism contact lens and 23-gauge foreign body forceps is a safer, more effective, and convenient technique compared with the conventional approach.

Correlation of neutrophil/lymphocyte and platelet/lymphocyte ratio with visual acuity and macular thickness in age-related macular degeneration

2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the place of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in the diagnosis of and prognosis for neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: One hundred AMD patients and 100 healthy controls were included in the study. Blood samples were obtained from the venous blood, which is used for routine analysis, and these samples were subjected to complete blood count. NLR was defined as the neutrophil count divided by the number of lymphocytes, and PLR was defined as the platelet count divided by the number of lymphocytes. RESULTS: No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups under consideration in terms of demographic features (P>0.05). The average NLR in the patient group was found to be significantly higher than that in the healthy control group (P<0.05). The average PLR was significantly higher in the patient group as compared to the control group (P<0.05). As best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) increased, both NLR and PLR decreased (significant negative correlations at 49.8% and 63.0%, respectively), whereas as central macular thickness (CMT) increased, both NLR and PLR increased (significant positive correlations at 59.3% and 70.0%, respectively). CONCLUSION: NLR and PLR levels are higher among neovascular AMD patients as compared to healthy control group. NLR and PLR levels were found to be inversely proportional to BCVA and directly proportional to CMT.

Foveal thickness reduction after anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment in chronic diabetic macular edema

2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To report foveal thickness reduction in eyes with resolution of macular edema and recovery of a foveal depression after one-year of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) therapy for center-involving diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS: Foveal thickness was assessed with optical coherence tomography to determine the central subfield foveal thickness (CSFT) and macular volume in 42 eyes with DME (CSFT>275 µm). Evaluations also included measurement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and were performed at baseline, and upon foveal depression recovery achieved after 12 monthly intravitreal injections of either 1.5 mg/0.06 mL bevacizumab (n=21) or 0.5 mg/0.05 mL ranibizumab (n=21). Data was compared to 42 eyes of normally sighted, non-diabetic, healthy individuals with similar age, gender and race distributions. RESULTS: Mean baseline BCVA was 0.59±0.04 and 0.32± 0.03 logMAR (P<0.001) after treatment and resolution of DME, with all, but 3 eyes, showing BCVA improvement. Mean CSFT before treatment was 422.0±20.0 µm, and after treatment, decreased to 241.6±4.6 µm (P<0.001), which is significantly thinner than CSFT found in control subjects (272.0±3.4 µm; P<0.001). Moreover, in 33/42 DM eyes (79%), CSTF was thinner than the matched control eye. Macular volume showed comparable results, but with lower differences between groups (control: 8.5±0.4 mm3; DME: 8.2±1.0 mm3; P=0.0267). CONCLUSION: DME eyes show significantly lower foveal thickness than matched controls after DME resolution achieved with one-year anti-VEGF therapy. Further investigation into the reasonsfor this presumable retinal atrophy using fluorescein angiography and functional parameters as well as establishing possible predictors is warranted. This finding should be considered during the treatment of DME.

Prognostic factors of short-term outcomes of intravitreal ranibizumab in diabetic macular edema

I-An Lai,Wei-Cherng Hsu,Chung-May Yang and Yi-Ting Hsieh — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the prognostic factors for short-term visual and anatomical improvement of intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) for diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS: Fifty-one eyes from 35 patients that received three consecutive monthly IVR for DME with moderate visual loss were retrospectively recruited; all cases had their baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between 20/400 and 20/40. BCVA and central subfield thickness (CST) at baseline and month 3 were collected. Linear mixed models were used to evaluate the prognostic factors for visual and anatomical improvement at month 3. RESULTS: Younger age, poorer baseline BCVA and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) were correlated with better visual improvement at month 3 (P=0.002, 0.0001 and 0.007, respectively). Thicker CST and the presence of subretinal fluid at baseline were correlated with a greater reduction in CST (P<0.0001 and P=0.018, respectively). The presence of epiretinal membrane or previous posterior subtenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (PSTA) were associated with a smaller reduction in CST (P=0.029 and 0.018, respectively), but had no significant effects in visual improvement at month 3 (P>0.05 for both). CONCLUSION: For eyes with DME and moderate visual loss, those with younger age, poorer baseline BCVA or PDR tend to have better visual improvement after three consecutive monthly IVR. Epiretinal membrane or previous PSTA result in less resolution of CST, but do not significantly affect visual improvement.

Clinical characteristics of sibling patients with comitant strabismus

Haeng Jin Lee,Seong-Joon Kim and Young Suk Yu — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the clinical characteristics of sibling patients with comitant strabismus. METHODS: Sibling patients who were diagnosed with comitant strabismus from January 2005 to December 2014 were retrospectively reviewed. Factors including age, sex, types of strabismus, refractive errors, angle of deviation, and coexistence of other strabismus were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 62 patients (31 pairs of siblings) were included. Of these, 26 pairs had intermittent exotropia, 3 had accommodative esotropia, and 2 had infantile esotropia. There were no pairs with different subtypes of strabismus. The age at first visit was 3.7±2.6y and the mean follow-up period was 30.5±24.1mo. In siblings with intermittent exotropia, there was no difference in age of onset, age at operation, or refractive errors between the first and second-born children. The 20 (77%) pairs of siblings with exotropia showed more than 80% concordance of maximum angle of deviation during follow-up. In the 9 pairs in which both siblings had an operation, the final angle of deviation after the operation was 8.2±8.1 prism diopters (PD) in first-born children and 8.6±6.5 PD in second-born children. CONCLUSION: The subtypes of strabismus are the same in all pairs of siblings and clinical characteristics of strabismus are similar between the first and second-born children. This similarity could be an indicator for the diagnosis of second-born children. Further prospective study including a larger number of sibling patients is needed.

Ocular manifestation and their associated factors among HIV/AIDS patients receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy in Southern Ethiopia

Anteneh Amsalu,Kindie Desta,Demiss Nigussie and Demoze Delelegne — 2017/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the pattern of ocular manifestation and associated factors among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) /acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) at Hawassa University Referral Hospital, Southern Ethiopia. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted from January 2014 to April 2015. After obtaining informed written consent, 240 adult HIV/AIDS patients on HAART were randomly selected regardless of their ophthalmic symptoms, WHO status or CD4 count. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and ophthalmologic clinical examination. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 software. RESULTS: The mean duration of HAART was 62.5mo. The prevalence of HIV related ocular manifestation was 14.2%. Seborrheic blepharitis (5%) was the most common ocular manifestation, followed by squamoid conjunctival growth (3.8%). The rate of ocular manifestation was significantly higher among study participants who had CD4+ count <200 cells/μL (AOR=3.83; 95%CI: 1.315-11.153), low duration of HAART (AOR=3.0; 95%CI: 1.305-6.891) and who had primary school education [odds ratio (OR) =2.8; 95%CI: 1.105-7.099]. Prevalence of visual impairment and blindness was 10.9% and 5.8%, respectively. CONCLUSION: HAART may be the reason for the decline in the prevalence of ocular manifestation in HIV/AIDS patients in the study area. Ophthalmologic screening of HIV/AIDS patients, especially those with CD4 counts of <200/μL cells and in the first five years of HAART follow-up is recommended to reduce visual impairment and/or blindness.

Suitability of open-field autorefractors as pupillometers and instrument design effects

2017/4/14 11:24:40
AIM: To determine the agreement and repeatability of the pupil measurement obtained with VIP-200 (Neuroptics), PowerRef II (Plusoptix), WAM-5500 (Grand Seiko) and study the effects of instrument design on pupillometry. METHODS: Forty patients were measured twice in low, mid and high mesopic. Repeatability was analyzed with the within-subject standard deviation (Sw) and paired t-tests. Agreement was studied with Bland-Altman plots and repeated measures ANOVA. Instrument design analysis consisted on measuring pupil size with PowerRef II simulating monocular and binocular conditions as well as with proximity cues and without proximity cues. RESULTS: The mean difference (±standard deviation) between test-retest for low, mid and high mesopic conditions were, respectively: -0.09 (±0.16), -0.05 (±0.18) and -0.08 (±0.23) mm for Neuroptics, -0.05 (±0.17), -0.12 (±0.23) and -0.17 (±0.34) mm for WAM-5500, -0.04 (±0.27), -0.13 (±0.37) and -0.11 (±0.28) mm for PowerRef II. Regarding agreement with Neuroptics, the mean difference for low, mid and high mesopic conditions were, respectively: -0.48 (±0.35), -0.83 (±0.52) and -0.38 (±0.56) mm for WAM-5500, -0.28 (±0.56), -0.70 (±0.55) and -0.61 (±0.54) mm for PowerRef II. The mean difference of binocular minus monocular pupil measurements was: -0.83 (±0.87) mm; and with proximity cues minus without proximity cues was: -0.30 (±0.77) mm. CONCLUSION: All the instruments show similar repeat-ability. In all illumination conditions, agreement of Neuroptics with WAM-5500 and PowerRef II is not good enough, which can be partially induced due to their open field design.

Long-term rotational stability and visual outcomes of a single-piece hydrophilic acrylic toric IOL: a 1.5-year follow-up

Balázs Gyöngyössy, Paul Jirak and Ulrich Schönherr — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the rotational stability and visual outcomes of a single-piece hydrophilic acrylic toric intraocular lenses (IOL) over a 1.5-year follow-up period. Data from the 6-month follow-up study have been previously reported. METHODS: Forty eyes of 26 cataract patients (mean age: 72.8±7.9y) with pre-existing corneal astigmatism of 1.0 to 2.6 D were enrolled in the study. Mean axial length was 23.17±0.88 mm. Main outcome measures after implantation of the Torica-aA IOL (HumanOptics) were IOL rotational stability, subjective refraction, astigmatism correction, uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (UDVA, CDVA). RESULTS: There was no significant change in the parameters evaluated between the 6-month and 1.5-year follow-ups. At last visit, mean absolute IOL rotation (objective method) was 1.81°±1.87° (range 0.00° to 7.20°) with 78.6% of eyes having IOL rotation <3°, 92.9% of eyes <5° and 100% of eyes <8°. No patient required secondary IOL repositioning during the course of the study. Mean residual refractive cylinder was -0.60±0.40 D. There was a significant reduction in the magnitude of the J0 vector postoperatively (P<0.0001) with a mean absolute change of 0.76±0.40 D. The mean J45 vector was close to zero preoperatively and postoperatively and didn’t change significantly (P=0.28). Mean monocular UDVA and CDVA was 0.09±0.12 logMAR and -0.01±0.12 logMAR, respectively. No treatment with Nd:YAG laser was required. CONCLUSION: The Torica-aA IOL shows good and stable visual performance and rotational stability over a 1.5-year follow-up period.

A pilot study of intraocular lens explantation in 69 eyes in Chinese patients

Fang Chai,Bo Ma,Xin-Guang Yang,Juan Li and Mei-Fang Chu — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To study the effects of intraocular lens (IOL) explantation and demographic characteristics. METHODS: Retrospective non-comparative case series. Clinical data recorded from patient charts included the following: demographic, preoperative and postoperative characteristics; complications; surgical methods, and changes in visual acuity. RESULTS: A total of 69 eyes in 67 Chinese patients who received IOL explants were studied. The patients’ mean age at the time of explantation was 46.1 years old [SD 22.5 (6-85)], and 37 patients were female (55.2%). Regarding employment, 47.8% were farmers, 23.9% were retired, 16.4% were students, 4.5% were unemployed, 3% were workers, and 4.5% were other (including staff members, teachers and officers). The main reasons for explantation were dislocation/decentration in 41 cases (59.4%) and retinal detachment in 10 cases (14.5%). The third most prevalent cause was incorrect lens power in 7 eyes (10.1%). The remaining reasons were endophthalmitis in 6 cases (8.7%), posterior capsular opacity in 3 eyes (4.3%), and impacting retinal surgery operation in 2 cases (2.9%). The main comorbidities were high myopia in 18 eyes (26.1%), trauma in 8 eyes (11.6%), retinal detachment in 6 eyes(8.7%), congenital cataracts in 8 eyes (11.6%), and Marfan’s syndrome in 2 eyes (2.9%). The mean time from implantation to explantation was 4.0y [SD 4.2 (0.005-15)]. Treatment after explantation included posterior chamber IOL implantation in 44 eyes (63.8%) and aphakia in 25 eyes (36.2%). After surgery, the best corrected visual ability (BCVA) was improved in 50 cases (72.5%), including 28 patients (40.6%) in whom visual ability was improved by more than two lines. CONCLUSION: Dislocation/decentration is the main cause for explantation, and high myopia is a main risk factor. Posterior chamber IOL implantation remains the most elected treatment after explantation.

Nutrient patterns and risk of cataract: a case-control study

2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the relation between nutrient patterns and cataract risk. METHODS: This is a hospital-based case-control study with 97 cataract patients and 198 matched controls. Dietary consumption was collected through a valid food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Nutrient patterns were detected by applying factor analysis. Unconditional logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratio (ORs) and 95%CIs. RESULTS: We extracted 5 main nutrient patterns. Factor 1 included niacin, thiamin, carbohydrates, protein, zinc, vitamin B6 and sodium (sodium pattern). Factor 2 was characterized by oleic acid, monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated fats, linoleic acid, trans fatty acid, linolenic acid, vitamin E and saturated fats (fatty acid pattern). The third factor represented high intake of vitamin B12, vitamin D, cholesterol and calcium (mixed pattern). The 4th pattern was high in intake of beta and alpha carotene, vitamin A and vitamin C (antioxidant pattern). Finally, the 5th pattern loaded heavily on docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) (omega-3 pattern). In crude and multivariate analysis, the sodium pattern was associated with increased risk of cataract (OR=1.97, 95%CI: 1.09-3.96). The fatty acid pattern elevated the risk of cataract (OR=1.94, 95%CI: 1.1-3.86). Antioxidant pattern was associated with a significant 79% reduced risk (2nd category compared with the 1st). Omega-3 pattern was significantly negatively associated with risk of cataract (P=0.04). CONCLUSION: These findings imply that nutrient patterns reflecting a combined consumption of nutrients might be important in the etiology of cataract. Additional studies with more efficient designs are warranted to confirm our findings.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty in pseudophakic and phakic eyes: a prospective study

Myrjam De Keyser,Maya De Belder and Veva De Groot — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in replacing medical therapy in pseudophakic and phakic eyes. METHODS: Subgroup of a prospective randomized clinical trial including patients with primary open angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension controlled with medication. Of 38 pseudophakic eyes were matched with 38 phakic eyes. SLT was offered as a way to decrease medication while maintaining the same low eye pressure. SLT was performed over 360°, at 3ns, spotsize 400 µm, 100 spots. Data [intraocular pressure (IOP), number of medications needed] were measured at 1h, 1wk, 1, 3, 6 and 12mo. An independent-samples t-test was performed to compare baseline characteristics of the phakic and the pseudophakic group and differences in evolution of mean IOP and number of used medications. Chi-squared analysis was performed to investigate proportions of fast, slow and non-responders. RESULTS: The mean IOP measurement was 13.00± 2.88 mm Hg in the phakic group (38 eyes) and 13.51± CONCLUSION: IOP lowering effect of SLT is comparable between phakic and pseudophakic eyes.

Comparison of isolated-check visual evoked potential and standard automated perimetry in early glaucoma and high-risk ocular hypertension

Xiang-Wu Chen and Ying-Xi Zhao — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the diagnostic performance of isolated-check visual evoked potential (icVEP) and standard automated perimetry (SAP), for evaluating the application values of icVEP in the detection of early glaucoma. METHODS: Totally 144 subjects (288 eyes) were enrolled in this study. icVEP testing was performed with the Neucodia visual electrophysiological diagnostic system. A 15% positive-contrast (bright) condition pattern was used in this device to differentiate between glaucoma patients and healthy control subjects. Signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) were derived based on a multivariate statistic. The eyes were judged as abnormal if the test yielded an SNR≤1. SAP testing was performed with the Humphrey Field Analyzer II. The visual fields were deemed as abnormality if the glaucoma hemifield test results outside normal limits; or the pattern standard deviation with P<0.05; or the cluster of three or more non-edge points on the pattern deviation plot in a single hemifield with P<0.05, one of which must have a P<0.01. Disc photographs were graded as either glaucomatous optic neuropathy or normal by two experts who were masked to all other patient information. Moorfields regression analysis (MRA) used as a separate diagnostic classification was performed by Heidelberg retina tomograph (HRT). RESULTS: When the disc photograph grader was used as diagnostic standard, the sensitivity for SAP and icVEP was 32.3% and 38.5% respectively and specificity was 82.3% and 77.8% respectively. When the MRA Classifier was used as the diagnostic standard, the sensitivity for SAP and icVEP was 48.6% and 51.4% respectively and specificity was 84.1% and 78.0% respectively. When the combined structural assessment was used as the diagnostic standard, the sensitivity for SAP and icVEP was 59.2% and 53.1% respectively and specificity was 84.2% and 84.6% respectivlely. There was no statistical significance between the sensitivity or specificity of SAP and icVEP, regardless of which diagnostic standard was based on. CONCLUSION: The diagnostic performance of icVEP is not better than that of SAP in the detection of early glaucoma.

Evaluation of hyperreflective foci as a prognostic factor of visual outcome in retinal vein occlusion

Bin Mo,Hai-Ying Zhou,Xuan Jiao and Feng Zhang — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the potential role of hyperreflective foci (HF) as a prognostic indicator of visual outcome in patients with macular edema (ME) due to retinal vein occlusion (RVO). METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 50 eyes of 50 patients with ME due to ischemic central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), non-ischemic CRVO and branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) who were treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) at Beijing Tongren Eye Center from January 2013 to July 2016. All patients underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) at baseline and follow-up. Such factors were evaluated and compared among three groups as baseline and final BCVA, central retinal thickness (CRT), external limiting membrane (ELM) status and the numbers of HF in different position. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to analyze the relationship between baseline HF and final BCVA. Changes of HF before and after treatment were evaluated too. RESULTS: Among three groups, HF could be located in each retinal layers, as well as in vitreous cavity. The mean HF in outer retinal layer (ORL) at baseline was 5.29±8.48 in ischemic CRVO with intact ELM, 1.93±2.76 in non-ischemic CRVO, and 1.75±2.05 in BRVO. With disrupted ELM, the mean HF in ORL increased. There was statistically difference of HF in ORL between intact and disrupted ELM. The numbers of HF in ORL were associated with poor visual outcome among three groups. However, HF in inner retinal layer (IRL) and vitreous cavity were not associated with poor visual outcome. Meanwhile, the baseline HF in ORL and vitreous cavity reduced significantly in non-ischemic CRVO and BRVO after anti-VEGF treatment. CONCLUSION: The numbers of HF in ORL are prognostic factors associated with the final BCVA in patients with ME due to RVO after anti-VEGF treatment.

Association of choroidal thickness with early stages of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetes

2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the correlation between choroidal thickness (CT) and the early stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in type 2 diabetic patients. METHODS: We divided 83 diabetic patients (51-80 years of age; 50 females) into non diabetic retinopathy group (NDR) and mild/moderate nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) group, and compared them with 26 non-diabetic control subjects (51-78 years of age; 16 females). Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and parafoveal choroidal thickness (PFCT) were measured using enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). Ocular health status, disease duration, body mass index, and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were recorded. RESULTS: The mean ages of the NDR, NPDR, and control groups were 68.0±6.9y, 67.8±6.4y, and 65.1±6.3y, respectively (P=0.17). Pearson correlation of the right and left eyes for the control subjects was 0.95 and for the NDR subjects was 0.93. SFCT for the right eyes of the controls was 252.77± 41.10 μm, which was significantly thicker than that of the right eyes in NDR group (221.51±46.56 μm) and the worse eyes of the NPDR group (207.18±61.87 μm; ANOVA, P<0.01). In the diabetic patients pooled together, age was the only variable significantly associated with SFCT (multiple linear regression analysis, P=0.01). CONCLUSION: CT decreased significantly in the NDR and mild/moderate NPDR eyes compared with the control eyes. Age is significantly associated with SFCT in the diabetic patients. Diabetic choroidopathy may be present before clinical retinopathy.

Comparison of postoperative optical quality according to the degree of decentering of V4c implantable collamer lens

Min Ji Park,Hye Min Jeon,Kyoung Heon Lee and Sang Youp Han — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of V4c implantable collamer lens (Hole ICL) implantation with regard to the optical quality assessed according to different degrees of decentering. METHODS: This included 49 eyes that received conventional ICL and 94 eyes that received Hole ICL. The eyes that received Hole ICL were divided into three groups according to the degree of decentering: group 1, central hole within 1 hole diameter (HD) from the pupil center; group 2, central hole within 1 HD to 2 HD; and group 3, central hole within 2 HD to 3 HD. Visual acuity (VA), intraocular pressure (IOP), and spherical equivalent (SE) values were assessed at 1wk, 1 and 3mo after surgery. The ocular modulation transfer function, Strehl ratio, objective scattering index, and higher order aberrations (HOAs) were measured for 4-mm pupils at 3mo after surgery. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in VA, IOP, and SE among the conventional and Hole ICL groups. With regard to HOAs, values for coma and spherical aberrations showed no differences. The total HOA and trefoil values were significantly higher in group 2 than in group 1 (P=0.02, 0.03, respectively). There were no significant differences among groups with regard to other optical quality parameter at 3mo after surgery. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that Hole ICL implantation provides satisfactory visual quality that is equivalent to that provided by conventional ICL, regardless of the presence of central hole and degree of decentering.

Comparison of visual effects of FS-LASIK for myopia centered on the coaxially sighted corneal light reflex or the line of sight

Jing Zhang,Shi-Sheng Zhang,Qin Yu and Jing-Cai Lian, — 2017/4/14 0:00:00
AIM: To compare visual quality after femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK), between the coaxially sighted corneal light reflex (CSCLR) group and conventional ablation line of sight (LOS) group. METHODS: In total, 243 eyes (122 patients) were treated with centration on the CSCLR (visual axis) and 238 eyes (119 patients) treated with centration on the pupil center (LOS). Postoperative outcomes [uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA)], safety index, efficacy index, refractive outcome, ablation center distance from the visual axis, corneal high-order aberrations, subjective discomfort glare and shadowing incidence rate, and contrast sensitivity at 1, 3, and 6mo were measured and compared. RESULTS: The mean age was 27.77±7.1y in the CSCLR group and 26.03±7.70y in the LOS group. Preoperatively, the manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) was -6.68±2.60 D in the CSCLR group and -6.65±2.68 D in the LOS group. The postoperative UCVA, BSCVA, MRSE (-0.03±0.263 D in the CSCLR group, -0.05±0.265 D in the LOS group), efficacy index (1.04, 1.03), and safety index (1.09, 1.08) were not significantly different between the groups (all P>0.05). In total, 3% lost one line and more of BSCVA in the CSCLR group, as 9% in the LOS group postoperatively (P<0.05). The ablation center deviation was 0.20±0.15 mm from the visual axis (Pentacam system default setting; range, 0-0.75 mm) in the CSCLR group, and 0.43±0.22 mm (range, 0-1.32 mm) in the LOS group (P<0.0001). Statistically significant greater augmentation of total corneal higher-order aberrations (0.15±0.10 µm and 0.20±0.12 µm respectively, P=0.03) and vertical and horizontal coma (P<0.0001) were noted in the LOS group. Subjective discomfort glare and shadowing incidence rates were 8.59% and 17.5% in the CSCLR and LOS groups, respectively (P<0.05). The 1-month postoperative contrast sensitivity visual acuity in the CSCLR group was significantly higher than that in the LOS group on contrast (100%, 25%, 10%) with a dark background, but there was no significant difference between the groups at 3 or 6m. CONCLUSION: Myopic LASIK centered on the CSCLR achieves significantly lower induction of loss of BSCVA, corneal high-order aberrations, and lower risk of subjective discomfort glare and shadowing, and lower decline in early contrast sensitivity by comparison with centration on the LOS, giving advantages in visual quality postoperatively.

Weighing of risk factors for penetrating keratoplasty graft failure: application of Risk Score System

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the relationship between the score obtained in the Risk Score System (RSS) proposed by Hicks et al with penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) graft failure at 1y postoperatively and among each factor in the RSS with the risk of PKP graft failure using univariate and multivariate analysis. METHODS: The retrospective cohort study had 152 PKPs from 152 patients. Eighteen cases were excluded from our study due to primary failure (10 cases), incomplete medical notes (5 cases) and follow-up less than 1y (3 cases). We included 134 PKPs from 134 patients stratified by preoperative risk score. Spearman coefficient was calculated for the relationship between the score obtained and risk of failure at 1y. Univariate and multivariate analysis were calculated for the impact of every single risk factor included in the RSS over graft failure at 1y. RESULTS: Spearman coefficient showed statistically significant correlation between the score in the RSS and graft failure (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed no statistically significant relationship (P>0.05) between diagnosis and lens status with graft failure. The relationship between the other risk factors studied and graft failure was significant (P<0.05), although the results for previous grafts and graft failure was unreliable. None of our patients had previous blood transfusion, thus, it had no impact. CONCLUSION: After the application of multivariate analysis techniques, some risk factors do not show the expected impact over graft failure at 1y.

Analysis of corneal morphologic and pathologic changes in early-stage congenital aniridic keratopathy

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To determine typical corneal changes of congenital aniridic keratopathy (CAK) using corneal topography and confocal systems, and to identify characteristics that might assist in early diagnosis. METHODS: Patients with CAK and healthy control subjects underwent detailed ophthalmic examinations including axial length, corneal thickness, tear film condition, corneal topography, and laser-scanning in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). RESULTS: In early stage aniridic keratopathy, Schirmer I test (SIT), break-up time (BUT), mean keratometry (mean K) and simulated keratometry (sim K) were reduced relative to controls (P<0.05), while simulation of corneal astigmatism (sim A) and corneal thickness were increased (P<0.05). In addition, significantly more eyes exhibited flat cornea compared with the control group. Inflammatory dendritic cells were present in the aniridic epithelium, with significantly increased density relative to controls (P<0.05). Palisade ridge-like features and abnormal cell morphology were observed in six out of sixteen CAK cases. In central cornea area, the aniridic corneas had the increased subbasal nerve density. CONCLUSION: These changes in corneal morphology in borderline situations can be useful to confirm the diagnosis of CAK.

Comparison of visual and topographic outcomes of deep-anterior lamellar keratoplasty and penetrating keratoplasty in keratoconus

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To compare visual, surgical and topographic outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and penetrating keratoplasty (PK) for keratoconus (KC). METHODS: In this multicenter, prospective, randomized clinical trial 76 eyes of 71 KC patients operated between January 2011 and July 2014 in 2 tertiary referral hospitals were included. Consecutive patients were alternately selected to receive one of the two surgical methods. Thirty eight eyes underwent DALK with the big-bubble technique and 38 eyes underwent PK. RESULTS: Mean best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) at the first postoperative week (P=0.012) and the first postoperative month (P＜0.001) was statistically significantly higher in DALK group. The mean BSCVA at 12mo was not significantly different for DALK (0.30±1.99 logMAR) versus PK (0.40±0.33 logMAR) (P=0.104). The 76.3% of the eyes had a BSCVA over 0.5 in DALK and 47.4% in PK group (P=0.009). The 7.9% of the eyes had a BSCVA of 1.0 in DALK and 5.3% in PK group (P=0.644). Mean spherical equivalent was -2.94 D in DALK and -3.09 D in PK group. Mean topographic astigmatism was 4.62 D and 4.18 D respectively. Regular topographic patterns were observed in 31 (81.6%) of DALK and 29 (76.3%) of PK (P=0.574). The most frequent topographic pattern was oblate asymmetric bow tie, seen in 39.5% in DALK and 23.7% in PK. CONCLUSION: Big bubble DALK provides an earlier visual improvement compare to PK. However, visual and topographic outcomes are similar to those in PK at 1y. Postoperative complications including rejection and intraocular pressure elevation are more frequent in PK. DALK is a safer alternative to PK for KC. However, intraoperative perforation of the Descemet’s membrane is a significant complication.

Surgical treatment and visual outcomes of cataract with persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous

Li Li,Da-Bei Fan,Ya-Ting Zhao,Yun Li,Fang-Fei Cai and Guang-Ying Zheng — 2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the surgical treatment and visual outcomes of eyes with cataract and persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV). METHODS: This retrospective study included patients with cataract and PHPV treated with various strategies. Anterior PHPV was treated using phacoemulsification with underwater electric coagulation on posterior capsule neovascularization, posterior capsulotomy, anterior vitrectomy, and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. Posterior PHPV was treated with lensectomy, posterior vitrectomy, retinal photocoagulation, and IOL implantation or silicone oil tamponade. Visual acuity (VA), pattern visual evoked potential (P-VEP), anatomic recovery, postoperative complications, and amblyopia outcome were examined. Subjects were followed-up for 3-48mo after surgery. RESULTS: Of the 30 patients (33 eyes) with congenital cataract and PHPV included (average age, 39.30±35.47mo), 9 eyes had anterior PHPV and 24 had posterior PHPV. Thirty-two eyes were surgically treated. Eyes with anterior PHPV received an IOL during one-stage (6 eyes) and two-stage (3 eyes) implantation. Postoperative complications included retinal detachment (1 eye) and recurrent anterior chamber hemorrhage (1 eye). In eyes with posterior PHPV, 6 and 11 eyes received IOLs in one- and two-stage procedures, respectively. Silicone oil was retained in 2 eyes, and IOLs were not implanted in 4 eyes. VA significantly improved in 25 eyes following operations and 3-48mo of amblyopia treatment. P-VEP P100 was improved following surgery in both PHPV types. CONCLUSION: Our surgical strategies are appropriate and effective for anterior and posterior PHPV. Early surgical intervention and amblyopia therapy result in positive treatment outcomes.

Efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab with panretinal photocoagulation followed by trabeculectomy compared with Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in neovascular glaucoma

Jin-Tao Sun,Hai-Jing Liang,Meng An and Da-Bo Wang — 2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) followed by trabeculectomy compared with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in neovascular glaucoma (NVG). METHODS: This was a retrospective comparative study. We reviewed the cases of a total of 45 eyes from 45 NVG patients among which 23 eyes underwent AGV implantation and the other 22 underwent trabeculectomy. The causes of neovascular glaucoma included: diabetic retinopathy (25 eyes), and retinal vein occlusion (20 eyes). All patients received preoperative IVR combined with postoperative PRP. The mean best-corrected visual acuities (BCVA) were converted to the logarithms of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) for the statisitical analyses. Intraocular pressure (IOP), the logMAR BCVA and surgical complications were evaluated before and after surgery. The follow-up period was 12mo. RESULTS: A total of 39 cases showed complete regression of iris neovascularization at 7d after injection, and 6 cases showed a small amount of residual iris neovascularization. The success rates were 81.8% and 82.6% at 12mo after trabeculectomy and AGV implantation, respectively. In the trabeculectomy group, the logMAR BCVA improved at the last follow-up in 14 eyes, remained stable in 6 eyes and decreased in 2 eyes. In 4 cases, slight hyphemas developed after trabeculectomy. A shallow anterior chamber developed in 2 cases and 2 vitreous hemorrhages. In the AGV group, the logMAR BCVA improved in 14 eyes, remained stable in 5 eyes and decreased in 4 eyes. Slight hyphemas developed in 3 cases, and a shallow anterior chamber in 3 cases. The mean postoperative IOP was significantly lower in both groups after surgery (F=545.468, P<0.05), and the mean postoperative logMAR BCVA was also significantly improved (F=10.964, P<0.05) with no significant difference between two groups. CONCLUSION: It is safe and effective to treat NVG with this combined procedure, and we found similar results after IVR+AGV implantation+PRP and IVR+trabeculectomy+PRP in eyes with NVG.

Uveal effusion following acute primary angle-closure: a retrospective case series

Jian-Gang Yang,Jian-Jun Li,Hua Tian,Yan-Hong Li,Yu-Jing Gong,An-Le Su and Na He — 2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the morphological changes in anterior segment in Chinese patients with uveal effusion (UE) after the attack of acute primary angle-closure (APAC) using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), and to assess the clinical course and prognosis of the disease. METHODS: In a retrospective case series, 26 eyes in 26 consecutive patients diagnosed with UE after the treatment of intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering medication for the attack of APAC were enrolled. The unaffected fellow eyes served as controls. The morphological changes were observed by ultrasonography, slit lamp microscopy and gonioscopy. UBM was used to assess the degree and extent of effusion based on the analysis of parameters associated with UE. RESULTS: The mean IOP was 9.2 (SD 2.1) mm Hg at the diagnosis of UE after IOP-lowering medication, while 14.1 (SD, 2.6) mm Hg in the fellow eyes (P=0.000). The anterior chamber depth (ACD) (P=0.000), angle opening distance at 500 μm (AOD500) (P<0.01) and anterior chamber angle (ACA) (P<0.05) were decreased significantly, while ciliary body thickness (CBT) (P<0.05) increased significantly in UE eyes. UE grade analysis showed 7 eyes in grade 1, 9 eyes in grade 2, and 10 eyes in grade 3. Quadrant scores were performed of 4 eyes in 1 quadrant, 3 eyes in 3 quadrants, and 19 eyes in 4 quadrants. There was the positive correlation between grade and quadrant score (r=0.644, P=0.000). The effusion on all eyes were recovered after medication, which mean IOP was 13.9 (SD, 2.8) mm Hg. CONCLUSION: UE is a frequent complication in Chinese patients after the attack of APAC, partially associated with hypotony. The severity of UE is correlation with height of effusion, extent of detachment, and shallower ACD.

Combined photodynamic therapy and ranibizumab for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: a 2-year result and systematic review

Meng Zhao,Hai-Ying Zhou,Jun Xu,Feng Zhang,Wen-Bin Wei and Ning-Pu Liu — 2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To report a cohort of patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) followed by intravitreal ranibizumab injection 24-48h later, and to compare the results between eyes with PCV treated by PDT followed by intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injection and intravitreal anti-VEGF injection followed by PDT by Meta-analysis. METHODS: Retrospective study and systematic literature review. Medical records of patients with PCV who were initially treated using PDT followed by intravitreal ranibizumab injection 24-48h after PDT and had completed at least 2y follow-up were reviewed and analyzed. Clinical data, including age, sex, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), fundus photograph, fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green angiography and optical coherence tomography were investigated. A systematic literature review was also conducted, and a visual outcome of studies over 1y was compared using Meta-analysis. RESULTS: A total of 52 patients were included in the study. Mean BCVA at baseline and follow-up at 1 or 2y were 0.71±0.61, 0.51±0.36 and 0.68±0.51 logMAR, respectively. The cumulative hazard rate for recurrence at 1 and 2y follow-up was 15.4% and 30.3% respectively. The percentage of eyes with polyps regression at 3, 12 and 24mo follow-up was 88.5%, 84.6% and 67.3% respectively. A Meta-analysis based on 22 independent studies showed the overall vision improvements at 1, 2 and 3y follow-up were 0.13±0.04 (P<0.001), 0.12±0.03 (P<0.001), 0.16±0.06 (P<0.001), respectively. The proportion of polyps regression at 1y follow-up was 64.6% (95%CI: 51.5%, 77.7%, P<0.001) in 434 eyes treated by intravitreal anti-VEGF agents before PDT and 76.0% (95%CI: 64.8%, 87.3%, P=0.001) in 199 eyes treated by intravitreal anti-VEGF agents after PDT. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal ranibizumab injection 24-48h following PDT effectively stabilizes visual acuity in the eye with PCV. PDT followed by intravitreal anti-VEGF agents may contribute to a relatively higher proportion of polyps’ regression as compared to that of intravitreal anti-VEGF before PDT.

Intravitreal aflibercept in neovascular age-related macular degeneration previously treated with ranibizumab

Rachel Hui Fen Lim,Bhaskar Gupta and Peter Simcock — 2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To report the change in visual acuity and central macular thickness (CMT) following treatment with intravitreal aflibercept injections in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) with suboptimum response to ranibizumab. METHODS: This was a retrospective study. The inclusion criteria were patients with nAMD who responded poorly to ranibizumab. Patients then received either 3 consecutive aflibercept injections followed by PRN treatment or PRN alone. Primary endpoints were mean change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and CMT at 12mo. Secondary endpoints were number of injections and adverse events. RESULTS: Forty-nine eyes from 49 patients met the inclusion criteria and completed 12-month follow up on aflibercept. Thirty-eight eyes received 3 consecutive aflibercept injections followed by PRN treatment and 11 eyes received pro re nata (PRN) injections alone. At 12mo, mean BCVA improved by one letters (logMAR 0.56±0.31 to 0.54±0.34) and mean CMT decreased from 303.9±82.1 to 259.2±108.3 µm. Four percent of eyes gained 15 letters or more, 6% lost more than 15 letters and the remaining 90% had stable BCVA. The mean number of aflibercept injections was 6. There was one case of infectious endophthalmitis. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal aflibercept in patients with nAMD with a previous suboptimal response to ranibizumab resulted in an anatomical improvement in macular appearance at 12mo without a corresponding improvement in visual acuity.

Retinal ganglion cell complex changes using spectral domain optical coherence tomography in diabetic patients without retinopathy

Ahmed I. Hegazy,Rasha H. Zedan,Tamer A. Macky and Soheir M. Esmat — 2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness in diabetic eyes without retinopathy. METHODS: Two groups included 45 diabetic eyes without retinopathy and 21 non diabetic eyes. All subjects underwent full medical and ophthalmological history, full ophthalmological examination, measuring GCC thickness and central foveal thickness (CFT) using the RTVue® spectral domain-optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and HbA1C level. RESULTS: GCC focal loss volume (FLV%) was significantly more in diabetic eyes (22.2% below normal) than normal eyes (P=0.024). No statistically significant difference was found between the diabetic group and the control group regarding GCC global loss volume (GLV%) (P=0.160). CFT was positively correlated to the average, superior and inferior GCC (P=0.001, 0.000 and 0.001 respectively) and negatively correlated to GLV% and FLV% (P=0.002 and 0.031 respectively) in diabetic eyes. C/D ratio in diabetic eyes was negatively correlated to average, superior and inferior GCC (P=0.015, 0.007 and 0.017 respectively). The FLV% was negatively correlated to the refraction and level of HbA1c (P=0.019 and 0.013 respectively) and positively correlated to the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in logMAR in diabetic group (P=0.004). CONCLUSION: Significant GCC thinning in diabetes predates retinal vasculopathy, which is mainly focal rather than diffuse. It has no preference to either the superior or inferior halves of the macula. Increase of myopic error is significantly accompanied with increased focal GCC loss. GCC loss is accompanied with increased C/D ratio in diabetic eyes.

Analysis of normal human retinal vascular network architecture using multifractal geometry

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To apply the multifractal analysis method as a quantitative approach to a comprehensive description of the microvascular network architecture of the normal human retina. METHODS: Fifty volunteers were enrolled in this study in the Ophthalmological Clinic of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, between January 2012 and January 2014. A set of 100 segmented and skeletonised human retinal images, corresponding to normal states of the retina were studied. An automatic unsupervised method for retinal vessel segmentation was applied before multifractal analysis. The multifractal analysis of digital retinal images was made with computer algorithms, applying the standard box-counting method. Statistical analyses were performed using the GraphPad InStat software. RESULTS: The architecture of normal human retinal microvascular network was able to be described using the multifractal geometry. The average of generalized dimensions (Dq) for q=0, 1, 2, the width of the multifractal spectrum (Δα=αmax - αmin) and the spectrum arms’ heights difference (│Δf│) of the normal images were expressed as mean±standard deviation (SD): for segmented versions, D0=1.7014±0.0057; D1=1.6507±0.0058; D2=1.5772±0.0059; Δα=0.92441±0.0085; │Δf│= 0.1453±0.0051; for skeletonised versions, D0=1.6303±0.0051; D1=1.6012±0.0059; D2=1.5531±0.0058; Δα=0.65032±0.0162; │Δf│= 0.0238±0.0161. The average of generalized dimensions (Dq) for q=0, 1, 2, the width of the multifractal spectrum (Δα) and the spectrum arms’ heights difference (│Δf│) of the segmented versions was slightly greater than the skeletonised versions. CONCLUSION: The multifractal analysis of fundus photographs may be used as a quantitative parameter for the evaluation of the complex three-dimensional structure of the retinal microvasculature as a potential marker for early detection of topological changes associated with retinal diseases.

Changes in retinal vessel diameters in migraine patients during attack-free period

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the retinal vessel diameters in patients with migraine by optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 124 eyes of 62 patients with a diagnosis of unilateral migraine during attack-free period and 42 age- and sex-matched control subjects were included. Migraine patients were divided into the ≤2 migraine attacks per month group and the ≥5 migraine attacks per month group. All subjects underwent complete ophthalmological and neurological examinations before measurements. Retinal vessel diameters and choroidal thickness were examined with the Spectralis OCT. RESULTS: The mean diameters of the arteries in the eyes on the headache side of control group, ≥5 migraine attacks per month and ≤2 migraine attacks per month group at 480 µm from the optic disk (Raster 3) were 119.54±46.69, 136.68±25.93 and 119.34±31.75 µm respectively with a steady decline to 105.57±32.15, 118.18±31.87 and 108.05±38.77 µm at 1440 µm (Raster 7), the last measurement point, respectively. The retinal artery diameter measurements were significantly increased in ≥5 migraine attacks per month patients at four out of five measured points compared to control group (P<0.05). There were no statistical differences at any of the points of vein measurements. The choroidal thickness measurements were significantly decreased in ≥5 migraine attacks per month patients at all measured points compared to control group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The retinal artery diameter is found to increase significantly and the choroidal thickness is found to decrease in the eyes on the headache side in ≥5 migraine attacks per month patients compared to control group.

Single-step transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy in high myopia: qualitative and quantitative visual functions

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate quantitative and qualitative optical outcomes of single-step transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TransPRK) in high myopia. METHODS: In a prospective interventional case-series, 30 eyes with high myopia (-6.00 to -8.75 D) with (up to -3.00 D) or without astigmatism were enrolled from Bina Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran. One-step TransPRK was performed with aberration-free aspherical optimized profile and SCHWIND AMARIS 500 laser. One-year follow-up results for refraction, visual acuities, vector analysis, ocular wave-front (OWF) and corneal wave-front (CWF) higher order aberrations (HOA), contrast sensitivity (CS), and post-operative haze were assessed. RESULTS: After the surgery, both photopic and mesopic CSs significantly improved (both P<0.001). We detected significant induction of OWF coma and trefoil (P<0.001 for both) HOAs; CWF coma (P=0.002), spherical (P<0.001), and tetrafoil (P=0.003) HOAs in 6 mm analysis diameter; and CWF trefoil (P=0.04) HOA in 4 mm analysis diameter. The range of mean induction observed for various HOAs was 0.005-0.11 µm. The 86.7% of eyes reached an uncorrected distance visual acuity of 20/20 or better; 96.7% of eyes were within ±0.5 D of targeted spherical refraction. In vector analysis, mean correction index value was 1.03 and mean index of success was 0.22. By 12mo after the operation, no eye lost any number of corrected distance visual acuity lines. We detected no corneal haze greater than 1+ throughout the follow-up. CONCLUSION: Our findings show promising effects of single-step TransPRK on quality of vision in high myopic eyes. It also improves refraction and visual acuity.

Placido disk-based topography versus high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera for corneal power measurements in keratoconic and post-LASIK eyes: reliability and agreement

2017/3/14 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the repeatability/reproducibility of measurement by high-resolution Placido disk-based topography with that of a high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera and assess the agreement between the two instruments in measuring corneal power in eyes with keratoconus and post-laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: One eye each of 36 keratoconic patients and 20 subjects who had undergone LASIK was included in this prospective observational study. Two independent examiners worked in a random order to take three measurements of each eye with both instruments. Four parameters were measured on the anterior cornea: steep keratometry (Ks), flat keratometry (Kf), mean keratometry (Km), and astigmatism (Ks-Kf). Intra-examiner repeatability and inter-examiner reproducibility were evaluated by calculating the within-subject standard deviation (Sw) the coefficient of repeatability (R), the coefficient of variation (CoV), and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Agreement between instruments was tested with the Bland-Altman method by calculating the 95% limits of agreement (95% LoA). RESULTS: In keratoconic eyes, the intra-examiner and inter-examiner ICC were >0.95. As compared with measurement by high-resolution Placido disk-based topography, the intra-examiner R of the high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera was lower for Kf (0.32 vs 0.88), Ks (0.61 vs 0.88), and Km (0.32 vs 0.84) but higher for Ks-Kf (0.70 vs 0.57). Inter-examiner R values were lower for all parameters measured using the high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera. The 95% LoA were -1.28 to +0.55 for Kf, -1.36 to +0.99 for Ks, -1.08 to +0.50 for Km, and -1.11 to +1.48 for Ks-Kf. In the post-LASIK eyes, the intra-examiner and inter-examiner ICC were >0.87 for all parameters. The intra-examiner and inter-examiner R were lower for all parameters measured using the high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera. The intra-examiner R was 0.17 vs 0.88 for Kf, 0.21 vs 0.88 for Ks, 0.17 vs 0.86 for Km, and 0.28 vs 0.33 for Ks-Kf. The inter-examiner R was 0.09 vs 0.64 for Kf, 0.15 vs 0.56 for Ks, 0.09 vs 0.59 for Km, and 0.18 vs 0.23 for Ks-Kf. The 95% LoA were -0.54 to +0.58 for Kf, -0.51 to +0.53 for Ks and Km, and -0.28 to +0.27 for Ks-Kf. CONCLUSION: As compared with Placido disk-based topography, the high-resolution rotating Scheimpflug camera provides more repeatable and reproducible measurements of Ks, Kf and Ks in keratoconic and post-LASIK eyes. Agreement between instruments is fair in keratoconus and very good in post-LASIK eyes.

Corneal biomechanical data and biometric parameters measured with Scheimpflug-based devices on normal corneas

2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the correlations between ocular biomechanical and biometric data of the eye, measured by Scheimpflug-based devices on healthy subjects. METHODS: Three consecutive measurements were carried out using the corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology (CorVis ST) device on healthy eyes and the 10 device-specific parameters were recorded. Pentacam HR-derived parameters (corneal curvature radii on the anterior and posterior surfaces; apical pachymetry; corneal volume; corneal aberration data; depth, volume and angle of the anterior chamber) and axial length (AL) from IOLMaster were correlated with the 10 specific CorVis ST parameters. RESULTS: Measurements were conducted in 43 eyes of 43 volunteers (age 61.24±15.72y). The 10 specific CorVis ST data showed significant relationships with corneal curvature radii both on the anterior and posterior surface, pachymetric data, root mean square (RMS) data of lower-order aberrations, and posterior RMS of higher-order aberrations and spherical aberration of the posterior cornea. Anterior chamber depth showed a significant relationship, but there were no significant correlations between corneal volume, anterior chamber volume, mean chamber angle or AL and the 10 specific CorVis ST parameters.

Clinical results of non-Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty

2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the impact of non-Descemet stripping endothelial keratoplasty (non-DSEK) on graft rejection rate, and its overall procedural effectiveness in patients. METHODS: Non-DSEK was performed on 65 eyes of 64 patients, and the procedural outcomes, including rejection episodes, failure and dislocation of the grafts, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), endothelial cell density (ECD), and other complications, were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: Of the 65 eyes, 63 recovered from bullous keratopathy with a clear cornea. The mean follow-up time was 26.4mo (range, 6-84mo). The mean BCVA improved from 1.70 logMAR preoperatively to 0.54 logMAR at 3mo, 0.46 logMAR at 6mo, and 0.37 logMAR at 1y after surgery. The postoperative donor ECD of the 25 patients who successfully underwent specular microscopic examination was 1918±534 cells/mm2 (range, 637 to 3056 cells/mm2), and the mean endothelial cell loss was 41.9% at 24mo postoperatively. One eye developed secondary glaucoma and required regrafting via penetrating keratoplasty (PKP). Another eye had postoperative graft failure due to rejection at 26mo. Postoperative graft dislocation occurred in eight eyes. All of the eight dislocated grafts were reattached using air reinjection. CONCLUSION: Immunological graft rejection of the donor graft rarely occurs in non-DSEK. Therefore, non-DSEK is a safe, concise, and effective alternative to restore corneal decompensation when the Descemet membrane is disease-free.

Effects of contact lens wearing on keratoconus: a confocal microscopy observation

2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the corneal cell morphology of new keratoconus patients wearing two different types of rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses for 1y. METHODS: Thirty nine eyes of 39 new keratoconus patients were selected and randomly fitted with two types of RGP contact lenses. Group 1 had 21 eyes with regular rigid gas-permeable (RRGP) contact lens and rest 18 eyes were in group 2 with specially designed rigid gas-permeable (SRGP) contact lens. Corneal cell morphology was evaluated using a slit scanning confocal microscope at no-lens wear and after 1y of contact lens wearing. RESULTS: After 1y of contact lens wearing in group 1, the mean anterior and posterior stromal keratocyte density were significantly less (P=0.006 and P=0.001, respectively) compared to no-lens wear. The mean cell area of anterior and posterior stromal keratocyte were also significantly different (P=0.005 and P=0.001) from no-lens wear. The anterior and posterior stromal haze increased by 18.74% and 23.81%, respectively after 1y of contact lens wearing. Whereas in group 2, statistically significant changes were observed only in cell density & area of anterior stroma (P=0.001 and P=0.001, respectively) after 1y. While, level of anterior and posterior stromal haze increased by 16.67% and 11.11% after 1y of contact lens wearing. Polymegathism and pleomorphism also increased after 1y of contact lens wearing in both the contact lens groups. CONCLUSION: Confocal microscopy observation shows the significant alterations in corneal cell morphology of keratoconic corneas wearing contact lenses especially in group 1. The type of contact lens must be carefully selected to minimize changes in corneal cell morphology.

Visual performance with accommodating and multifocal intraocular lenses

Jie Lan, Yu-Sen Huang, Yun-Hai Dai, Xiao-Ming Wu, Jia-Jun Sun and Li-Xin Xie — 2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the visual functional outcomes with accommodating and multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). METHODS: Our retrospective comparative study included 51 patients (60 eyes) received implantation of an accommodating IOL (Tetraflex; 16 patients, 20 eyes), a refractive multifocal IOL (ReZoom; 18 patients, 20 eyes), or a diffractive multifocal IOL (ZMA00; 17 patients, 20 eyes). Subjective refraction, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity (CS), intraocular aberration, and subjective photic phenomena were detected at 3mo after surgery. RESULTS: The spherical equivalent in the three groups was -0.38±0.54 D, 0.14±0.56 D, and 0.35±0.41 D, respectively. No statistically significant differences were found in uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity among the groups (P=0.39). The ReZoom group had significantly better distance-corrected intermediate visual acuity than the ZMA00 group (P=0.003). The ZMA00 group had significantly better near visual acuity than the other groups (P＜0.05). Better contrast sensitivity values were observed in the Tetraflex group under most of the spatial frequencies conditions (P=0.025). The total aberration was lowest in the ZMA00 group (P=0.000), and the spherical aberration was highest in the Tetraflex group (P=0.000). The three groups had similar frequency of ghosting and glare, and the Tetraflex group had a low rate of halos (P=0.01). CONCLUSION: Both accommodating and multifocal IOLs can successfully restore distance and uncorrected intermediate visual acuities. Tetraflex accommodating IOLs perform better in CS and with less halos of photic phenomena. ReZoom refractive multifocal IOLs have better performance in distance-corrected intermediate visual acuity than ZMA00 diffractive multifocal IOLs, and the latter achieved better near visual acuity and efficiently decreased the optical aberration.

Predictive factors for photic phenomena after refractive, rotationally asymmetric, multifocal intraocular lens implantation

Hungwon Tchah, Kiyeun Nam and Aeri Yoo — 2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the independent factors associated with photic phenomena in patients implanted with refractive, rotationally asymmetric, multifocal intraocular lenses (MIOLs). METHODS: Thirty-four eyes of 34 patients who underwent unilateral cataract surgery, followed by implantation of rotationally asymmetric MIOLs were included. Distance and near visual acuity outcomes, intraocular aberrations, preferred reading distances, preoperative and postoperative refractive errors, mesopic and photopic pupil diameters, and the mesopic and photopic kappa angles were assessed. Patients were also administered a satisfaction survey. Photic phenomena were graded by questionnaire. Independent-related factors were identified by correlation and bivariate logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: The distance from the photopic to the mesopic pupil center (pupil center shift) was significantly associated with glare/halo symptoms [odds ratio (OR)=2.065, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.916-4.679, P=0.006] and night vision problems (OR=1.832, 95% CI=0.721-2.158, P=0.007). The preoperative photopic angle kappa was significantly associated with glare/halo symptoms (OR=2.155, 95% CI=1.065-4.362, P=0.041). The photopic angle kappa was also significantly associated with glare/halo symptoms (OR=2.155, 95% CI=1.065-4.362, P=0.041) and with night vision problems (OR=1.832, 95% CI=0.721-2.158, P=0.007) in patients implanted with rotationally asymmetric MIOLs. CONCLUSION: A large pupil center shift and misalignment between the visual and pupillary axis (angle kappa) may play a role in the occurrence of photic phenomena after implantation of rotationally asymmetric MIOLs.

The vitreomacular interface in different types of age-related macular degeneration

2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the vitreomacular interface in cases with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and to compare them to eyes with dry AMD and normal eyes. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional comparative study that included 87 eyes with wet AMD, 42 eyes with dry AMD and 40 eyes without AMD as a control group. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) examination was performed for all patients to assess the vitreomacular interface. RESULTS: In the wet AMD group, 34.5% of cases had vitreomacular adhesion (VMA). Only 14.3% of dry AMD cases and 10% of control cases had VMA. There was a significant difference between the control group and the wet AMD group (P=0.004) as well as the dry and wet AMD group (P=0.017). There was also a significant difference between the incidence of VMA in patients with subretinal choroidal neovascularization (CNV, type 1) and intraretinal CNV (type 2 or type 3) (P=0.020). CONCLUSION: There is an association between posterior vitreous attachment and AMD. There is also an increased incidence of VMA with intra-retinal CNV.

Short-duration transient visual evoked potentials and color reflectivity discretization analysis in glaucoma patients and suspects

2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the use of short-duration transient visual evoked potentials (VEP) and color reflectivity discretization analysis (CORDA) in glaucomatous eyes, eyes suspected of having glaucoma, and healthy eyes. METHODS: The study included 136 eyes from 136 subjects: 49 eyes with glaucoma, 45 glaucoma suspect eyes, and 42 healthy eyes. Subjects underwent Humphrey visual field (VF) testing, VEP testing, as well as peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer optical coherence tomography imaging studies with post-acquisition CORDA applied. Statistical analysis was performed using means and ranges, ANOVA, post-hoc comparisons using Turkey’s adjustment, Fisher’s Exact test, area under the curve, and Spearman correlation coefficients. RESULTS: Parameters from VEP and CORDA correlated significantly with VF mean deviation (MD) (P<0.05). In distinguishing glaucomatous eyes from controls, VEP demonstrated area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.64-0.75 for amplitude and 0.67-0.81 for latency. The CORDA HR1 parameter was highly discriminative for glaucomatous eyes vs controls (AUC=0.94). CONCLUSION: Significant correlations are found between MD and parameters of short-duration transient VEP and CORDA, diagnostic modalities which warrant further consideration in identifying glaucoma characteristics.

Novel biomarkers for patients with idiopathic acute anterior uveitis: neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio and platelet to lymphocyte ratio

2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the levels of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (N/L) and the platelet to lymphocyte ratio (P/L) in patients with idiopathic acute anterior uveitis (AAU) and to compare with healthy controls. METHODS: Thirty-six male patients with idiopathic AAU and 36 male healthy subjects were enrolled in this retrospective study. Complete ophthalmological examination and complete blood count measurements results of all subjects were evaluated. RESULTS: There was a significant difference in N/L and P/L between idiopathic AAU and control groups (P=0.006, P=0.022). Also, correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation between C-reactive protein (CRP) and N/L (P=0.002; r=0.461). CONCLUSION: Our study for the first time provides evidence of N/L and P/L may be useful biomarkers in patients with idiopathic AAU. N/L is correlated with CRP, so it can be a useful biomarker to predict the prognosis in idiopathic AAU.

Retinal vessel oxygen saturation in healthy subjects and early branch retinal vein occlusion

Jing-Yan Yang, Bing You, Qian Wang, Szy Yann Chan, Jost B. Jonas and Wen-Bin Wei — 2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To measure the retinal oxygen saturation in healthy subjects and early branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in Chinese population. METHODS: The retinal vessel oxygen saturation of the healthy subjects and BRVO patients were measured by a noninvasive retinal oximeter (Oxymap ehf., Reykjavik, Iceland). RESULTS: The study included 22 patients with unilateral BRVO (mean age: 55.1±8.8y) in the study group and 91 healthy participants (mean age: 37.5±14.0y) in the control group. In the healthy individuals, mean arterial and venous oxygen saturation were significantly (P<0.001) higher in the superior nasal quadrant (98.5%±10.1% and 57.3%±8.7%, respectively) than in the inferior nasal quadrant (94.2%±9.0% and 54.1%±9.6%, respectively), followed by the superior temporal quadrant (89.1%±10.1% and 51.9%±8.9%, respectively) and the inferior temporal quadrant (86.4%±9.4% and 46.6%±9.6%, respectively). In patients with ischemic BRVO, arterial oxymetric values were significantly higher and venous measurements significantly lower for the affected vessel (107.5%±9.7% and 46.4%±14.2%, respectively) than the unaffected vessel in the same eye (99.2%±12.2% and 55.5%±7.9%, respectively) and as compared to the vessel in the unaffected fellow eye (93.1%±6.9% and 55.7%±6.8%) (P=0.005 and P=0.02, respectively). In the patients with non-ischemic BRVO, mean venous oxygen saturation was lower in the affected vein (39.8%±12.2%) than in the unaffected vessels of the same eye (50.8%±10.5%) and in the fellow eye (58.21%±5.7%) (P=0.03). Mean arterial oxygen saturation did not differ significantly (P=0.42) between all three groups. CONCLUSION: In patients with BRVO, the venous oxygen saturation in the affected vessels is decreased potentially due to decreased blood velocity and flow. Interestingly, the arterial oxygen saturation in eyes with ischemic BRVO is increased in the affected arteries.

Characteristics of retinal vein occlusion with final vision better than 78 letters after sequential therapy with ranibizumab and triamcinolone acetate

Yao-Wu Qin, Jia Yu and Quan Zhang — 2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the reasons that may lead to the different vision result by combining the ranibizumab and triamcinolone acetate (TA) in sequence to treat macular edema in retinal vein occlusion (RVO). METHODS: Ranibizumab and TA were combined in sequence to treat 43 patients with macular edema secondary to RVO. Six months after the treatment, patients with central fovea thickness (CFT) less than 300 μm in optical coherence tomography (OCT) were collected into GroupsⅠand Ⅱ, based on vision acuity (VA) better than 78 letters or less than 60 letters. The age, baseline VA, duration from onset to treatment, CFT at the baseline, sub-retinal fluid (SRF), sub-foveal exudates and injection times of TA and ranibizumab were taken into comparison. RESULTS: The mean age of the subjects was 46.4y in Group Ⅰbut 57.5y in Group Ⅱ. The difference of age was significant between groups (P<0.01). The mean baseline VA was 51.4 letters in Group Ⅰand 43.9 letters in Group Ⅱ (P<0.05). The baseline CFT were 670.9 μm in Group Ⅰwith SRF in 54.3% patients and 678.1 μm in Group Ⅱ with SRF in 52.9% (P>0.05). The mean number of injections of TA was 0.9 and the mean number of injections of ranibizumab was 2.3 in Group Ⅰbut 1.7 and 2.9 respectively in Group Ⅱ. The treatment times of ranibizumab had no difference between the 2 groups (P>0.05) but the difference of TA injection times was significant, P<0.05. Subfoveal exudates at final stage happened in no subjects in Group Ⅰ but in 45.83% subjects in Group Ⅱ. CONCLUSION: This combined treatment is safer than TA injection and cheaper than ranibizumab injection alone. Younger patients and earlier treatment will help to get better vision outcome. Subfoveal exudates at the final stage have significant relationship with vision outcome. No relationship existed between the baseline CFT, SRF and the vision outcome.

Long-term follow-up of vitrectomy in patients with pathologic myopic foveoschisis

Ting Zhang, Ying Zhu, Chun-Hui Jiang and Ge-Zhi Xu — 2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To report the long-term surgical outcomes of pathologic myopic foveoschisis (MF) following vitrectomy. METHODS: We performed a retrospective case series analysis of 50 consecutive patients diagnosed with MF who experienced vision loss due to progression of foveoschisis. The 50 patients (67 eyes) were treated in our hospital with vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling from December 2004 to September 2010. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), refractive error, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and routine examination results were analysed. The changes of BCVA, foveal anatomical features on OCT scan, and complications were the main outcome measures. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 42±17mo (range 24 to 93mo). BCVA improved significantly postoperatively (0.76±0.65 logMAR) compared with preoperative baselines (1.31±0.78 logMAR, P<0.0001), and in 53 eyes (79%) including 3 lines gain in 44 eyes (66%) at the last follow-up visit. OCT scans showed that central retinal thickness decreased from 580.0±270.0 μm preoperatively (n=67) to 179.7±84.7 μm postoperatively (n=58, P<0.0001). Total resolution of foveoschisis occurred in 41 eyes (61%). Preoperative BCVA correlated well with postoperative BCVA, whereas other factors such as age, axial length, and refractive error were not correlated. The most common complications were cataract and full-thickness macular hole formation in 14 and 9 cases, respectively. CONCLUSION: Patients with progressive vision loss due to MF who were treated with vitrectomy with ILM peeling show favourable outcomes. In most eyes, visual acuity and foveal structure remain stable during long-term observation.

Comparative analysis of the efficacy of astigmatic correction after wavefront-guided and wavefront-optimized LASIK in low and moderate myopic eyes

Mounir A. Khalifa, Mahmoud F. Alsahn, Mohamed Shafik Shaheen and David P. Pinero — 2017/2/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare the efficacy of the astigmatic correction achieved with laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in eyes with myopic astigmatism using wavefront-guided (WFG) and wavefront-optimized (WFO) ablation profiles. METHODS: Prospective study included 221 eyes undergoing LASIK: 99 and 122 eyes with low and moderate myopic astigmatism (low and moderate myopia groups). Two subgroups were differentiated in each group according to the ablation profile: WFG subgroup, 109 eyes (45/64, low/moderate myopia groups) treated using the Advanced CustomVue platform (Abbott Medical Optics Inc.), and WFO subgroup, 112 eyes (54/58, low/moderate myopia groups) treated using the EX-500 platform (Alcon). Clinical outcomes were evaluated during a 6-month follow-up, including a vector analysis of astigmatic changes. RESULTS: Significantly better postoperative uncorrected visual acuity and efficacy index was found in the WFG subgroups of each group (P≤0.041). Postoperative spherical equivalent and cylinder were significantly higher in WFO subgroups (P≤0.003). In moderate myopia group, a higher percentage of eyes with a postoperative cylinder ≤0.25 D was found in the WFG subgroup (90.6% vs 65.5%, P=0.002). In low and moderate myopia groups, the difference vector was significantly higher in the WFO subgroup compared to WFG (P<0.001). In moderate myopia group, the magnitude (P=0.008) and angle of error (P<0.001) were also significantly higher in the WFO subgroup. Significantly less induction of high order aberrations were found with WFG treatments in both low and moderate myopia groups (P≤0.006). CONCLUSION: A more efficacious correction of myopic astigmatism providing a better visual outcome is achieved with WFG LASIK compared to WFO LASIK.

Ex-PRESS implantation with phacoemulsification in POAG versus CPACG

Jie Lan, Da-Peng Sun, Jie Wu, Ya-Ni Wang and Li-Xin Xie — 2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the long-term outcomes of the Ex-PRESS miniature glaucoma device implanted under a scleral flap in combination of phacoemulsification with intraocular lens implantation in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and chronic primary angle-closure glaucoma (CPACG). METHODS: Retrospective, comparative study. A total of 60 eyes (60 patients) receiving the Ex-PRESS miniature glaucoma device implantation combined with phacoemulsification were reviewed. Thirty eyes (30 patients) had the combined procedures for POAG, and the other 30 eyes (30 patients) for CPACG. RESULTS: The follow-up was 39.37±7.09mo (range 3 to 49mo) in patients with POAG and 37.10±9.26mo (range 9 to 49mo) in patients with CPACG (P=0.29). The mean change in best corrected visual acuity was 0.41 logMAR for POAG and 0.38 logMAR for CPACG at the last follow-up (P=0.22). The postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) of the POAG group was significantly lower than the CPACG group at 1, 3, 12, and 18mo after surgery (P=0.02, 0.00, 0.04, 0.01) with similar glaucoma medications after surgery (P＞0.16). At 3y after surgery, the cumulative complete and qualified success rates were 63.3% (POAG) and 53.3% (CPACG), 83.3% (POAG) and 73.3% (CPACG) (P=0.41, 0.49), respectively. The POAG group had more hypotony than the CPACG group (P=0.04). CONCLUSION: The long-term outcomes show the Ex-PRESS implantation combined with phacoemulcification can effectively lower the IOP in both the POAG and CPACG groups. The POAG group seems to have lower postoperative IOP and a higher risk of hypotony.

Ex-PRESS implantation versus trabeculectomy in Chinese patients with POAG: fellow eye pilot study

Wei Wang, Min-Wen Zhou, Wen-Bin Huang, Xin-Bo Gao and Xiu-Lan Zhang — 2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the outcomes of Ex-PRESS implantation in one eye versus trabeculectomy with mitomycin C in the fellow eye in Chinese patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). METHODS: This was a prospective, non-randomized comparative study. Forty-eight eyes of 24 patients with bilateral POAG necessitating surgery were included and underwent Ex-PRESS implantation under the scleral flap in one eye and trabeculectomy in the other eye according to patients’ choice. Primary outcome measures included mean intraocular pressure (IOP) and success rate. Secondary outcome measures were aqueous flare, postoperative medication use, visual acuity, and incidence of complications. RESULTS: All 24 patients finished a 1-year follow-up. Both groups maintained significant reductions in IOP after surgery throughout the follow-up period. At any point in time, the IOP of the two groups did not differ significantly. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed no significant differences in success between the two groups (P=0.289). The mean number of anti-glaucoma medicines and visual acuity in both groups were not significantly different. Eyes with Ex-PRESS implantation had lower aqueous flare values on days 1 and 3 (both P<0.05). Instances of early postoperative hypotony and choroidal effusion were significantly fewer in frequency after Ex-PRESS implantation under the scleral flap compared with those after trabeculectomy (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Ex-PRESS is comparable to trabeculectomy in terms of IOP, success rate, number of glaucoma medications used, and visual acuity. However, Ex-PRESS resulted in fewer cases of in?ammation and a lower rate of complications.

Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory findings of infectious keratitis at Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Egypt

Amani E Badawi, Dalia Moemen and Nora L El-Tantawy — 2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the epidemiological, clinical and laboratory findings of infectious keratitis. METHODS: A retrospective study on cases of infective keratitis, attended our institution from Mar. 2013 to Feb. 2015, was done at Mansoura Ophthalmic Center, Egypt. Corneal scrapings were performed and processed for direct microscopy and culture in appropriate media using standard laboratory protocols. RESULTS: Out of 245 patients enrolled for study, 247 corneal scrapings were obtained. Ocular trauma was the most common predisposing factor (51.4%), followed by diabetes mellitus (15.1%). Cultures were positive in 110 scraping samples (44.5%): 45.5% samples had pure fungal infection, 40% had pure bacterial infections and 10% had mixed fungal and bacterial growths. Acanthamoeba was detected in 5 (4.5%) samples. The most common fungal pathogen was Aspergillus spp. (41%). The most common bacterial isolates were Staphylococcus aureus (38.2%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21.8%). CONCLUSION: Incidence of fungal keratitis is high in our region. Therapeutic approach can initially be based on clinical features and sensitivity/resistance patterns. Microbiological research should direct the antimicrobial treatment. Antibiotic resistance to fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides is an important consideration.

Clinical evaluation of surgery-induced astigmatism in cataract surgery using 2.2 mm or 1.8 mm clear corneal micro-incisions

Jun Yang, Xiu Wang, Hong Zhang, Yi Pang and Rui-Hua Wei — 2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate corneal astigmatism after phacoemulsification using 2.2 mm or 1.8 mm clear corneal micro-incisions and its effects on visual function. METHODS: Sixty cases (60 eyes) with cataract were randomly divided into groups A (n=30) and B (n=30) respectively underwent 2.2 mm and 1.8 mm clear corneal tunnel incision phacoemulsification combined with folding intraocular lens implantation from the time direction of 11:00. On day 1 and at 1, 4, and 6wk after operation, patients’ vision was measured and both the corneal curvature and corneal thickness (CT) were recorded using Pentacam. RESULTS: The measured surgery-induced astigmatism (SIA) in both groups A and B peaked on day 1 after operation, and then gradually decreased and eventually stabilized in week 4. No statistically significant difference was found in corneal astigmatism between two groups (P>0.05). The measured corneal astigmatism at 4wk and 6wk postoperatively were 0.28±0.09 D and 0.27±0.10 D for groups A and 0.27±0.09 D and 0.25±0.10 D for groups B without statistically significant difference (P>0.05). In addition, no significant differences in visual acuity and CT were found between groups A and B before or after operation. CONCLUSION: Both 2.2 mm and 1.8 mm micro-incision cataract surgeries result in relatively small SIA with no difference in visual function and corneal astigmatism between two surgery approaches. Thus, the two types of surgical systems are safe and efficient for cataract treatment, by which satisfactory uncorrected visual acuity can be regained early postoperatively.

Corneal topographic changes and surgically induced astigmatism following combined phacoemulsification and 25-gauge vitrectomy

2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate corneal topographic changes and surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) after combined phacoemulsification and 25-gauge transconjunctival sutureless vitrectomy (25-G TSV). METHODS: A retrospective study on 96 eyes of 87 patients who underwent combined phacoemulsification and 25-G TSV. The different topographic parameters and SIA were analyzed pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: There was no significant changes in corneal topographic parameters at different follow up periods. Only surface regularity index changed significantly in the 2nd postoperative week and then returned to baseline values thereafter. Mean SIA gradually decreased to reach 0.12 D by the 6th postoperative month. CONCLUSION: Corneal surface and astigmatic changes are insignificant in either early or late postoperative periods following combined phacoemulsification and 25-G TSV. The SIA was the minimum among previous reports on sutureless vitrectomy alone or combined with phacoemulsification. Improvement of SIA did not stop at the 3rd postoperative month but it continued till the 6th month postoperatively.

High speed small gauge anterior vitrectomy cutter for scleral fixated intraocular lens implantation

Yuan Bo Liang, Yoly Y.Y. Fong, Lulu L. Cheng and Alvin L. Young — 2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To report the outcomes of anterior vitrectomy using high speed cutter for scleral fixated intraocular lens (SFIOL) implantation in patients with posterior capsular rupture . METHODS: Medical records of 51 patients with posterior capsular rupture who received high speed cutter anterior vitrectomy via limbal incision with SFIOL implantation from June 2011 to December 2013 were reviewed retrospectively for visual outcomes and complications. RESULTS: Totally 51 eyes of 51 patients were identified (23 males and 28 females). Mean age at surgery was 67.2±15y (range 27-91y), with mean follow-up of 23±8.2mo (range 12-40mo). The 49 (96.1%) eyes had improvement or unchanged of final postoperative visual acuity. The most common complication was vitreous haemorrhage (5.9%) and transient rise in intraocular pressure (5.9%) which all spontaneously resolved CONCLUSION: High speed cutter anterior vitrectomy via limbal incision is a safe and effective method for those with posterior capsular rupture for SFIOL implantation.

Six-year outcomes in neovascular age-related macular degeneration with ranibizumab

2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcomes of (6y ranibizumab therapy in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: HELIX was a retrospective, observational effectiveness study using medical records of patients treated in three clinics in Belgium. Patients had neovascular AMD and were initially treated with intravitreal ranibizumab (0.5 mg) between November 1, 2007 and October 31, 2008, had (6y of data available, and were treated on an ongoing, as-needed basis. Outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central retinal thickness (CRT). RESULTS: The sample consisted of 88 eyes from 69 patients. Mean age was 76.4±6.5y, most patients were female (62.3%). Most eyes (62.5%) were treatment-naive, 33 previously treated eyes had received predominantly other anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents and verteporfin. Mean baseline BCVA was 57.4±12.7 ETDRS letters and CRT was 291.5±86.1 (m. On average, patients received 20.6±11.9 ranibizumab injections over the (6y. Intervals between injections were on average 12.7±16.1wk. Mean change in BCVA from baseline to last observation for the sample was less than one letter (-0.9±17.3 letters), with an average loss of -3.2±15.6 letters in previously treated eyes versus a gain of 0.6±18.4 letters in treatment-naïve eyes. When considering a loss of <15 letters over 6y as stabilization of disease, 75.9% of all eyes showed a positive (improvement or stabilization) outcome. Mean change in CRT from baseline to last observation for the sample was -26.9±148.4 (m with the greatest reduction observed in treatment-naive eyes. CONCLUSION: This retrospective study of 69 neovascular AMD patients treated for (6y with ranibizumab demonstrates long-term visual stabilization. In light of the natural evolution of the disease, these data confirm that ranibizumab is effective long-term under real-world conditions of heterogeneity of patients, clinicians, and centers.

Efficacy and safety of ranibizumab for wet age-related macular degeneration in Chinese patients

Hui-Jun Qi, Xiao-Xin Li, Jun-Yan Zhang and Ming-Wei Zhao — 2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of ranibizumab for wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) in Chinese patients and to determine the mean number of injections administered over one year of follow-up. METHODS: This single centre, retrospective observational case series study included data from 121 patients with wAMD (121 eyes) who were diagnosed by indirect ophthalmoscopy, fluorescence fundus angiography (FFA), indocyanine green angiography, and optical coherence tomography. Ranibizumab was injected into the vitreous cavities once per month for 3mo and as needed afterwards. Changes in visual acuity and central foveal thickness (CFT) during the follow-up period were compared, and the mean number of injections over the year was calculated. Patients with one or more adverse events related to the drugs and injections were recorded for further adverse events analysis. RESULTS: The study population included 70 males and 51 females aged between 50 and 87y (mean: 71.32±9.41y). The mean number of injections over the first year was 5±1 (range: 3-9). The mean best-corrected visual acuity by Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study increased from 43.2±19.3 (95%CI: 39.8-46.7) at baseline to 51.7±20.1 (95%CI: 48.1-55.3), and central foveal thickness (CFT) decreased from 526.5±277.0 μm (95%CI: 476.6-576.4) to 258.2±161.6 μm (95%CI: 229.2-287.3) at 12mo. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). Visual acuity significantly improved in 34.1% of the patients (38 eyes), stabilized in 66.1% of the patients (80 eyes), and significantly decreased in 2.5% of the patients (3 eyes). CFT at baseline was an independent risk factor of decreased CFT and increased visual acuity. None of the patients had severe adverse events during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: Ranibizumab can effectively control disease progression and improve visual acuity in patients with wAMD. The disease conditions of most patients stabilized after a one-year treatment with an average of 5 injections.

Spectrum and visual outcomes of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease in Argentina

2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To review all cases of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease in an Inflammatory Eye Disease Service in Argentina and to describe the clinical profile and outcomes of treatment. METHODS: The records from patients with VKH disease between January 1980 and December 2008 were retrospectively analyzed for clinical profile, complications, and treatment. Patients were classified according to their initial treatment in group 1: high corticosteroid dose [≥1 mg/(kg·d)] within 2wk of illness onset; group 2: high corticosteroid dose, 2 to 4wk of onset and group 3: patients who received the high dose after 1mo of illness onset, patients who received lower oral doses than 1 mg/(kg·d) without regarding the time of beginning of the disease. RESULTS: A total of 210 eyes of 105 patients were included. The mean age at presentation was 32.6±13y (range: 10-74y), and 86.7% were female. The mean duration of follow up was 144±96.6mo. Patients in the group 1 had significantly higher visual acuity than the other groups (P<0.0001), none had (loss of, or no) light perception at the end of follow up, whereas 24.7% patients in group 3 ended in light perception (P<0.004). CONCLUSION: Patients with early high dose corticosteroid treatment have better visual acuity and fewer complications. Proper timing in referral and treatment is critical for better visual outcome in VKH disease.

Objective assessment of the effect of pupil size upon the power distribution of multifocal contact lenses

2017/1/4 0:00:00
AIM: To analytically assess the effect of pupil size upon the refractive power distributions of different designs of multifocal contact lenses. METHODS: Two multifocal contact lenses of center-near design and one multifocal contact lens of center-distance design were used in this study. Their power profiles were measured using the NIMO TR1504 device (LAMBDA-X, Belgium). Based on their power profiles, the power distribution was assessed as a function of pupil size. For the high addition lenses, the resulting refractive power as a function of viewing distance (far, intermediate, and near) and pupil size was also analyzed. RESULTS: The power distribution of the lenses was affected by pupil size differently. One of the lenses showed a significant spread in refractive power distribution, from about ?3 D to 0 D. Generally, the power distribution of the lenses expanded as the pupil diameter became greater. The surface of the lens dedicated for each distance varied substantially with the design of the lens. CONCLUSION: In an experimental basis, our results show how the lenses power distribution is affected by the pupil size and underlined the necessity of careful evaluation of the patient’s visual needs and the optical properties of a multifocal contact lens for achieving the optimal visual outcome.

Anterior lamellar recession for management of upper eyelid cicatricial entropion and associated eyelid abnormalities

Tamer I.Gawdat, Mahmoud A. Kamal, Ahmed S.Saif and Mostafa M. Diab — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the functional and aesthetic outcomes of upper eyelid cicatricial entropion (UCE) correction using anterior lamellar recession (ALR) with addressing the associated conditions including dermatochalasis, brow ptosis, blepharoptosis, and lid retraction. METHODS: Chart review of patients with upper lid cicatricial entropion who had undergone ALR from 2013 to 2016 was reviewed. Success was defined as the lack of any lash in contact with the globe, no need for a second procedure, and acceptable cosmesis at the final follow up. RESULTS: Sixty eight patients (97 eyelids) were operated by ALR with simultaneous correction of associated lid problems in each case when necessary. The mean follow-up time was 17.8mo (range, 6.0-24.0mo). Concomitantly, levator tucking was performed in 19 eyelids (19.6%), upper lid retractor recession in 18 eyelids (18.6%), and internal browpexy in 31 eyelids (32.0%). In 95.8% of patients (95%CI: 0.85-0.96), satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcome was achieved with a single surgical procedure. CONCLUSION: Based on the principles of lamellar recession and concurrently addressing the associated lid problems, this approach is an effective and safe treatment of UCE.

Timing and approaches in congenital cataract surgery: a four-year, two-layer randomized controlled trial

2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To compare visual prognoses and postoperative adverse events of congenital cataract surgery performed at different times and using different surgical approaches. METHODS: In this prospective, randomized controlled trial, we recruited congenital cataract patients aged 3mo or younger before cataract surgery. Sixty-one eligible patients were randomly assigned to two groups according to surgical timing: a 3-month-old group and a 6-month-old group. Each eye underwent one of three randomly assigned surgical procedures, as follows: surgery A, lens aspiration (I/A); surgery B, lens aspiration with posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis (I/A+PCCC); and surgery C, lens aspiration with posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis and anterior vitrectomy (I/A+PCCC+A-Vit). The long-term best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and the incidence of complications in the different groups were compared and analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 57 participants (114 eyes) with a mean follow-up period of 48.7mo were included in the final analysis. The overall logMAR BCVA in the 6-month-old group was better than that in the 3-month-old group (0.81±0.28 vs 0.96±0.30; P=0.02). The overall logMAR BCVA scores in the surgery B group were lower than the scores in the A and C groups (A: 0.80±0.29, B: 1.02±0.28, and C: 0.84±0.28; P=0.007). A multivariate linear regression revealed no significant relationships between the incidence of complications and long-term BCVA. CONCLUSION: It might be safer and more beneficial for bilateral total congenital cataract patients to undergo surgery at 6mo of age than 3mo. Moreover, with rigorous follow-up and timely intervention, the postoperative complications in these patients are treatable and do not compromise visual outcomes.

Clinical outcomes of a new diffractive multifocal intraocular lens

Baha Toygar, Ozge Yabas Kiziloglu, Okan Toygar and Ali Murat Hacimustafaoglu — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate clinical outcomes after implantation of a new diffractive aspheric multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) with +3.00 addition power. METHODS: This is a retrospective, consecutive case series of cataract patients who underwent bilateral implantation of the Optiflex MO/HF D012 (Moss Vision Inc. Ltd, London, UK) multifocal IOL. Patients followed for 6mo were included in the study. Data on distance, intermediate and near visual acuity, refractive error [manifest spherical equivalent (MSE)], contrast sensitivity, adverse events, subjective symptoms, spectacle independence and patient satisfaction [visual function questionnaire (VFQ)-25 questionnaire] were retrieved from electronic medical records and analyzed. RESULTS: Forty eyes of 20 patients with a mean age of 66.7±8.5y (range: 53-82) were included in the study. Mean uncorrected distance, near and intermediate visual acuity remained stable through postoperative visits and was 0.19±0.19 logMAR, Jaeger 4 and Jaeger 3 respectively at the 6mo visit. At the end of postoperative 6mo, MSE was -0.14±0.42 diopters (D) and 98% of the eyes were within 1.00 D of target refraction. Postoperative low contrast (10%) visual acuity remained stable (P=0.54) through follow up visits with a mean of 0.35±0.17 logMAR at the 6mo visit. There were no reported adverse events. None of the patients reported subjective symptoms of halo or glare. Spectacle independence rate was 90%. Mean VFQ-25 questionnaire score was 93.5±6.12. CONCLUSION: The Optiflex MO/HF-DO12 IOL was safely implanted and successfully restored distance, intermediate and near visual acuity without impairing contrast sensitivity. High levels of spectacle independence were achieved at all distances including intermediate distance.

Outcomes of small gauge pars plicata vitrectomy for patients with persistent fetal vasculature: a report of 105 cases

Jing-Hua Liu, Hai Lu, Song-Feng Li, Yong-Hong Jiao, Nan Lin and Ning-Pu Liu — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the surgical outcomes in eyes with persistent fetal vasculatures (PFV) managed by small gauge pars plicata vitrectomy. METHODS: Consecutive patients with PFV treated by small gauge pars plicata vitrectomy at Beijing Tongren Eye Center between January 2010 and January 2013 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 118 eyes of 105 patients with PFV were included and undergone small gauge pars plicata vitrectomy, of which 84 (71.2%) eyes had lensectomy and 16 (13.6%) eyes had lens aspiration and immediate intraocular lens implantation. The percentage of sutured scleral incision of 23 gauge vitrectomy (71.7%, 33/46) was higher than that of the 25 gauge vitrectomy (18.1%, 13/72). At last follow-up, visual acuity remained stable in 34 eyes (28.8%) and improved in 84 eyes (71.2%). Age at surgery (less than 2y), anterior type of PFV, and immediate IOL implantation were associated with postoperative improved visual acuity. Sixty five (55.1%) eyes had retinal detachment preoperatively, among which 33 (50.8%, 33/65) eyes had retinal reattachment or partial retinal reattachment. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that cases with PFV have a potential for developing good visual acuity after small gauge pars plicata vitrectomy with favorable anatomic outcomes and acceptable rate of serious surgical complications.

A new strategy to interpret OCT posterior pole asymmetry analysis for glaucoma diagnosis

Yi Zhang, Ni Li, Jun Chen, Hong Wei, Shan-Ming Jiang and Xiao-Min Chen — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To detect early glaucoma by optical coherence tomography (OCT) posterior pole asymmetry analysis. METHODS: Totally 39 eyes from 39 healthy subjects, 40 eyes from 40 mild glaucoma patients, 33 eyes from 33 moderate glaucoma patients and 41 eyes from severe glaucoma patients were included in this study. All subjects underwent posterior pole asymmetry analysis (PPAA) of OCT and the posterior pole area was divided into three zones. Means, standard deviations and 95% confidence intervals of each zone asymmetry in control group were assessed. Retina thickness asymmetry (RTA) of different stage of glaucoma were compared for each zone, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were made to test the efficacy of strategies using different zones to discriminate glaucomatous eyes from the healthy ones. RESULTS: In a healthy population, RTA of the centre zone showed the minimal mean value (3.085 μm), standard deviation (1.756), and the narrowest 95% confidence interval (from 2.360 to 3.810 μm). It was only in the center zone that RTA exhibited significant difference between control and moderate glaucoma group (P<0.01), as well as control and severe glaucoma group (P<0.00001). The strategy utilized in the center zone had the strongest diagnostic capability (zone 3 AUROC=0.816, P=0.0016) in comparison to that of the periphery area (zone 1 AUROC=0.675, P=0.0016; zone 2 AUROC=0.623, P=0.0197), the whole posterior pole involved interpreting strategy showed inferior diagnostic power than the centre zone dependent strategy (z=2.851, P=0.0044). CONCLUSION: Utilizing the posterior pole centre zone to interpret OCT PPAA results are more effective than making use of the whole posterior pole map.

Negative effects of transthyretin in high myopic vitreous on diabetic retinopathy

Jun Shao and Yong Yao — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the relationship between vitreous transthyretin (TTR) levels, high myopia and diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS: We selected 6722 individuals from the southern Jiangsu Province for diabetes and ophthalmic examinations. The TTR concentration in the vitreous of 50 patients with high myopia and diabetes, 50 patients with only DR, and 20 healthy controls were determined by ELISA. Key factors in Tie2 pathway in DR development including vascular endothecial growth factor (VEGF), Tie2, Angpt1, Angpt2, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) 1 and VEGFR2 were also detected by ELISA. RESULTS: The prevalence of DR in patients with diabetes and myopia [<6.00 diopter (D)], diabetes and high myopia (>6.00 D), and diabetes without myopia were 11.1%, 2.5%, and 60.0%, respectively. The vitreous TTR concentration of patients with diabetes and high myopia was approximately 6.5- and 4.2-times higher than those of patients with DR and healthy controls, respectively (P<0.05). Following the vitreous TTR concentration, the levels of VEGF, Tie2, Angpt1, Angpt2, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 in vitreous of diabetes and high myopia patients, DR patients and healthy controls were detected as dramatically fluctuated. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that TTR can affect the vitreous contents of key factors in Tie2 pathway for neovascularization, and there should be a protective association between abundant TTR levels in the vitreous of highly myopic patients and a decreased risk of DR.

Subfoveal choroidal thickness and volume in severe internal carotid artery stenosis patients

Hui Wang, Yan-Ling Wang and Hong-Yang Li — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To demonstrate the differences of retinal and choroidal structure changes in internal carotid artery (ICA) patients of China by enhanced-depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT). METHODS: A retrospective review was conducted of 46 patients with a diagnosis of ICA stenosis greater than 65% on only one side (the opposite ICA Stenosis had less than 40% stenosis) from June 2015 through June 2016. All of the patients were combined with amaurosis fugax, but without any abnormality with other ocular examination. Thickness and volume of choroid and retina were manually measured by EDI-OCT. Differences were compared between ICA stenosis eyes and fellow eyes. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in the retinal thickness, macular retinal nerve fiber layer (mRNFL) thickness, inner thickness, or outer retinal thickness between the ICA Stenosis group and the control group (P=0.834, 0.187, 0.552, and 0.903, respectively). The mean central choroidal thickness of the ICA Stenosis group was significantly lower than that of the control group (239.70±23.76 µm vs 257.46±22.13 µm, P<0.001). The percentage of ICA stenosis was significantly associated with the central choroidal thickness, central retinal thickness, foveal center choroidal volume, and foveal center retinal volume (r=0.854, 0.678, 0.729, and 0.785, respectively; P<0.001). There were no significant differences in the retinal and choroidal volume values in the 4 inner and 4 outer sectors between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The choroidal thickness in severe ICA stenosis eyes is lower than in fellow eyes. The choroidal thinning may occur before the retinal changes in patients with ocular ischemic syndrome. Evaluations of choroidal thickness may be useful to choose the optimal therapeutic schedule for ICA patients.

The impact of macular surgery in different grades of epiretinal membrane

Cosar Batman and Mehmet Citirik — 2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the impact of macular surgery on the functional and anatomic outcomes of the patients in different grades of epiretinal membrane (ERM). METHODS: Seventy-one eyes of 71 patients who underwent 23-gauge transconjunctival sutureless pars plana vitrectomy for primary isolated ERM were evaluated in this study. RESULTS: There were 38 females (53.5%) and 33 males (46.5%). The average age of the patients was 68.1y (range 42-89y). Mean follow up period was 14mo (range 6-26mo). The cases were divided into two subgroups of cellophane maculopathy (CM) and macular pucker (MP). An improvement was observed in the postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), as well as a decrement in central foveal thickness (CFT) in both groups (both of these being statistically significant; P=0.001). In comparison between two groups, it was found that there was a significant improvement on BCVA and CFT in CM group than MP group (P=0.01). Furthermore, the postoperative fundus findings regarding RPE alterations and macular edema were significantly higher in MP group when compared to the CM group (P=0.01). CONCLUSION: ERM and internal limiting membrane peeling surgery can lead to a significant reduction of CFT and visual improvements in idiopathic ERM. A long-term ERM persistence will cause unrecoverable retinal damage and visual loss.

Optic nerve compression: the role of the lamina cribrosa and translaminar pressure

2017/12/7 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the morphological changes of the lamina cribrosa (LC) in patients with optic nerve compression. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. Twenty eyes with optic nerve compression, affected by Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) were compared with 18 refractive error-matched healthy eyes. The following examinations were performed: best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, optic nerve echography, visual field, SD-OCT including the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell complex (GCC), and LC thickness and extent. RESULTS: A-scan revealed significant differences in the subarachnoid space (SAS) between the affected and control groups. LC thickness and LC area were 233 µm (SD 23) and 0.41 mm2 (SD 0.19), respectively. Average GCC thickness (P=0.0005), LC thickness (P=0.001), MD (P=0.001) and PSD (P=0.001) differed significantly between the two groups; whereas LC area (P=0.2) and average RFNL (P=0.1) did not. CONCLUSION: Optic nerve compression reduces the SAS thereby altering the morphology of LC thickness and causing GCC damage.

Effect of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose on dry eye in postmenopausal women

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the protective effect of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops on dry eye in postmenopausal women. METHODS: Sixty postmenopause female patients diagnosed of dry eye were assigned randomly to mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops treatment group (n=30) and control group treated with normal saline eye drops (n=30). The subjective symptoms of ocular surface, Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), tear film function tests, tear protein and corneal morphology by confocal scanning microscopy were analyzed before treatment and at 1, 2, 4 and 8wk after treatment respectively. To ensure the safety of the trial, all patients were examined with systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, urine creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen at 8wk after treatment. RESULTS: There were no obvious differences between two groups before the treatment (P>0.05). In two months after the treatment, the symptoms of ocular surface, OSDI, tear protein, and tear film function were only slightly changed in normal saline eye drops group. However, all indices were improved after the treatment of mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops group (P<0.05). In addition, the average amount of corneal epithelium basal cells and inflammatory cells of mistletoe treated group were 3174±379 and 38±25 cells/mm2, significantly decreased as compared to the control group with 4309±612 and 158± 61 cells/mm2, respectively. In the control group, although nerves still maintained straight under corneal epithelium, the number of nerves were significantly decreased, as compared with normal female. In the mistletoe treated group, the number of nerves was only slightly reduced, compared with normal female. CONCLUSION: Mistletoe combined with carboxymethyl cellulose eye drops can alleviate the symptoms and signs of dry eye symptoms.

Femtosecond laser corneal refractive surgery for the correction of high myopic anisometropic amblyopia in juveniles

Jing Zhang and Ke-Ming Yu — 2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effects of femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) and small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) to correct high myopic anisometropic amblyopia in juvenile patients. METHODS: From November 2013 to January 2015, 33 amblyopic patients with high myopic anisometropic amblyopia were studied. FS-LASIK (30 eyes) or SMILE (3 eyes) was performed in the amblyopic eyes. Visual acuity, refraction, contrast sensitivity, stereoacuity and complications were evaluated. Patients completed follow-up examinations at 3d, 1mo, 3mo and the last follow-up time (mean 8.17±3.23mo) after surgery. RESULTS: The mean age at surgery was 9.04±3.04y (range 6-16y). The mean spherical equivalent in the amblyopic eyes was significantly decreased from -10.00±2.39 D preoperatively to -0.06±1.06 D at 1mo, -0.19±1.33 D at 3mo and -0.60±1.43 D at approximately 8mo postoperatively (P<0.05 for all). The mean myopic anisometropia was significantly decreased from -9.45±2.33 D preoperatively to +0.37±1.48 D at 1mo, -0.46±1.47 D at 3mo and -0.09±1.83 D at approximately 8mo (P<0.05 for all). The logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) for uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity (UDVA and CDVA, respectively) of the amblyopic eye improved from 1.74±0.35 and 0.98±0.63 preoperatively to 0.45±0.31 and 0.41±0.33 at approximately 8mo after surgery, respectively. The logMAR CDVA at 3d, 1, 3 and 8mo postoperatively improved by means of 1.42, 2.22, 2.96, and 4.39 lines, and a gain of more than two lines accounted for 45%, 50%, 74% and 86% of all patients, respectively. The contrast sensitivity of both amblyopic eyes and dominant eyes at 0.5, 2, 8 cycles per degree was significantly improved postoperatively (P<0.05 for all). Of the 33 pediatric patients, no patients had near stereopsis preoperatively and seven patients (21.2%) recovered near stereopsis (400″ to 60″) at approximately 8mo after surgery. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred in any patient. CONCLUSION: FS-LASIK or SMILE can be promising alternative methods to correct high myopic anisometropic amblyopia in juvenile patients who have failed with traditional approaches.

Scanning-slit topography in patients with keratoconus

László Módis Jr., Gábor Németh, Eszter Szalai, Zsuzsa Flaskó and Berthold Seitz — 2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces using scanning-slit topography and to determine the diagnostic ability of the measured corneal parameters in keratoconus. METHODS: Orbscan II measurements were taken in 39 keratoconic corneas previously diagnosed by corneal topography and in 39 healthy eyes. The central minimum, maximum, and astigmatic simulated keratometry (K) and anterior axial power values were determined. Spherical and cylindrical mean power diopters were obtained at the central and at the steepest point of the cornea both on anterior and on posterior mean power maps. Pachymetry evaluations were taken at the center and paracentrally in the 3 mm zone from the center at a location of every 45 degrees. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to determine the best cut-off values and to evaluate the utility of the measured parameters in identifying patients with keratoconus. RESULTS: The minimum, maximum and astigmatic simulated K readings were 44.80±3.06 D, 47.17±3.67 D and 2.42±1.84 D respectively in keratoconus patients and these values differed significantly (P<0.0001 for all comparisons) from healthy subjects. For all pachymetry measurements and for anterior and posterior mean power values significant differences were found between the two groups. Moreover, anterior central cylindrical power had the best discrimination ability (area under the ROC curve=0.948). CONCLUSION: The results suggest that scanning-slit topography and pachymetry are accurate methods both for keratoconus screening and for confirmation of the diagnosis.

Phacoemulsification combined with transpupillary removal of silicone oil and intracapsular intraocular lens implantation

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To estimate the effectiveness of phacoemulsification and foldable intraocular lens (IOL) implantation combined with transpupillary silicone oil removal. METHODS: There were 168 eyes of 168 candidate patients with cataract and silicone oil-filled eyes recruited in our study. All of the patients received the intraocular silicone oil removal surgery by transpupillary drainage and cataract extraction by phacoemulsi?cation. Then the IOL implantation were also performed through corneal incision. RESULTS: The surgery was successfully completed in all eyes. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and postoperative complications were recorded in three months after surgery. There were 143 eyes with BCVA improved, otherwise 25 eyes remained stable at the last follow-up visit. The mean BCVA statistically improved from 20/400±0.02 to 20/100±0.15 (P<0.001) and mean postoperative IOP was 13.85±2.18 mm Hg (P=0.415). No intra-operative complications were reported. CONCLUSION: Phacoemulsi?cation combined with transpupillary removal of silicone oil is a safe and simple effective method. In general, it enables quick recovery of visual acuity with less complication rate.

Prospective study of Centurion® versus Infiniti® phacoemulsification systems: surgical and visual outcomes

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate surgical outcomes (SOs) and visual outcomes (VOs) in cataract surgery comparing the Centurion® phacoemulsification system (CPS) with the Infiniti® phacoemulsification system (IPS). METHODS: Prospective, consecutive study in a single-site private practice. Totally 412 patients undergoing cataract surgery with either the CPS using the 30-degree balanced® tip (n=207) or the IPS using the 30-degree Kelman® tip (n=205). Intraoperative and postoperative outcomes were documented prospectively up to one month follow-up. Nuclear sclerosis (NS) grade, cumulated dissipated energy (CDE), preoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and CDVA at one month were recorded. RESULTS: CDE was 13.50% less in the whole CPS compared with the whole IPS subcohort. In eyes with NS grade III or greater, CDE was 28.87% less with CPS (n=70) compared with IPS (n=44) (P=0.010). Surgical complications were not statistically different between the two subcohorts (P=0.083), but in the one case of vitreous loss using the CPS, CDVA of 6/4 was achieved at one month. The mean CDVAs (VOs) at one month for NS grade III and above cataracts were -0.17 logMAR (6/4.5) in the CPS and -0.15 logMAR (6/4.5) in the IPS subcohort respectively (P=0.033). CONCLUSION: CDE is 28.87% less, and VOs are significantly improved, in denser cataracts in the CPS compared with the IPS. The authors recommend the CPS for cases with denser nuclei.

Repeatability of Ophtha Top topography and comparison with IOL-Master and LenstarLS900 in cataract patients

Sha-Sha Yu, Hui Song and Xin Tang — 2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the repeatability of Ophtha Top topography and assess the consistency with intraocular lens (IOL)-Master and LenstarLS900 (Lenstar) in measuring corneal parameters among cataract patients. METHODS: Totally 125 eyes were enrolled. Corneas were successively measured with Ophtha Top, IOL-Master and Lenstar at least three times. The flattest meridian power (Kf), the steepest meridian power (Ks), mean power (Km), J0 and J45 were recorded. Intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs), the coefficient of variance (COV), within subject standard deviation (Sw), and test-retest repeatability (2.77Sw) were adopted to determine the repeatability. The 95% limit of agreement (95%LOA) and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess comparability. RESULTS: Repeatability of Ophtha Top topography for measuring corneal parameters showed the ICCs were all above 0.93, 2.77Sw was lower than 0.31, and the COV of the Kf and Ks was lower than 0.25. The keratometric readings with Ophtha Top topography were flatter than with the IOL-Master and Lenstar devices, while the Pearson correlation coefficients were over 0.97. The J0 and J45 with Ophtha Top topography were smaller compared with Lenstar and IOL-Master, while was comparable between Lenstar and IOL-Master. CONCLUSION: Ophtha Top topography shows excellent repeatability for measuring corneal parameters. However, differences between the Ophtha TOP topography and Lenstar, IOL-Master both in cornea curvature and the astigmatism should be noted clinically.

Bimanual microincision cataract surgery with implantation of the new Incise® MJ14 intraocular lens through a 1.4 mm incision

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the visual outcomes and the posterior capsule opacification (PCO) with the new Incise® MJ14 intraocular lens (IOL) implanted through a 1.4 mm clear corneal incision (CCI) in patients who underwent bimanual microincision cataract surgery (B-MICS). METHODS: Eighty eyes which underwent cataract surgery using B-MICS technique performed by the same experienced surgeon were included in the study: 40 eyes were implanted with an Incise® MJ14 IOL through a 1.4 mm CCI (group A) without enlargement of the main CCI, while 40 eyes were implanted with an Akreos® MI60 IOL with enlargement of the main CCI to 1.8 mm (group B). Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), astigmatism and endothelial cell loss were evaluated before and after surgery at 7, 30d and 6mo. Anterior segment-optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) of CCI was performed at 1, 3, 7, 30d, 6 and 18mo. PCO incidence was evaluated at 18mo using EPCO 2000 Software. RESULTS: Mean BCVA improvement and endothelial cell loss were statistically significant at 18mo in both groups with no difference between the two groups; no statistically significant difference in surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was noticed in the two groups. At AS-OCT the only significant alterations in the CCI were endothelial gaping and local detachment of Descemet’s membrane at 1 and 7d after surgery; no statistically significant alterations were found at 1, 6 and 18mo. PCO score at 18mo was 0.03±0.07 for group A and 0.08±0.18 for group B (P=0.11) with no sign of central optic plate invasion in both groups. CONCLUSION: The implant of the new Incise® MJ14 IOL through a 1.4 mm CCI and B-MICS technique appeared to be a safe and effective procedure with rapid visual recovery. PCO rate resulted very low and the CCI presented few morphological alterations which were only detectable in the first days postoperatively and achieved fast corneal healing during the long-term follow-up.

The prognostic value of lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio in retinopathy of prematurity

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the associations between development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and serum lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR). METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed, involving infants who were screened for ROP from January 2015 to December 2015. Preterm newborns of ≤32 gestational weeks with ROP were enrolled as the observation group, and non-ROP infants were enrolled as the control group, whose complete blood cell were measured within the first 24h of life. The levels of NLR, LMR and PLR were determined in all groups. The data obtained were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: In this study, 40 cases of ROP were enrolled and 40 cases of non-ROP as controls. The LMR levels were significantly higher (P<0.001) in ROP group (3.96±1.16) compared to non-ROP group (2.85±0.79). The NLR levels were significantly lower (P=0.035) in ROP group {median [interquartile range (IQR)], 0.88 (0.67-1.46)} compared to non-ROP group [median (IQR), 1.20 (0.85-1.89)]. The median PLR values were 61.99 (IQR, 50.23-75.98) in ROP group and 69.24 (IQR, 55.52-88.12) in non-ROP group (P=0.104). Logistic regression analysis suggested that LMR was an independent risk factor for ROP (OR: 0.275; 95% CI: 0.134-0.564; P=0.001). CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that higher LMR is independently and significantly associated with the development of ROP, and the LMR may be invoked as a predictive tool for identifying risk for ROP.

A predictive score for retinopathy of prematurity by using clinical risk factors and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 levels

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To detect the impact of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and other risk factors for the early prediction of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and to establish a scoring system for ROP prediction by using clinical criteria and serum IGF-1 levels. METHODS: The study was conducted with 127 preterm infants. IGF-1 levels in the 1st day of life, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th week of life was analyzed. The score was established after logistic regression analysis, considering the impact of each variable on the occurrences of any stage ROP. A validation cohort containing 107 preterm infants was included in the study and the predictive ability of ROP score was calculated. RESULTS: Birth weights (BW), gestational weeks (GW) and the prevalence of breast milk consumption were lower, respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) were more frequent, the duration of mechanical ventilation and oxygen supplementation was longer in patients with ROP (P<0.05). Initial serum IGF-1 levels tended to be lower in newborns who developed ROP. Logistic regression analysis revealed that low BW (<1250 g), presence of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and formula feeding increased the risk of ROP. Afterwards, the scoring system was validated on 107 infants. The negative predictive values of a score less than 4 were 84.3%, 74.7% and 79.8% while positive predictive values were 76.3%, 65.5% and 71.6% respectively. CONCLUSION: In addition to BW <1250 g and IVH, formula consumption was detected as a risk factor for the development of ROP. Breastfeeding is important for prevention of ROP in preterm infants.

Validity of automated refraction after segmented refractive multifocal intraocular lens implantation

2017/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical utility of automated refraction (AR) and keratometry (KR) compared with subjective or manifest refraction (MR) after cataract or refractive lens exchange surgery with implantation of Lentis Mplus X (Oculentis GmbH) refractive multifocal intraocular lens (IOL). METHODS: Eighty-six eyes implanted with the Lentis Mplus X multifocal IOL were included. MR was performed in all patients followed by three consecutive AR measurements using the Topcon KR-8000 autorefractor. Assessment of repeatability of consecutive AR before and after dilation with phenylephrine 10%, and comparison of the AR and KR with MR using vector analysis were performed at 3mo follow-up. RESULTS: Analysis showed excellent repeatability of the AR measurements. Linear regression of AR versus MR showed good correlation for sphere and spherical equivalent, whereas the correlation for astigmatism was low. The mean difference AR-MR was -1.28±0.29 diopters (D) for sphere. Astigmatism showed better correlation between KR and MR. CONCLUSION: We suggest AR sphere plus 1.25 D and the KR cylinder as the starting point for MR in eyes with a Lentis Mplus X multifocal IOL. If AR measurements are equal to MR, decentration of the IOL should be suspected.

Dependence of dynamic contour and Goldmann applanation tonometries on peripheral corneal thickness

2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the effects of peripheral corneal thickness (PCT) on dynamic contour tonometry(DCT) and Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT). METHODS: A cross-sectional study. We created a software which calculates the corneal contour (CC) as a function of the radius from the corneal apex to each pixel of the contour. The software generates a central circumference with a radius of 1 mm and the remainder of the cornea is segmented in 5 rings concentric with corneal apex being its diameter not constant around the corneal circumference as a consequence of the irregular CC but keeping constant the diameter of each ring in each direction of the contour. PCT was determined as the mean thickness of the most eccentric ring. Locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOWESS) regression was used to determine the pattern of the relationship between PCT and both DCT and GAT respectively. Thereafter, two multivariable linear regression models were constructed. In each of them, the dependant variable was intraocular pressure (IOP) as determined using GAT and DCT respectively. In both of the models the predictive variable was PCT though LOWESS regression pattern was used to model the relationship between the dependant variables and the predictor one. Age and sex were also introduced control variables along with their first-degree interactions with PCT. Main outcome measures include amount of IOP variation explained through regression models (R2) and regression coefficients (B). RESULTS: Subjects included 109 eyes of 109 healthy individuals. LOWESS regression suggested that a 2nd-degree polynomial would be suitable to model the relationship between both DCT and GAT with PCT. Hence PCT was introduced in both models as a linear and quadratic term. Neither age nor sex nor interactions were statistically significant in both models. For GAT model, R2 was 17.14% (F=9.02; P=0.0002), PCT linear term B was -1.163 (95% CI: -1.163, -0.617). PCT quadratic term B was 0.00081 (95% CI: 0.00043, 0.00118). For DCT model R2 was 14.28% (F=9.29; P=0.0002), PCT linear term B was -0.712 (95% CI: -1.052, -0.372), PCT quadratic term was B=0.0005 (95% CI: 0.0003, 0.0007). CONCLUSION: DCT and GAT measurements are conditioned by PCT though this effect, rather than linear, follows a 2nd-degree polynomial pattern.

Postoperative visual performance with a bifocal and trifocal diffractive intraocular lens during a 1-year follow-up

2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare the clinical outcomes with a diffractive bifocal and trifocal intraocular lens (IOL) during a 12-month follow-up. METHODS: Prospective comparative study including 75 eyes of 38 patients (44-70y) undergoing uneventful cataract surgery. Each patient was randomly assigned to one type of IOL, bifocal (35 eyes) or trifocal (40 eyes). Visual, refractive, and contrast sensitivity changes were evaluated in a 12-month follow-up. The binocular defocus curve was also measured at 12mo postoperatively. RESULTS: No statistically significant differences between groups were found in postoperative uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities (P≥0.276). Postoperative corrected near visual acuity (33 cm) was significantly better in the trifocal group during all follow-up (P≤0.004) as well as 6-month uncorrected near (P=0.008) and distance-corrected near visual acuities (P=0.016) (33/40 cm). Significantly better uncorrected intermediate and distance corrected-intermediate visual acuity were found during all follow-up in the trifocal group (P<0.001), which was consistent with differences among groups in binocular defocus curve. Differences among groups in contrast sensitivity were minimal, being only significant at 6 months for some low to medium spatial frequencies (P≤0.006). CONCLUSION: Bifocal and trifocal diffractive IOLs are able to provide an effective visual restoration which is maintained during a 12-month follow-up, with a clear benefit of the trifocal IOL for the intermediate vision.

Structure-function relationship comparison between retinal nerve fibre layer and Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width in glaucoma

2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare structural optical coherence tomography (OCT)-based parameters, such as Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width (BMO-MRW), and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness in glaucoma patients with visual field (VF) defects, and to correlate both to mean deviation (MD) values of obtained standard achromatic perimetry (SAP) examinations. METHODS: Patients with glaucoma and glaucomatous VF defects were enrolled in this prospective study and compared to age-matched healthy individuals. All study participants underwent a full ophthalmic examination and VF testing with SAP. Peripapillary RNFL thickness and BMO-MRW were acquired with SD-OCT. Correlation analyses between obtained global functional and global as well as sectorial structural parameters were calculated. RESULTS: A consecutive series of 30 glaucomatous right eyes of 30 patients were included and compared to 36 healthy right eyes of 36 individuals in the control group. Global MD of values correlated significantly with global RNFL (Pearson corr. coeff: 0.632, P=0.001) and global BMO-MRW (Pearson corr. coeff: 0.746, P<0.001) values in the glaucoma group. Global MD and sectorial RNFL or BMO-MRW values correlated less significantly. In the control group, MD values did not correlate with RNFL or BMO-MRW measurements. A subgroup analysis of myopic patients (>4 diopters) within the glaucoma group (n=6) revealed a tendency for higher correlations between MD and BMO-MRW than MD and RNFL measurements. CONCLUSION: In a clinical setting, RNFL thickness and BMO-MRW correlate similarly with global VF sensitivity in glaucoma patients with BMO-MRW showing higher correlations in myopic glaucoma patients.

Optical coherence tomography with or without enhanced depth imaging for peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer and choroidal thickness

Meng-Ai Wu, Wei-Xin Xu, Zhe Lyu and Li-Jun Shen — 2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To assess peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and choroidal thickness obtained with enhanced depth imaging (EDI) mode compared with those obtained without EDI mode using Heidelberg Spectralis optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: Fifty eyes of 25 normal healthy subjects and 32 eyes of 20 patients with different eye diseases were included in the study. All subjects underwent 3.4 mm diameter peripapillary circular OCT scan centered on the optic disc using both the conventional and the EDI OCT protocols. The visualization of RNFL and choroidoscleral junction was assessed using an ordinal scoring scale. The paired t-test, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), 95% limits of agreement (LoA), and Bland and Altman plots were used to test the agreement of measurements. RESULTS: The visibility score of RNFL obtained with and without EDI was of no significant difference (P=0.532), the visualization of choroidoscleral junction was better using EDI protocol than conventional protocol (P<0.001). Peripapillary RNFL thickness obtained with EDI was slightly thicker than that obtained without EDI (103.25±9.42 μm vs 101.87±8.78 μm, P=0.010). The ICC of the two protocols was excellent with the value of 0.867 to 0.924, the 95% LoA of global RNFL thickness was between -10.0 to 7.4 μm. Peripapillary choroidal thickness obtained with EDI was slightly thinner than that obtained without EDI (147.23±51.04 μm vs 150.90±51.84 μm, P<0.001). The ICC was also excellent with the value of 0.960 to 0.987, the 95% LoA of global choroidal thickness was between -12.5 to 19.8 μm. CONCLUSION: Peripapillary circular OCT scan with or without EDI mode shows comparable results in the measurement of peripapillary RNFL and choroidal thickness.

Foveal avascular zone area and parafoveal vessel density measurements in different stages of diabetic retinopathy by optical coherence tomography angiography

2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate foveal avascular zone (FAZ) and parafoveal vessel densities (PRVD) by means of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) in diabetic patients with or without diabetic retinopathy (DR) and to assess the reproducibility of FAZ and PRVD measurements. METHODS: Sixty diabetic patients (60 eyes) with different stage of DR (graded according to the International Clinical Severity Scale for DR) and 20 healthy subjects underwent FAZ area and PRVD measurements using OCTA by two experienced examiners. FAZ area in all patients was also assessed using fluorescein angiography (FA). RESULTS: In subject with proliferative DR and with moderate-severe non proliferative DR, FAZ area was significantly increased compared to healthy controls (P=0.025 and P=0.050 respectively measured with OCTA and P=0.025 and P=0.048 respectively measured with FA). OCTA showed significantly less inter-observer variability compared to FA. Concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) for FAZ area measurements was 0.829 (95%CI: 0.736-0.891) P<0.001 with FA and 1.000 (95%CI: 0.999-1.000) P<0.001 with OCTA. CCC was 0.834 (95%CI: 0.746-0.893) P<0.001 and 0.890 (95%CI: 0.828-0.930) P<0.001 for parafoveal superficial and deep vessel density measurements, respectively. CONCLUSION: OCTA shows progressive increase of FAZ area and reduction of PRVD in both superficial and deep plexus at increasing DR severity. FAZ area and PRVD measurements using OCTA are highly reproducible.

Evaluating role of bone marrow-derived stem cells in dry age-related macular degeneration using multifocal electroretinogram and fundus autofluorescence imaging

2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the role of bone marrow-derived stem cells in the treatment of advanced dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using multifocal electroretinogram (mf-ERG) and fundus autofluorescence imaging. METHODS: Thirty patients (60 eyes) with bilateral central geographic atrophy (GA) were recruited. Worse eye of each patient received autologous bone marrow-derived hematopoietic stem cells (BM-HSCs) (group 1) and the fellow eye with better visual acuity served as control (group 2). The effect of stem cell therapy was determined in terms of visual acuity, amplitude and implicit time in mf-ERG and size of GA on fundus autofluorescence imaging. These tests were performed at presentation and first, third and sixth month follow up. Adverse events (if any) were also monitored. RESULTS: At 6mo follow-up there was no statistically significant improvement in median logMAR best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in either group. Mf-ERG revealed significant improvement in amplitude and implicit time in the intervention group. A significant decrease was also noted in greatest linear dimension (GLD) of GA in the eyes receiving stem cells [6.78±2.60 mm at baseline to 6.56±2.59 mm at 6mo (P=0.021)]. However, no such improvement was noted in the control group. CONCLUSION: Electrophysiological and anatomical improvement in the intervention group sheds light on the therapeutic role of BM-HSCs. Further studies are required to determine the stage of disease at which the maximal benefit can be achieved and to standardize the dose and frequency of stem cell injection.

Evaluation of refractive correction for standard automated perimetry in eyes wearing multifocal contact lenses

Kazunori Hirasawa, Hikaru Ito, Yukari Ohori, Yui Takano and Nobuyuki Shoji — 2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the refractive correction for standard automated perimetry (SAP) in eyes with refractive multifocal contact lenses (CL) in healthy young participants. METHODS: Twenty-nine eyes of 29 participants were included. Accommodation was paralyzed in all participants with 1% cyclopentolate hydrochloride. SAP was performed using the Humphrey SITA-standard 24-2 and 10-2 protocol under three refractive conditions: monofocal CL corrected for near distance (baseline); multifocal CL corrected for distance (mCL-D); and mCL-D corrected for near vision using a spectacle lens (mCL-N). Primary outcome measures were the foveal threshold, mean deviation (MD), and pattern standard deviation (PSD). RESULTS: The foveal threshold of mCL-N with both the 24-2 and 10-2 protocols significantly decreased by 2.2-2.5 dB CONCLUSION: Despite the induced mydriasis and the optical design of the multifocal lens used in this study, our results indicated that, when the dome-shaped visual field test is performed with eyes with large pupils and wearing refractive multifocal CLs, distance correction without additional near correction is to be recommended.

Comparison of visual performance recovery after thin-flap LASIK with 4 femtosecond lasers

Jing Zhang, Yue-Hua Zhou, Yan Zheng and Qian Liu — 2017/9/30 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the speed of visual recovery following myopic thin-flap LASIK with four femtosecond lasers. METHODS: Eighty-eight eyes of 46 patients who were consecutively scheduled for bilateral LASIK with the IntraLase FS60 (Group 1), Femto LDV Crystal Line (Group 2), Wavelight FS200 (Group 3) and VisuMax (Group 4) femtosecond lasers were enrolled in. Monocular uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), best-corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA), refraction, contrast sensitivity and higher-order aberrations (HOAs) were evaluated at 1, 3d, 1wk and 1mo postoperatively. RESULTS: Sixteen eyes (72.7%) achieved 20/16 and 8 eyes (36.4%) were 20/12.5 at 1d in Group 2, which was significantly more than other 3 groups. At 1wk, 20 eyes (90.9%) achieved 20/16 in Groups 2 and 4. At 1mo, 20 eyes (90.9%) achieved 20/16 in Group 2 and Group 4, which were significantly more than other two groups. While by 1 mo, the difference of the residual spherical equivalent (SE) was not statistically significant among 4 groups (P=0.121). The induction of spherical aberration (SA) were significantly less for Groups 2, 3, 4 than for Group 1 one day after surgery (P=0.015). The differences among 4 groups were not statistically significant before and after surgery on every time points (all P>0.05). CONCLUSION: The thin-flap LASIK procedure using the Femto LDV Crystal Line and VisuMax femtosecond laser show faster visual performance recovery.

The inflammation influence on corneal surface after frontalis suspension surgery

Kang Li, Xin-Chun Zhang, Xian-Xian Cai, Ya-Dan Quan and Rong Lu — 2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To study the influence of frontalis muscle flap suspension on ocular surface by analyzing the clinical features and inflammatory cytokines. METHODS: A prospective, observational case series. Thirty-one eyes of 25 patients with severe congenital blepharoptosis who underwent frontalis muscle flap suspension surgery with at least 6mo of follow-up were included in the study. The main outcome measures were margin reflex distance 1 (MRD1), degree of lagophthalmos, ocular surface disease index (OSDI), fluorescein staining (Fl), tear break-up time (BUT), Schirmer I test, and inflammatory cytokine assay. RESULTS: The degrees of lagophthalmos significantly increased after surgery. The OSDI scores significantly increased 1wk postoperatively and then decreased 4wk after operation. The Fl scores reflected corneal epithelial defects in sixteen patients at early stage postoperatively. The BUT and Schirmer I test values remained stable and did not show change compared to those before surgery. The inflammatory cytokines in conjunctival epithelial cells (including IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-17A) significantly increased 1wk after the surgery (P<0.001), then returned to the normal level at 24wk postoperatively. The levels of inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-17A elevated significantly and were positively correlated with OSDI and Fl scores. CONCLUSION: Frontalis muscle flap suspension surgery results in lagophthalmos in early period of post-operation and relieved after months. The elevation of inflammatory cytokines level may participate in the occurrence of corneal epithelial defects at the early postoperative stage.

Lipid layer thickness and tear meniscus height measurements for the differential diagnosis of evaporative dry eye subtypes

2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To explore a new diagnostic index for differentiating the evaporative dry eye (EDE) subtypes by analysis of their respective clinical characteristics. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 139 patients (139 eyes) with EDE who were enrolled and classified as obstructive meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) (n=81) and non-obstructive MGD (n=58) EDE. All patients completed a Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) questionnaire and were evaluated for average lipid layer thickness (LLT), tear meniscus height measurements (TMH), tear break-up time (TBUT), ocular surface staining score, Schirmer I test (SIT), lid margin abnormalities, and meibomian gland function and morphology. RESULTS: Age, average LLT, TMH, scores of lid margin abnormalities, meibum quality, meibomian gland loss (MGL) (all P≤0.001), and TBUT (P=0.03) were all significantly different between obstructive MGD EDE patients and non-obstructive MGD EDE patients. Average LLT in obstructive MGD EDE was correlated with meibomian expressibility (r= -0.541, P≤0.001), lid margin abnormalities were marginally not significant (r=0.197, P=0.077), and TMH was correlated with MGL (total MGL: r=0.552, P≤0.001; upper MGL: r=0.438, P≤0.001; lower MGL: r=0.407, P≤0.001). Average LLT in non-obstructive MGD EDE, was correlated with meibomian expressibility and Oxford staining (r=-0.396, P=0.002; r=-0.461, P≤0.001). The efficiency of combining average LLT and TMH was optimal, with a sensitivity of 80.2% and a specificity of 74.1%. Obstructive MGD EDE patients had an average LLT≥69 nm and TMH≥0.25 mm, while non-obstructive MGD EDE patients had an average LLT<69 nm and TMH<0.25 mm. CONCLUSION: Obstructive MGD EDE and non-obstructive MGD EDE have significantly different clinical characteristics. Combining average LLT and TMH measurements enhanced their reliability for differentiating these two subtypes and provided guidance for offering more precise treatments for EDE subtypes.

Eye reflux: an ocular extraesophageal manifestation of gastric reflux

2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To suspect laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in patients with ocular surface disease (OSD). METHODS: The present study evaluated a group of subjects with OSD assessing the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) to detect patients with suspected LPR and define a possible relationship between tests. RESULTS: Two hundred and ninety subjects (175 females, mean age: 60.41±15.68y) were consecutively visited at ophthalmologist offices. One hundred and one (34%) patients had pathological RSI (>13) and consequently a suspected LPR. CONCLUSION: The current study shows that suspected LPR may be common (34%) in patients with OSD and a suspected LPR may be considered in OSD patients when RSI score is >13 and OSDI score is >42.

Investigation of possible risk factors in the development of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis

ümit Doğan and Sümeyra Ağca — 2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the possible risk factors in the development of seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) through an evaluation of skin allergy tests and data obtained from questionnaires. METHODS: The study included a total of 75 SAC patients and 71 control subjects without SAC diagnosis who were admitted to the Abant Izzet Baysal University Medical Faculty Ophthalmology Clinic between March 2016 and December 2016. Skin prick tests were performed for all participants. Serum levels of total IgE and 25-OH vitamin D were also measured. In the tear, total IgE levels were measured. Moreover, possible risk factors for the onset of SAC (smoking, paracetamol exposure, vitamin D supplementation and environmental factors etc.) were examined for all patients by both prenatal and postnatal aspects. RESULTS: The patients with SAC were found to have a history of maternal paracetamol exposure during the prenatal period. Likewise, in the same patient group, the duration of postnatal vitamin D supplementation was shorter (P<0.001). However, no significant correlation was found between SAC and maternal antibiotic exposure, maternal smoking, the mode of delivery and birth weight, as well as presence of pets. Moreover, patients with SAC were more likely to have asthma, allergic rhinitis and oral allergy syndrome. We have also found that SAC patients’ mothers and siblings were more likely to have allergic conjunctivitis. Likewise, their fathers were more likely to have allergic rhinitis. CONCLUSION: Prenatal maternal paracetamol exposure and shorter duration of vitamin D supplementation in the postnatal period may play a role in development of SAC. Therefore prevention of unnecessary gestational paracetamol intake and vitamin D supplementation during infancy could potentially reduce the onset and development of SAC.

GSTM1-null and GSTT1-active genotypes as risk determinants of primary open angle glaucoma among smokers

2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate glutathione transferase theta 1 and mu 1 (GSTT1 and GSTM1) polymorphisms as determinants of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) risk, independently or in combination with cigarette smoking, hypertension and diabetes mellitus. METHODS: A case-control study with 102 POAG patients and 202 age and gender-matched controls was carried out. Multiplex-polymerase chain reaction method was used for the analysis of GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms. The differences between two groups were tested by the t-test or χ2 test. Logistic regression analysis was used for assessing the risk for disease development. RESULTS: The presence of GSTM1-null genotype did not contribute independently towards the risk of POAG. However, individuals with GSTT1-active genotype were at almost two-fold increased risk to develop glaucoma (P=0.044) which increased up to 4.36 when combined with GSTM1-null carriers (P=0.024). When glutathione transferase (GST) genotypes were analyzed in association with cigarette smoking, hypertension and diabetes, only carriers of GSTT1-active genotype had significantly increased risk of POAG development in comparison with GSTT1-null genotype individuals with no history of smoking, hypertension and diabetes, respectively (OR=3.52, P=0.003; OR=10.02, P<0.001; OR=4.53, P=0.002). CONCLUSION: The results obtained indicate that both GSTM1-null and GSTT1-active genotypes are associated with increased POAG risk among smokers, suggesting potential gene-environment interaction in glaucoma development.

Multimodal imaging in acute retinal ischemia: spectral domain OCT, OCT-angiography and fundus autofluorescence

2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To describe retinal findings of various imaging modalities in acute retinal ischemia. METHODS: Fluorescein angiography (FA), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), OCT-angiography (OCT-A) and fundus autofluorescence (FAF) images of 13 patients (mean age 64y, range 28-86y) with acute retinal ischemia were evaluated. Six suffered from branch arterial occlusion, 2 had a central retinal artery occlusion, 2 had a combined arteriovenous occlusions, 1 patient had a retrobulbar arterial compression by an orbital haemangioma and 2 patients showed an ocular ischemic syndrome. RESULTS: All patients showed increased reflectivity and thickening of the ischemic retinal tissue. In 10 out of 13 patients SD-OCT revealed an additional highly reflective band located within or above the outer plexiform layer. Morphological characteristics were a decreasing intensity with distance from the fovea, partially segmental occurrence and manifestation limited in time. OCT-A showed a loss of flow signal in the superficial and deep capillary plexus at the affected areas. Reduced flow signal was detected underneath the regions with retinal edema. FAF showed areas of altered signal intensity at the posterior pole. The regions of decreased FAF signal corresponded to peri-venous regions. CONCLUSION: Multimodal imaging modalities in retinal ischemia yield characteristic findings and valuable diagnostic information. Conventional OCT identifies hyperreflectivity and thickening and a mid-retinal hyperreflective band is frequently observed. OCT-A examination reveals demarcation of the ischemic retinal area on the vascular level. FAF shows decreased fluorescence signal in areas of retinal edema often corresponding to peri-venous regions.

Bimodal imaging of proliferative diabetic retinopathy vascular features using swept source optical coherence tomography angiography

Amal M Elbendary and Hossam Youssef Abouelkheir — 2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To categorize neovessels morphology and to detect response to anti-angiogenic therapy by using structural and angiographic modes of swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). METHODS: Thirty-two eyes with neovessels at disc (NVD) and neovessels elsewhere (NVE) - as diagnosed by fluorescein angiography- were included. Cross sectional OCT images of disc and macular regions were registered to enface OCT angiography (OCTA), B-scan blood flow over lay and density maps. Three eyes received anti-angiogenic treatment. RESULTS: Pin point registration of cross-sectional OCT and OCTA images differentiated active NVD with vascular elements from fibrous or equivalent fibrovascular elements. En face images delineated NVE as vascular tufts or area of filling while cross-sectional images differentiated NVE from microvascular intraretinal abnormality (IRMA). All cases were associated with enlargement of foveal avascular zone and or areas of capillary non perfusion. Regressed NVD appeared as ghost vessel or pruned vascular loops after injection. CONCLUSION: Structural and angiographic modes of SS-OCT can detect, characterize and categorize the pattern of wide spectrum of neovessels based on blood flow data and density maps. It is potentially useful to detect ischemic changes in the vascular bed and regression of NVD after therapeutic regimens providing substitute for invasive techniques.

Comparison of one and three initial monthly intravitreal ranibizumab injection in patients with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion

2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To compare three initial monthly intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) injections followed by pro re nata (PRN) dosing with one initial monthly IVR injections followed by PRN dosing for macular edema (ME) secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). METHODS: Forty-two eyes of 42 patients who had IVR injections for BRVO were retrospectively studied. Eighteen eyes received 1 initial IVR injection (1+PRN group) and 24 eyes received 3 monthly IVR injections (3+PRN). At 1, 3, 6 and 12mo; spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) was performed. Central macular thickness (CMT), the integrity of the external limiting membrane (ELM), the presence of subretinal fluid, cyst size, the presence of inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) defect were determined. RESULTS: At baseline the mean CMT was 521.3±153.2 µm in the 3+PRN group while it was 438.1±162.4 µm in 1+PRN group. At the final visit, mean CMT was 278.3±87.8 µm in the 3+PRN group and 285.2±74.2 µm in the 1+PRN group (P=0.079). The changes in CMT over the entire study period were also comparable in both groups (243±160 µm in the 3+PRN group, and 152.9±175.3 µm in the 1+PRN group; P=0.090). At baseline, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.92±0.60 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) in the 3+PRN group, while it was 0.72±0.46 logMAR in the 1+PRN group. Final BCVA was 0.42±0.55 logMAR in the 3+PRN group and 0.38±0.50 logMAR in the 1+PRN group (P=0.979). Additionally, the BCVA changes from baseline to final visit were not significantly different (-0.50±0.45 logMAR in the 3+PRN group, and -0.33±0.39 logMAR in the 1+PRN group; P=0.255). CONCLUSION: No significant differences in the anatomical or functional results are found between 3+PRN and 1+PRN regimens in the patients receiving ranibizumab for ME secondary to BRVO. Intact IS/OS and baseline BCVA are good predictor of the visual gain, while baseline CMT is a good predictor of the anatomical gain.

A clinicopathological study on IgG4-related ophthalmic disease

Yuka Suimon, Satoru Kase, Kan Ishijima, Hiromi Kanno-Okada and Susumu Ishida — 2018/8/6 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate clinicopathological features of immunoglobulin G4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4-ROD), and analyze the recurrence rates following systemic corticosteroid administration. METHODS: We retrospectively searched clinical features, laboratory and histological findings based on the medical records of 21 patients with IgG4-ROD. All the patients examined in this study underwent surgical resection in the ocular adnexal lesions and underwent histological evaluation. This study further investigated clinical and histopathological features of 15 patients who received systemic corticosteroid after the resection. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients consisting of 7 males (33%) and 14 females (67%) was 61y. Fourteen patients were diagnosed as definitive, and 2 and 5 patients were probable and possible IgG4-ROD, respectively. Eyelid swelling was an initial symptom in 11 patients (52%) who did not show systemic involvements at a diagnosis. Fifteen patients received systemic corticosteroid administration, and all showed remission of inflammation. Among them, 10 patients did not recur, whereas 5 patients (33%) recurred during tapering. There were no significant difference between patients with or without recurrence in clinicopathological features. CONCLUSION: In this study, female patients are more predominant in IgG4-ROD. While inflammation recurs in one-third of patients, this study do not identify factors associated with recurrence after systemic corticosteroid administration.

Long-term effect of triamcinolone acetonide in the treatment of upper lid retraction with thyroid associated ophthalmopathy

Dong-Dong Xu, Yu Chen, Hai-Yan Xu, Hui Li, Zhu-Hua Zhang and Yu-Hua Liu — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To report the long-term outcomes of a large cohort of upper lid retraction patients treated with subconjunctival triamcinolone acetonide injections. METHODS: This retrospective clinical study was conducted from 2009 to 2016. The documents of 97 patients (126 eyes) were reviewed. The patients were treated with subconjunctival triamcinolone acetonide injections monthly and evaluated pre- and post-treatment by taking measurements of the upper margin reflex distance (MRD1, the distance between the upper-lid margin and the pupil center), lid aperture, lagophthalmos and proptosis. The patients were divided into the cured group, the improved group and the ineffective group based on the final treatment effectiveness. The improved group and the ineffective group were combined into non-cured group. RESULTS: The follow-up time was 23.45±14.86mo. Of the patients, 63 (64.9%) were assigned to the cured group, 22 (22.7%) in the improved group, 12 (12.4%) in the ineffective group. Injection times for cured group was 4.66±1.74, and for non-cured group was 5.17±2.08 (P≤0.05). The MRD1 was significantly reduced between baseline and 1mo after the initiation of treatment in the cured and improved groups (P<0.001). The values did not change significantly after 4mo for the improved group, while they continued to decrease in the cured group. In the ineffective group, the MRD1 did not significantly change after treatment. A statistically significant difference was observed between the baseline and post-treatment values of the mean muscle thickness (2.95±0.99 mm vs 2.04±0.63 mm, P<0.05) and surface area (27.27±10.5 mm2 vs 18.3±7.04 mm2, P<0.05) of the levator superioris with magnetic resonance imaging examination. Twelve patients (12.4%) relapsed after treatment and required additional subconjunctival injections. The main side effects included menstrual cycle disturbances (32%) and elevations of intra-ocular pressure (18.6%). CONCLUSION: A repeated subconjunctival injection of triamcinolone is an effective and relatively safe treatment for upper lid retraction due to thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy. This is related to the anti-inflammation effect of the medicine and the levator thickness can become thinner. Patients must be monitored regularly for recurrences and side effects.

Lacrimal gland tumors in Turkey: types, frequency, and outcomes

2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical, radiological, and treatment features of lacrimal gland tumors. METHODS: Retrospective review of 99 eyes of 92 patients with lacrimal gland tumors diagnosed and managed in a single institution between January 1999 and March 2017. Clinical and radiological features, histopathology, treatment methods, and prognosis were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean patient age was 40.3 (range: 7-80)y. The diagnosis was made histopathologically in 91 (91.9%) tumors and on a clinical and radiological basis in 8 (8.1%) tumors. Final diagnoses included idiopathic orbital inflammation (pseudotumor) in 46 (46.5%) lesions, pleomorphic adenoma in 14 (14.1%), adenoid cystic carcinoma in 12 (12.1%), granulomatous inflammation in 10 (10.1%), lymphoma in 5 (5.0%), benign reactive lymphoid hyperplasia in 3 (3.0%), dacryops in 3 (3.0%), carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma in 2 (2.0%), adenocarcinoma in 1 (1.0%), dermoid cyst in 1 (1.0%), cavernous hemangioma in 1 (1.0%), and leukemic infiltration in 1 (1.0%). Non-epithelial tumors comprised 64.6% (n=64) of all lacrimal gland tumors, epithelial tumors 32.3% (n=32), dermoid cyst 1% (n=1), cavernous hemangioma 1% (n=1), and leukemic infiltration 1% (n=1). There were in total 78 (78.8%) benign and 21 (21.2%) malignant tumors. CONCLUSION: Overall, 65% of lacrimal gland tumors were of non-epithelial origin and 32% of epithelial origin. By histopathology and clinical evaluation, 79% of lacrimal gland tumors were benign. The most common lacrimal gland tumors include idiopathic orbital inflammation (46.5%), epithelial (32.3%), and lymphoproliferative (8.1%) lesions.

Effect of intracorneal ring segment implantation on corneal asphericity

Canan A. Utine, Ziya Ayhan and Ceren Durmaz Engin — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the visual, refractive and corneal asphericity changes after intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) implantation for visual rehabilitation of keratoconus. METHODS: A total of 42 eyes of 32 patients were included. After creation of intrastromal tunnels of 5.01±0.03 mm inner diameter, 5.71±0.03 mm outer diameter and at 384.21±34.12 μm depth, 1 or 2 ICRS of 150-300 μm thickness and 90°-210° arc length were implanted. Changes in uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), refractive errors, mean simulated keratometry readings (SimKavg), anterior and posterior corneal asphericity values (Qant and Qpost, respectively) measured with Scheimpflug topography were evaluated retrospectively. RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in UDVA and CDVA, along with a significant decrease in refractive spherical equivalent (SE), cylinder and SimKavg postoperatively (P<0.001 for all). Mean Qant increased from -1.06±0.48 to -0.57±0.58 postoperatively (P<0.001). Change in mean Qpost was insignificant (P=0.92). Postoperative changes in UDVA and CDVA were not correlated with the postoperative changes in SE and cylinder (P>0.05 for all); but were correlated with the preoperative SimKavg and Qant values (P<0.001 for all). CONCLUSION: ICRS implantation seems to approximate the anterior corneal asphericity of “advanced prolate” shape to “optimal prolate” shape and an “ideal Q value” of -0.46; which may have a role in improved UDVA and CDVA postoperatively, besides decreased refractive cylinder values.

Differences in energy and corneal endothelium between femtosecond laser-assisted and conventional cataract surgeries: prospective, intraindividual, randomized controlled trial

2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To compare intraoperative phacoemulsification parameters and its effect on the corneal endothelium of eyes undergoing femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) versus conventional phacoemulsification (CP) cataract surgery. METHODS: Two hundred eyes from one hundred patients were included in a prospective, non-blinded, randomized, controlled, intraindividual clinical study. One hundred eyes underwent FLACS while their one hundred fellow eyes underwent CP. All surgeries were performed using the Victus® femtosecond laser platform and Infinity® Vision System phacoemulsification machine. Primary outcome measure was endothelial cell density 6mo after surgery. Secondary outcome measures included central corneal thickness (CCT), average cell area, standard deviation, coefficient of variation and hexagonality before surgery and 6mo after surgery and endothelial cell density loss during this period were also evaluated. Intraoperative efficiency parameters [cumulative dissipated energy (CDE), total intraocular surgery time, total ultrasound time, total phacoemulsification time, total torsional energy time, total aspiration time, ultrasound energy, torsional amplitude and fluid required during surgery] were also collated. RESULTS: Data from these patients was not considered for analysis. Data from 92 patients were analysed. Postoperative endothelial cell density (cells/mm2) between groups (2211.88±392.49 CP; 2246.31±403.48 FLACS) was not statistically significant (P=0.869). Total ultrasound time, torsional energy time, CDE and fluid requirements were significantly lower the FLACS group (P<0.05). Other parameters did not show statistically significant difference between FLACS and CP. CONCLUSION: FLACS displays significant improvements in phacoemulsification parameters in comparison to CP. There are no significant differences in corneal endothelium measures between FLACS and CP.

Comparison of diathermic high-frequency capsulorhexis and continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis in white cataract surgery

Li Wang, Peng Li and Xiong Guo — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the corneal endothelial cell counts pre- and post-operation, ultrastructure of anterior lens capsule and surgical completion after diathermic high-frequency capsulorhexis (DHC) and continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (CCC) applied in phacoemulsification (PHACO) of white cataract surgery. METHODS: Sixty-six eyes of 66 patients (33 males and 33 females) with cataract aged between 60 and 80y (mean 72.5±5.5) were recruited and undergone the surgery from June 2014 to November 2016. Anterior lens capsule, derived from two kinds of capsulorhexis, were randomly divided into two groups according to random number table. The ultrastructure of the capsule edge and its closer tissue were observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and optical microscopy respectively. The surgical completion conditions and corneal endothelial cell counts were analyzed pre- and post-operation after two capsulorhexis. RESULTS: The capsule derived from CCC had smooth edge, well-organized cellular structure and the cells filling into the cutting edge under TEM and optical microscopy. The capsule derived from DHC had an approximate 60 banded area of cell degeneration and necrosis, with dentiform prominences at the edge of the capsule, and no cell structure was observed at this area. The corneal endothelial cell counts of both groups were slightly declined 1wk post-operation compared with that of pre-operation. There was no statistical difference between the two groups (t=1.63, P>0.05). CONCLUSION: DHC shows good clinical value in white mature and hypermature cataract surgery.

Risk factors for flat anterior chamber after glaucoma filtration surgery

2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the incidence rate and risk factors for grade III flat anterior chamber (FAC) after glaucoma filtration surgery based on 5-year data. METHODS: Patients who underwent glaucoma filtration surgery in Daping hospital from January 2009 to December 2013 were enrolled in this retrospective study. The incidence of grade III FAC following glaucoma filtration surgery was determined. Regression analysis was performed to investigate the influence of glaucoma type, surgical approach, age, and preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) on the risk of postoperative FAC. RESULTS: A total of 2179 eyes receiving anti-glaucoma surgery were included. Ninety-one eyes suffered from postoperative FAC, with an overall incidence rate of 4.18%. Of 471 eyes with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), grade III FAC occurred in only 3 eyes (0.64%). Primary angle- closure glaucoma (PACG) was diagnosed in 1076 eyes, 39 (3.62%) of which developed grade III FAC, including 12 eyes (12/300, 4%) with acute PACG (aPACG) and 27 eyes (27/776, 3.48%) with chronic PACG (cPACG). Six of 259 eyes (2.32%) with secondary glaucoma, 28 of 186 eyes (15.05%) with neovasular glaucoma, 1 of 66 eyes (1.52%) with congenital glaucoma, and 14 of 115 eyes (12.17%) with remnant glaucoma suffered from grade III FAC. Of 6 eyes with mixed glaucoma, none developed grade III FAC after surgery. When stratified by surgical approach, 24 of 766 eyes (3.13%) undergoing trabeculectomy, 21 of 924 eyes (2.27%) treated by trabeculectomy plus mitomycin C (MMC), 18 of 109 eyes (16.51%) undergoing Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation, 23 of 201 eyes (11.44%) managed by Ahmed implantation plus MMC, and 5 of 133 eyes (3.76%) treated by Ahmed implantation plus lens extraction or vitrectomy developed grade III FAC. Logistic regression analysis revealed that factors including neovasular glaucoma, remnant glaucoma, glaucoma valve implantation, glaucoma valve implantation+MMC, glaucoma valve implantation+vitrectomy, age>60y, and IOP at admission >50 mm Hg were significantly associated with an increased risk for grade III FAC. CONCLUSION: The overall incidence of grade III FAC after glaucoma filtration surgery is 4.18%. Patients with neovasular glaucoma and remnant glaucoma are at a higher risk of developing FAC. Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation is associated with a higher risk for grade III FAC compared with trabeculectomy. No significant correlation was observed between the use of MMC in glaucoma filtration surgery and the risk of postoperative FAC. Higher IOP at admission (>50 mm Hg) and old age (>60y) are risk factors for grade III FAC.

Comparison among Ocular Response Analyzer, Corvis ST and Goldmann applanation tonometry in healthy children

2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To explore the relationship between different parameters of Ocular Response Analyzer (ORA) and Corvis ST (CST) in a sample of healthy Iranian school-aged children and the relationship between parameters of these 2 instruments against intraocular pressure (IOP), measured by the Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT-IOP), age and gender, and find possible correlation between ORA and CST with GAT. METHODS: This cross-sectional study included 90 healthy children. A general interview and complete eye examination were performed. Following successful GAT-IOP measurement, ORA and CST were conducted. The CST parameters were A 1/2 length (A1L, A2L), A 1/2 velocity (A1V, A2V), highest concavity deformation amplitude (HCDA), radius of curvature (RoC), peak distance (PD), central corneal thickness (CCT) and IOP. The ORA parameters were corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldmann-correlated IOP (IOP-G) and corneal compensated IOP (IOP-CC). Extracted data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science software. RESULTS: Totally 39 males with age of 9.08±1.60 (6-12)y and 51 females with age of 8.96±1.55 (6-13)y were included. Many CST parameters were significantly correlated with CH, CRF, IOP-G and IOP-CC. Some CST parameters had a significant correlation with GAT-IOP, including IOP-CST in both eyes and HCDA, A2L, PD, and RoC in the left eye, but none with age, except A2L in the right eye. The CRF measurement showed a significant correlation with GAT-IOP in both eyes and CH in the right eye, yet, none with age. Among all CST and ORA parameters, CCT-CST in both eyes and A1L in right eye had a significant correlation with gender, although this was a negligible negative correlation. Comparison of mean IOP values by different devices showed a significantly highest IOP overestimation by CST and lowest by IOP-CC compared with GAT. Also, IOP-G versus IOP-CST significantly had the lowest IOP overestimation among others. Overall, either low positive correlation or negligible correlation was found between IOP measurements by 3 instruments. CONCLUSION: The study finds the highest IOP overestimation by CST and lowest by IOP-CC compared with GAT. Overall, either low positive correlation or negligible correlation is found between IOP measurements by the 3 instruments.

Melatonin concentrations in serum of primary glaucoma patients

Xiao-Ping Ma, Man-Yi Shen, Guang-Lin Shen, Qiao-Ran Qi and Xing-Huai Sun — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To determine whether glaucoma patients exhibit an abnormal melatonin concentration in serum and the effects of psychiatric disorders caused by glaucoma in melatonin secretion. METHODS: A sample of 80 primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) patients, 120 primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients, and 120 normal controls were enrolled in this study. All the participants were asked to complete the following questionnaires: Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS). Variance analysis was used to compare the subscores between the groups. After that, we chose 58 patients with primary glaucoma and 20 non-glaucoma control patients to collect their serum samples at 7-10 a.m. Serum melatonin levels were measured using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Of all participants, the scores of PSQI, SAS, and SDS in PACG and POAG group were 9.38±0.40, 46.08±8.99, 51.11±10.72 and 7.43±0.35, 45.42±9.87, 49.04±12.24 respectively, significantly higher than those in control group (4.16±0.28, 35.49±9.18, 40.31±13.08). The serum melatonin levels in PACG (37.29±2.99 pg/mL) and POAG (35.97±3.64 pg/mL) were significantly higher than the controls (29.96±3.94 pg/mL) (P<0.001). But no difference was found between the PACG and POAG (P=0.216). Glaucoma patients with sleep disorders, anxiety and depression were more likely resulting in the increase of melatonin levels. CONCLUSION: There is a significant increase in serum melatonin levels in glaucoma patients compared to the controls especially in glaucoma patients with psychiatric disorders such as sleep disorders, anxiety and depression.

Intraocular retinal thickness asymmetry in early stage of primary open angle glaucoma and normal tension glaucoma

Pei-Wen Lin, Hsueh-Wen Chang, Ing-Chou Lai, Jen-Chia Tsai and Yi-Chieh Poon — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the intraocular retinal thickness asymmetry of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) and macular layers measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in patients with early stage of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal tension glaucoma (NTG). METHODS: A total of 117 patients with early stage of glaucoma (54 patients with POAG and 63 patients with NTG) and 32 normal subjects were recruited for the study. The pRNFL thickness, total macular layer (TML) thickness, and isolated inner macular layer (IML) thickness were measured by SD-OCT. Hemisphere TML thickness asymmetry measured by the posterior pole asymmetry scan was evaluated. Thickness differences of pRNFL and IML between superior and inferior quadrants were calculated. Asymmetry indices (AIs) of the pRNFL, TML and isolated IML were also computed. Areas under the receiver-operating characteristic curves (AROCs) were generated to determine the diagnostic capabilities of different parameters. RESULTS: Intraocular pRNFL thickness differences and AIs between the superior and inferior quadrants were significantly different between normal and NTG groups (P=0.009 and P<0.001, respectively). Intraocular pRNFL thickness differences and AIs between the temporal-superior and temporal-inferior sectors were also significantly different between normal and NTG groups (P=0.035 and P<0.001, respectively). The thickness differences and AIs of TML between superior and inferior hemispheres were significantly different between normal and NTG groups (P=0.001 and P=0.001, respectively) and between normal and POAG groups (P=0.032 and P=0.020, respectively). The thickness differences and AIs of macular ganglion cell layer (mGCL) between superior and inferior quadrants were significantly different between normal and NTG groups (P=0.013 and P=0.004, respectively), and between NTG and POAG groups (P=0.015 and P=0.012, respectively). The thickness difference of TML between superior and inferior hemispheres showed the highest diagnostic capability for early NTG eyes (AROC=0.832). CONCLUSION: Intraocular retinal thickness asymmetry in pRNFL, TML and mGCL are found in early stage of NTG. Hemisphere TML thickness asymmetry is also found in POAG eyes. Asymmetry analysis of retinal thickness can be an adjunctive modality for early detection of glaucoma.

Clinical features and surgical treatment of double elevator palsy in young children

Wen-Ting Luo, Tong Qiao, Hai-Yun Ye, Si-Hong Li and Quan-Li Chen — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the clinical features of congenital double elevator palsy (CDEP) and to evaluate various surgical outcomes between the standard Knapp and augmented Knapp procedures, based on improvements in primary eye position and ocular motility. METHODS: Twenty-two patients with CDEP at Shanghai Children’s Hospital were enrolled from July 2014 to January 2018. The forced duction test (FDT) was negative in 21 patients, aged 8mo to 12y (mean 5.4y). Patients were divided into two treatment groups: 16 patients underwent the standard Knapp procedure (group A), with or without horizontal squint procedure; and 5 patients underwent the augmented Knapp procedure (Foster procedure; group B). One patient underwent inferior rectus recession in the affected eye and superior rectus recession in the sound eye because of a positive FDT. The pre- and postoperative vertical deviations in the primary position and ocular motility were compared in the two groups. RESULTS: Twenty-one eyes of the 22 patients (95%) were aligned within 10 prism diopters (PD), and all patients (100%) reached ≥25% elevation improvement after surgery. The average corrected vertical deviation in group B was statistically better than that of group A. For group A, the vertical deviation in the primary position decreased from 24.75Δ±8.35Δ to 4.56Δ±8.07Δ after surgery, for an improvement of 23.06Δ±6.51Δ (P<0.05). In group B, the decrease was from 35.00Δ±5.00Δ (range 30Δ-40Δ) to 1.00Δ±2.24Δ, for an improvement of 34.00Δ±4.18Δ (P<0.05). There were significant differences between the pre- and postoperative elevation in each group (group A, P<0.05; group B, P<0.05). The average scale of improved elevation in group B (1.80±0.45) was not significantly better than that of group A (1.69±0.87; Z=-0.732, P=0.548). The average follow-up periods lasted 21mo in group A and 18mo in group B. CONCLUSION: For vertical deviations <30Δ, the standard Knapp procedure can be chosen. For deviations greater than 30Δ-40Δ, the Foster procedure should be chosen. Because of our early interference, the inferior rectus (IR) muscle did not show mechanical restriction. Monocular elevation deficiency (MED) should be diagnosed early so that complications will be reduced and the procedure will be easier for the surgeon.

Relation between early postoperative deviation and long-term outcome after unilateral lateral rectus recession and medial rectus resection for adult exotropia

Ponnarun Kanjanawasee, Pokpong Praneeprachachon and Parnchat Pukrushpan — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the relationship between early postoperative deviation and long-term outcome after unilateral recession and resection surgery for adult exotropia, and to evaluate exotropic shift after surgery. METHODS: This was a retroprospective study involving adult patients with exotropia who underwent unilateral recession and resection surgery and were followed up for at least 2y. The results were evaluated at 2y and the final visit. Factors influencing a successful outcome were analyzed. Early postoperative deviation at 1wk was used to evaluate relationship with long-term outcome. The long-term outcome was classified into 3 groups: successful, acceptable, and poor. Successful outcome was defined as a distance deviation between esodeviation 8 prism diopters (PD) and exodeviation 10 PD. RESULTS: Forty-two patients were enrolled. The mean age at surgery was 26y (range, 15-49y). The median follow-up period was 30mo (range, 24-108mo). Successful outcome was found in 81% of patients at 2y and in 71% at the final visit. Overcorrection at 1wk postoperatively was associated with a successful outcome at 2y. Initial postoperative alignment between orthotropia and esodeviation of 8 PD had the highest chance of a successful outcome (RR=2.2). The mean postoperative exotropic drift was 4.7 PD at the first month and 9.3 PD at 2y. CONCLUSION: Initial postoperative deviation can predict long-term outcome after unilateral recession and resection surgery for adult exotropia. The most desirable outcome at 1wk post-operatively was orthotropia to small esodeviation. Most patients have exotropic drift at a subsequent follow-up, especially in the first month after surgery.

Orbital decompression surgery for the treatment of Graves' ophthalmopathy: comparison of different techniques and long-term results

Mehmet Ozgur Cubuk, Onur Konuk and Mehmet Unal — 2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term results of different orbital decompression techniques performed in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). METHODS: Totally 170 cases with GO underwent orbital decompression between 1994 and 2014. Patients were divided into 4 groups as medial-inferior, medial-lateral (balanced), medial-lateral-inferior, and lateral only according to the applied surgical technique. Surgical indications, regression degrees on Hertel exophthalmometer, new-onset diplopia in the primary gaze and new-onset gaze-evoked diplopia after surgery and visual acuity in cases with dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) were compared between different surgical techniques. RESULTS: The study included 248 eyes of 149 patients. The mean age for surgery was 42.3±13.2y. DON was the surgical indication in 36.6% of cases, and three-wall decompression was the most preferred technique in these cases. All types of surgery significantly decrease the Hertel values (P<0.005). Balanced medial-lateral, and only lateral wall decompression caused the lowest rate of postoperative new-onset diplopia in primary gaze. The improvement of visual acuity in patients with DON did not significantly differ between the groups (P=0.181). CONCLUSION: The study show that orbital decompression surgery has safe and effective long term results for functional and cosmetic rehabilitation of GO. It significantly reduces Hertel measurements in disfiguring proptosis and improves visual functions especially in DON cases.

Evaluation of traumatic retinopathy with ultra-wide field imaging under corneal scar or fixed small pupil

2018/8/7 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the value of ultra-wide field (UWF) imaging in the management of traumatic retinopathy under the condition of corneal scar or fixed small pupil after complicated ocular trauma. METHODS: Twenty-eight patients (28 eyes) with complicated ocular trauma were enrolled in the study from June 2016 to May 2017, including 19 males and 9 females with age ranged from 11 to 64 (43.42±12.62)y. All patients were treated with secondary vitrectomy after emergency operation for wound repair of open ocular trauma. Direct ophthalmoscopy and 45-degree fundus photography were taken at each time point of follow up for comparison of findings with UWF images. Routine eye examination including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, slit lamp examination were performed and analyzed as well. RESULTS: Among the 28 traumatized eyes, the positive rate for identification of traumatic retinopathed was 32.1% (9 cases), 14.9% (5 cases), and 85.7% (24 cases) with direct ophthalmoscopy, 45-degree fundus photography, and UWF imaging, respectively. The detective rate of UWF imaging under the condition of corneal scar or fixed small pupil was statistically greater than that of 45-degree fundus photography and direct ophthalmoscopy (Bonferroni correction, P<0.001). UWF image was obtained in 19 eyes with opaque corneal scar, otherwise their fundus could not be seen by conventional methods. The additional findings of traumatic retinopathies by UWF imaging included periretinal membranes or pre-retinal proliferating strip, retinal holes, hemorrhage in the vitreous or sub-retinal space. CONCLUSION: UWF imaging is superior to traditional fundus photography in the evaluation of traumatic retinopathies under the condition of corneal scar or fixed small pupil after complicated ocular trauma.

Alcohol delamination of the corneal epithelium for recurrent corneal erosion syndrome

áine Ní Mhéalóid, Taylor Lukasik, William Power and Conor C. Murphy — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcomes of alcohol delamination (ALD) of the corneal epithelium for the treatment of recurrent corneal erosion syndrome (RCES) and to implement a standardized treatment protocol for this condition utilizing evidence based practice and the findings of an internal audit. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 42 eyes of 40 patients diagnosed with RCES who were treated with ALD between January 2006 and March 2016 was conducted. Patients had 20% alcohol applied to the cornea with the use of a well for 40s. Patients were reviewed one week later in the Outpatient Department. Outcome criteria were established based on standards from other studies in the medical literature. These included, a treatment success rate of at least 72% (defined as complete resolution of symptoms one month after treatment), a postoperative complication a rate of <5% (mainly infective keratitis, and subepithelial haze), and the absence of any detrimental effect on visual acuity in ≥95% of patients. RESULTS: The mean age at the time of ALD was 41.17±13.44y. Patients were followed for an average of 12.8±15.65mo. The majority were female (52.5%, n=21) and the majority of eyes treated with ALD were left eyes (62.9%, n=26). Trauma was the primary aetiology in our study population. Treatment was successful in 73.8% (n=31) of eyes and in 75% (n=30) of patients. Recurrence occurred in 26.2% of eyes at a mean of 10.41±12.63mo post treatment. CONCLUSION: ALD is an efficacious and cost-effective primary surgical intervention for RCES.

Characteristics, management, and outcome of squamous carcinoma of the conjunctiva in a single tertiary cancer center in Jordan

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the features and outcome of management of malignant conjunctival squamous tumors in King Hussein Cancer Center (a referral tertiary cancer center in the Middle East). METHODS: Retrospective case series of 31 eyes for 31 patients with conjunctival squamous neoplasia. Main outcome measures included: age, gender, laterality, tumor location, pathological features, tumor stage, treatment modality, and outcome. RESULTS: Twenty (65%) patients were males and median age was 58y. Twenty-two (71%) eyes had the tumor in the nasal quadrant. Tumor invasion to nearby structures was seen in 19 (61%) eyes, including the cornea, fornix, eyelid, and orbit in 17 (55%), 1 (3%), 2 (6%), and 3 (10%) eyes, respectively. Eye salvage was achieved by surgical excision with cryotherapy followed by topical chemotherapy in 28 (90%) eyes, and orbital exenteration was necessary in 3 (10%) eyes due to orbital tumor invasion. Tumor recurrence was seen in 7 (23%) eyes, and the significant predictive factors for recurrence were tumor extension onto the nearby structures (P=0.04), tumor invasiveness (P=0.038), and tumor TNM stage (P=0.031). No significant change in visual acuity was seen, and disease related mortality was 6% (2 patients, both had orbital invasion by invasive squamous carcinoma). CONCLUSION: Conjunctival squamous carcinoma is more common in males. Advanced American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) T-stage, tumor local invasion, more pathologically aggressive tumors, and surgical treatment alone (without adjuvant therapy) are associated with higher risk for recurrence, and orbital invasion is the most important poor prognostic factor for metastasis and death. Treatment strategies should be affected by tumor characteristics at presentation.

Repeatability of in-vitro optical quality measurements of intraocular lenses with a deflectometry technique effect of the toricity

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the repeatability of an optical device for measuring the Zernike coefficients of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) and assess whether its toricity has any impact in its repeatability. METHODS: An experienced technician used the NIMO TR1504 to measure the Zernike coefficients 30 times for an aperture of 4.50 mm for all lenses included. The IOLs included were divided into two group: toric and non-toric ones. The cylindrical powers of the toric lenses included in the present study were 1.00, 1.50, 2.25, 3.00 and 3.75 D. Finally, the repeatability of the NIMO TR1504 was described in terms of within subject standard deviation (Sw) and repeatability limit. RESULTS: The Sw was smaller than 0.011 μm for both lens groups and all Zernike coefficients, and the difference between both groups was smaller than 0.004 μm for all Zernike coefficients. Regarding the repeatability limit, this value was smaller than 0.025 μm for the toric lens group, and smaller than 0.031 μm for the non-toric lens one for all Zernike coefficients. Furthermore, the maximum difference between both lens groups was 0.010 μm. CONCLUSION: The repeatability of the NIMO TR1504 to measure the optical quality is high and independent of the lens toricity. These results reflect that this system is robust and could be used to measure the in-vitro optical quality of either toric or non-toric IOLs.

Induction of oxidative stress in human aqueous and vitreous humors by Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate whether the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser treatment applied in routine capsulotomy elicits oxidative stress in aqueous and vitreous humors. METHODS: Thirty-six patients who had to undergo a 25 gauge pars plana vitrectomy due to vitreoretinal disorders were enrolled, 15 of them underwent a Q-switched Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy 7d before vitrectomy due to posterior capsule opacification (PCO) (Nd:YAG laser group) while the remaining 21 patients were not laser treated before vitrectomy (no Nd:YAG laser group). Samples of the aqueous and vitreous humors were collected during vitrectomy from all patients for the assessment of oxidative parameters which were compared between the Nd:YAG laser group and no Nd:YAG laser group. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), a product of membrane lipid peroxidation, nitrite levels, the antioxidative activities of SOD and catalase, the 4-HNE-protein conjugate formation, indicating structural modifications in proteins due to lipoperoxidation, were assessed in aqueous and vitreous samples. RESULTS: In the human vitreous humor TBARS levels are significantly higher in the Nd:YAG laser group compared to the no Nd:YAG laser group and importantly, there is a significant correlation between the TBARS levels and the total energy of Nd:YAG laser used during capsulotomy. Moreover the anti-oxidative activities of SOD and catalase were significantly decreased by Nd:YAG laser treatment, both in aqueous and vitreous humors. In accordance with the TBARS data and anti-oxidative enzyme activities, significantly higher levels of proteins were conjugated with the lipoperoxidation product 4-HNE in the aqueous and vitreous humors in the Nd:YAG laser-treated group in comparison to no Nd:YAG laser group. CONCLUSION: These data, clearly suggest that any change that Q-switched Nd:YAG photo disruption may cause in the aqueous and vitreous compartments, resulting in a higher level of oxidative damage might be of considerable clinical significance particularly by accelerating the aging of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye and by worsening the intraocular pressure, the uveal, the retinal (especially macular) pathologies.

Comparison of 25 MHz and 50 MHz ultrasound biomicroscopy for imaging of the lens and its related diseases

Ming-Yu Shi, Xiao Han, Jin-Song Zhang and Qi-Chang Yan — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the results of 25 MHz and 50 MHz ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) regarding the image characteristics of the lens and its related diseases and to discuss the application value of 25 MHz UBM in ophthalmology. METHODS: A total of 302 patients (455 eyes) were included in this study from November 2014 to May 2015. Patient ages ranged from 5 to 89y (mean±SD: 61.0±17.7y). Different cross-sectional images of the lens were collected to compare and analyze the image characteristics and anterior segment parameters using 25 MHz and 50 MHz UBM in axial and longitudinal scanning modes, respectively. SPSS 19.0 for Windows, paired t-tests and B&A plot analysis were used for data analysis, and a value of P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The 25 MHz UBM images displayed the lens shape more clearly than 50 MHz UBM images. Particularly for cataracts, the whole opacity of the lens was shown by 25 MHz UBM, but 50 MHz UBM only showed part of the lens. The means of the anterior segment parameters obtained using 25 MHz and 50 MHz UBM were as follows: central corneal thickness: 0.55±0.03 and 0.51±0.04 mm, respectively; central anterior chamber depth: 2.48±0.54 and 2.56±0.56 mm, respectively; and central lens thickness: 4.26±0.62 and 4.15±0.56 mm, respectively. A statistically significant difference was found between the results obtained with 25 MHz UBM and those obtained with 50 MHz UBM. The two devices had a good agreement in measuring the anterior segment parameters. CONCLUSION: The 25 MHz UBM had an obvious advantage in showing the lens shape. It can provide reliable imaging of the lens and its related diseases and has a high application value for ophthalmology.

Effect of long-term topical latanoprost medication on conjunctival thickness in patients with glaucoma

Qing-Song Li, Fang-Fang Bao, Zhen-Yong Zhang and Kai Ma — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of long-term use of topically administered latanoprost on conjunctival thickness (CT) and conjunctival epithelium thickness (CET) in the patients with glaucoma. METHODS: A series of 106 glaucomatous patients were included. Of the 106 eyes, 55 eyes were treated with latanoprost eye drops once a day (latanoprost group), while 51 eyes were treated with carteolol hydrochloride eye drops (carteolol group). All the included patients completed a 2-year follow-up. CT and CET were measured with optical coherence tomography (OCT) in all patients at presentation and at 2-year visit, respectively. Statistical analysis was then performed to compare the change in CT and CET. RESULTS: At presentation, there was no difference in CET (t=0.400, P=0.689) or CT (t=1.14, P=0.259) between the two groups. No significant difference was found in CET (61.65±5.35 μm at baseline, 60.36±6.36 μm at 2-year follow-up, respectively; t=1.977, P=0.0531), while there was a significant decrease in CT from 201.45±14.99 μm at baseline to 167.81±14.57 μm at 2-year visit (t=14.1407, P<0.001) in the latanoprost group. At 2-year follow-up, no statistically difference was found in CET (62.24±5.27 μm; t=1.086, P=0.282) or CT (201.23±12.45 μm; t=1.44, P=0.154) compared to it at baseline (CET: 61.23±5.42 μm; CT: 198.76±13.68 μm, respectively) in the carteolol group. CONCLUSION: A significant decrease in conjunctival thickness is found in glaucoma patients treated with long-term topical latanoprost; its potential effect on the outcome of filtration surgery should be considered.

Analysis of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer and inner macular layers by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography for detection of early glaucoma

Pei-Wen Lin, Hsueh-Wen Chang, Jih-Pin Lin and Ing-Chou Lai — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the diagnostic capabilities of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness and segmented inner macular layer (IML) thickness measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography for detection of early glaucoma. METHODS: Fifty-three patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), 60 patients with normal tension glaucoma (NTG) and 32 normal control subjects were enrolled. Thicknesses of pRNFL, total macular layers (TML), and the IML, including macular RNFL (mRNFL) and macular ganglion cell layer (mGCL) were assessed. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AROC) were calculated to compare the diagnostic power of different parameters. RESULTS: There were no differences in the parameters of pRNFL, TML, and IML between POAG and NTG groups. The thicknesses of superior and inferior mGCL showed significant correlation with mean deviation of visual field (R2=0.071, P=0.004; R2=0.08, P=0.002). The mGCL thickness significantly correlated with the pRNFL thickness in the superior and inferior quadrants (R2=0.156, P<0.001; R2=0.407, P<0.001). The thickness of the inferior-outer sector of macula had greater AROCs than those in the inferior-inner sector of macula. The AROCs for superior (0.894) and inferior (0.879) pRNFL thicknesses were similar with the AROCs for superior (0.839) and inferior mGCL (0.864) thicknesses. Sensitivities at 80% specificity for global pRNFL, inferior-outer mGCL and inferior-outer mRNFL thicknesses were 0.938, 0.867, and 0.725, respectively. CONCLUSION: The diagnostic capability of the mGCL thickness is comparable to that of the pRNFL thickness in patients with early glaucoma. The inferior-outer sector of IML has a better diagnostic capability than the inferior-inner sector of IML for detection of early glaucoma.

Ocular hypertension in patients with central/hemicentral retinal vein occlusions: cumulative prevalence and management

Dan Călugăru, Mihai Călugăru and Ştefan Ţălu — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To prospectively evaluate the cumulative prevalence and the management of ocular hypertension (OH) in patients with unilateral acute central/hemicentral retinal vein occlusions (C/HCRVOs) over the course of 3y. METHODS: The study included 57 patients with unilateral acute C/HCRVOs. All patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological examination of both eyes. OH associated with C/HCRVO in patients showing a score >5% for the risk of conversion to primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) was treated with OH medication. The treatment aimed for a decrease in intraocular pressure (IOP) to <21 mm Hg with a >22% reduction from the initial values. The cumulative prevalence of OH and the effectiveness of treatment assessed by the cumulative prevalence of conversion from OH to POAG, were estimated. RESULTS: Fifteen patients had OH associated with C/HCRVOs, the cumulative prevalence of OH was 29.4% (95% confidence interval, 16.9-41.9). The mean value of the risk score of OH conversion to POAG for the 5 subsequent years was 11.7%±5.4%. The IOP significantly decreased from 25.67±2.16 mm Hg to 18.73±2.96 mm Hg. None of the OH patients converted to POAG during the follow-up period. CONCLUSION: The increased cumulative prevalence of OH in C/HCRVO patients indicates that OH is a risk factor for the appearance of venous occlusion. Patients with OH associated with C/HCRVO must be considered to be at high risk for conversion to POAG. Treatment with OH medications prevented conversion to POAG during the 3-year follow-up.

Changes in choroidal thickness in healthy pediatric individuals: a longitudinal study

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the changes in the choroidal thickness in healthy pediatric children in a longitudinal study, and to determine the ocular and systemic parameters that were significantly correlated with the changes in the choroidal thickness. METHODS: This study included 64 eyes of 34 healthy Japanese children with a mean age (±SD) of 4.4 (±0.4)y (range, 3.6-5.8y) at baseline. Swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) was used to record images of the retina and choroid at the baseline and after a mean follow-up period of about 1.5y. The 3D raster scan protocol was used to construct the choroidal thickness map. Mean choroidal thickness was calculated for each of the nine sectors of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study grid. Best-corrected visual acuity, axial length, body height, and weight were also measured. Changes in measurements were defined as the baseline values subtracted from the values at the final visit. A generalized estimating equation was used to eliminate the effect of within-subject intereye correlations. RESULTS: The mean central choroidal thickness was significantly reduced during the follow-up period (baseline, 301.8±8.6 μm; final visit, 286.6±8.0 μm, P<0.001). The decrease in the choroidal thickness was greatest in the central sector, followed by the sectors of the inner and outer rings. The inner and outer rings had diameters of 1 to 3 mm and 3 to 6 mm, respectively. The changes in the choroidal thickness in the central, inner ring, and outer ring sectors were significantly and negatively correlated with the age, baseline body height, baseline body weight, and elongation of the axial length. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that the choroidal thickness among preschool-aged Japanese children decreased significantly during the follow-up period. The choroidal thinning is significantly associated with the elongation of axial length. These characteristics should be considered in the evaluation of choroidal thickness in younger children with retinochoroidal disorders.

Macular integrity assessment to determine the association between macular microstructure and functional parameters in diabetic macular edema

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To respectively evaluate macular morphological features and functional parameters by using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and macular integrity assessment (MAIA) in patients with diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS: This prospective, non-controlled, open study included 61 eyes of 38 consecutive patients with DME. All patients underwent best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurement, MAIA microperimetry, and SD-OCT. DME morphology, including central retinal thickness (CRT) and central retinal volume (CRV); integrity of the external limiting membrane (ELM) and photoreceptor inner segment/outer segment (IS/OS) junction; and the deposition of hard macular exudates were assessed within a 1000-μm central subfield area. MAIA microperimetry parameters evaluated were average threshold (AT)-retinal sensitivity, macular integrity index (MI), fixation points within a circle of radius 1° (P1) and 2° (P2), and bivariate contour ellipse area considering 63% and 95% of the fixation points (A63 and A95, respectively). RESULTS: MI was significantly higher in eyes with disrupted ELM or IS/OS, compared with eyes with intact ELM and IS/OS. Values of BCVA (logMAR), total AT, AT within 1000-μm diameter, P2, A63, A95, and CRT were significantly worse in eyes with disrupted IS/OS, compared with eyes with intact IS/OS. The values of BCVA (logMAR), AT within 1000-μm diameter, and CRT were significantly worse in eyes with disrupted ELM, compared with eyes with intact ELM. These parameters were not significantly different between eyes with or without hard macular exudate deposition. CRV was not significantly different in the presence or absence of the integrity of ELM, IS/OS, or deposition of hard macular exudates. At the center, nasal and temporal sectors of the fovea, significant negative correlations were observed between retinal thickness and AT of the corresponding area. At the inferior and superior sectors of the fovea, no correlations were observed between retinal thickness and AT of the corresponding area. In the intact IS/OS group, significant negative correlations were observed between CRT and central AT. There was no correlation between retinal sensitivity and thickness when the IS/OS layer was disrupted. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed that IS/OS integrity was an independent factor affecting MI. CONCLUSION: Functional (BCVA and visual field) and morphological parameters (retinal thickness) were significantly associated with an intact IS/OS. Local photoreceptor integrity was a strong predictor of local visual function throughout the retina. MI revealed the functional status in DME, reflecting the IS/OS juction status in the macula.

10-year fundus tessellation progression and retinal vein occlusion

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To access the 10-year fundus tessellation progression in patients with retinal vein occlusion. METHODS: The Beijing Eye Study 2001/2011 is a population-based longitudinal study. The study participants underwent a detailed physical and ophthalmic examination. Degree of fundus tessellation was graded by using fundus photographs of the macula and optic disc. Progression of fundus tessellation was calculated by fundus tessellation degree of 2011 minus degree of 2001. Fundus photographs were used for assessment of retinal vein occlusion. RESULTS: The Beijing Eye Study included 4403 subjects in 2001, 3468 subjects was repeated in 2011. Assessment of retinal vein obstruction and fundus tessellation progression were available for 2462 subjects (71.0%), with 66 subjects fulfilled the diagnosis of retinal vein occlusion. Of the 66 participants, 59 participants with unilateral branch retinal vein occlusion, 5 participants with unilateral central retinal vein occlusion, 1 participant with bilateral branch retinal vein occlusion, and 1 participant with branch retinal vein occlusion in one eye and central retinal vein occlusion in the other eye. Mean degree of peripapillary fundus tessellation progression were significantly higher in the whole retinal vein occlusion group (0.33±0.39, P<0.001), central retinal vein occlusion group (0.71±0.8, P=0.025) and branch retinal vein occlusion group (0.29±0.34, P=0.006) than the control group (0.20±0.26). After adjustment for age, prevalence of tilted disc, change of best corrected visual acuity, axial length, progression of peripapillary fundus tessellation was associated with the presence of retinal vein occlusion (P=0.004; regression coefficient B, 0.094; 95%CI, 0.029, 0.158; standardized coefficient B, 0.056). As a corollary, after adjusting for smoking duration, systolic blood pressure, anterior corneal curvature, prevalence of RVO was associated with more peripapillary fundus tessellation progression (P<0.001; regression coefficient B: 1.257; OR: 3.517; 95%CI: 1.777, 6.958). CONCLUSION: Peripapillary fundus tessellation progresses faster in individuals with retinal vein occlusion. This may reflect the thinning and hypoperfusion of choroid in patients with retinal vein occlusion.

Air tamponade in retinal detachment surgery followed by ultra-widefield fundus imaging system

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To report the surgical result of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with air tamponade for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) by ultra-widefield fundus imaging system. METHODS: Of 25 consecutive patients (25 eyes) with fresh primary RRD and causative retinal break and vitreous traction were presented. All the patients underwent PPV with air tamponade. Visual acuity (VA) was examined postoperatively and images were captured by ultra-widefield scanning laser ophthalmoscope system (Optos). RESULTS: Initial reattachment was achieved in 25 cases (100%). The air volume was >60% on the postoperative day (POD) 1. The ultra-widefield images showed that the retina was reattached in all air-filled eyes postoperatively. The retinal break and laser burns in the superior were detected in 22 of 25 eyes (88%). A missed retinal hole was found under intravitreal air bubble in 1 case (4%). The air volume was range from 40% to 60% on POD 3. A double-layered image was seen in 25 of 25 eyes with intravitreal gas. Retinal breaks and laser burns around were seen in the intravitreal air. On POD 7, small bubble without effect was seen in 6 cases (24%) and bubble was completely disappeared in 4 cases (16%). Small oval bubble in the superior area was observed in 15 cases (60%). There were no missed and new retinal breaks and no retinal detachment in all cases on the POD 14 and 1mo and last follow-up. Air disappeared completely on a mean of 9.84d postoperatively. The mean final postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.35 logMAR. Mean final postoperative BCVA improved significantly relative to mean preoperative (P<0.05). Final VA of 0.3 logMAR or better was seen in 13 eyes. CONCLUSION: PPV with air tamponade is an effective management for fresh RRD with superior retinal breaks. The ultra-widefield fundus imaging can detect postoperative retinal breaks in air-filled eyes. It would be a useful facility for follow-up after PPV with air tamponade. Facedown position and acquired visual rehabilitation may be shorten.

Evaluation of systemic risk factors in different optical coherence tomographic patterns of diabetic macular edema

Durgul Acan, Eyyup Karahan, Nilufer Kocak and Suleyman Kaynak — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To elucidate the relationship between systemic risk factors and different patterns of diabetic macular edema (DME) determined with optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, DME was classified by OCT as diffuse retinal thickness (DRT), cystoid macular edema (CME) and serous retinal detachment (SRD) and the relationship between the systemic risk factors and DME patterns was evaluated. RESULTS: Of the 57 patients with DME, 21 (36.8%) had DRT, 24 (42.1%) had CME and 12 (21.0%) had SRD. Micro- or macro-albuminuria was significantly higher in the DRT pattern (61.9%) compared with the SRD (50.0%) and CME patterns (25.0%; P=0.040). Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level was significantly higher and patients were younger in the DRT pattern group (P=0.034, P=0.032). Best corrected visual acuity was the worst and central macular thickness was the thickest in the CME pattern group. CONCLUSION: Micro- or macro-albuminuria may be more frequent and HbA1c level may be higher in patients with DRT. These patients are also seen to be younger than patients with non-DRT.

Comparative study of the efficacy and safety of bromfenac, nepafenac and diclofenac sodium for the prevention of cystoid macular edema after phacoemulsification

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the efficacy, tolerability and safety of bromfenac 0.09%, nepafenac 0.1% or diclofenac 0.1% for the prophylaxis of the cystoid macular edema (CME) after phacoemulsification. METHODS: Group sequential observational comparative study. After phacoemulsification, patients received two months for topical treatment of either diclofenac sodium, bromfenac or nepafenac. All patients received concomitant topical tobramycin 0.3% and topical prednisolone 1%. We measured CME using optical coherence tomography (OCT) central foveal thickness, macular thickness and total macular volume. RESULTS: We enrolled 243 patients from January to June 2015, and 35% received diclofenac, 32.9% bromfenac and 32.1% nepafenac. When we compared pre-operative to three weeks to two months, bromfenac was more effective in reducing foveal volume (21.3 and 35.4 mm3, respectively), compared with the diclofenac (1.3 and 11.5 mm3, respectively), and the nepafenac group, became more edematous 6.4 and 5.3, respectively. Totally 133 patients completed the post-surgical satisfaction questionnaire. Patients complained of eye stickiness in 13.8% whom we gave nepafenac, versus 10.3% whom we gave diclofenac sodium, and in 0 whom we gave bromfenac. CONCLUSION: Bromfenac is the best tolerated and is more effective than diclofenac and nepafenac in reducing CME after phacoemulsification.

Effect of intravitreal conbercept treatment before vitrectomy in proliferative diabetic retinopathy

2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of intravitreal conbercept (IVC) injections as pretreatment for pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in severe proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). METHODS: This was a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent PPV for PDR from January 2014 to October 2016. Patients who underwent IVC injection before PPV were assigned to the IVC group; the others were assigned to the control group. The IVC was performed 3-7d before surgery in the IVC group. All the eyes in the two groups were operated by the same doctor to complete the vitrectomy. Intraoperative complications and the changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) before and after surgery were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: A total of 68 eyes of 63 patients (22 eyes in the IVC group and 46 eyes in the control group) were examined. The risk of intraoperative bleeding was lower in the IVC group (2/22) than in the control group (25/46, P=0.000). Furthermore, the use of endodiathermy was significantly lower in the IVC group (1/22) than in the control group (12/46, P=0.047). The surgical time in the IVC group (112.64±34.52min) was significantly shorter than in the control group (132.85±40.04min, P<0.05). Compared to the BCVA before surgery, the mean BCVA was significantly improved after surgery for both groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: PPV is an effective treatment and can improve vision in patients with PDR. Preoperative intravitreal injection of conbercept could reduce the chances of intraoperative bleeding and the use of endodiathermy and shorten the operative time, which are beneficial in the management of PDR.

Prognostic factors of trans-ethmosphenoid optic canal decompression for indirect traumatic optic neuropathy

Ying-Jie Ma, Bo Yu, Yun-Hai Tu, Bang-Xun Mao, Xin-Yi Yu and Wen-Can Wu — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate a possible correlation between visual acuity (VA) prognosis and the presence at baseline of various orbital and ocular signs in patients affected by indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (ITON). METHODS: From July 1st, 2012 to July 1st, 2015, 224 adults diagnosed with ITON who underwent endoscopic trans-ethmosphenoid optic canal decompression (ETOCD) were reviewed. Visual outcome before and after treatment were taken into comparison. RESULTS: Accompanied older in age, longer time to medical treatment and existence of optic canal fracture (OCF) were the independent predictors for poor postoperative VA and lower improvement degree of visual acuity (IDVA), while worse preoperative VA was predictive factor for poor postoperative VA only. Mean value of IDVA in patients with OCF was 0.19±0.30. Mean value of IDVA in patients without OCF was 0.29±0.35. IDVA in cases without OCF was significant higher than those with OCF (t=2.272, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Patients suffered from ITON without OCF before ETOCD have better surgical outcome than those with OCF. Older in age, longer time to medical treatment and existence of OCF are independent factors for poor VA prognosis and lower IDVA. Preoperative VA is independent factor for VA prognosis only.

Long-term safety of laser in situ keratomileusis in eyes with thin corneas: 5-year follow-up

Yao-Wen Song, Rui He, Jack X. Ma, Douglas D. Koch and Li Wang — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the long term (≥5y) efficacy, predictability, and safety of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in eyes with thin corneas [central corneal thickness (CCT) <500 μm]. METHODS: A total of 339 patients met the criteria of this study. Finally, 175 eyes of 89 patients who had thin corneas and underwent LASIK≥5y ago returned to our clinic and included in this study. Preoperative parameters recorded included uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), manifest refraction, CCT and corneal topography. At returning visits, in addition to visual acuity and manifest refraction, ultrasound CCT and corneal topography were performed. Optical coherence tomography was used to measure the CCT, LASIK flap thickness, and residual stromal bed thickness (RSBT). Safety index, efficacy index, percentage of eyes within ±0.5 D and ±1.0 D of refraction, percent tissue altered (PTA), and percentage stromal bed thickness (PSBT) were calculated. RESULTS: The safety index was 1.09 and efficacy index was 0.99. The percentages of eyes within ±0.5 D and ±1.0 D were 71.2% and 87.7%, respectively. The mean PTA was 40%±6% (range 20% to 55%); 76 eyes (43.4%) had PTA <40% and 99 eyes (56.6%) had PTA≥40%. The mean RSBT was 303±27 μm (range 240 to 390 μm), and 2 eyes had RSBT<250 μm. The mean PSBT was 61%±9% (range 51% to 85%). No eyes developed ectasia. CONCLUSION: In this cohort with the PSBT of 50% or more, LASIK is safe with follow-up for at least 5y.

Accommodation function comparison following use of contact lens for orthokeratology and spectacle use in myopic children: a prospective controlled trial

Yang Yang, Li Wang, Peng Li and Jun Li — 2018/7/10 0:00:00
AIM: To study effects of orthokeratology (Ortho-k) on accommodation function in myopic children. METHODS: A prospective, non-randomized, case-control study was performed from September to October 2016. Eighty-three children with myopia were divided into two groups. One group was treated with the rigid contact lens for overnight Ortho-k, and the other was treated with single-vision spectacle lens (SVL). Accommodation function were assessed by accommodative amplitude (AA), accommodative sensitivity (AS), accommodative lag (Lag), negative relative accommodation (NRA), and positive relative accommodation (PRA) before and 1, 3, 6 and 12mo after treated. RESULTS: Totally 72 myopic children were finished the follow-up: 37 in Ortho-k group and 35 in SVL group. Wearing time had a significant effect on AA, AS, Lag, and NRA of myopic children in two groups (all P<0.05). Meanwhile, there was an interaction effect between wearing time and wearing types (FAA=5.3, FAS=45.5, FLag=7.0, FNRA=3.7, all P<0.05). However, the between-group difference of AA (F=0.1), AS (F=3.2), Lag (F=1.1), NRA (F=0.3), and PRA (F=0.1) showed no significance. AA, AS, NRA, Lag and PRA were improved significantly in Ortho-k group within 1 to 6mo after wearing. CONCLUSION: Wearing Ortho-k can improve the accommodation function of myopic children, which might be one of the mechanisms for myopia control.

Two-year outcomes of ab interno trabeculectomy with the Trabectome for Chinese primary open angle glaucoma: a retrospective multicenter study

2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the 2-year efficacy and safety of ab interno trabeculectomy with the Trabectome in Chinese primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. METHODS: This was a multicenter, retrospective, observational study and included POAG patients with or without visually-significant cataracts. The Chinese patients were enrolled from three glaucoma centers and a group of comparable Japanese POAG patients was analyzed from our international Trabectome database. The patients received Trabectome or a combined surgery with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. The primary outcome was intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. Secondary outcomes included reduction of glaucoma medications, surgical complications, and success at 2y. Success was defined as: 1) IOP≤21 mm Hg and at least 20% IOP reduction from baseline after 3mo at any two consecutive visits; 2) no additional glaucoma surgery required. RESULTS: A total of 42 Chinese POAG patients from three glaucoma centers were enrolled. Twelve patients underwent Trabectome surgery combined with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation while the remainder underwent Trabectome surgery alone. Thirteen patients had a history of failed glaucoma surgery and were considered as complicated cases. In China data, the mean preoperative IOP was 21.4±1.23 mm Hg. The Trabectome lowered IOP to 17.9±1.8 mm Hg at 2y (P=0.05). The number of glaucoma medications also decreased significantly from a baseline of 2.0±0.9 to 1.1±0.8 at 2y post-surgery (P=0.04). The overall 2-year success rate was 78%, with patients undergoing combined surgery having a higher success rate compared with those undergoing Trabectome surgery alone (100% vs 76%). In Japan data, the mean preoperative IOP was 20.8±7.7 mm Hg. The Trabectome lowered IOP to 12.20±2.0 mm Hg at 2y. The number of glaucoma medications also decreased significantly from a baseline of 2.1±0.9 to 3.4±0.6 at 2y post-surgery. In all patients, no major complications were seen. CONCLUSION: Surgery with the Trabectome appears to be an efficient and safe procedure in Chinese POAG patients in the long-term.

A new diagnostic model of primary open angle glaucoma based on FD-OCT parameters

2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To build a clinical diagnostic model of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) using the normal probability chart of frequency-domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT). METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study. Total 133 eyes from 133 healthy subjects and 99 eyes from 99 early POAG patients were included in the study. The retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness parameters of optic nerve head (ONH) and RNFL3.45 scan were measured in one randomly selected eye of each subject using RTVue-100 FD-OCT. Then, we used these parameters to establish the diagnostic models. Four different diagnostic models based on two different area partition strategies on ONH and RNFL3.45 parameters, including ONH traditional area partition model (ONH-T), ONH new area partition model (ONH-N), RNFL3.45 traditional area partition model (RNFL3.45-T) and RNFL3.45 new area partition model (RNFL3.45-N), were built and tested by cross-validation. RESULTS: The new area partition models had higher area under the receiver operating characteristic (AROC; ONH-N: 0.990; RNFL3.45-N: 0.939) than corresponding traditional area partition models (ONH-T: 0.979; RNFL3.45-T: 0.881). There was no statistical difference among AROC of ONH-T, ONH-N, and RNFL3.45-N. Nevertheless, ONH-N was the simplest model. CONCLUSION: The new area partition models had higher diagnostic accuracy than corresponding traditional area partition models, which can improve the diagnostic ability of early POAG. In particular, the simplest ONH-N diagnostic model may be convenient for clinical application.

Effect of the posterior corneal surface on total corneal astigmatism in patients with age-related cataract

Ying-Ying Jin, Zhen Zhou, Xiao-Yong Yuan, Hui Song and Xin Tang — 2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To explore the effect of the posterior astigmatism on total corneal astigmatism and evaluate the error caused by substituting the corneal astigmatism of the simulated keratometriy (simulated K) for the total corneal astigmatism in age-related cataract patients. METHODS: A total of 211 eyes with age-related cataract from 164 patients (mean age: 66.8±9.0y, range: 45-83y) were examined using a multi-colored spot reflection topographer, and the total corneal astigmatism was measured. The power vector components J0 and J45 were analyzed. Correlations between the magnitude difference of the simulated K and total cornea astigmatism (magnitude differenceSimK-Tca), anterior J0, and absolute meridian difference (AMD) between the anterior and posterior astigmatisms were calculated. To compare the astigmatism of the simulated K and total cornea both in magnitude and axial orientation, we drew double-angle plots and calculated the vector difference between the two measures using vector analysis. A corrective regression formula was used to adjust the magnitude of the simulated K astigmatism to approach that of the total cornea. RESULTS: The magnitude differenceSimK-Tca was positively correlated with the anterior corneal J0 (Spearman’s rho= 0.539; P<0.001) and negatively correlated with the AMDR (Spearman’s rho=-0.875, P<0.001). When the anterior J0 value was larger than 1.3 D or smaller than -0.8 D, the errors caused by determining the total corneal astigmatism with the karatometric calculation tended to be greater than 0.25 D. An underestimation by 16% was observed for against the rule (ATR) astigmatism and an overestimation by 9% was observed for with the rule (WTR) astigmatism when ignoring the posterior measurements. CONCLUSION: Posterior corneal astigmatism should be valued for more precise corneal astigmatism management, especially for higher ATR astigmatism of the anterior corneal surface. We suggest a 9% reduction in the magnitude of the simulated K in eyes with WTR astigmatism, and a 16% addition of the magnitude of the simulated K in eyes with ATR astigmatism.

Comparison of immersion ultrasound and low coherence reflectometry for ocular biometry in cataract patients

2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the results of axial length (AL) biometry in cataract eyes by three methods: immersion B-ultrasound (IB) biometry, immersion A-ultrasound (IA) biometry and optical low coherence reflectometry. METHODS: In this prospective observational study of eyes with cataract AL measurements were performed using immersion ultrasound and optical low coherence reflectometry device. The results were evaluated using Bland-Altman analyses. The differences between both methods were assessed using the paired t-test, and its correlation was evaluated by Pearson coefficient. RESULTS: Eighty eyes of 80 patients (39 men and 41 women) for cataract surgery were included in the study. The values of AL could be got from all 80 eyes by IB and IA, the difference of AL measurements between IA and IB was of no statistical significance (P=0.97); the mean difference in AL measurements was -0.031 mm (P=0.26; 95%CI, -0.09 to 0.02); linear regression showed an excellent correlation (r=0.98, P<0.0001). Forty-five of eighty eyes with results of AL measurements, which can be obtained by three methods; the difference of AL measurements was of no statistical significance (IA vs IB, P=0.18; IA vs Lenstar, P=0.51; IB vs Lenstar, P=0.07); linear regression showed an excellent correlation (IA vs IB, r=0.99; IA vs Lenstar, r=0.96; IB vs Lenstar, r=0.96); Bland-Altman analysis also showed good agreement between the two methods [IA vs IB, 95% limits of agreement (LoA), -0.36 to 0.28 mm; IA vs Lenstar, 95% LoA, -0.65 to 0.69 mm; IB vs Lenstar, 95% LoA, -0.55 to 0.68 mm]. CONCLUSION: Measurements with the optical low coherence reflectometry correlated well with IB and IA. In the eyes with serious refractive medium opacity, the measurements of AL could not be achieved or existed deviations when using optical low coherence reflectometry device. Under such circumstances, we should choose IA or IB as the optimization method to obtain measurements, in order to get much more accurate results.

Macular pigment and serum zeaxanthin levels with Goji berry supplement in early age-related macular degeneration

Shang Li, Na Liu, Li Lin, Er-Dan Sun, Jian-Da Li and Peng-Kun Li — 2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of Goji berry supplementation on improving macular pigment, serum zeaxanthin levels and visual acuity in patients with early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: A total of 114 patients (aged from 51 to 92y, mean age 69.53±8.41y) with early AMD were enrolled in our prospective, randomized controlled study. The included patients were assigned randomly to the Goji group (n=57) with 25 g of Goji berries supplementation per day for 90d and the control group (n=57) with their normal diet for 90d. Macular pigment optical density (MPOD) was measured using heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP). The levels of serum lutein (L)/zeaxanthin (Z) were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). MPOD, serum L/Z levels and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded at baseline and 90d. RESULTS: In the Goji group, there were no statistically significant differences in the serum L levels between the baseline (0.199±0.149 μmol/mL) and 90d (0.203±0.181 μmol/mL) (t=-0.186, P=0.850); however the serum Z levels were increased at 90d (0.101±0.087 μmol/mL) compared with those at the baseline (0.029±0.032 μmol/mL) (t=6.412, P<0.001). Patients treated with Goji berry for 90d showed an elevated MPOD (0.877±0.202 DU) from the baseline (0.731±0.205 DU) (t=-4.741, P=0.000). In contrast to the control group, the serum Z levels and MPOD were higher in the Goji group at 90d (both P<0.05). At 90d, patients with Goji berry supplementation had a relative decrease in BCVA (0.21±0.18 logMAR) compared with the baseline (0.27±0.20) (t=2.397, P=0.020). CONCLUSION: Overall, daily supplementation with Goji berry for 90d improves MPOD by increasing serum Z levels rather than serum L levels in early AMD patients. Goji berry may be an effective therapeutic intervention for preventing the progression of early AMD.

The role of intravitreal ranubizumab in the treatment of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy of stage 2 or greater

Yue-Zhu Lu, Guang-Da Deng, Jing-Hua Liu and Hong Yan — 2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the role of intravitreal ranubizumab (IVR) in the treatment of familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (FEVR) of stage 2 or greater either as primary or an ajunct to conventional treatments. METHODS: Retrospective, non-controlled clinical study. Thirty patients (37 eyes) diagnosed with FEVR were enrolled. Twenty patients (66.67%) were male and 10 patients (33.33%) were female. Age ranged from 0.4 to 35 years old (median 3y). IVR was used either as primary or as a combined therapy according to the retinal neovasuclar activities. The follow up ranged from 1 to 57mo with mean 16.73±15.73 (median 11)mo. The treatment effect of retinal neovasuclar activites were recorded as well as the ocular and systemic side effects. RESULTS: Among 30 patients (37 eyes), 10 eyes received single IVR, 1 eye received 2 injections. Three eyes were treated with IVR and simutanous laser photocoagulation. Laser indirect ophthalmoscopy (LIO) was applied in 5 eyes 1mo after the primary IVR. Seven eyes were treated surgically following the primary IVR due to persistent retinal neovasuclar activities and retinal traction. IVR was used as combined treatment with vitrectomy in 11 eyes. Retinal neovascular regression was notified 1mo following the primary IVR in all eyes. Neither systemic nor ocular complications were recorded. CONCLUSION: IVR may be an effective modality in the treatment of FEVR either as primary or as an ajunct to the conventional therapies. The long term effect and safty of IVR still need further research.

Short-term outcomes after the loading phase of intravitreal bevacizumab and subthreshold macular laser in non-center involved diabetic macular edema

2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effectiveness of intravitreal bevacizumab and subthreshold macular photocoagulation (SMP), for the treatment of non-center involved diabetic macular edema (non-CI DME). METHODS: Prospective, randomized, controlled clinical study included patients with type 2 diabetes, non-CI DME and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 0.30 logMAR or better. Each eye was randomized into three groups: group 1, monthly intravitreal bevacizumab; group 2, single SMP; group 3, single SMP and monthly bevacizumab. Main outcome measures were BCVA, and macular thickness measured with optical coherence tomography as macular central subfield thickness (CST), macular area of greater thickness (MAGT) and total macular volume (TMV). Results were analyzed after 3mo. RESULTS: A total of 32 eyes were included. Group 3 improved in BCVA (0.19±0.16 to 0.12±0.14 logMAR; P=0.041) and in TMV (7.90±0.57 to 7.65±0.73 mm3; P=0.025). Group 1 improved in MAGT (325±26.26 to 298.20±44.85 μm; P=0.022) and TMV (7.79±0.57 to 7.50±0.56 mm3, P=0.047). Group 2 didn’t show significant improvement of any variable. CONCLUSION: The loading phase of bevacizumab as monotherapy or combined with SMP is superior to SMP as monotherapy in providing short-term visual and anatomical improvement in non-CI DME.

Clinical observations of vitreoretinal surgery for four different phenotypes of X-linked congenital retinoschisis

Chen Zhao, Qi Zhang, Hai-Ying Jin and Pei-Quan Zhao — 2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcomes of vitreoretinal surgery for four different phenotypes of X-linked retinoschisis (XLRS). METHODS: This study included thirty-one eyes of 25 patients who developed XLRS with severe complications. Among the 31 eyes, there were 7 eyes with vitreous hemorrhage, 8 eyes with retinal detachment and vitreous hemorrhage, and 16 eyes with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. All of the patients underwent standard three-port pars plana vitrectomy. All of the eyes were divided into 4 groups before surgery according to a modified classification scheme, with the first three groups as follows: group A, with foveal cystic schisis; group B with macular lamellar schisis; and group C with foveolamellar changes. Peripheral schisis was not present in these 3 groups; however, group D was a complex group with both macular and peripheral changes. One year after surgery, we analyzed the best corrected visual acuity and postoperative anatomical and functional outcomes of these 4 groups. RESULTS: There were 7 eyes in group A (22.6%), 1 eye in group B (3.2%), 15 eyes in group C (48.4%) and 8 eyes in group D (25.8%). Postoperative anatomical and functional outcomes were satisfactory at the last visit, while the mean visual acuity was increased to 0.27±0.11, with a significant difference (t=-1.049, P=0.000) compared with the results before surgery (0.1±0.08). Visual acuity was improved in 23 eyes (74.2%). Complications were found in three eyes: two eyes with proliferative vitreoretinopathy and traction retinal detachment 10 and 12mo after surgery, respectively; and one eye with vitreous hemorrhage 15mo after surgery. These eyes were in groups C and D. The retinas remained attached in these 3 eyes after reoperation. CONCLUSION: We should pay greater attention to XLRS with foveolamellar changes because it is the most changeable phenotype. Once complications occur, vitreoretinal surgery can significantly improve visual acuity and restore the anatomic structure of the retina.

Short term effect of choroid thickness in the horizontal meridian detected by spectral domain optical coherence tomography in myopic children after orthokeratology

2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate choroidal thickness changes in the horizontal meridian after orthokeratology. METHODS: This is a prospective cross-sectional observed study. Subjects (n=30; 11.3±1.7y) with low-to-moderate myopia (-1.0 to -6.0 diopters), wore orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses for 3mo. Before and after Ortho-K, OCT scans were made through the fovea in the horizontal meridian. Choroid thickness around the fovea was acquired by custom software. The analyzed regions along the horizontal meridian were divided into 7 equal zones. Ocular parameters were measured by Lenstar LS 900 non-contact biometry. RESULTS: Only the right eye ocular parameters were analyzed in this study. Before Ortho-K, choroidal thickness along the horizontal meridian was 273.7±31.8 μm in the temporal zone, 253.1±38.6 μm in the macula zone, and 194.8±52.2 μm in the nasal zone. After Ortho-K, the choroid was thicker in each horizontal zone (P<0.05). The increased thickness was greatest in the temporal zone (13.5±22.5 μm) and least in the nasal zone (8.4±14.2 μm). The axial length (AL) increased 0.02 mm (P>0.05). The choroid thickness change in each horizontal zone was negatively correlated with AL (r, -0.3 to -0.4; P<0.05) except one of the nasal zones. CONCLUSION: In myopic children, the thickness of the choroid is greatest in the temporal zone and thinnest in the nasal zone. After nightly Ortho-K for 3mo, the thickness increase along the horizontal meridian. The choroid thickness changes are negatively correlated with the change of AL.

Correlations between the optic nerve head morphology and ocular biometrics in highly myopic eyes

2018/6/12 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze peripapillary atrophy β/γ zone (PPA-β/γ) and the optic disc ovality index, and to assess their associations with the axial length (AL), refractive error, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), choroidal thickness (CT), and age in highly myopic eyes. METHODS: This was a retrospective observational case series. The study included 667 patients consecutively examined for highly myopic eyes [spherical equivalent ≤-6.0 diopters (D) and AL≥26 mm] with or without myopic retinopathy. Each patient went through a comprehensive ophthalmological examination that included spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) of the macula, A-mode ultrasonography, and a cycloplegic refraction test. The ovality index and PPA-β/γ area were measured from optic disc photographs. RESULTS: A significant association was seen between PPA-β/γ area and the ovality index (P=0.000, r=-0.232). The PPA-β/γ area increased significantly with a longer AL, older age, worse BCVA, higher refractive error, and thinner choroid (P<0.01). The oval disc was significantly correlated with a longer AL, older age, worse BCVA, higher refractive error, larger PPA-β/γ area, and thinner choroid (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The PPA-β/γ zone and ovality index in highly myopic eyes show distinct associations with the AL, refractive error, BCVA, age, and CT.

Etiology and failure analysis of anterior lamellar keratoplasty

Zhen Wang, Xiao-Jun Tan, Hua-Lei Zhai, Jun Cheng, Yan Gao and Li-Xin Xie — 2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze indications and reasons for failure of anterior lamellar keratoplasty (ALK). METHODS: The clinical records were retrospectively reviewed. Main outcome measures included indications for ALK and reasons for failure of ALK. RESULTS: A total of 434 patients (462 eyes) were treated with ALK at Qingdao Eye Hospital, Shandong Eye Institute from June 1, 2009 to May 31, 2016. The main indications were infectious keratitis (33.3%), keratoconus (23.6%), corneal dystrophy and degeneration (9.8%), Mooren’s ulcer (8.4%), corneal neoplasm (7.8%), viral keratitis (6.5%) and regrafting (3.7%). Fungal keratitis accounted for 73.4% in the infectious keratitis cases. ALKs were failed in 36 patients, with the major causes being recurrence of primary diseases (63.9%). The leading causes of graft failure was Mooren’s ulcer (36.1%), followed by infectious keratitis (30.6%). Recurrence of fungal keratitis accounted for 81.8% in the failed cases after ALK for infectious keratitis cases. CONCLUSION: Infectious keratitis and keratoconus are the main indications for ALK, of which fungal keratitis was the major cause of corneal infections. Recurrence of primary disease is the main reason of graft failure after ALK, in which the main primary diseases associated with graft failure are Mooren’s ulcer and fungal keratitis.

Diagnostic ability of ganglion cell complex thickness to detect glaucoma in high myopia eyes by Fourier domain optical coherence tomography

2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the ability of macular ganglion cell complex (GCC) thickness using Fourier domain optical coherence tomography (FD-OCT) to detect glaucoma in highly myopic eyes. METHODS: Cross-sectional study. A total of 114 participants, consecutively were enrolled. Macular GCC thickness and peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness were obtained with RTVue FD-OCT. Receiver operating characteristics curves were constructed for each measurement parameter, and areas under the curves (AUCs) were compared. RESULTS: Both the average GCC and average RNFL thickness showed negative correlations with axial length (rGCC=-0.404, P=0.001; rRNFL=-0.561, P<0.001). The largest AUCs from GCC, and RNFL parameters were 0.968 [global loss volume (GLV)], and 0.855 (average RNFL), respectively. GLV was significantly better for detecting high myopic glaucoma than average RNFL (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Macular GCC thickness has higher diagnostic power than peripapillary RNFL thickness to discriminate glaucoma patients from non-glaucoma subjects in high myopia.

Effect of single subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab on primary pterygium: clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical study

Tarek A Mohamed, Wael Soliman, Ahmed M. Fathalla and Abeer El Refaie — 2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect (clinically, histopathologically and immunohistochemically) and safety of a single intra-pterygium injection of bevacizumab. METHODS: Prospective interventional study comprised 40 eyes of 40 patients with primary fleshy pterygia who attended the Outpatient Clinic of Department of Ophthalmology, Assiut University Hospitals, Egypt from May 2015 to May 2016. Patients were randomly classified into 2 groups: the first group received a single intralesional injection of bevacizumab (Avastin; Genentech, San Francisco, CA, USA); the second group comprised patients who did not receive subconjunctival bevacizumab. Excision of pterygium and conjunctival auto graft was done in both groups. The excised pterygium tissues were subjected to histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation. RESULTS: The study comprised 40 eyes of 40 patients (33 men, 7 women) of age range from 31-58y. The study group included 22 eyes. The control group included 18 eyes. A decrease in the vascularity of the pterygium was noted in all injected cases. The mean vessel count was higher in non-injected pterygia than that in injected pterygia and the difference was statistically significant (P=0.001). Also, the mean vessel count in both groups was significantly higher than normal conjunctive (P=0.005 and 0.001). A statistically significant difference in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression between injected and non-injected cases was detected in the epithelial, stromal and endothelial cells (P=0.0001, 0.016, 0.014). No serious intraoperative complications occurred in both groups. CONCLUSION: The use of single intra lesional injection of Avastin in pterygium decreased vascularity and decreased VEGF expression in injected pterygium after one month. Our study proved the effect of single intra lesional injection of Avastin on pterygium. Further studies may enable limiting the need for surgery and improve quality of life for patients with pterygia.

Clinical outcomes after implantation of a new intrastromal corneal ring with 140-degree of arc in patients with corneal ectasia

2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical and tomographic outcomes after implantation of a new intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) with 140-degrees of arc in eyes with corneal ectasia. METHODS: We evaluated patients with corneal ectasia implanted with Ferrara 140° ICRS from April 2010 to February 2015. Outcome measures included preoperative and postoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), keratometry simulated (K) reading, tomographic astigmatism and asphericity. All patients were evaluated using the Pentacam Scheimpflug system. RESULTS: The study evaluated 58 eyes. The mean follow-up was 16.81±10.8mo. The CDVA (logMAR) improved from 0.5±0.20 (20/60) to 0.3±0.21 (20/40) (P<0.01). The average K reduced from 49.87±7.01 to 47.34±4.90 D (P<0.01). The asphericity changed from -0.60±0.86 to -0.23±0.67 D (P<0.01). The mean preoperative tomographic astigmatism decreased from -8.0±3.45 to -4.53±2.52 D (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The new ICRS model with 140-degrees of arc effectively improve the visual acuity and reduce the high astigmatism usually found in patients with corneal ectasia.

Femtosecond laser-assisted deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty in phototherapeutic keratectomy versus the big-bubble technique in keratoconus

2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the functional and anatomic results of femtosecond laser (FSL)-assisted deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) associated with phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) and FSL-assisted DALK performed using the big-bubble technique in keratoconus. METHODS: During the first phase of the study, an electron microscopy histopathology pilot study was conducted that included four unsuitable donor corneas divided into two groups: in FSL group, FSL lamellar cuts were performed on two corneas and in FSL+PTK group, PTK was performed at the stromal beds of two corneas after FSL lamellar cuts were made. During the second phase of the study, a randomized clinical trial was conducted that included two treatment groups of patients with keratoconus: group 1 (n=14 eyes) underwent FSL-assisted DALK associated with PTK and group 2 (n=12 eyes) underwent FSL-assisted DALK associated with the big-bubble technique. The main outcome measures were the postoperative visual acuity (VA) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurements, confocal microscopic findings, and contrast sensitivity. RESULTS: In the pilot study, histopathology showed a more regular stromal bed in the FSL+PTK group. In the clinical trial, group 1 had significantly worse best spectacle-corrected VA and contrast sensitivity (P<0.05 for both comparisons). The residual stromal bed measured by OCT was significantly (P<0.05) thicker in group 1. Confocal microscopy detected opacities only at the donor-receptor interface in group 1. CONCLUSION: Patients with keratoconus treated with FSL-assisted DALK performed using the big-bubble technique fare better than treated with FSL-assisted DALK associated with PTK.

Clinical features of strabismus and nystagmus in bilateral congenital cataracts

Sung Soo Hwang, Wan Soo Kim and Soo Jung Lee — 2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the prevalence, clinical features, and the factors affecting onset of strabismus and nystagmus in patients with bilateral congenital cataracts. METHODS: This study evaluated 116 eyes of 58 patients who underwent lens removal for the treatment of bilateral congenital cataracts between January 1999 and January 2011. The presence and type of strabismus and nystagmus were determined before and after surgery. Type of strabismus and final visual acuity were compared in patients with and without nystagmus. Patients were divided into three groups (orthotropia/orthotropia, orthotropia/strabismus, and strabismus/strabismus) according to their preoperative and postoperative ocular alignment. Age at cataract surgery and associations of nystagmus and primary intraocular lens (IOL) implantation with strabismus were analyzed. RESULTS: Six patients (10.3%) had strabismus preoperatively and an additional 11 (19.0%) developed postoperative strabismus. Exotropia was more common than esotropia both preoperatively and postoperatively. Eighteen patients (31.0%) had postoperative nystagmus, with sensory nystagmus being the most common type. Of the 18 patients with nystagmus, 10 had strabismus, with exotropia being more common than esotropia. Postoperative visual acuity was poor in patients with nystagmus. Age at cataract surgery and rate of primary IOL implantation were significantly lower, and postoperative nystagmus was more common, in the orthotropia/strabismus group than in the other two groups. CONCLUSION: Exotropia and sensory nystagmus are common in patients with bilateral congenital cataracts. Age at cataract surgery and rate of IOL implantation are lower and nystagmus more common in patients with postoperative onset of strabismus. Nystagmus is associated with poor visual prognosis.

Treatment of refractory giant macular hole by vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane transplantation and autologous blood

Wen-Juan Lyu, Lei-Bing Ji, Yun Xiao, Yin-Bo Fan and Xue-Hong Cai — 2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of internal limiting membrane transplantation and autologous blood on treating refractory giant macular hole. METHODS: Thirty-seven eyes with giant macular hole of the smallest hole diameter >700 μm, the maximum diameter of the substrate >1000 μm and hole formation factor <0.6 underwent surgical treatment. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Nineteen eyes with surgical flip of the internal limiting membrane in group A, 18 eyes with internal limiting membrane transplantation in group B who underwent the tamponade of internal limiting membrane into the hole, autologous plasma was used to seal the hole. The patients were followed up for 3mo, optical coherence tomography and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded before and after operation, and the results were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: At 3mo after operation, BCVA of the two groups was significantly improved compared with that before operation (tA=4.192, tB=4.374, P<0.05). But there was no significant difference in visual acuity between the two groups (χ2=0.128, P>0.05). At 3mo after operation, the closure rate of group A was 68.4%, and 100% in group B. (χ2=5.628, P<0.05). The defect diameter of inner segment/outer segment at 3mo after the operation was significantly lower than that before operation (tA=12.287, tB=15.481, P<0.05), and the difference was statistically significant (t=2.552, P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Internal limiting membrane transplantation combined with autologous whole blood can improve the postoperative closure rate of the refractory large aperture, and can effectively improve the postoperative visual acuity.

Comparison of total/active ghrelin levels in primary open angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and pseudoexfoliation syndrome

Numan Eraslan, Ufuk Elgin, Emine Şen, Aytul Kilic and Pelin Yilmazbas — 2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the levels of ghrelin (Gh), acylated ghrelin (AGh) and AGh/Gh ratio in the humor aqueous (HA) of cases with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PXS), pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG), primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and to compare these with control subjects. METHODS: A prospective examination was made of the total Gh, and AGh levels in HA of 67 patients undergoing cataract surgery. Patients were divided into 4 groups. HA samples were aspirated at the beginning of the surgery, stored at -70oC. Gh and AGh quantification was performed with ELISA kits and the AGh/total-Gh ratios were calculated. ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis, Chi-square and post-hoc tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Total Gh levels in HA were 189.2±45.6 pg/mL in the control group, 199.2±32.9 pg/mL in PXS, 180.6±20.9 pg/mL in PXG and 176.8±21.4 pg/mL in POAG groups (P>0.05). AGh levels in HA were 23.09±5.01 pg/mL in the control group, 24.13±5.22 pg/mL in PXS, 22.29±1.55 pg/mL in PXG and 19.69±2.93 pg/mL in POAG groups (P>0.05). The ratio of AGh/Gh was 10.3%±2.34% in the control group, 13.03%±2.58% in PXS, 12.3%±1.54% in PXG and 11.79%±1.41% in POAG groups (P=0.044). The difference between the PXS and control groups was significant (P=0.03). CONCLUSION: In spite of statistically insignificant results, the HA total Gh levels were lower than those of the control subjects but not parallel with the AGh levels in glaucoma patients. The relative increase in the AGh/Gh ratio in glaucoma cases supports the view that proportional increases of AGh might play a role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma.

Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width and visual field loss in glaucoma: a broken stick analysis

2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width (BMO-MRW) tipping point where corresponding visual field (VF) damages become detectable. METHODS: A total of 85 normal subjects and 83 glaucoma patients (one eye per participant) were recruited for the study. All of the patients had VF examinations and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography to measure the BMO-MRW. Total deviation values for 52 VF points were allocated to the corresponding sector according to the Garway-Heath distribution map. To evaluate the relationship between VF loss and BMO-MRW measurements, a “broken-stick” statistical model was used. The tipping point where the VF values started to sharply decrease as a function of BMO-MRW measurements was estimated and the slopes above and below this tipping point were compared. RESULTS: A 25.9% global BMO-MRW loss from normative value was required for the VF loss to be detectable. Sectorally, substantial BMO-MRW thinning in inferotemporal sector (33.1%) and relatively less BMO-MRW thinning in the superotemporal sector (8.9%) were necessary for the detection of the VF loss. Beyond the tipping point, the slopes were close to zero throughout all of the sectors and the VF loss was unrelated to the BMO-MRW loss. The VF loss was related to the BMO-MRW loss below the tipping point. The difference between the two slopes was statistically significant (P≤0.002). CONCLUSION: Substantial BMO-MRW loss appears to be necessary for VF loss to be detectable in patients with open angle glaucoma with standard achromatic perimetry.

Vessel density in OCT angiography permits differentiation between normal and glaucomatous optic nerve heads

2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate whether optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) can detect altered vessel density (VD) at the optic nerve head (ONH) in glaucoma patients. Special attention is paid to the accuracy of the OCTA technique for distinguishing healthy from glaucomatous eyes. METHODS: A total of 171 eyes were examined by the OCTA system AngioVue? (Optovue): 97 eyes diagnosed with glaucoma and 74 healthy control eyes. The papillary and peripapillary VD was measured. Furthermore, the VD was correlated with different structural and functional measurements. In order to test the accuracy of differentiation between eyes with and without glaucoma, we calculated the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and the area under the curve (AUC). RESULTS: The papillary and peripapillary VD in glaucomatous eyes was significantly lower than in healthy eyes (P<0.05). The VD of the nasal peripapillary sector was significantly lower than in the other sectors. The further the disease had progressed [measured by determining the thickness of the ganglion cell complex (GCC) and the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL)] the greater the VD reduction. The AUC discriminated well between glaucomatous and normal eyes (consensus classifier 94.2%). CONCLUSION: OCTA allows non-invasive quantification of the peripapillary and papillary VD, which is significantly reduced in glaucomatous eyes and accurately distinguishes between healthy and diseased eyes. OCTA expands the spectrum of procedures for detecting and monitoring glaucoma.

Change in foveal position based on age and axial length in high myopic eyes

Qian Zhang, Kaddie Kwok Chen, Wei-Feng Liu and Guo-Fu Huang — 2018/5/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the influence of age and axial length (AL) on the position of the fovea in patients with high myopia (HM). METHODS: In this prospective study, 96 patients (186 eyes) with HM were consecutively recruited from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University. DRI-OCT Atlantis, fundus imaging, and IOL Master were used in this study. Three indices were measured: the distance between the fovea and the optic nerve head (ONH) center (DFO), the vertical distance between the fovea and the horizontal line pass of the ONH center (VDFO), and the horizontal distance between the fovea and the vertical line pass of the ONH center (HDFO). These measurements were used to analyze the effects of different age groups (A1, A2, A3 groups) and AL (AL1, AL2, AL3, AL4 groups) on these indices. RESULTS: The results showed that there was no statistical significance in DFO among the age and AL groups (F=0.46, 0.37; P=0.62, 0.76, respectively). In HDFO, there was also no statistical significance among the age and AL groups (F=0.10, 0.48; P=0.90, 0.69, respectively). In VDFO, however, the difference in the age and AL groups was statistically significant (F=3.21, 3.12; P=0.04, 0.02, respectively). Thus, VDFO were correlated with age and AL (r=0.21, 0.23, all P<0.01), while HDFO and DFO were not correlated with age and AL (r=0.30, P>0.05). CONCLUSION: In high myopia, the foveal position changes mainly in the vertical direction along with factors of age and AL.

The association between demodex infestation and ocular surface manifestations in meibomian gland dysfunction

Xiao-Bo Zhang, Ying-Hui Ding and Wei He — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the association between ocular demodex folliculorum infestation and ocular surface manifestations in meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). METHODS: Eight-six patients with MGD were enrolled. All enrolled subjects were tested in the following sequence: ocular surface disease index (OSDI), slit-lamp biomicroscope examination, corneal surface regularity index (SRI) and surface asymmetry index (SAI), tear fluid collection, fluorescein tear film break-up time (F-BUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), Schirmer I test (SIT) and demodex folliculorum counting. Tear matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 activity was assessed using MMP-9 activity assay kit. RESULTS: Among 86 MGD patients, 40 were positive for demodex. The ocular demodex-positive group showed significantly increased scores of OSDI (25.96±13.74 vs 18.07±11.55, P=0.01), lid margin abnormality (2.38±0.87 vs 1.98±0.91, P=0.04) and CFS (1.28±2.00 vs 0.94±1.36, P=0.01) compared to the ocular demodex-free group. The tear MMP-9 activity was higher in the ocular demodex-positive group (102.9±32.4 ng/mL) than the ocular demodex-free group (46.2±19.2 ng/mL, P=0.03). There was no significant difference in meibum quality and expressibility, SRI, SAI, F-BUT and SIT between the two groups (P>0.05 for each). No significant correlation was noted between the number of demodex and ocular surface parameters in demodex-positive MGD group (P>0.05 for each). CONCLUSION: Ocular demodex folliculorum infestation may be associated with ocular discomfort and ocular surface damage in MGD.

Clinical efficacy of combined topical 0.05% cyclosporine A and 0.1% sodium hyaluronate in the dry eyes with meibomian gland dysfunction

Ho-Yun Kim, Ji-Eun Lee, Ha-Na Oh, Ju-Whan Song, Sang-Youp Han and Jong-Soo Lee — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy of combined topical 0.05% cyclosporine A (CsA; Restasis®, Allergan pharmaceuticals, USA) and 0.1% sodium hyaluronate treatment in dry eyes with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). METHODS: In a retrospective analysis, 53 patients (106 eyes) with MGD were enrolled and performed lid warm massage for 10min daily and be instilled preservative free sodium hyaluronate 0.1% eye drops 4 times daily. Patients were divided into subjects treated with topical 0.05% CsA and preservative free sodium hyaluronate vehicle (experimental group, n=74 eyes) and subjects treated with the preservative free sodium hyaluronate vehicle (control group, n=32 eyes). They were evaluated at baseline and 1, 2, and 3mo for subjective symptoms and objective signs including tear film break-up time (tBUT), Schirmer test, corneal staining (CS) score, lid margin telangiectasia (LMT), meibomian gland secretion (MGS), and conjunctival injection (CI). RESULTS: In the short-term treatment, the experimental group showed a statistically significant improvement in the ocular surface disease index (OSDI; P<0.001), tBUT (P=0.004), Schirmer test score (P=0.008) and LMT (P=0.021) by repeated measure ANOVA. Additionally, mean changes from baseline in OSDI (P<0.001), tBUT (P=0.001), Schirmer test score (P=0.029), CS score (P=0.047), LMT (P=0.002), CI (P=0.030) were improved better in the experimental group than in the control group at 3mo. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in MGS (P=0.67). CONCLUSION: In dry eyes with MGD, 0.05% CsA improves the tear film stability as well as subjective ocular discomfort, and is effective in controlling lid margin inflammation.

Efficacy of autologous conjunctival flap on repairing the late-onset filtering bleb leakage

Jian-Gang Xu, Jing Zhong, Yang-Fan Yang, Ming-Kai Lin, Xing Liu and Min-Bin Yu — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effectiveness of autologous conjunctival flap surgery for repairing the late-onset filtering bleb leakage after trabeculectomy. METHODS: This study retrospectively reviewed 106 eyes from 106 patients with late-onset filtering bleb leakage after trabeculectomy who received autologous conjunctival flap surgery at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Centre from 2005 to 2015. The basic information was recorded, and the interval time between trabeculectomy and autologous conjunctival flap surgery as well as related risk factors, intraocular pressure (IOP), anterior chamber depth (ACD) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were analysed. Moreover, 41 patients who completed the 1-year follow up were analysed to determine the IOP and BCVA changes and long-term success rates. RESULTS: The 50 male and 56 female subjects (average age 39.13±17.96y) included 47 (44.34%) and 33 (31.13%) cases of primary open angle and primary angle-closure glaucoma. The mean interval between trabeculectomy and repair surgery was 60.60±56.92 (3-264)mo. The mean mitomycin (MMC) concentration during trabeculectomy was 0.27±0.04 (0.12-0.4) mg/mL in the fornix-based conjunctival flap group (68 patients) and 0.28±0.04 (0.20-0.33) mg/mL in the limbal-based conjunctival flap group (11 patients). After bleb leakage, the patients' vision remained stable while the IOP decreased from 10.25±4.76 (3-20.86) to 9.44±4.33 (2-21) mm Hg (P<0.01). In the 41 analysed patients, the IOP was controlled at 15.68±5.11 (7-40) mm Hg in the 1st year after autologous conjunctival flap surgery and recurrence was not observed, for a long-term success rate of 100%. CONCLUSION: Autologous conjunctival flap repairing surgery is an effective technique for sealing filtering bleb leakages and controlling IOP postoperatively.

Complications and outcomes of descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty with artisan aphakia intraocular lens implantation

Rong-Mei Peng, Yu-Xin Guo, Yuan Qiu, Yan-Sheng Hao and Jing Hong — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the complications and outcomes of descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) combined with artisan aphakia intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in severely damaged eyes without capsular support. METHODS: DSAEK combined with artisan iris claw IOL implantation was performed on 29 eyes. All eyes were of abnormal structure due to complications from prior intraocular surgeries and ocular trauma. Ocular complications observed included graft dislocations, high intraocular pressure (IOP), IOL dislocations, macular edema and hyphema. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), IOP and mean central endothelial cell density (ECD) were recorded. RESULTS: Thirteen eyes had a history of ocular trauma, 10 eyes had an anterior chamber IOL, 16 eyes had prior vitrectomy. The iris was abnormal in 22 cases. Graft dislocation occurred in 5 (17.2%) of 29 eyes. IOL dislocation occurred in 2 eyes (6.9%). High IOP was found in 9 eyes and was controlled with treatment. The preoperative mean BCVA was 20/286. The 6mo postoperative mean BCVA was 20/42. The average center ECD was 1965.3 cells/mm2 at 6mo, and the rate of the donor cell loss was 34.7%. CONCLUSION: DSAEK combined with artisan aphakia IOL implantation is an alternative option for resolving endothelial and lens disorders in aphakic eyes without capsular support. However, it should be performed cautiously for eyes with severe iris defects.

Photorefractive keratectomy after cataract surgery in uncommon cases: long-term results

2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the excimer laser correction of the residual refractive errors after cataract extraction with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in uncommon cases. METHODS: Totally 24 patients with high residual refractive error after cataract surgery with IOL implantation were examined. Twenty-two patients had a history of phacoemulsification and IOL implantation, and two had extra-capsular cataract extraction with IOL implantation. Detailed examination of preoperative medical records was done to explain the origin of the post-cataract refractive errors. All patients underwent photorefractire keratectomy (PRK) enhancement. The mean outcome measures were refraction, uncorretted visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and corneal transparency and follow up ranged from 1 to 8y. RESULTS: The principal causes of residual ametropia was inexact IOL calculation in abnormal eyes with high myopia and congenital lens abnormalities, followed by corneal astigmatism both suture induced and preexisting. After cataract surgery and before the laser enhancement the mean spherical equivalent (SE) was -0.56±3 D ranging from -4.62 to +2.25 D in high myopic patients, instead it was -1±1.73 D ranging from -3.25 to +3.75 D in the astigmatic eyes, with a mean cylinder of -3.75±0 ranging from -3 to +5.50 D. After laser refractive surgery the mean SE was 0.1±0.73, ranging from -0.50 to +1.50 in the myopic group, and it was -0.50±0.57 ranging from -1.25 to +0.50 in astigmatic patients, with a mean cylinder of -0.25±0.75. In myopic patients the mean UCVA and BCVA were 0.038±0.072 logMAR and 0.018±0.04 respectively, both ranging from 0.10 to 0.0. In astigmatic patients, the mean UCVA and BCVA were 0.213±0.132 and 0.00±0.0 respectively, UCVA ranging from 0.50 to 0.22 and BCVA was 0.00. All patients presented normal corneal transparency. No ocular hypertension was detected and no corneal haze was observed. All registered values remained stable also at the end line evaluation. CONCLUSION: The excimer laser treatment of residual refractive errors after cataract surgery with IOL implantation in abnormal eyes resulted in satisfactory and stable visual outcome with good safety and efficacy.

Impact of topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in prevention of macular edema following cataract surgery in diabetic patients

2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic administration of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on macular edema following cataract surgery in diabetic patients, and to compare between types of NSAIDs (ketorolac tromethamine 0.4% and nepafenac 0.1%). METHODS: Group 1 (control) received artificial tears substitute as a placebo group, group 2 (nepafenac) received topical nepafenac 0.1%, and group 3 (ketorolac) received topical ketorolac tromethamine 0.4%. Patients were examined postoperatively after completing one week, one month, two months and three months' intervals for evaluating cystoid macular edema (CME) development. The main study outcomes were achieving the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and change in the central macular thickness (CMT) measured with optical coherence topography (OCT). RESULTS: Eighty eyes of 76 patients were included in this study. BCVA showed a statistically significant difference at the third month postoperative follow up between the control group and the NSAIDs groups (P=0.04). There was an increase in the CMT in all cases starting from postoperative first week until third month. CMT showed a statistically significant difference between control group and NSAIDs groups from postoperative first month until third month (P=0.008, 0.027, 0.004). There was no statistically significant difference between nepafenac and ketorolac groups in BCVA and OCT CMT. CONCLUSION: Prophylactic preoperative and postoperative NSAIDs may have a role in reducing the frequency and severity of CME in diabetic eyes following cataract surgery.

Anterior and posterior capsule densitometry levels after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery

2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze and compare five different variables over one year follow-up (1wk, 1, 3, 6 and 12mo): anterior capsule (AC), and posterior capsule (PC) area densitometry values, AC and PC linear densitometry values, and AC opening area reduction ratio after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. METHODS: This was a prospective comparative study. Seventy-one patients underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery on single eye between June 2014 and December 2015. A 5.0 mm diameter laser assisted anterior capsulotomy was performed on all eyes. In every post-surgery evaluation, AC opacificaction (ACO) and PC opacification (PCO) density levels were provided by Oculus Pentacam®HR using area and linear densitometry methods. Digital images were captured with a slit-lamp Topcon photographic camera and IMAGEnet® 5 software. The AC opening area on the digital images was measured using the Sketchandcalc area calculator and converted to reduction ratio levels. RESULTS: Using Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC), we found no correlation (r=-0.091, P=0.46) in the twelfth month assessment between the evolution of ACO area densitometry values and PCO area densitometry values considered as independent variables. We found no correlation, using PCC (r=-0.096, P=0.43) between the evolution of ACO linear densitometry values and PCO linear densitometry values, in the twelfth month visit, working both as independent variables. AC linear densitometry levels and AC area densitometry levels continued to grow strongly from sixth to twelfth months. Analysis of the values of AC opening area reduction ratio (1wk, 1, 3, 6, 12mo) revealed statistically significant differences between the values of successive examinations but the magnitude of the change decreased. In the final period of monitoring between six and twelve months the magnitude of change was low. CONCLUSION: Our results show strong increases of Scheimpflug ACO densitometry values from the sixth to the twelfth month while capsulorhexis area reduction ratio levels displayed a considerable decrease. We found no correlation between ACO area and linear densitometry values and PCO area and linear densitometry values, in the twelfth month examination, working as independent variables.

Long-term outcomes of uveitic glaucoma treated with Ahmed valve implant in a series of Chinese patients

Ning Bao, Zheng-Xuan Jiang, Paul Coh and Li-Ming Tao — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To report long-term outcomes of secondary glaucoma due to uveitis treated with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in a series of Chinese patients. METHODS: The retrospective study included 67 eyes from 56 patients with uveitic glaucoma who underwent AGV implantation. Success of the treatment was defined as patients achieving intraocular pressure (IOP) levels between 6 and 21 mm Hg with or without additional anti-glaucoma medications and/or a minimum of 20% reduction from baseline IOP. The main outcome measurements included IOP, the number of glaucoma medications at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60mo after surgery, surgical complications, final best-corrected vision acuity (BCVA), visual field (VF) and retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL). RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 53.3±8.5 (range 48 to 60)mo. The cumulative probability of success rate was 98.5%, 95.5%, 89.6%, 83.6%, 76.1%, 70.1%, 65.7% and 61.2% at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60mo, respectively. IOP was reduced from a baseline of 30.8±6.8 to 9.9±4.1, 10.1±4.2, 10.9±3.7, 12.9±4.6, 13.8±3.9, 13.2±4.6, 12.3±3.5 and 13.1±3.7 mm Hg at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60mo, respectively (P<0.01). The number of postoperative glaucoma medications was significantly decreased compared with baseline at all time points during the study period (P<0.05). There was no significant difference between preoperative and postoperative BCVA. Remarkable surgical complications were not found after surgery. The VF and RNFL of the patients were stable after the surgery. CONCLUSION: AGV implantation is safe and effect in terms of reducing IOP, decreasing the number of glaucoma medications, and preserving vision for patients with uveitic glaucoma.

Clinical outcomes of patterned laser trabeculoplasty as adjuvant therapy in open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension

2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the efficacy and safety of patterned laser trabeculoplasty (PLT) as an adjunctive treatment in open angle glaucoma (OAG) or ocular hypertension (OHT) patients who were under antiglaucoma medical treatment. METHODS: This study was a retrospective review of primary or secondary OAG patients and OHT patients with medically uncontrolled (≥18 mm Hg) intraocular pressure (IOP) who underwent 360o PLT from June 2016 to August 2016. Follow-up visits at week 1, and 1, 3 and 6mo were performed. IOP, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), complications and eye drop glaucoma medication were recorded at each follow-up visit. Success was defined as IOP reduction ≥20% from baseline. RESULTS: Forty-one eyes of 25 patients were included in this study. Pre-treatment mean IOP was 20.2±1.6 mm Hg. After PLT, IOP was 19.3±5.2, 16.1±2.7, 17.1±3.7 and 16.3±3.5 mm Hg, at 1wk, 1, 3 and 6mo, respectively. IOP reduction from baseline was statistically significant from the first month, remaining stable at 6mo (P<0.001). PLT success at 6mo of follow-up was 48.78%. The number of glaucoma medication per eye (P=0.10) and the mean BCVA both remained constant (P=0.37). Complications included transient IOP spikes in 4 eyes (9.8%) and peripheral anterior synechiae in 7 eyes (17.1%). CONCLUSION: PLT is an effective and safe method for the management of patients with OHT or OAG as an adjunctive therapy. Additional larger studies should be designed to verify the long-term stability of IOP reduction with this laser technology.

Effect of anti-VEGF treatment on retinopathy of prematurity in Zone II Stage 3+

Xiu-Mei Yang — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of intravitreal ranibizumab injection for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in Zone II Stage 3+. METHODS: Data was collected for ROP patients with Zone II Stage 3+ who received intravitreal ranibizumab injections between October 2014 and Janu-ary 2017 at the Department of Ophthalmology in our hospital. No prior laser or other intravitreal treatment was done. Prior to the intervention and at each follow-up visit, fundus examination was performed. Gestational age at birth, sex, birth weight, ROP zone, ROP stage, post menstrual age (PMA) at treatment, and follow-up pe-riod were recorded. The final clinical status of the retina was evaluated for each patient. The primary outcome mea-sures included ROP recurrences requiring re-treatment, complete or incomplete peripheral vascularization. RESULTS: Eighty-six eyes of 46 premature infants with Zone II Stage 3+ ROP were enrolled in the study. The mean gestational age at birth was 28.18±1.67 (range: 25 to 33)wk and the mean birth weight was 1070.57±226.85 (range: 720.00 to 1650.00) g. The mean PMA at treatment was 38.32±2.99 (range: 32.29 to 46.00)wk. Seventy-one eyes (82.56%) were treated success-fully with intravitreal ranibizumab as monotherapy. Fifteen eyes (17.44%) developed recurrent disease. The mean interval between the treatment and retreatment was 5.96±3.22 (range: 1.86 to 11.71)wk. All eyes vascularized into zone III at the end of the study and among them 62 eyes (72.09%) achieved complete vascu-larization. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal ranibizumab injection is an effective treatment in Zone II Stage 3+ ROP patients. More patients with longer follow-up duration are necessary to confirm the safety and efficacy of this treatment.

Assessment of the long-term visual and anatomical outcomes of ranibizumab to treat neovascular age-related macular degeneration

Bekir Küçük, Sibel Kadayıfçılar and Bora Eldem — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the long-term visual and anatomical outcomes of patients who underwent intravitreal ranibizumab monotherapy to treat neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and followed-up for at least 2y. METHODS: A total of 74 eyes of 74 patients who underwent ranibizumab monotherapy for neovascular AMD were included in this retrospective study. RESULTS: The average patient age was 72.1±6.5 (range, 57-85)y, the average follow-up time 46.2±13.1 (range, 24-75)mo, and the average number of visits 24.1±9.5 (range, 8-48). The mean number of injections in year 1 was 4.5, 1.6 in year 2, 0.9 in year 3, 0.4 on year 4, and 0.1 in the following years. Within the entire follow-up period, the mean number of injections was 7.6±4.4 (range, 2-21). The mean visual acuity was 48.1±15 (range, 15-76) letters at baseline and 45.7±19 (range, 7-75) at year 5. The mean central macular thickness was 303±78 (range, 178-552) μm at baseline and 251±51 (range, 138-359) μm at year 5. Scars developed in 47 (63.5%) eyes at the end of the follow-up period, and atrophy was evident in 6 (8.1%) eyes. CONCLUSION: Ranibizumab monotherapy can stabilize visual acuity for a mean period of 4y in patients with neovascular AMD.

Comparison of myopia control between toric and spherical periphery design orthokeratology in myopic children with moderate-to-high corneal astigmatism

Yu Zhang and Yue-Guo Chen — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To compare clinical results between toric and spherical periphery design orthokeratology (ortho-k) in myopic children with moderate-to-high corneal astigmatism. METHODS: This retrospective study enrolled 62 eyes of 62 subjects using toric ortho-k lenses. These subjects were assigned to the toric group. Based on the one-to-one match principle (same age, proximate spherical equivalence and corneal astigmatism), 62 eyes of 62 subjects were enrolled and included in the spherical group. At one-year follow-up visit, visual acuity, corneal astigmatism, treatment zone decentration, axial elongation and adverse reaction were compared between these two groups. RESULTS: At the one-year visit, corneal astigmatism was significantly lower in the toric group (1.22±0.76 D) than in the spherical group (2.05±0.85 D) (P=0.012). The mean magnitude of the treatment zone decentration was 0.62±0.42 mm in the toric group and 1.07±0.40 mm in the spherical group (P=0.004). Axial elongation was significantly slower in the toric group (0.04±0.13 mm) than in the spherical group (0.09±0.13 mm) (P=0.001). The one-year axial elongation was significantly correlated with initial age (r=-0.487, P<0.001) and periphery design of ortho-k lens (r=0.315, P<0.001). The incidence of corneal staining was lower in the toric group (8.1%) than in the spherical group (19.4%) (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Toric periphery design ortho-k lenses may provide lower corneal astigmatism, better centration, slower axial elongation and lower incidence of corneal staining in myopic children with moderate-to-high corneal astigmatism.

Comparison of optical quality after implantable collamer lens implantation and wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis

2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the optical quality after implantation of implantable collamer lens (ICL) and wavefront-guided laser in situ keratomileusis (WG-LASIK). METHODS: The study included 40 eyes of 22 patients with myopia who accepted ICL implantation and 40 eyes of 20 patients with myopia who received WG-LASIK. Before surgery and three months after surgery, the objective scattering index (OSI), the values of modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, and the Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) values (OVs) were accessed. The higher order aberrations (HOAs) data including coma, trefoil, spherical, 2nd astigmatism and tetrafoil were also obtained. For patients with pupil size <6 mm, HOAs data were analyzed for 4 mm-pupil diameter. For patients with pupil size ≥6 mm, HOAs data were calculated for 6 mm-pupil diameter. Visual acuity, refraction, pupil size and intraocular pressures were also recorded. RESULTS: In both ICL and WG-LASIK group, significant improvements in visual acuities were found postoperatively, with a significant reduction in spherical equivalent (P< 0.001). After the ICL implantation, the OSI decreased slightly from 2.34±1.92 to 2.24±1.18 with no statistical significance (P=0.62). While in WG-LASIK group, the OSI significantly increased from 0.68±0.43 preoperatively to 0.91±0.53 postoperatively (Wilcoxon signed ranks test, P=0.000). None of the mean MTF cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, OVs showed statistically significant changes in both ICL and WG-LASIK groups. In the ICL group, there were no statistical differences in the total HOAs for either 4 mm-pupil or 6 mm-pupil. In the WG-LASIK group, the HOA parameters increased significantly at 4 mm-pupil. The total ocular HOAs, coma, spherical and 2nd astigmatism were 0.12±0.06, 0.06±0.03, 0.00±0.03, 0.02±0.01, respectively. After the operation, these values were increased into 0.16±0.07, 0.08±0.05, -0.04±0.04, 0.03±0.01 respectively (Wilcoxon signed ranks test, all P<0.05). At 6 mm-pupil, the induction of total HOAs was not statistically significant in the WG-LASIK group. CONCLUSION: ICL implantation has a less disturbance to optical quality than WG-LASIK. The OQAS is a valuable complementary measurement to the wavefront aberrometers in evaluating the optical quality.

Consistent comparison of angle Kappa adjustment between Oculyzer and Topolyzer Vario topography guided LASIK for myopia by EX500 excimer laser

Ming-Shen Sun, Li Zhang, Ning Guo, Yan-Zheng Song and Feng-Ju Zhang — 2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare the uniformity of angle Kappa adjustment between Oculyzer and Topolyzer Vario topography guided ablation of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) by EX500 excimer laser for myopia. METHODS: Totally 145 cases (290 consecutive eyes )with myopia received LASIK with a target of emmetropia. The ablation for 86 cases (172 eyes) was guided manually based on Oculyzer topography (study group), while the ablation for 59 cases (118 eyes) was guided automatically by Topolyzer Vario topography (control group). Measurement of adjustment values included data respectively in horizontal and vertical direction of cornea. RESULTS: Horizontally, synclastic adjustment between manually actual values (dxmanu) and Oculyzer topography guided data (dxocu) accounts 35.5% in study group, with mean dxmanu/dxocu of 0.78±0.48; while in control group, synclastic adjustment between automatically actual values (dxauto) and Oculyzer topography data (dxocu) accounts 54.2%, with mean dxauto/dxocu of 0.79±0.66. Vertically, synclastic adjustment between dymanu and dyocu accounts 55.2% in study group, with mean dymanu/dyocu of 0.61±0.42; while in control group, synclastic adjustment between dyauto and dyocu accounts 66.1%, with mean dyauto/dyocu of 0.66±0.65. There was no statistically significant difference in ratio of actual values/Oculyzer topography guided data in horizontal and vertical direction between two groups (P=0.951, 0.621). CONCLUSION: There is high consistency in angle Kappa adjustment guided manually by Oculyzer and guided automatically by Topolyzer Vario topography during corneal refractive surgery by WaveLight EX500 excimer laser.

Altered intrinsic functional connectivity of the primary visual cortex in youth patients with comitant exotropia: a resting state fMRI study

2018/4/10 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the differences in the functional connectivity (FC) of the primary visual cortex (V1) between the youth comitant exotropia (CE) patients and health subjects using resting functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data. METHODS: Totally, 32 CEs (25 males and 7 females) and 32 healthy control subjects (HCs) (25 males and 7 females) were enrolled in the study and underwent the MRI scanning. Two-sample t-test was used to examine differences in FC maps between the CE patients and HCs. RESULTS: The CE patients showed significantly less FC between the left brodmann area (BA17) and left lingual gyrus/cerebellum posterior lobe, right middle occipital gyrus, left precentral gyrus/postcentral gyrus and right inferior parietal lobule/postcentral gyrus. Meanwhile, CE patients showed significantly less FC between right BA17 and right middle occipital gyrus (BA19, 37). CONCLUSION: Our findings show that CE involves abnormal FC in primary visual cortex in many regions, which may underlie the pathologic mechanism of impaired fusion and stereoscopic vision in CEs.

Low concentration of sodium hyaluronate temporarily elevates the tear film lipid layer thickness in dry eye patients with lipid deficiency

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects of different concentrations of artificial tears on lipid layer thickness (LLT) and blink rate (BR) in dry eye patients. METHODS: This study included 106 eyes of 58 patients with dry eye. The lipid deficiency type was defined as the LLT baseline <75 nm. The LLT and BR were measured at baseline and 1, 5 and 15min after the instillation of 0.1% or 0.3% sodium hyaluronate (SH) eye drops by using the LipiView ocular surface interferometer. RESULTS: In the lipid deficiency group, the LLT increased from baseline at 1min post instillation. The LLT after the instillation of 0.1% SH was significantly higher than that after the instillation of 0.3% SH (P<0.001). The LLT returned to baseline at 15min post instillation of 0.1% SH and at 5min post instillation of 0.3% SH. In the non-lipid deficiency group, the LLT decreased from baseline at 1min and returned to baseline at 5min for both treatments. The BRs were not significantly different at different time points for both treatments. CONCLUSION: SH eye drops induce a short-term increase in LLT of patients with lipid deficiency. A low concentration of artificial tears have a stronger effect than a high concentration of artificial tears on the increase in LLT. In comparison, SH eye drops induce a transient and slight decrease in LLT of patients without lipid deficiency. A low concentration of artificial tears might be better for patients with lipid deficiency.

Clinical outcome of combined conjunctival autograft transplantation and amniotic membrane transplantation in pterygium surgery

Tejsu Malla, Jing Jiang and Kai Hu — 2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare long-term outcome of primary and recurrent pterygium surgery with three different techniques: combined conjunctival autograft and overlay amniotic membrane transplantation (CAT with AMT), conjunctival autograft transplantation (CAT) alone and amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) alone. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 142 eyes of 142 pterygium patients (104 primary, 38 recurrent) who underwent CAT (group A), AMT (group B) or CAT with AMT (group C) respectively following surgical excision were reviewed and compared based on the recurrences and post-operative complications. RESULTS: The number of recurrence post-surgery were 17 (9 from primary, 8 from recurrent; the same description below), 18 (10, 8) and 2 (1, 1) in groups A, B, and C respectively; dry eyes were 22 (16, 6), 27 (18, 9) and 7 (3, 4); conjunctival inflammations were 30 (17, 13), 27 (16, 11) and 11 (6, 5). Patients in group C (either primary or recurrent or both) mainly showed significantly better results than those in group A or B (P<0.05) regarding above-mentioned clinical effects. CONCLUSION: Combined CAT and overly AMT have significantly lower rates of recurrence and postoperative complications for primary and recurrent pterygium surgery than CAT or AMT alone.

Human lens epithelial cell apoptosis and epithelial to mesenchymal transition in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate human lens epithelium cell apoptosis and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by femtosecond laser in femtosecond laser assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). METHODS: Sixty cataract patients with N2 to N3 stage according to the LOCS III were enrolled in this study and divided into three groups randomly: FLACS1 group (cataract surgery by FLACS with LenSx), FLACS2 group (cataract surgery by FLACS with LensAR) and manual group (cataract surgery by phacoemulsification). Patients in two FLACS groups performed anterior capsulotomy by LenSx or LensAR laser system. Patients in the manual group were performed continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (CCC) manually. The anterior capsules were fixed right after moved out of eye. Hematoxylin-eosine staining, immunofluorescence staining and real-time PCR were performed in order to observe human lens epithelium cells changes after cataract surgery. RESULTS: The capsule cutting edge was shown irregularity and roughness in two FLACS groups and smooth edge in manual capsulotomy by pathologic staining. Irregularities of the cell configuration with partly swollen and destroyed nuclei were observed in two FLACS groups. Femtosecond laser could induce a significantly higher cell apoptosis in human lens epithelium cell than manually performed CCC (P<0.05). Lens epithelium cells apoptosis were correlated with femtosecond laser duration according to Pearson correlation analysis. Decreased N-cadherin expression, alpha-SMA and FSP-1 level in two FLACS groups showed the inhibition of cell EMT. CONCLUSION: Femtosecond laser may affect the apoptosis and EMT of lens epithelium cells which are under the peeled central lens capsule.

Outcomes of transconjunctival sutureless 27-gauge vitrectomy for vitreoretinal diseases

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy profile of 27-gauge (27G) pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for the treatment of various vitreoretinal diseases. METHODS: The clinical outcomes of 61 eyes (58 patients) with various vitreoretinal diseases following 27G PPV were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Surgical indications included rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (n=24), full-thickness macular hole (n=12), diabetic retinopathy (n=11), vitreous hemorrhage (n=6), Eales disease (n=4), pathological myopia-related vitreous floater (n=2), and macular epiretinal membrane (n=2). The mean follow-up was 166.4±61.3d (range 98-339d). The mean logMAR best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 1.7±1.1 [0.02 decimal visual acuity (VA) equivalent] preoperatively to 1.2±1.0 (0.06 decimal VA equivalent) at the last postoperative visit (P<0.001). The mean operative time was 49.9min. With the exception of complicated cataract in one eye, no intraoperative complications were encountered. No case required conversion to conventional 20-, 23- or 25G instrumentation in all surgical maneuvers except for silicone oil infusion, which required a 25G oil injection syringe. Postoperative complications included transient ocular hypertension, vitreous hemorrhage, persistent intraocular pressure elevation, subconjunctival oil leakage, and recurrent retinal detachment. No cases of hypotony, endophthalmitis, and sclerotomy-related tears were observed. CONCLUSION: The current results suggest that 27G PPV system is a safe and effective treatment for various vitreoretinal diseases. When learning to perform 27G PPV, surgeons may encounter a learning curve and should gradually expand surgical indications from easy to pathologically complicated cases.

Long-term results of Ahmed glaucoma valve implantation in Egyptian population

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term results and complications of Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) implantation in a cohort of Egyptian patients. METHODS: A retrospective study of 124 eyes of 99 patients with refractory glaucoma who underwent AGV implantation and had a minimum follow-up of 5y was performed. All patients underwent complete ophthalmic examination and intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement before surgery and at 1d, weekly for the 1st month, 3, 6mo, and 1y after surgery and yearly afterward for 5y. IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry and/or Tono-Pen. Complications and the number of anti-glaucoma medications needed were recorded. Success was defined as IOP less than 21 mm Hg with or without anti-glaucoma medication and without additional glaucoma surgery. RESULTS: Mean age was 23.1±19.9y. All eyes had at least one prior glaucoma surgery. IOP was reduced from a mean of 37.2±6.8 to 19.2±5.2 mm Hg after 5y follow-up with a reduced number of medications from 2.64±0.59 to 1.81±0.4. Complete and qualified success rates were 31.5% and 46.0% respectively at the end of follow-up. The most common complications were encapsulated cyst formation in 51 eyes (41.1%), complicated cataract in 9 eyes (7.25%), recessed tube in 8 eyes (6.45%), tube exposure in 6 eyes (4.8%) and corneal touch in 6 eyes (4.8%). Other complications included extruded AGV, endophthalmitis and persistent hypotony. Each of them was recorded in only 2 eyes (1.6%). CONCLUSION: Although refractory glaucoma is a difficult problem to manage, AGV is effective and relatively safe procedure in treating refractory glaucoma in Egyptian patients with long-term follow-up. Encapsulated cyst formation was the most common complication, which limits successful IOP control after AGV implantation. However, effective complications management can improve the rate of success.

Automatic localization of macular area based on structure label transfer

Xiao-Xin Guo, Qun Li, Chao Sun and Yi-Nan Lu — 2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To explore feasibility and practicability of macula localization independent of macular morphological features. METHODS: A novel method was proposed to identify macula in fundus images by using structure label transfer. Its main idea was to match a processed image with the candidate images with known structures, and then transfer the structure label representing the macular to the processed image as a result of macula localization. In this way, macula localization couldn’t be influenced by lesion or other interference any more. RESULTS: The average success rate in four datasets was 98.18%. For accuracy, the average error distance in four datasets was 0.151 optic disc diameter (ODD). Even for severe lesion images, the proposed method can still maintain high success rate and high accuracy, e.g., 95.65% and 0.124 ODD in the case of STARE dataset, respectively, which indicated that the proposed method was highly robust and stable in the complicated situations. CONCLUSION: The proposed method can avoid the interference of lesion to macular morphological features in macula localization, and can locate macula with high accuracy and robustness, verifying its feasibility.

Intravitreal anti-VEGF agents, oral glucocorticoids, and laser photocoagulation combination therapy for macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion: preliminary report

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents, oral glucocorticoid, and laser photocoagulation therapy for macular edema (ME) secondary to retinal vein occlusion (RVO). METHODS: This study included 16 eyes of 16 patients with RVO-associated ME. Patients were initially treated with oral prednisone and an intravitreal anti-VEGF agent. Two weeks later, patients underwent standard laser photocoagulation. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central retinal thickness (CRT), and retinal vessel oxygenation were examined over 12mo. RESULTS: Patients received 1.43±0.81 anti-VEGF injections. Mean baseline and 12-month logMAR BCVA were 0.96±0.51 (20/178) and 0.31±0.88 (20/40), respectively, in eyes with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) (P<0.00), and 1.02±0.45 (20/209) and 0.60±0.49 (20/80), respectively, in eyes with branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) (P<0.00). At 12mo, CRT had significantly decreased in eyes with CRVO (P<0.00) and BRVO (P<0.00). Venous oxygen saturation had significantly increased in eyes with CRVO (P<0.00) and BRVO (P<0.00). No examined parameters were significantly different between the 2 RVO groups. No serious adverse effects occurred. CONCLUSION: Anti-VEGF, glucocorticoid, and photocoagulation combination therapy improves visual outcome, prolongs therapeutic effect, and reduces the number of intravitreal injections in eyes with RVO-associated ME.

The optic nerve head perfusion and its correlation with the macular blood perfusion in unilateral idiopathic macular hole: an optical coherence tomography angiography study

Xin-Xin Liu, Yu-Fei Teng, Meng Gao, Xi-Da Liang, Yan-Ping Yu and Wu Liu — 2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the optic nerve head (ONH) perfusion in both eyes of unilateral idiopathic macular hole (IMH) with normal control group by using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and investigate its correlationship with the macular blood perfusion. METHODS: We performed a prospective and cross-sectional study that included 19 patients with full-thickness unilateral IMH and 24 age- and sex-matched controls. All participants received OCTA test. The ONH perfusion was evaluated by the regions of peripapillary and whole en face (the sum of peripapillary and optic disc). The potential correlationship between ONH and parafovea were implied. All the data were performed using the nonparametric test. RESULTS: The mean values of ONH presented that normal control >IMH >unaffected eyes. A statistical variation was found between three groups in the region of temporal (P=0.007). Vessel density notablely decreased on the layers of superficial, deep and choroid of parafovea region in IMH group. The correlative coefficients showed that respectively whole en face and deep retina: r=0.528, peripapillary and deep retina: r=0.525, whole en face and choriocapillaries: r=0.569, peripapillary and choriocapillaries: r=0.504. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrate a reduced ONH vessel density in both eyes of IMH patients and the vessel density of ONH in IMH eyes are positively correlated with both the retina capillary and choriocapillary in parafoveal. The reduction of vessel densities may indicate the hypoperfusion in IMH eyes.

Safety and efficacy of posterior sub-Tenon’s carboplatin injection versus intravitreal melphalan therapy in the management of retinoblastoma with secondary vitreous seeds

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of posterior sub-Tenon’s carboplatin injection compared to intravitreal melphalan injection in the management of retinoblastoma (RB) with secondary vitreous seeds. The outcome measures were vitreous seeds regression, need for other treatment modalities to achieve ocular salvage and treatment side effects. METHODS: A prospective interventional comparative nonrandomized study included RB eyes developed secondary vitreous seeds during the period of follow up. They subdivided into two groups: study group I where posterior sub-Tenon’s carboplatin (20 mg/2 mL) was injected and study group II where intravitreal melphalan (20 μg /0.1 mL) was injected. The injections repeated every 2-4wk. RESULTS: Thirty-three eyes were included in the study. Seventeen eyes (16 patients) in study group I and 16 eyes (16 patients) in study group II. Ten eyes (30.3%) were completely salvaged following local chemotherapies. Ocular salvage was 23.5% following posterior sub-Tenon’s carboplatin injection versus 37.5% following intravitreal melphalan raised to 47.1% and 75% with addition of external beam radiotherapy (EBR) with no statistically significant difference between the study groups (P=0.16). A statistically significant correlation was found between ocular salvage rate and type of vitreous seeds either dust, spheres and clouds (r=0.42, P=0.015) and eyes harbor new solid tumor growth (r=0.35, P=0.045). The mean and median follow up periods following local chemotherapy injections were 2.0y in the study group I and 2.37y in the study group II. Few complications were reported: periorbital edema in all eyes and ocular motility disturbances in 13 eyes (76.5%) following posterior sub-Tenon’s carboplatin injection. Vitreous hemorrhage developed in 2 eyes (12.5%) and localized retinopathy in 5 eyes (31.25%) following intravitreal melphalan. CONCLUSION: Local chemotherapy for treatment of RB with secondary vitreous seeds is safe and can salvage 30.3% of eyes without EBR. There is a superiority of intravitreal melphalan in ocular salvage however, no statistically significant difference between both groups.

Cap morphology after small-incision lenticule extraction and its effects on intraocular scattering

Dan Fu, Lin Wang, Xing-Tao Zhou and Zhi-Qiang Yu — 2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate cap morphology after small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and its effects on intraocular scattering. METHODS: Sixty-five eyes of 33 patients undergoing SMILE were enrolled. In addition to regular evaluation, Fourier-domain optical coherence tomography was used to investigate cap thickness at 1d, 1wk, 1 and 3mo postoperatively. The optical quality including modulation transfer function cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) values, and objective scattering index (OSI), were evaluated using OQASTM. RESULTS: Cap thickness decreased from 1d to 1wk (P<0.001), but remained higher than intended thickness of 120 μm after 3mo (P<0.001). Cap thickness in central area was thinner than that of in the paracentral and peripheral areas (P<0.0001). Total number of microdistortions decreased from 1d to 3mo (P<0.0001). Pearson analysis revealed a weak correlation between OSI and standard deviation of cap thickness at 1d and 1mo, as well as between range of cap thickness and OSI at 1mo. No correlation was found between microdistortion and OSI, but a negative correlation existed between microdistortion and range at 1d and 1moafter surgery. CONCLUSION: The corneal cap tends to be more accurate and regular with time lapse. Better cap morphology tends to contribute less intraocular scattering in the eyes undergoing SMILE.

Visual quality assessment after presbyopic laser in-situ keratomileusis

Dong Hui Lim, Eui-Sang Chung, Myoung Joon Kim and Tae-Young Chung — 2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To assess visual quality after presbyopia correction using an aspheric ablation profile and a micro-monovision protocol. METHODS: This is a retrospective interventional study. Fifty-four eyes of 27 patients (mean age, 50.2±7.5y) who underwent presbyopia correction with an aspheric micro-monovision protocol were enrolled. The values of modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, objective scattering index (OSI) and accommodation range were quantitatively assessed using the HD analyzer. Preoperative and postoperative contrast sensitivity (CS) at far (2.5 m) and near (40 cm) distance and higher-order aberrations (HOAs) were analyzed. Subjective visual satisfaction was evaluated by self-reported questionnaire regarding optical visual symptoms. RESULTS: One year after presbyopia correction, no significant differences were found in the MTF cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio and OSI, however, the HD analyzer accommodation range significantly differed postoperatively (P=0.004). Postoperative CS at 12 and 18 cpd at near showed statistically significant improvement (P=0.020 and 0.008, respectively). Visual performance by self-reported questionnaire revealed satisfactory results in terms of subjective visual quality improvement. CONCLUSION: Objective optical quality parameters show good visual outcomes. Subjective visual quality assessed by self-reported questionnaire in the presbyopia correction group show satisfactory results.

Three-year results of small incision lenticule extraction and wavefront-guided femtosecond laser-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis for correction of high myopia and myopic astigmatism

Li-Kun Xia, Jing Ma, He-Nan Liu, Ce Shi and Qing Huang — 2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To compare and calculate the 3-year refractive results, higher-order aberrations (HOAs), contrast sensitivity (CS) and dry eye parameters after small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and wavefront-guided femtosecond laser-assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) for correction of high myopia and myopic astigmatism. METHODS: In this prospective, non-randomized comparative study, 78 eyes with spherical equivalent (SE) of -8.11±1.09 diopters (D) received a SMILE surgery, and 65 eyes with SE of -8.05±1.12 D received a wavefront-guided FS-LASIK surgery with the VisuMax femtosecond laser (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany) for flap cutting. Visual acuity, manifest refraction, CS, HOAs, ocular surface disease index (OSDI) and tear break-up time (TBUT) were evaluated during a 3-year follow-up. RESULTS: The difference of uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) postoperatively was achieved at 1mo and at 3mo, whereas the difference of the mean UDVA between two groups at 3y were not statistically significant (t=-1.59, P=0.13). The postoperative change of SE was 0.89 D in the FS-LASIK group (t=5.76, P=0.00), and 0.14 D in the SMILE group (t=0.54, P=0.59) from 1mo to 3y after surgery. At 3-year postoperatively, both HOAs and spherical aberrations in the SMILE group were obviously less than those in the FS-LASIK group (P=0.00), but the coma root mean square (RMS) was higher in the SMILE group (0.59±0.26) than in the FS-LASIK group (0.29±0.14, P=0.00). The mesopic CS values between two groups were not statistically significant at 3y postoperatively. Compared with the FS-LASIK group, lower OSDI scores and longer TBUT values were found in the SMILE group at 1mo and 3mo postoperatively. With regard to safety, no eye lost any line of CDVA in both groups at 3y after surgery. CONCLUSION: Both SMILE and wavefront-guided FS-LASIK procedures provide good visual outcomes. Both procedures are effective and safe, but SMILE surgery achieve more stable long-term refractive outcome and better control of early postoperative dry eye as compared to FS-LASIK.

The relationship between abduction deficit and reoperation among patients with infantile esotropia

2018/3/13 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the relationship between abduction deficit and reoperation among patients with infantile esotropia (IET). METHODS: The records of 216 patients (432 eyes) with IET who underwent surgery, from 2010 to 2015 were studied. Patients with IET whose deviation appeared before 6mo of age and had stable preoperative deviation in two examinations with at least 2wk apart and a minimum 3mo postoperative follow up were included. Cases with early onset accommodative esotropia, congenital cataract, retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), manifest nystagmus, fundus lesions, neurologic and ophthalmic anomalies, 6th nerve palsy and Duane’s syndrome were excluded. Preoperative abduction deficit was considered from -1 to -3 grading scale. Three months after surgery, children were classified into no-need reoperation [deviation≤15 prism diopters (PD)], and need-reoperation groups (deviation>15 PD). RESULTS: In this retrospective study, 117 female and 99 male patients with the mean surgical age of 4.7±6.4y were included. Reoperation rate was 33.3% and 16.0% in IET patients with and without abduction deficit, respectively in patients who had a history of late surgery. Abduction deficit increased the odds of reoperation by 82% [OR=1.82, 95% confidence interval (CI) =1.05 to 3.19, P=0.003] in patients who had a history of late surgery (>2 years old, P=0.021). Abduction deficit was improved significantly after operation (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Based on our results, abduction deficit can be considered as a risk factor of reoperation in IET patients who are operated at the age of more than 2y.

Modified ulcer debridement in the treatment of the superficial fungal infection of the cornea

Jun-Yi Wang, Dian-Qiang Wang, Xiao-Lin Qi, Jun Cheng and Li-Xin Xie — 2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of modified corneal ulcer debridement in superficial fungal keratitis unresponsive to medications. METHODS: A total of 209 patients (209 eyes) with fungal keratitis, involving no more than 50% of the stromal depth and not responding to antifungal agents for 2wk, were recruited in this retrospective, noncomparative study. The patients were treated with modified corneal ulcer debridement. All visible corneal infiltrates were removed under an operating microscope to obtain a clean stromal bed and smooth incised edges. Antifungal drugs were used immediately after surgery. Healing time of the ulcers was recorded. Fungal recurrence, visual acuity, corneal thickness and risk factors for treatment failure were monitored. RESULTS: The follow-up was 13.6±5.8mo. The corneal ulcers healed in 195 of 209 eyes (93.3%), with a mean healing time of 8.4±6.8d. The other 14 eyes were further treated by penetrating keratoplasty (PK) (1 eye), anterior lamellar keratoplasty (LK) (7 eyes), conjunctival flap covering (4 eyes) or amniotic membrane transplantation (2 eyes). The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was ≥20/70 in 80.3% of the eyes, ≥20/40 in 56.9% of the eyes, and ≥20/25 in 27.3% of the eyes. The corneas at the lesions became thinner, but all in the safe range. No fungal recurrence or corneal ectasis developed during the follow-up. The risk of treatment failure was higher in patients with preoperative hypopyon (P=0.036) and ever using steroid (P=0.025). CONCLUSION: Modified surgical debridement is a simple and effective method for the treatment of superficial fungal infection of the cornea, with improved visual acuity and no recurrence. Such an intervention in time can rapidly control fungal infection and largely shorten corneal ulcer healing time.

Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of therapeutic bandage contact lenses on post-cataract surgery patients

Dan-Na Shi, Hang Song, Tong Ding, Wei-Qiang Qiu and Wei Wang — 2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety of therapeutic bandage contact lens for post-cataract surgery patients and to illustrate its efficacy on post-operative comfort and tear-film stability. METHODS: A total of 40 participants were recruited and randomly divided into two groups. Group one was instructed to wear bandage contact lenses for a week and use antibiotic eye drops for a month since the first day after surgery. Group two received sub-conjunctival injection of tobramycin and was asked to wear eye pads on the first day after surgery and then were instructed to use antibiotic eye drops as the first group did. Ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire, slit-lamp microscope examination of tear break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein score (CFS), tear meniscus height (TMH) together with anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and corneal topography were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: The subjective feeling (P=0.004), TBUT (P<0.001) and TMH (P=0.02) post-surgery had improved in patients who used bandage contact lenses compared with those who did not at 1wk post-surgery. Until three month postoperatively, the comfort degree (P=0.004) and TMH (P=0.01) of group two were still worse than group one. Moreover, TBUT (P<0.001) and CFS (P=0.004) of the group with eye pads got worse than the results before, whereas the group with bandage contact lenses recovered to normal. None of these patients had infections or other complications. CONCLUSION: Wearing therapeutic bandage contact lens after cataract surgery, compared with traditional eye-pads, is a safe method to improve tear-film stability and reduce post-operative discomfort without hindering corneal incision recovery.

Comparison of two Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy: cruciate pattern vs circular pattern with vitreous strand cutting

Jin-Soo Kim, Jung Yeol Choi, Ji-Won Kwon, Won Ryang Wee and Young Keun Han — 2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects and safety of neodymium: yttrium-aluminium-garnet (Nd:YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy with vitreous strand cutting METHODS: A total of 40 eyes of 37 patients with symptomatic posterior capsular opacity (PCO) were included in this prospective randomized study and were randomly subjected to either cruciate pattern or round pattern Nd:YAG posterior capsulotomy with vitreous strand cutting (modified round pattern). The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), refractive error, endothelial cell count (ECC), anterior segment parameters, including anterior chamber depth (ACD) and anterior chamber angle (ACA) were measured before and 1mo after the laser posterior capsulotomy. RESULTS: In both groups, the BCVA improved significantly (P<0.001 for the modified round pattern group, P=0.001 for the cruciate pattern group); the IOP and ECC did not significantly change. The ACD significantly decreased (P<0.001 for both) and the ACA significantly increased (P=0.001 for the modified round pattern group and P=0.034 for the cruciate group). The extent of changes in these parameters was not significantly different between the groups. CONCLUSION: Modified round pattern Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy is an effective and safe method for the treatment of PCO. This method significantly changes the ACD and ACA, but the change in refraction is not significant. Modified round pattern Nd:YAG laser posterior capsulotomy can be considered a good alternative procedure in patients with symptomatic PCO.

Managing high risk glaucoma with the Ahmed valve implant: 20 years of experience

2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To estimate the efficacy and safety of the Ahmed implant in patients with high risk for failure after glaucoma surgery. METHODS: In 342 eyes of 342 patients with refractory glaucoma, even with application of medical treatment, the Ahmed valve was introduced for intraocular pressure (IOP) control, in the period of the last 20y. The nature of glaucoma was neovascular in 162 eyes, pseudophakic or aphakic in 49 eyes, inflammatory in 29 eyes and non working previous antiglaucomatic surgical interventions in 102 eyes. RESULTS: Follow-up ranged from 18 to 120mo with a mean follow-up of 63.2mo. IOP before the operation decreased from 31.6±10.4 mm Hg to 18.3±5.4 mm Hg (no systemic treatment) at the end of follow up period. When we compared the IOP values before the operation using ANOVA showed statistically significant difference (P<0.001). The success rate was 85.2% during the first semester, 76.8% at 12mo and 50.3% at the end of follow up period (18 to 120mo after implantation). Success rate was 25.7% in neovascular glaucoma, 63.2% in aphakic glaucoma and 73.8% in non working previous antiglaucomatic surgical interventions. Complications due to the implant were: serous choroidal detachment in 14.8%, blockage of the tube in 2.8%, malposition of the tube in 4.9%, suprachoroidal hemorrhage in 2.1%, cataract progression in 39.6% (phakic eyes), shallow anterior chamber in 9.2%, hyphaema in 28.9%, exposure of valve in 2.6%, exposure of tube in 9.3%, hypotony in 4.9% and conjunctival fibrosis in 41.5%. CONCLUSION: Despite the fact that Ahmed valve implant had suchlike results as other implants concerning the IOP control, complications rate due to hypotony or over filtration in the first days after the intervention are not that frequent as with other valve implants.

Functional evaluation of the filtering bleb by ultrasound biomicroscopy after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C

2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To study the role of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in the assessment of the bleb function after trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC). METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study including all cases had undergone trabeculectomy with MMC 0.2 mg/mL for 3min. Participants were recruited from the follow-up cases at Department of Ophthalmology, Tanta University in the period from August 2015 to August 2016. Full history taking and ophthalmological examination were performed. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured using Goldmann applanation tonometry and the history of prescribed postoperative antiglaucoma medications was recorded. Accordingly, the trabeculectomy blebs were divided clinically into successful blebs when the IOP post-operative was ≤18 mm Hg without medications. Scanning examination of the filtering bleb using UBM examination was performed at the period from 2 to 36mo after trabeculectomy (13.6±9.7mo). RESULTS: This study included 33 trabeculectomy filtering blebs of 25 patients (9 males and 16 females). The mean age of patients was 53.2±14.2y (range 25-71y). We had 20 eyes with complete success, 9 eyes with qualified success, and 4 eyes with failure after trabeculectomy with MMC. The blebs were classified into successful blebs (IOP ≤18 mm Hg without antiglaucoma medications), others were classified into qualified successful and failed blebs. There was a significant correlation between certain UBM findings (intra-bleb reflectivity, draining sub-scleral tract, bleb height, and intrableb fluid cysts) and cases with different grades of clinical functional success (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: UBM is an objective tool in the functional assessment of the post-trabeculectomy filtering bleb through a significant correlation between certain UBM parameters and the different grades of clinical functional success.

Trabeculectomy with Ologen implant versus mitomycin C in congenital glaucoma secondary

Thanaa Helmy Mohamed, Abdelrahman Gaber Salman and Riham Fawzy Elshinawy — 2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the efficacy and safety of collagen matrix implant [Ologen (OLO) implant] versus mitomycin C (MMC) with subscleral trabeculectomy (SST) for the surgical treatment of congenital glaucoma (CG) in Sturge- Weber Syndrome (SWS). METHODS: A prospective comparative randomized study of 20 eyes of 16 patients with CG associated with SWS was divided into two groups. The first group (MMC Group) included 10 eyes that were subjected to SST with MMC. The second group (OLO Group) included 10 eyes that were subjected to trabeculectomy with a collagen matrix implant (OLO implant). Postoperative evaluation included intraocular pressure (IOP) level, bleb evaluation, complications, and the need for further medication or surgical intervention. RESULTS: The mean preoperative IOP was 29±3.16 mm Hg in MMC and 29.8±3.08 mm Hg in OLO eyes. Mean 12-month percentage reduction in IOP was significant in both groups (57.9% and 56.3%). At the end of the 12 postoperative follow-up month, in the MMC Group, 80% of eyes achieved the complete success, 20% of eyes had qualified success with no failed surgery in comparison to OLO Group which 70% of eyes achieved the complete success, 20% of eyes had qualified success with 10% failed surgery. In terms of complications, the MMC Group had a higher rate of complications than the OLO Group in the form of thin polycystic bleb in 6 eyes (60%), blebitis in only one eye (10%) treated with topical antibiotics, shallow anterior chamber in two eyes (20%). CONCLUSION: This study proves that the use of a collagen matrix implant yields equally effective results as MMC when combined with trabeculectomy for the treatment of CG in SWS. Furthermore, OLO implantation is safe and has low incidences of complications.

Correlation between macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness and visual acuity after resolution of the macular edema secondary to central retinal vein occlusion

Hyun Ju Kim, Han Gyul Yoon and Seong Taeck Kim — 2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the thickness of the ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) in eyes with resolved macular edema (ME) in non-ischemic central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), applying spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and its relationship with visual acuity. METHODS: The retrospective observational case-control study included 30 eyes of non-ischemic CRVO patients with resolved ME (ME eyes) after treatment, and 30 eyes of non-ischemic CRVO patients without ME (non-ME eyes). The macular GCIPL thickness, peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) thickness and central macular thickness (CMT) were measured on a SD-OCT scan. Linear regression analyses were performed to determine the correlation between the thickness of each and the visual acuity (VA). RESULTS: No significant difference in average GCIPL thickness, mean pRNFL thickness and CMT were observed between ME group and non-ME group (P=0.296, 0.183, 0.846). But, minimum GCIPL thickness was reduced in ME eyes compared with non-ME eyes (P=0.022). Final VA significantly correlated with the minimum GCIPL thickness in ME eyes (r=-0.482, P=0.007), whereas no correlation was found with average GCIPL thickness, average pRNFL thickness and mean CMT. CONCLUSION: Minimum GCIPL thickness is reduced in ME eyes compared with non-ME eyes, and correlated with the VA in non-ischemic CRVO. These results propose that inner retinal damage occurring in patients with ME secondary to non-ischemic CRVO may lead to permanent visual defect after treatment.

Paediatric retinal detachment: aetiology, characteristics and outcomes

2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To provide contemporary data on the aetiology, clinical features and outcomes of paediatric retinal detachment. METHODS: A retrospective review of all those under 16y who underwent surgical repair for retinal detachment at a single centre between the years 2008 and 2015 inclusive was performed. In each case the cause of retinal detachment, the type of detachment, the presence or absence of macular involvement, the number and form of reparative surgeries undertaken, and the surgical outcome achieved was recorded. RESULTS: Twenty-eight eyes of 24 patients, 15 (62.5%) of whom were male and 9 (37.5%) of whom were female, their mean age being 11.6y and range 2-16y developed retinal detachment over the eight year period studied. Trauma featured in the development of retinal detachment in 14 (50.0%) cases. Retinal detachment was associated with other ocular and/or systemic conditions in 11 (39.3%) cases. A mean of 3.0 procedures with a range of 1-9 procedures per patient were undertaken in the management of retinal detachment. Complex vitrectomy combined with scleral buckling or complex vitrectomy alone were those most frequently performed. Mean postoperative visual acuity was 1.2 logMAR with range 0.0-3.0 logMAR. In 22 of 26 (84.6%) cases which underwent surgical repair the retina was attached at last follow-up. CONCLUSION: Aggressive management of paediatric retinal detachment including re-operation increases the likelihood of anatomical success. In cases where the retinal detachment can be repaired by an external approach alone there is a more favourable visual outcome.

Real-life experience of ranibizumab therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration from Turkey

Zafer Cebeci, Yusuf Cem Yilmaz and Nur Kir — 2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To report the real-life experience and clinical results of intravitreal ranibizumab injections to neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) in a single institution in Turkey. METHODS: A total of 101 eyes of 89 patients with nAMD treated with intravitreal ranibizumab injection, followed up for at least 24mo between 2009 and June 2014, which were evaluated retrospectively. A pro re nata (PRN) treatment protocol was performed after the patients had received three, monthly loading injections. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness measurements were evaluated at baseline and 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24mo. Number of injections and visits were also recorded. RESULTS: Of the 89 patients, 34 (38.2%) were male and 55 (61.8%) were female and the mean age was 74.0±9.5 (52-91)y. The mean follow-up period was 24.82±4.4 (24-29)mo. Mean number of visits was 8.4±1.12 (7-12) in the first year and 6.6±1.33 (4-12) in the second year. The mean number of injections was 5.8±1.6 (3-10) and 4.2±2.2 (0-9) in the first and second year, respectively. The mean BCVA was 59±15.8 letters at baseline by the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) chart. The mean BCVA at 3, 12, and 24mo was 70.3±15.9, 67.9±14.3 and 67.3±16.9 letters, respectively. Improvement in visual acuity for each of the visits from baseline was found to be statistically significant (P<0.01). Visual acuity in 9 eyes at month 3, 7 eyes at month 12, and 13 eyes at month 24 did not change. The mean central macular thickness (CMT) was 437.99±164.78 μm at baseline. The mean CMT was 348.05±138.47 μm, 349.27±139.79 μm, and 344.13±146.30 μm at months 3, 12, and 24, respectively. The decrease in CMT for each of the visits from baseline was found to be statistically significant (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Anatomical and functional achievement are obtained in our study, but the mean number of injections and visits are found to be lower than the findings reported in randomized controlled clinical trials in the literature. However, the mean number of injections and visits in our study are compatible with the findings reported in real-life experience studies in the literature.

Comparison of peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness between myopia severity groups and controls

2018/2/6 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness measured via optical coherence tomography (OCT) between different groups of myopia severity and controls. METHODS: This was a prospective cross-sectional study. All subjects underwent a full ophthalmic examination, refraction, visual field analysis and A-scan biometry. Myopic patients were classified as low myopia (LM) [spherical equivalent (SE) from greater than -0.5 D, up to -3.0 D], moderate myopia (MM; SE greater than -3.0 D, up to -6.0 D) and high myopia (HM; SE greater than -6.0 D). The control group consisted of emmetropic (EM) patients (SE from +0.5 D to -0.5 D). A Zeiss Cirrus HD-OCT machine was used to measure the peripapillary RNFL thickness of both eyes of each subject. The mean peripapillary RNFL thickness between groups was compared using both analysis of variance and analysis of covariance. RESULTS: A total of 403 eyes of 403 subjects were included in this study. The mean age was 31.48±10.23y. There were 180 (44.7%) eyes with EM, 124 (30.8%) with LM, 73 (18.1%) with MM and 26 (6.5%) with HM. All groups of myopia severity had a thinner average RNFL than the EM group, but after controlling for gender, age, and axial eye length, only the HM group differed significantly from the EM group (P=0.017). Likewise, the superior, inferior and nasal RNFL was thinner in all myopia groups compared to controls, but after controlling for confounders, only the inferior quadrant RNFL was significantly thinner in the HM group, when compared to the EM group (P=0.017). CONCLUSION: The average and inferior quadrant RNFL is thinner in highly myopic eyes compared to emmetropic eyes. Refractive status must be taken into consideration when interpreting the OCT of myopic patients, as RNFL thickness varies with the degree of myopia.

A comparative study of risk factors for corneal infection in diabetic and non-diabetic patients

2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical characteristics of infectious keratopathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and non-diabetes mellitus (NDM) and to investigate risk factors for infectious keratopathy in T2DM patients. METHODS: Totally 230 patients with T2DM and 168 with NDM diagnosed as infectious keratopathy were hospitalized at Qingdao Eye Hospital from 2001 to 2015. Data including sex, age, occupation, season, smoking and alcohol consumption habits, duration between onset and treatments, duration of hospitalization were collected. Initially identified indicators were analyzed with a multivariate logistic regression. Glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) in patients with T2DM was analyzed. The infectious keratopathies in the two groups were categorized and compared. RESULTS: The diabetic group consisted of 146 (63.5%) males and 84 (36.5%) females. The NDM group consisted of 111 (66.1%) males and 57 (33.9%) females. There was no signigicantly difference in sex distribution between the two groups (P>0.05). There were significant differences in age, occupation of patients, season of the onset of diseases, duration between onset and treatment, and durations of hospitalization between the two groups (P<0.05). In most of the patients in the diabetic group, the duration between onset and treatment was ≤3mo, and most was ≥3mo in the NDM group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that age and season were related to the development of corneal infection in the T2DM group (OR=1.709, 1.706). In the T2DM group, HbA1c was 9.09%±2.12%. There were statistically significant differences in the incidences of bacterial keratitis and herpes simplex keratitis in the two groups (P<0.05), but no significant statistical difference was found between fungal keratitis and amoebic keratitis (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Advanced age and the summer and winter seasons are identified as risk factors for infectious keratopathy in T2DM patients, and T2DM patients are more prone to bacterial keratitis.

5-year follow-up of combined non-topography guided photorefractive keratectomy and corneal collagen cross linking for keratoconus

Abdulrahman Mohammed Al-Amri — 2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the visual outcomes of simultaneous non-topography guided photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) in eyes with keratoconus 5y after the procedure. METHODS: Prospective, interventional, non-randomized, and non-controlled case series design was used. Sixty eyes of 30 patients (16 males and 14 females; age: 21-41y) with mild, non-progressive (stages 1-2) keratoconus were enrolled. Refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) , flat and steep keratometry readings, and adverse events were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively. Data were collected preoperatively and postoperatively at 3mo, 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5y follow-up visits after combined non-topography-guided PRK with CXL was performed. All patients had at least 5y of follow-up. RESULTS: All study parameters showed a statistically significant improvement at 5y over baseline values. The mean follow-up time was 68.20±4.71mo (range: 60-106mo). Patients showed a significant improvement in UDVA from 1.24±0.79 logMAR prior to combined non-TG-PRK+CXL to 0.06±0.15 logMAR postoperatively at the time of their last follow-up visit. CDVA significantly increased from 0.06±0.19 logMAR preoperatively to 0.03±0.12 logMAR postoperatively. A significant decrease in the mean spherical equivalent (SE) refraction was observed from -2.28±1.8 to -0.79±0.93 diopters (D) (P<0.05), and the manifest sphere decreased from -1.62±1.23 to -0.27±0.21 D (P=0.001). The manifest cylinder significantly decreased from -1.73±0.86 to -0.29±0.34 D postoperatively (P=0.001). The mean steep keratometry was 45.13±1.32 vs 47.28±2.12 D preoperatively (P<0.05), and the preoperative mean steepest keratometry (Kmax) 48.6±3.1 was reduced significantly to 46.8±2.9 postoperatively (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Combined non-TG-PRK with 15min CXL is an effective and safe option for correcting mild refractive error and improving visual acuity in patients with mild stable keratoconus.

Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty in phakic eyes: incision modification reducing cataract formation

Jacqueline Beltz, Silvana Madi, Yoav Nahum, Paolo Santorum and Massimo Busin — 2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of a technical modification to reduce the incidence of traumatic cataract induced by Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) performed in phakic eyes. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study. The records of all patients with a clear crystalline lens and endothelial failure that underwent modified DSAEK at our insitution were reviewed. In this modification, in order to avoid inadvertent touch of the insertion forceps against the exposed crystalline lens while passing across the anterior chamber, the incision sites were shifted from the standard 9 and 3 o’clock positions, superiorly to the 10 and 2 o’clock position respectively. Formation of typically traumatic, anterior subcapsular cataract in these patients was compared to that observed in a cohort including all the patients with a clear crystalline lens and endothelial failure that underwent conventional DSAEK at our institution. RESULTS: The study group included 49 eyes following modified DSAEK and the control group included 35 eyes following DSAEK with conventional incision sites. Anterior subcapsular cataract occurring 4mo or less postoperatively was identified in 2 of 49 (4%) eyes in the study group and 7 of 35 (20%) eyes in the control group. The rates of traumatic cataract were significantly higher in the control group in comparison to the study group (P=0.03, RR=4.9, 95%CI 1.08-22.1). CONCLUSION: Traumatic cataract formation following phakic DSAEK may be avoided with a simple modification to the position of the incision sites.

Effect of infusion pressure during cataract surgery on ganglion cells measured using isolated-check visual evoked potential

Tong Ding, Dan-Na Shi, Xiang Fan, Mi-Yun Zheng, Wei Wang and Wei-Qiang Qiu — 2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To detect the relationship between infusion pressure and postoperative ganglion cells function. METHODS: This prospective observational cohort study included sixty-one eyes that underwent uncomplicated cataract surgery. Patients were divided into two groups according to infusion time (IT) recorded using surgery equipment [Group A: IT>ITmean (27 eyes); Group B: IT

Comparison of long-term results of trabeculectomy to treat pseudoexfoliative glaucoma and primary open angle glaucoma

2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the long term outcome of trabeculectomy in patients with pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in terms of surgical success. METHODS: The success of the trabeculectomy was evaluated by three criteria. Criterion A: intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤21 mm Hg and decrease in IOP ≥20%; Criterion B: IOP ≤18 mm Hg and decrease in IOP ≥30%; Criterion C: IOP ≤15 mm Hg and decrease in IOP ≥50%. Patients that met these criteria without medical treatment were considered to be completely successful, while those that met these criteria with medical treatment were considered partially successful. Significance levels of differences between the POAG and PEG groups in the Kaplan-Meier survival curves were calculated with the log-rank test. RESULTS: Sixty-four eyes from 64 patients with PEG and 51 eyes from 51 patients with POAG were evaluated. No significant differences were detected between the PEG and POAG groups according to full or partial success relative to each of the three criteria (A: P=0.73, 0.32; B: P=0.73, 0.31; C:P=0.90, 0.27). CONCLUSION: There is no difference in the long-term success of trabeculectomy between PEG and POAG patients whose clinical characteristics are otherwise the same.

Efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty following incisional glaucoma surgery

2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in glaucomatous eyes with previous incisional glaucoma surgery. METHODS: A retrospective cohort of eyes that underwent SLT at a single institution from 2013-2015 were followed for 1y. Reduction in intraocular pressure (IOP) following SLT was evaluated in eyes with prior trabeculectomy with ExPress mini shunt (Alcon, Ft Worth, TX, USA), Ahmed valve (New World Medical, Cucamonga, CA, USA), or combined phacoemulsification-trabeculectomy. A control group was included with eyes without prior surgery that underwent SLT. Success was defined as >20% drop in IOP from pre-SLT baseline. RESULTS: One-hundred and six eyes were included with 53 in both the prior glaucoma surgery (PGS) and no prior glaucoma surgery (NPGS) groups. Mean pre-SLT IOP was 19.2±4.3 and 20.6±6.0 mm Hg for PGS and NPGS groups, respectively (P=0.17). Both groups produced statistically significant IOP reductions at 1 and 6mo (P<0.04). At 6mo, mean IOP reduction reached 7.3% and 10.8% for the PGS and NPGS groups, respectively (P=0.42). Overall, 27.9% and 31.7% of eyes in PGS and NPGS groups met success criteria at 1y (P=0.70). In the PGS group, eyes with baseline IOP ≥21 mm Hg had IOP reductions of 18.1% (P<0.001), 16.7% (P<0.01), and 8.4% (P=0.31) compared to eyes with baseline IOP <21 mm Hg who had IOP reductions of 2.3% (P=0.39), 3.4% (P=0.19), and 1.1% (P=0.72) at 1, 6mo, and 1y, respectively. CONCLUSION: SLT is efficacious in eyes with prior incisional glaucoma surgery and results in similar IOP reductions compared to eyes without PGS. A larger IOP reduction is observed following SLT in eyes with higher pre-SLT IOP.

Intravitreal dexamethasone implants for diabetic macular edema

2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a dexamethasone (DEX) intravitreal implant for diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS: Totally 113 eyes of 84 patients were divided in three subgroups: naive patients (n=11), pseudophakic patients (n=72) and phakic patients (n=30). Inclusive criterion comprised adult diabetic patients with central fovea thickening and impaired visual acuity resulting from DME for whom previous standard treatments showed no improvement in both central macular thickness (CMT) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) after at least 3mo of treatment. Outcome data were obtained from patient visits at baseline and at months 1, 3, 5, 9 and 12 after the first DEX implant injection. At each of these visits, patients underwent measurement of BCVA, a complete eye examination and measurement of CMT and macular volume (MV) carried out with optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. RESULTS: Seventy-three eyes (64.5%) received a single implant, 30 (26.5%) received two implants and 10 (9%) received three implants. At baseline, average in BCVA, CMT and MV were 43.5±20.8, 462.8±145 and 12.6±2.5 respectively. These values improved significantly at 1mo (BCVA: 47.2±19.5, CMT: 339.6±120, MV: 11.11±1.4) and 3mo (BCVA: 53.2±18.1, CMT: 353.8±141, MV: 11.3±1.3) (P≤0.05). At 5mo (BCVA: 50.9±19.8, CMT: 425±150, MV: 12.27±2.3), 9mo (BCVA: 48.4±17.6, CMT: 445.5±170, MV: 12.5±2.3) and 12mo (BCVA: 47.7±18.8, CMT: 413.2±149, MV: 12.03±2.5), improvements in the three parameters were no longer statistically significant and decreased progressively but did not reach baseline values. There were no clinical differences between subgroups. Ocular complications were minimal. CONCLUSION: Patients with DEX implants show maximum efficacy at 3mo which then declined progressively, but is still better than baseline values at the end of follow-up.

Final anatomic and visual outcomes appear independent of duration of silicone oil intraocular tamponade in complex retinal detachment surgery

2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To report anatomic and visual outcomes following silicone oil removal in a cohort of patients with complex retinal detachment, to determine association between duration of tamponade and outcomes and to compare patients with oil removed and those with oil in situ in terms of demographic, surgical and visual factors. METHODS: We reported a four years retrospective case series of 143 patients with complex retinal detachments who underwent intraocular silicone oil tamponade. Analysis between anatomic and visual outcomes, baseline demographics, duration of tamponade and number of surgical procedures were carried out using Fisher’s exact test and unpaired two-tailed t-test. RESULTS: One hundred and six patients (76.2%) had undergone silicone oil removal at the time of review with 96 patients (90.6%) showing retinal reattachment following oil removal. Duration of tamponade was not associated with final reattachment rate or with a deterioration in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Patients with oil removed had a significantly better baseline and final BCVA compared to those under oil tamponade (P=0.0001, <0.0001 respectively). CONCLUSION: Anatomic and visual outcomes in this cohort are in keeping with those reported in the literature. Favorable outcomes were seen with oil removal but duration of oil tamponade does not affect final attachment rate with modern surgical techniques and should be managed on a case by case basis.

Retinal ganglion cell-inner plexiform and nerve fiber layers in neuromyelitis optica

Sai-Jing Hu and Pei-Rong Lu — 2018/1/9 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the thickness of the retinal ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) and the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) in patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO). METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study that included 30 NMO patients with a total of 60 eyes. Based on the presence or absence of optic neuritis (ON), subjects were divided into either the NMO-ON group (30 eyes) or the NMO-ON contra group (10 eyes). A detailed ophthalmologic examination was performed for each group; subsequently, the GCIPL and the RNFL were measured using high-definition optical coherence tomography (OCT). RESULTS: In the NMO-ON group, the mean GCIPL thickness was 69.28±21.12 μm, the minimum GCIPL thickness was 66.02±10.02 μm, and the RNFL thickness were 109.33±11.23, 110.47±3.10, 64.92±12.71 and 71.21±50.22 μm in the superior, inferior, temporal and nasal quadrants, respectively. In the NMO-ON contra group, the mean GCIPL thickness was 85.12±17.09 μm, the minimum GCIPL thickness was 25.39±25.1 μm, and the RNFL thicknesses were 148.33±23.22, 126.36±23.45, 82.21±22.30 and 83.36±31.28 μm in the superior, inferior, temporal and nasal quadrants, respectively. In the control group, the mean GCIPL thickness was 86.98±22.37 μm, the minimum GCIPL thickness was 85.28±10.75 μm, and the RNFL thicknesses were 150.22±22.73, 154.79±60.23, 82.33±7.01 and 85.62±13.81 μm in the superior, inferior, temporal and nasal quadrants, respectively. The GCIPL and RNFL were thinner in the NMO-ON contra group than in the control group (P<0.05); additionally, the RNFL was thinner in the inferior quadrant in the NMO-ON group than in the control group (P<0.05). Significant correlations were observed between the GCIPL and RNFL thickness measurements as well as between thickness measurements and the two visual field parameters of mean deviation (MD) and corrected pattern standard deviation (PSD) in the NMO-ON group (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The thickness of the GCIPL and RNFL, as measured using OCT, may indicate optic nerve damage in patients with NMO.

Surgical outcome and patient satisfaction after Z-epicanthoplasty and blepharoplasty

2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate surgical outcomes of modified Z-epicanthoplasty with blepharoplasty that we previously reported from the patient’s perspective using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and patient satisfaction scores. METHODS: A total of patients (n=180) who underwent the surgery between January 2013 and June 2016 were randomly selected. Standardized patient satisfaction forms (total score, 40) and validated PROMs questionnaires (total score, 12) were sent to patients for completion. PROMs assesses the severity of scarring, pain and asymmetry, as well as functional and appearance issues. RESULTS: All patients were female, ranging from 18 to 35 years old (mean=24). The response rate was 73.3% (n=132). The majority of patients reported good or excellent outcomes based on PROM analysis. Patients reported minimum or non-visible scarring at both the double eyelid surgical scar (85.6%) and the inner canthus (80.3%). Issues concerning function and appearance were minimal as 80.3% reported satisfaction with both domains. Notably, the majority of patients reported either a high or very high satisfaction rate to yield a mean score of 104 out of 120 (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Integration of our modified Z-epicanthoplasty with blepharoplasty produces good outcomes based on PROM results, which shows a positive linear relationship with patient satisfaction scores.

Factors influencing subjective symptoms in dry eye disease

Hidenaga Kobashi, Kazutaka Kamiya, Takehiko Sambe and Ryutaro Nakagawa — 2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To retrospectively investigate the association between dry eye symptoms and clinical or in vivo confocal microscopy parameters in patients with dry eye disease (DED), and to compare these parameters between eyes with DED and normal subjects. METHODS: This retrospective, cross-sectional, controlled study comprised 25 consecutive patients with non-Sjögren dry eye disease and age- and sex-matched 25 healthy subjects. Each patient underwent a complete examination of the ocular surface in the following order: tear osmolarity measurements, InflammaDry test, tear break-up time, corneal fluorescein staining, Schirmer I test, subjective symptoms questionnaire using the dry eye-related quality-of-life score (DEQS), and in vivo confocal microscopy analysis of the central cornea. Beck depression inventory (BDI) as depressive scale and history of medications and smoking were also evaluated. Stepwise multiple regression analysis was used to assess the factors affecting the DEQS. RESULTS: In univariate analysis, DEQS was associated with tear break-up time (ρ=-0.48, P=0.01), oral medications, such as hypotensive drug (ρ=0.56, P=0.004) and anti-depressant (ρ=0.57, P=0.003), and BDI (ρ=0.61, P=0.001) in patients with DED. In multiple regression analysis, explanatory variables relevant to the DEQS were the anti-depressant medications (P=0.04, partial regression coefficient B=21.04) and BDI (P=0.02, B=0.76, adjusted R2=0.54) in these patients. CONCLUSION: Our study shows a significant association between depression and dry eye symptoms. It suggests that dry eye symptoms associate with higher depressive symptoms and its medications, although our patients were not followed longitudinally.

Intracameral lidocaine as supplement to classic topical anesthesia for relieving ocular pain in cataract surgery

2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate safety, efficacy, and patient adherence of intracameral lidocaine as supplement of classic topical anesthetic drops in cataract surgery. METHODS: A prospective and controlled trial including a large cohort of 1650 individuals suffering with bilateral cataract not complicated, in program by phacoemulsification surgery, were randomly assigned to 2 different groups for the type of anesthesia received, 0.4% oxybuprocaine hydrochloride (INN) drops, and INN drops associated to intracameral 1% lidocaine hydrochloride monohydrate. At the end of surgery, tables were assigned to each patient indicating the degree of pain (0-3) felt during the operation. RESULTS: Thirty-two percent of patients in group 1 declared to have not felt any pain against the 77% of patients in group 2. Fifty-nine percent of patients in group 1 complained about only a slight discomfort against 20% of group 2 patients. Only a small percentage of patients in group 1 (5%) admitted severe pain, while no patient in group 2 admitted severe pain. Four patients of group 2 reported an episode of transient amaurosis, lasting several hours after surgery. CONCLUSION: Intracameral administration of lidocaine is a simple and secure method able to increase the analgesia during the cataract surgery, eliminating the discomfort and increasing also the cooperation of the patients during the steps of manipulation.

Effectiveness of 0.1% topical salicylic acid on blepharoconjunctivitis affecting glaucoma patients treated with topical prostaglandin analogues: a prospective randomized trial

2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of 0.1% topical salicylic acid (TSA) to treat iatrogenic chronic blepharoconjunctivitis in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), treated with topical prostaglandin analogues (TPAs). METHODS: Totally 60 patients were randomly distributed into 3 equal size groups, two of which treated with 0.1% TSA (OMKASA®) and 0.1% topical clobetasone butyrate (TCB; VISUCLOBEN®) respectively, and one consisting of untreated controls. The parameters taken into account at baseline (T0) and after 30d (T1) of therapy were: conjunctival hyperemia, lacrimal function tests [Schirmer I test and break up time (BUT)] and intraocular pressure (IOP). RESULTS: Conjunctival hyperemia showed a substantial improvement in both treated groups (P<0.001) but not among controls. Similarly, lacrimal function tests displayed an improvement of Schirmer I test in both treated groups (P<0.05) and an extension of BUT only in the group treated with 0.1% TSA (P<0.05). The IOP increase was statistically significant only in those patients treated with 0.1% TCB (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The 0.1% TSA has proved to be an effective anti-inflammatory treatment of blepharoconjunctivitis affecting glaucoma patients on therapy with TPAs, leading to a sizeable decrease of inflammation as well as both quantitative and qualitative improvement of tear film. Furthermore, differently from 0.1% TCB, it does not induce any significant IOP increase.

XEN® implant and trabeculectomy medium-term quality of life assessment and comparison of results

2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare the quality of life of patients submitted to XEN® implant or trabeculectomy and the relationship with potentially involved variables. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of patients with advanced open-angle glaucoma who underwent implantation of XEN® (group 1) and trabeculectomy (group 2) between October 2015 and February 2017. The studied variables were: age, gender, follow-up time, need of topical anti-hypertensive therapy, visual acuity and intraocular pressure (IOP). The quantification of the quality of life was attained through the Glaucoma Symptom Scale (GSS) questionnaire. RESULTS: Totally 34 eyes (34 patients) were included, 17 in each group. The mean GSS scores for group 1 were 42.6±6.8 (median, 47; p25, 36.5; p75, 48.5) and for group 2 it was 41.6±7.0 (median, 43; p25, 36.5; p75, 47.0; P=0.34). There was a strong negative correlation between the need for topical anti-hypertensive drugs and the GSS result in both groups (r=-0.88, P<0.01, r=-0.59, P=0.01, respectively) and a moderate negative correlation with IOP in group 1 (r=-0.50, P=0.03). CONCLUSION: The analysis demonstrates the non-inferiority of medium-term quality of life of one group in relation to the other (XEN® implant and trabeculectomy). The number of topical anti-hypertensive drugs and IOP negatively influenced the quality of life.

Long term follow-up of a family with GUCY2D dominant cone dystrophy

2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To describe long term follow-up in a family with GUCY2D dominant cone dystrophy. METHODS: Optical coherence tomography scans and fundus autofluorescence images were obtained. Flash and pattern electroretinograms (ERGs) and occipital pattern reversal visual evoked potentials were recorded. RESULTS: Two members of the same family (father and son) were identified to have the heterozygous R838C mutation in the GUCY2D gene. The father presented at the age of 45 with bilateral bull’s eye maculopathy and temporal disc pallor. Over 13y of serial follow up visits, the bull’s eye maculopathy progressed gradually into macular atrophy. Electrophysiological tests were significantly degraded suggesting poor macular function. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) scans showed progressive loss and disruption of the ellipsoid layer at the foveal level. His son presented at the age of 16 with bilateral granular retinal pigment epithelial changes in both maculae. Electrophysiological testing was initially borderline normal but has gradually deteriorated to show reduced cone ERGs and macula function. SD-OCT demonstrated gradual macular thinning and atrophy bilaterally. Unlike his father, there was no disruption of the ellipsoid layer. CONCLUSION: Both family members exhibited gradual changes in their fundi, electrophysiological testing and multimodal imaging. Changes were milder than those observed in other mutations of the same gene.

Treatment of refractory diabetic macular edema with a fluocinolone acetonide implant in vitrectomized and non-vitrectomized eyes

2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To report real-life data on the use of an intravitreal fluocinolone acetonide implant in the treatment of refractory diabetic macular edema (DME) in pars plana vitrectomized (PPV) and non-PPV eyes. METHODS: This was a comparative retrospective observational study of 23 eyes with chronic DME. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) were recorded at baseline, 1, 4 and 12mo. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were performed to analyze and compare PPV and non-PPV eyes. RESULTS: Seven PPV and 16 non-PPV eyes were included in the study. Median BCVA in the non-PPV group varied from 0.65 logMAR [Interquartile range (IQR): 0.40] at baseline to 0.42 logMAR (IQR: 0.40) at 12mo. Median CMT varied from 430 µm (IQR: 131.3) at baseline to 317 µm (IQR: 107.5) at 12mo. Median BCVA in the PPV group varied from 0.60 logMAR (IQR: 0.62) at baseline to 0.74 logMAR (IQR: 0.34) at 12mo. Median CMT varied from 483 µm (IQR: 146) at baseline to 397 µm (IQR: 132) at 12mo. Of 0/7 eyes and 1/16 eyes in the PPV and non-PPV eyes respectively had a baseline visual acuity of 6/12 or better (0.3 logMAR). At last follow up, 1/7 and 5/16 eyes in the PPV and non-PPV group respectively achieved a visual acuity of 6/12 or better. CONCLUSION: Visual outcomes are modest following the use of the fluocinolone acetonide implant for chronic DME. The steroid implant is a useful treatment option in the management of refractory DME in vitrectomized and non-vitrectmized eyes.

The thickness and volume of the choroid, outer retinal layers and retinal pigment epithelium layer changes in patients with diabetic retinopathy

Xiang-Ning Wang, Shu-Ting Li, Wei Li, Yan-Jun Hua and Qiang Wu — 2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the thickness and volume changes of the choroidal, outer retinal layers (ORL) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in patients with diabetic retinopathy (DR) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and correlate them with visual acuity. METHODS: We carried out a retrospective observational case series. Consecutive DR patients were recruited for color fundus photography and OCT assessment. The RPE, ORL and choroidal thickness were measured. The correlation with the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was also investigated. RESULTS: The study included 128 eyes, comprising 45 eyes of 25 diabetic macular edema (DME) patients, 34 eyes of 20 DR without DME (non-DME) patients, and 49 eyes of 25 age-matched normal individuals. The choroidal thickness in DR patients were decreased statistically significantly compared with the control group (P<0.05). The mean macular ORL thickness in DME (73.02±15.34 μm) and non-DME groups (76.35±7.32 μm) were decreased statistically significantly compared with the control group (80.20±5.85 μm; P=0.006, P=0.013, respectively). In both the non-DME and DME groups, the RPE thickness were decreased compared with the control group (P<0.05), except in the macular and central ring. The BCVA were significant interactions with the total inner retinal volume and macular RPE thickness in the DME group (r=0.115, P<0.001, r=-0.013, P=0.017, respectively). CONCLUSION: The choroid, ORL and RPE thickness are significantly decreased in DR patients compared with controls in different segments.

Relation between preoperative hyperopia and surgical outcome in infantile esotropia

Haeng Jin Lee, Jeong-Ah Kim, Seong-Joon Kim and Young Suk Yu — 2018/12/5 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the relation between preoperative hyperopia and surgical outcomes of infantile esotropia in patients younger than 24 months of age. METHODS: Medical records of patients who underwent bilateral medial rectus muscle recession for infantile esotropia between November 1, 2002 and December 1, 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups according to the degree of preoperative hyperopia. Group I had less than +3.0 diopter (D) of hyperopia and group II had between +3.0 and +5.0 D of hyperopia. Postoperative alignments were evaluated 1wk, 3, 6mo, and 1y after surgery. Following the 1-year postoperative visit, patients were monitored yearly. Relationships between preoperative factors including hyperopia and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: Forty-six patients were included, with 33 patients in group I and 13 patients in group II. The preoperative mean refractive error was +0.88 D in group I and +3.45 D in group II. Surgical outcomes were not significantly different between groups at any postoperative time point examined. Cumulative probability of surgical success, prevalence of inferior oblique overaction, dissociated vertical deviation, and re-operation rate were not significantly different between groups. CONCLUSION: Preoperative moderate hyperopia (less than +5.0 D) did not affect the surgical outcome of infantile esotropia. Therefore, the surgical correction of esotropia should be considered when the angle of esodeviation is unchanged following hyperopia correction, even in children with moderate hyperopia.

Two-stage procedure in the management of selected cases of keratoconus: clear lens extraction with aspherical IOL implantation followed by WFG-PRK

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the objective and subjective results of a two-stage procedure for management of keratoconus: clear lensectomy with aspherical intraocular lens (IOL) implantation followed by wave front-guided photorefractive keratotomy (WFG-PRK). METHODS: This prospective interventional non-randomized study included patients aged 35 years old or more with grade I and II stable keratoconus, a clear visual axis, minimal corneal thickness (MCT) 420 μm or more and average keratometric reading (K) less than 54 diopter (D). Refraction of all selected eyes should be -8.00 D sphere or more with less than -6.00 D cylinder and could be corrected two lines or more with spectacles or contact lenses. All studied eyes underwent a two-stage approach treatment: first refractive lens exchange and aspherical IOL implantation followed, after at least 3mo, by WFG-PRK. Pre and postoperative complete ophthalmological examination were performed. Topographical, visual and aberrometric results were recorded and evaluated during 6mo follow up period. Moreover, patient satisfaction and other subjective outcomes were also analyzed. RESULTS: The 13 eyes of 11 patients diagnosed with stable keratoconus and aged from 39 to 49y (42.4±6.2y) were enrolled in the study. At baseline, 8 eyes had grade I and 5 eyes had grade II keratoconus. The manifest sphere was -10.3±4.2 D (ranged from -8.0 to -14.0 D) and the manifest cylinder was -4.2±1.2 D (ranged from -1.75 to -5.50 D). After the two-stage procedure, sphere and cylinder reduced significantly to -0.43±0.22 D and -1.3±0.72 D respectively (P<0.001). There was also a highly significant improvement in the mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) from logMAR 1.41±0.49 preoperatively to 0.51±0.16 postoperatively (P<0.001) and the mean corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) from 0.76±0.24 preoperatively to 0.49±0.13 after the operation (P<0.001). All aberrometric and mesopic vision parameters and most of the topographical indices demonstrated highly significant improvement that remains stable until the end of follow up. All recorded subjective data revealed a high degree of patient satisfaction. CONCLUSION: Two-stage approach (clear lens exchange with monofocal IOL followed by WFG-PRK) in selected cases of keratoconus is a safe, effective and highly predictable procedure with satisfactory visual and refractive results.

Endothelial parameters in central and peripheral cornea in patients wearing contact lenses

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To measure the parameters of endothelium in the central and peripheral parts of the cornea and evaluate the influence of wearing the hard and soft contact lenses on the mentioned parameters. METHODS: A specular microscope was used to measure the corneal endothelium parameters in both eyes of 139 Caucasians (a total of 278). All participants were divided into three groups: soft lens wearers, hard lens wearers and a control group. Factors, such as age, smoking, types of lens material, duration of lens wear and lens air permeability were assessed to determine their impact on the morphometric parameters of the endothelium. RESULTS: A lower percentage of hexagon-like cells and higher cell variation than in other groups were determined in hard contact lens wearers. The difference in density of endotheliocytes between the groups was not observed. The measurements of the morphometric parameters in soft contact lens wearers did not depend neither on the duration of lens wear, nor on air permeability. The relation between the patients’ age and the variation of endothelium parameters was determined in the group of hard contact lens wearers. CONCLUSION: Wearing hard contact lenses provokes pleomorphism and polymegethism of the corneal endothelium, while soft contact lenses do not impact any parameters of the endothelium, most likely due to higher air permeability.

Correlation between choroidal thickness and intraocular pressure after 23-gauge vitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane

Masahiro Ishida, Takashi Wakakuri and Yutaka Imamura — 2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the relationship between the subfoveal choroidal thickness (CT) and intraocular pressure (IOP) following idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery. METHODS: Retrospective observational case series of patients who had undergone 23-gauge vitrectomy for an ERM. The measurements of CT and IOP were done at the baseline and 1d, 1wk, 1, 3, 6, and 12mo after the surgery. RESULTS: Forty-four eyes of 43 patients with a mean age of 69.8±9.5y were studied. The CT was 200.8±86.3 μm at the baseline, 210.1±83.5 μm at 1d, 213.2±85.4 μm at 1wk, 203.1±84.0 μm at 1mo, 197.5±85.5 μm at 3mo, 197.7±84.0 μm　at 6mo, and 191.2±86.8 μm at 12mo after surgery. The CT on day 1 and week 1 after the surgery was significantly thicker than that at the baseline CT (P=0.0023 and P<0.0001). The CT at 12mo after surgery was significantly thinner than the baseline (P=0.0062). The IOP on day 1 and week 1 were significantly lower than the baseline (P<0.0001 and P=0.0042). The IOP at 1, 3, 6, and 12mo after surgery were significantly higher than the baseline IOP (P=0.0087, P=0.0023, P<0.00051, and P<0.0001). The rates of changes in the CT between baseline and day 1 and week 1 were significantly and negatively correlated with the rates of change in the IOP (P<0.0001 and P=0.046). In the group with the IOP change rate of -30% or less at 1d postoperatively, the change rate of CT was -21.1% to 31.2% (9.8%±12.4%) and in the group of -29% or more, it was -8.9% to 28.0% (2.6%±8.9%). The change rate of CT in the group with the IOP change rate of -30% or less was significantly higher than the group of -29% or more (P=0.016). CONCLUSION: CT increases soon after the ERM surgery which is probably due to the transient hypotony, showing that IOP may be a significant confounding factor for CT.

Air tamponade and without heavy liquid usage in pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To report the results of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) without operative use of heavy liquid, and utilizing air tamponade in selected cases. METHODS: RRD patients without severity of proliferative vitreoretinopathy C2 or more underwent PPV without operative use of heavy liquid, and utilizing air tamponade were consecutively enrolled. Alternative postoperative facedown position or lateral position was required for 3-5d. RESULTS: Totally 36 eyes of 36 patients (24 males, 66.7%) aged 53.8±10.9y underwent this modified surgery. The mean number of retinal break was 2.1±1.3. Most of the eyes (29, 80.6%) had retinal detachment involving more than one quadrant. Twenty-two (61.1%) eyes with cataract had combined phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation. The mean follow up time was 4.6±1.8mo. Two eyes with retinal redetachment underwent a second retinal repair surgery with silicone oil tamponade, yielding the primary reattachment rate to 94.4% (34/36). Six (16.7%) eyes had intraocular pressure higher than 25 mm Hg. The visual acuity (logMAR) improved from 0.98±0.74 preoperatively to 0.52±0.31 postoperatively (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The success rate of this modified retinal repair surgery is comparable with traditional surgery. This technique can be considered for certain retinal detachment patients, since its apparent advantages included lower surgical complications, reduced surgery expenditure, shorter time for postoperative facedown position, and avoiding silicone oil removal surgery.

A quantitative comparison of five optical coherence tomography angiography systems in clinical performance

Xin-Xin Li — 2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical performance of 4 spectral-domain (SD) optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) systems: AngioVueTM, AngioPlexTM, Spectralis® OCTA, AngioScan, and 1 swept-source (SS) OCTA SS OCT AngioTM. METHODS: Twenty-seven undilated right eyes of 27 participants underwent OCTA examination using five different systems respectively for both 3×3 and 6×6 mm2 scan pattern (Spectralis OCTA for 3×3 mm2 scan only). Image quality, including vessel valid visibility and the number of motion artifacts, and acquisition time were evaluated. Repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni's post-test and Friedman test with Dunn's post-test were used to compare measurements. RESULTS: The age of the subjects was 28.19±5.55y (range, 23-49y). The spherical equivalent refraction was -2.55±1.84 D (range, 0.00 to -5.25 D). Significant difference was observed in the evaluation of vessel valid visibility (AngioVue the highest: 0.111±0.031 for 3×3 mm2 scan and 0.128±0.020 for 6×6 mm2 scan), number of motion artifacts (AngioVue the fewest: 0.778±1.086 for 3×3 mm2 scan and 0.333±0.620 for 6×6 mm2 scan) and acquisition time (AngioPlex the shortest: 8.537±1.921s for 3×3 mm2 scan and 8.298±1.741s for 6×6 mm2 scan; all P<0.001). CONCLUSION: There is poor agreement of measurements among systems. AngioVue provides images with the highest vessel valid visibility and the fewest motion artifacts. AngioPlex achieves the shortest acquisition.

Comparison of persistent submacular fluid in different preoperative macular status after vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the incidence of persistent submacular fluid (SMF) and visual outcome after pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in different preoperative macular status according to optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: A non-randomized, retrospective review was performed for patients who underwent successful PPV for RRD. OCT exams were taken preoperatively and 1mo after surgery, until SMF disappeared. According to the preoperative macular status on OCT, patients were divided into two groups: macula-off RRD (Group A) and macula-on RRD (Group B). In Group A, there were two subgroups: macula partly detached (Group A1) and macula totally detached (Group A2). The main outcome measures were the presence of SMF on OCT 1mo after surgery, and the preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuities (BCVA), among the different groups and depending on the presence or absence of persistent SMF. RESULTS: A total of 139 eyes of 139 patients were included in the study. Persistent SMF at 1mo after surgery was 15.8% (22/139), all occurring in Group A (22/101); Group B had no SMF at 1mo after surgery (0/38, P=0.002). The incidence of persistent SMF at 1mo after surgery in Group A1 was 50% (14/28), and in Group A2 was 11.0% (8/73, P<0.001). Significant differences were shown between the presence and absence of persistent SMF on foveola-off RRD, the preoperative BCVA, the 1mo postoperative BCVA, and the degree of the BCVA improvement from 1mo postoperatively to the final follow-up (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the final BCVA (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Persistent SMF after PPV for retinal detachment is associated with preoperative macular status. Macula-uninvolving RRD shows no persistent SMF after PPV. Macular partly detached RRD has a higher incidence of SMF than macula totally detached RRD after PPV. The persistence of SMF may be responsible for the delayed visual recovery, whereas there were no significant differences in the final visual acuity.

One-year real-world outcomes of ranibizumab 0.5 mg treatment in Taiwanese patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: a subgroup analysis of the REAL study

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effectiveness and safety of ranibizumab 0.5 mg in Taiwanese patients with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) by performing a retrospective exploratory subgroup analysis of the REAL study. METHODS: REAL was a 12-month, observational, prospective, non-interventional phase IV post-marketing surveillance study conducted at 9 centers in Taiwan. The study collected data as part of the routine patient visits from the medical records of patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration treated with ranibizumab 0.5 mg according to local standard medical practice and local label and/or reimbursement guidelines. The presence of PCV at baseline was determined using indocyanine green angiography. RESULTS: At baseline, PCV was diagnosed in 64 of the 303 enrolled patients (21.1%). Of these, 41 patients (64.1%) had received prior treatment; 15 (23.4%) patients had received ranibizumab. The intent-to-treat population included 58 patients; 47 (80%) who received ranibizumab and 11 (20%) who received ranibizumab plus photodynamic therapy (PDT; 9 patients received once, 2 patients received twice). Bevacizumab was used as a concomitant medication in a similar percentage of patients who received ranibizumab (43%, n=20) or ranibizumab plus PDT (45%, n=5). In patients who received ranibizumab, visual acuity (VA) at baseline was 50.1±12.9 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters, and the gain at month 12 was 1.1±17.8 letters. In patients who received ranibizumab plus PDT, VA at baseline was 51.4±15.9 letters, and there was a marked gain in VA at month 12 (14.0±9.2 letters, P=0.0009). In the intent-to-treat population, the reduction in central retinal subfield thickness from baseline at month 12 was 69.6±122.6 μm (baseline: 310.8±109.8 μm, P=0.0004). The safety results were consistent with the well-characterized safety profile of ranibizumab. CONCLUSION: In real-world settings, ranibizumab 0.5 mg treatment for 12mo results in maintenance of VA and reduction in central retinal subfield thickness in Taiwanese patients with PCV. Improvements in VA are observed in patients who received ranibizumab plus PDT. There are no new safety findings.

Preventing condensation of objective lens in noncontact wide-angle viewing systems during vitrectomy

Jung Pil Lee, Jinsoo Kim, Inwon Park, Ho Ra and Soonil Kwon — 2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the optimal conditions for preventing condensation of objective lens during vitrectomy with noncontact wide-angle viewing systems (WAVSs). METHODS: We explored the effectiveness of the coating with ophthalmic viscoelastic device (OVDs) on the corneal surface and the soaking the objective lens in warm-saline for preventing condensation of objective lens. First, to find the optimal soaking time to keep the objective lens warm, we measured the temperature of objective lens every minute after soaking in warm saline. Second, to find optimal distance between cornea and objective lens, which provide as wide a view as possible and less condensation at the same time, we measured the condensation time with different distances. With the obtained optimal soaking time and distance, we explored the effect of coating cornea with OVDs and soaking objective lens in warm saline on condensation time. RESULTS: One and 5min of soaking in warm saline was most effective for keeping the lens warm enough (45.1℃±2.1℃ for 1min and 46.4℃±1.0℃ for 5min, P=0.109). The mean condensation times for the control group at 1, 3, and 5 mm from corneal surface to objective lens were 1±0.4, 4±1.4, 190±26.1s, respectively, thus 5 mm was most optimal distance for vitrectomy with WAVSs. For the OVD coating group, the mean condensation times were 1.5±0.3, 13±1.4, and 200±23.9s at 1, 3, and 5 mm distance and borderline significant compared with control group (P=0.068, 0.051, and 0.063, respectively). With the 1-minute warm saline soaking group, the mean condensation time were extended to 188±34.4, 416±65.7, and 600±121.3s at 1, 3, and 5 mm distance and statistically significant compared with control (P=0.043, 0.041 and 0.043, respectively). CONCLUSION: OVD coating on corneal surface shows no difference on condensation time with control group. However, soaking the objective lens in warm saline revealed statistically significant extension of condensation time compared to control group. Therefore, keeping the objective lens warm with soaking in warm saline is a simple but effective to prevent condensation of objective lens during vitrectomy. The thermodynamics between objective lens and cornea during vitrectomy warrants further investigation.

Abnormal resting-state functional network centrality in patients with high myopia: evidence from a voxel-wise degree centrality analysis

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the functional networks underlying the brain-activity changes of patients with high myopia using the voxel-wise degree centrality (DC) method. METHODS: In total, 38 patients with high myopia (HM) (17 males and 21 females), whose binocular refractive diopter were -6.00 to -7.00 D, and 38 healthy controls (17 males and 21 females), closely matched in age, sex, and education levels, participated in the study. Spontaneous brain activities were evaluated using the voxel-wise DC method. The receiver operating characteristic curve was measured to distinguish patients with HM from healthy controls. Correlation analysis was used to explore the relationship between the observed mean DC values of the different brain areas and the behavioral performance. RESULTS: Compared with healthy controls, HM patients had significantly decreased DC values in the right inferior frontal gyrus/insula, right middle frontal gyrus, and right supramarginal/inferior parietal lobule (P<0.05). In contrast, HM patients had significantly increased DC values in the right cerebellum posterior lobe, left precentral gyrus/postcentral gyrus, and right middle cingulate gyrus (P<0.05). However, no relationship was found between the observed mean DC values of the different brain areas and the behavioral performance (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: HM is associated with abnormalities in many brain regions, which may indicate the neural mechanisms of HM. The altered DC values may be used as a useful biomarker for the brain activity changes in HM patients.

Preliminary study on visual recognition under low visibility conditions caused by artificial dynamic smog

2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To quantitatively evaluate the effect of a simulated smog environment on human visual function by psychophysical methods. METHODS: The smog environment was simulated in a 40×40×60 cm3 glass chamber filled with a PM2.5 aerosol, and 14 subjects with normal visual function were examined by psychophysical methods with the foggy smog box placed in front of their eyes. The transmission of light through the smog box, an indication of the percentage concentration of smog, was determined with a luminance meter. Visual function under different smog concentrations was evaluated by the E-visual acuity, crowded E-visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. RESULTS: E-visual acuity, crowded E-visual acuity and contrast sensitivity were all impaired with a decrease in the transmission rate (TR) according to power functions, with invariable exponents of -1.41, -1.62 and -0.7, respectively, and R2 values of 0.99 for E and crowded E-visual acuity, 0.96 for contrast sensitivity. Crowded E-visual acuity decreased faster than E-visual acuity. There was a good correlation between the TR, extinction coefficient and visibility under heavy-smog conditions. CONCLUSION: Increases in smog concentration have a strong effect on visual function.

Clinical features of posterior microphthalmic and nanophthalmic eyes

Jing-Jing Liu, Yi-Ye Chen, Xiang Zhang and Pei-Quan Zhao — 2018/11/7 0:00:00
AIM: To clinically differentiate nanophthalmos (NO) and posterior microphthalmos (PM) and to explore the mechanisms related to papillomacular folds (PMF). METHODS: Medical records of 34 unrelated patients with microphthalmos (54 eyes) from April 2009 to October 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Fourteen eyes of 7 unrelated patients with NO and PM were included in the study. The presenting age of the NO cohort was significantly higher compared with the PM cohort (NO: 27±16y; PM: 3.7±0.6y). PMF was more likely to occur in cases with PM than in NO (25% in NO, 100% in PM). The anatomic features of PMF from optical coherence tomography (OCT) included: ganglion cell layer, inner plexiform layer, inner nuclear layer, outer plexiform layer and outer nuclear layer. In eyes without an apparent PMF (these were all NO eyes), rudimentary fovea without a foveal pit was noted. Four eyes that were NO developed angle closure glaucoma. Three NO eyes developed exudative retinal detachment and were successfully treated with lamellar sclerectomy. CONCLUSION: Posterior segment changes are pervasive both in PM and NO. Complications like angle closure glaucoma and exudative retinal detachment are likely to occur in eyes with NO but not with PM. Detailed OCT analysis found that PMF was partially a neural retinal issue, suggesting that redundancy of retinal issues involved only inner retinal layers.

Laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy in nasolacrimal duct obstruction: 5-year follow-up

2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term sucess rate of laser-assisted dacryocystorhinostomy (L-DCR) in patients with nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NDO). METHODS: Forty-one eyes of forty patients aged between 21-85y (mean 56.7y) who underwent L-DCR for the treatment of NDO were included in this retrospective, non-randomized study. The follow-up time was 72mo. Functional sucess was defined as the disappearance of epiphora under normal conditions and the presence of a patent ostium on lacrimal irrigation. Anatomical success was defined as a patent lacrimal passage on syringing besides continuing epiphora. Surgical failure was defined as persistent epiphora and closed ostium. RESULTS: Twenty-seven of 40 patients (67.5%) were female and 13 of 40 patients (32.5%) were male. The NDO was right-sided in 17 (42.5%) patients and left-sided in 22 (55%) patients whereas 1 (2.5%) patient had undergone bilateral surgery. In 11 (27.5%) patients there were additional nasal abnormalities requiring simultaneous surgical approach. The average time for L-DCR was 26.50±4.9min (16-39min) and the average total amount of laser energy used was 287±27.9 J (239-367 J). At the 5y follow-up, anatomical sucess rate was 75.0% (30 patients) and functional success rate was 65.0% (26 patients), whereas surgical failure was seen in 25% (10 patients). Revision of surgery was performed in 10 cases (25.0%); failure of revision surgery was seen in 2 cases (5.0%). CONCLUSION: Transcanalicular L-DCR is a reliable and fast procedure in the treatment of NDO. It can be alternative to external DCR which is accepted as the gold standard currently. The functional and anatomical success rate is higher in the first months and years, but still satisfactory at fifth year.

Contralateral eye study of refractive, topographic and aberrometric outcomes after femtosecond assisted MyoRing implantation and DALK for management of keratoconus

Mohamed Omar Yousif and Azza Mohamed Ahmed Said — 2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of femtosecond laser assisted MyoRing intrastromal corneal implant and deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) for management of moderate to advanced keratoconus regarding the degree of changes in visual acuity, refraction, corneal asphericity and aberrations. METHODS: A prospective non comparative interventional case study was conducted in Ophthalmology Department, Ain Shams University Hospital in the period from January 2015 to February 2017. The study included 30 eyes of moderate to advanced keratoconus. MyoRing was implanted in one eye (Group I) and DALK operation was performed in the contralateral eye of the same patient (Group II). Preoperative and 6mo post-operative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), spherical equivalent (SE), corneal and refractive astigmatisms, keratometry and Q-value using topography images were acquired. Quality of vision was assessed in all eyes including total corneal, anterior corneal high order aberrations analysis at 5 mm pupil size and the Strehl ratio of point spread function (PSF) as an objective measure of glare. RESULTS: Mean postoperative UCVA, CDVA, SE, refractive astigmatism, keratometry readings and asphericity were statistically improved compared to preoperative parameters in both groups (P<0.05). Significant reduction of all corneal aberrations following both techniques (P<0.05) was achieved except mean trefoil and mean PSF in Group I (P>0.05). Postoperative corneal aberrations were significantly lower in Group II compared to Group I. A statistically significant negative correlation was found in Group I between the mean change in CDVA (logMAR) and the mean preoperative and mean postoperative total corneal aberrations root mean square (RMS; r=-0.78, P=0.04). Also a statistically significant negative correlation was found between mean preoperative coma RMS and mean post PSF (r=-0.86, P=0.01). In Group II, there was a statistically significant positive correlation between mean change in CDVA (logMAR) and mean change in Kmax (r=0.87, P=0.01) and between mean change in refractive cylinder and mean postoperative PSF (r=0.76, P=0.05). CONCLUSION: Femtosecond laser assisted MyoRing and DALK are effective in improving visual acuities, refraction, corneal asphericity and aberrations. MyoRing reduced spherical error more than the corneal cylinder. Post operative homogenous corneal surface and good image quality were achieved following both techniques compared to the preoperative state. However, DALK results in better image quality and lower corneal aberrations.

The assessment of structural changes on optic nerve head and macula in primary open angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension

Kenan Dagdelen and Emrah Dirican — 2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To assess morphological changes in macula, retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and optic nevre head (ONH) of cases with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OH) with spectral domain optic coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: This study included 109 eyes from 62 POAG patients, 50 eyes from 30 OH patients, and 101 eyes from 53 healthy volunteers. Data gained by OCT were compared with perimetry indexes. ONH, RNFL and macula analysis were performed for all subjects. Rim area, disc area, average cup/disc (C/D) ratio, vertical C/D ratio, cup volume data were recorded during ONH analysis. Average RNFL thickness and the thickness of four quadrants (superior, inferior, nasal and temporal) was established in microns. In total, nine macular quadrants involving the foveal region mentioned in the Early Treatment Diabetic Treatment Study (ETDRS) template were measured, and average macular thickness and macular volume data were recorded during macula analysis. Differences between groups were evaluated with the one-way ANOVA test. Tukey’s multiple comparison test was performed to detect difference between groups. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was done for early stage POAG patients to establish sensitivity and specificity of chosen parameters in early stage POAG. Area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) values were calculated to compare ROC areas. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were found in all ONH parameters, except optic disc area. Neuroretinal rim area was identified as the parameter with the highest difference between groups (F=21.72, P<0.05). The highest correlation between ONH parameters and perimetry was observed at neuroretinal rim region (r=0.487). Inferior RNFL thickness was established as the parameter with the highest difference between groups among RNFL parameters. In the mean of all glaucoma patients, the highest correlation between data handled with OCT and mean deviation was observed in RNFL thickness. Average macular thickness was detected as the parameter with the highest difference between groups among macular parameters. The highest correlation between macula parameters and perimetry indexes was observed between average macular thickness and perimetry indexes (r=0.514). CONCLUSION: Although the assessment of ONH and the analysis of macular thickness are important in diagnosis and treatment, RNFL assessment is the most valuable parameter.

Comparison of intravitreal ganciclovir monotherapy and combination with foscarnet as initial therapy for cytomegalovirus retinitis

Jing-Jing Fan, Yong Tao and De-Kuang Hwang — 2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effectiveness between multiple intravitreal injections of ganciclovir alone and combined with foscarnet as initial treatment for patients with newly-onset cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR). METHODS: The retrospective study observed 37 patients (58 eyes) who suffered from CMVR onset between 2013 and 2015. Among them, 35 eyes underwent 4 weekly intravitreal injections of 3.0 mg ganciclovir, and 23 eyes underwent 4 weekly injections of 3.0 mg ganciclovir combined with 2.4 mg foscarnet. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure and viral load of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in aqueous humor measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction were compared before and after each injection. RESULTS: CMV-DNA copies in aqueous humor decreased remarkably in both groups. The average of CMV-DNA copies in patients’ aqueous decreased from 38.3×104 copies/mL at baseline to 2.2×104 copies/mL after the 4th injection in patients who were treated with ganciclovir monotherapy, and decreased from 76.9×104 copies/mL to 11.3×104 copies/mL after 4 continuous injections of ganciclovir combined with foscarnet. No significant difference was found in reduction of viral load, change of visual acuities or intraocular pressures between monotherapy or combined therapy. CONCLUSION: Results of this study show that the initial effectiveness of treating CMVR after 4 weekly intravitreal injections is not significantly different from ganciclovir alone or combined with foscarnet. Continuous injection of ganciclovir alone is sufficient in treating immunosuppressive patients with newly-onset CMVR.

Structural impairment patterns in peripapillary retinal fiber layer and retinal ganglion cell layer in mitochondrial optic neuropathies

2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the structural injure patterns in peripapillary retinal fiber layer (pRNFL), retinal ganglion cell layer (RGCL) and their correlations to visual function in various mitochondrial optic neuropathies (MON) to offer help to their differential diagnosis. METHODS: Totally 32 MON patients (60 eyes) were recruited within 6mo after clinical onsets, including 20 Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) patients (37 eyes), 12 ethambutol-induced optic neuropathy (EON) patients (23 eyes), and 41 age-gender matched healthy controls (HC, 82 eyes). All subjects had pRNFL and RGCL examinations with optic coherence tomography (OCT) and visual function tests. RESULTS: In the early stages of MON, the temporal pRNFL thickness decreased (66.09±22.57 μm), but increased in other quadrants, compared to HC (76.95±14.81 μm). The other quadrants remaining stable for LHON and EON patients besides the second hour sector of pRNFL thickness reduced and the temporal pRNFL decreased (56.78±15.87 μm) for EON. Total macular thickness in MON reduced remarkably (279.25±18.90 μm; P=0.015), which mainly occurring in the inner circle (3 mm diameter of circle) and the nasal temporal sectors in the outer circle (5.5 mm diameter of circle), in contrast to those in HC. RGCL thickness reduced in each sector of the macula (61.90±8.73 μm; P≤0.001). It strongly showed the correlationship of best corrected visual acuity (R=0.50, P=0.0003) and visual field injury (R=0.54, P=0.0002) in MON patients. CONCLUSION: OCT is a potential tool for detecting structural alterations in the optic nerves of various MON. Different types of MON may have different damage patterns.

Optical coherence tomography in central nervous system demyelinating diseases related optic neuritis

2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the thickness of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) among patients with various forms of optic neuritis (ON) and to identify whether any particular parameters or their thinning pattern can be used to distinguish the type of ON. METHODS: This prospective study was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Thailand, between January, 2015 and December, 2016. We enlisted patients over 18 years of age with history of ON and categorized patients into 4 groups: 1) aquaporin 4 antibodies (AQP4-IgG) positive; 2) multiple sclerosis (MS); 3) myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies (MOG-IgG) positive; 4) idiopathic-ON patients. Healthy controls were also included during the same study period. All patients underwent complete ophthalmological examination and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging to analyze RNFL and GCIPL thickness after at least 3mo since the last episode of acute ON. The generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were used to compare the data amongst ON groups. RESULTS: Among 87 previous ON eyes from 57 patients (43 AQP4-IgG+ON, 17 MS-ON, 8 MOG-IgG+ON, and 19 idiopathic-ON), mean logMAR visual acuity of AQP4-IgG+ON, MS-ON, MOG-IgG+ON, and idiopathic-ON groups was 0.76±0.88, 0.12±0.25, 0.39±0.31, and 0.75±1.08, respectively. Average, superior, and inferior RNFL were significantly reduced in AQP4-IgG+ON, MOG-IgG+ON and idiopathic-ON eyes, relative to those of MS-ON. Differences were not statistically significant for RNFL or GCIPL between the AQP4-IgG+ON and MOG-IgG+ON groups, whereas visual acuity in MOG-IgG+ON was slightly, but not significantly, better (0.39 vs 0.76). Although RNFL thickness in MOG-IgG+ON was significantly reduced as compared to MS-ON, mean visual acuity and GCIPL were not different. CONCLUSION: Thinning of superior and inferior quadrants of RNFL are more commonly seen in MOG-IgG+ON and AQP4-IgG+ON. Long term visual acuity in MOG-IgG+ON is often better than AQP4-IgG+ON, whereas the structural change from OCT is comparable.

The diluted atropine for inhibition of myopia progression in Korean children

Ji-Sun Moon and Sun Young Shin — 2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of three different concentrations of diluted atropine for the control of myopia in Korean children, and to assess the risk factors associated with rapid myopia progression. METHODS: A total of 285 children, with refractive errors within the range of -6 diopters (D) between 5 and 14 years of age were included. After using 0.01%, or 0.025%, or 0.05% atropine, for about 1y, changes in refraction, axial lengths and frequency of adverse events were analyzed. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the risk factors associated with rapid myopia progression. RESULTS: The changes in the mean spherical equivalent values were -0.134 D/mo in the before atropine group, -0.070 D/mo in the 0.01% atropine group, -0.047 D/mo in the 0.025% atropine group, and -0.019 D/mo in the 0.05% atropine group, with significant differences between the groups (P<0.001). The axial elongation was 0.046 mm/mo, 0.037 mm/mo, 0.025 mm/mo, and 0.019 mm/mo respectively, with significant differences between the groups (P=0.003). The incidence of photophobia and near vision difficulty was not different among the three atropine groups (P=0.425 and P=0.356, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that only highly myopic parents were a significant predictive factor of rapid myopia progression in Korean children (odds ratio, 8.155; 95% confidence interval, 3.626-18.342; P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Treatment with 0.01%, 0.025% and 0.05% atropine solution inhibits myopia progression in Korean children in a dose-dependent manner. Children with highly myopic parents preferentially shows a rapid myopia progression rate.

Lamina cribrosa thickness in children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia

Serkan Akkaya — 2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To determine lamina cribrosa thickness (LCT) in the optic nerve head region of the eyes in children with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia and to compare this thickness with that of fellow eyes, hyperopic non-amblyopia, and age-matched controls. METHODS: Thirty-two patients (12.0±1.8y, mean± standard deviation) with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia, 31 subjects with age- and refractive error- matched hyperopic non-amblyopia (10.7±2.2y), and 32 age-matched controls (11.2±2.0y) were included in this prospective, cross-sectional study. LCT was measured using an enhanced depth-imaging program of a spectral domain optical coherence tomographic instrument in all participants, and the correlation between LCT and axial length was calculated. RESULTS: The mean LCT was 180.9±29.4 μm in amblyopic eyes, 247.7±19.0 μm in fellow eyes, 251.6±27.3 μm in hyperopic non-amblyopic eyes, and 240.2±15.8 μm in control eyes. Lamina cribrosa in amblyopic eyes was significantly thinner than fellow, hyperopic non-amblyopic, and control eyes (P<0.05). There was no significant correlation in LCT and axial length between amblyopic (P=0.16) and control (P=0.31) group. CONCLUSION: Lamina cribrosa of eyes with hyperopic anisometropic amblyopia is significantly thinner than that of fellow eyes, hyperopic non-amblyopia, and age-matched controls. The LCT profile in amblyopic eyes is different from that observed in fellow, hyperopic non-amblyopic, and control eyes.

A survey of incidental ocular trauma by pencil and pen

2018/9/4 0:00:00
AIM: To determine characteristic features of ocular trauma resulted from self-trauma by writing instruments among pediatric population. METHODS: Thirty-six children who suffered from self-inflicted ocular trauma with a writing instrument were included in this prospective cross-sectional study. RESULTS: The mean age was 5.6±2.7y with male: female ratio of 1.77. The right eye was involved two times more than the left eye. The superomedial (55.5%) and inferomedial (30.6%) quadrants were the most common sites of injury. The leading culprit was colored pencils (44.4%). During surgical exploration, no foreign body (FB) was found in 25 (69.4%) patients while an FB was found in 11 (30.5%) patients. Brain injury was present in two patients (5.6%) and only in superomedial quadrant injuries. Zone 1 was the most common site for ocular trauma associated with penetrating injury. The mean ocular trauma score (OTS) in penetrating injuries was 3.8±1.2. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.3±0.6 upon admittance and 0.08±0.21 after one year. The final BCVA was significantly correlated with the entrance site, better final BCVA was found in nasal entrance site (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The ophthalmologists should keep a high index of suspicion to rule out penetrating eye injuries related to writing instruments in a young uncooperative child. Brain injury is a life-threatening event that should be ruled out by appropriate imaging. Medial canthal area as the most common site needs an especial attention in writing instrument injuries.

Does the scleral encircling band provide a protective effect against the progression of diabetic retinopathy?

2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of scleral encircling bands on the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy (DR) in diabetic patients. METHODS: The medical records of diabetic patients who underwent unilateral retinal detachment (RD) surgery using scleral buckle and encircling band were reviewed retrospectively. Both eyes of patients were included in the study: one eye in each patient had a scleral buckle with encircling band (the operated eye) and the other one is the non-operated eye. The demographic characters, duration of diabetes and period between surgery and the last recall visit were retrieved from each patient. All the cases underwent fundus photo and fluorescein angiography (when indicated) to confirm the DR staging. RESULTS: Totally 25 patients fulfilled the inclusion and the exclusion criteria were become eligible for the study. A total of 50 eyes of 25 patients were enrolled in this analysis. The mean period of time passed from surgery with encircling band and the last reassessment visit was 12.5±2y. Even though DR could develop in the operated eyes, it was at a less degree of severity compared to the non-operated eyes of same patients (P=0.027). CONCLUSION: Scleral encircling bands have protective effects against the development and progression of DR.

Morphological and cytological changes of meibomian glands in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Tao Yu, Xu-Guang Han, Yang Gao, Ai-Ping Song and Guang-Fu Dang — 2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To observe the changes of microcellular structure of meibomian glands (MGs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), and to explore its correlation with the duration of diabetes. METHODS: The study assessed 132 eyes of 132 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM group) and 100 eyes of 100 non-diabetic participants (NDM group). All patients underwent the examination of the Keratograph 5M system to obtain the meibography which were used to evaluate the structure dropout of the MGs. And then laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) was performed for observing the acinar cells and ducts of the MGs to obtain the following parameters: the MG acinar unit density (MGAUD), MG acinar longest diameter (MGALD) and MG acinar shortest diameter (MGASD). The examination results of the right eye were selected for analysis. RESULTS: Compared with that in NDM group, the meiboscore was significantly higher (Z=-4.057, P<0.001), and there were more MGs dropout in DM group. With the prolongation of the course of diabetes, the absence of MGs aggravated and the MGs dropout score increased (r=0.596; P<0.001). LSCM showed that there were various cytological alterations in acinar cells of MGs with the progress of diabetes duration, such as expansion, atrophy or fibrosis of MG acinar units, decreased density of MG acinar units, deposition of lipid substances, infiltration of inflammatory cells, proliferation of fibrous tissues, etc. And the opening of the glandular duct changed from smooth at the beginning to narrow, blocked, fibrotic and so on. Compared with that in NDM group, the MGAUD in DM group was significantly lower (Z=-9.713; P<0.001), the MGALD and MGASD were significantly larger (Z=-9.751, -6.416; P<0.001). With the duration of diabetes, the MGAUD reduced, the MGASD increased (r=0.860, 0.364, P<0.001); but the MGALD had no correlation with diabetic duration (r=0.133, P=0.151). CONCLUSION: With the progress of diabetes, the meibomian glandular acinar cells of diabetic patients show various manifestations. Those changes may result in the dysfuction of the MGs, tear film instability and dry eye symptoms in patients with type 2 DM.

Effect of diluted povidone iodine in adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis on the rate of subepithelial corneal infiltrates

2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical characteristics of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis, the management modalities, as well as the incidence of subepithelial corneal infiltrates (SEI). METHODS: Patients with characteristic clinical symptoms and signs, who presented to our clinic within the first week of symptoms and received the diagnosis of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis between January 2013 and April 2016, were included in the study. A total of 211 patients were included in the study. Patients were evaluated for the incidence of clinical signs, late complications, management preferences, and the effect of diluted povidone-iodine (d-PVP-I) 2%. RESULTS: Patients’ mean age was 33.03±14.76y. We observed an increase in the number of cases according to the years. At presentation and/or early follow-up, the clinical signs were conjunctival hyperemia (100%), conjunctival follicules (79.1%), edema of the eyelids (39.3%), chemosis (16.1%), pseudomembrane formation (16.6%), and corneal epitheliopathy (29.9%). During late follow-up 13.3% patients developed conjunctival subepithelial fibrosis, and 39.8% developed SEI. A significant decrease in the incidence of SEI development was observed in patients who used d-PVP-I 2% (P=0.032; 33.3% vs 45.9%, respectively in patients who received d-PVP-I 2% and who did not). CONCLUSION: Adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis has a tremendous effect on patient’s comfort and abilities in short-term. Additionally, almost half of the patients develop visual problems related to SEI. According to our clinical experience, using d-PVP-I 2% in the first days of adenoviral keratoconjunctivitis might be helpful in reducing the risk of SEI as a complication.

Factors affecting recurrence after surgical treatment in cases with ocular surface squamous neoplasia

2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the risk factors leading to recurrence in patients with ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) METHODS: The records of 112 patients with OSSN who underwent treatment and follow-up between February 1999 and August 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. RESULTS: Totally 67 patients (59.8%) were male and 45 patients (40.2%) were female. The mean age at presentation was 63.7y (range 22-87y). Partial lamellar scleroconjunctivectomy (PLSC) was performed in 105 (93.7%) cases and enucleation was performed in 7 (6.3%) cases due to bulbus invasion as the first step treatment. Treatments used in addition to PLSC included cryotherapy in 78 eyes (74.3%), alcohol epitheliectomy in 57 eyes (54.3%) for presence of corneal involvement, and amniotic membrane transplantation in 17 eyes (16.2%) for ocular surface reconstruction. Topical mitomycin C was used in 10 patients (9.5%) and strontium-90 (Str-90) treatment in 4 (3.8%) patients because surgical margins were tumor positive at the histopathological examination. Postoperative histopathologic diagnoses were squamous cell carcinoma (52 cases), carcinoma in situ (44 cases), moderate conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia (11 cases), and mild conjunctiva intraepithelial neoplasia (5 cases). At a mean follow-up of 20.1mo, tumor recurrence was observed in 21 (18.8%) cases. The rate of recurrence was found to be lower in cases that underwent supplemental cryotherapy compared to those that did not (P<0.001). There was no metastasis in any case. CONCLUSION: In our series, the recurrence rate is 18.8% and overall globe salvage rate is 90.2% for OSSN at relatively short-term follow-up.

Efficacy of low-energy selective laser trabeculoplasty on the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma

2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy of low-energy selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on the treatment of primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. METHODS: Outpatients with POAG who underwent 360-degree SLT using an initial energy of 0.3 mJ (total energy of 30-40 mJ) were reviewed retrospectively from September 2011 to January 2018. RESULTS: Eight-six eyes of 44 POAG patients underwent 360-degree SLT using initial energy of 0.3 mJ and were followed up regularly. The total energy used was 32.5±2.5 mJ (23-40 mJ, 105±6 spots). The average pretreatment intraocular pressure (IOP) was 19.8±3.9 mm Hg. At 1, 3, 6mo, 1, and 2y, the post-SLT IOPs (mm Hg) were 16.9±3.3, 16.5±3.3, 17.1±3.4, 16.6±3.5, 16.5±2.8, which were significantly lower than that before treatment (P<0.001). The patients in the SLT success group were found to be younger than those in the SLT failure group. After SLT, 59 eyes that maintained pretreatment medications were defined as the drug retention group. The pre-SLT IOP was 20.1±3.7 mm Hg. At 1, 3, 6mo, 1, and 2y, the post-SLT IOPs (mm Hg) were 17.3±3.6, 16.6±3.5, 17.2±3.6, 16.9±3.8 and 16.5±2.9, respectively. Twenty-seven eyes that required reduced drugs were defined as the drug reduction group. The pre-SLT IOP was 19.2±4.4 mm Hg. At 1, 3, 6mo, 1, and 2y, the post-SLT IOPs (mm Hg) were 16.1±2.6, 16.5±3.1, 16.8±2.9, 16.0±2.6 and 16.3±2.4, respectively. Compared with the pretreatment IOPs, the post-SLT IOPs were significantly lower in drug retention group and drug reduction group. The patients in the drug reduction group were found to be younger than those in the drug retention group. CONCLUSION: Low-energy SLT is safe and effective for POAG patients during a 2-year follow-up. Younger POAG patients may obtain better results after low-energy SLT treatment.

Fundus manifestations and HIV viral loads of AIDS patients before and after HAART

Yu Di, Xin-Yu Zhao, Jun-Jie Ye, Bing Li and Nan Ma — 2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the fundus manifestations and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral loads of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients before and after highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). METHODS: This retrospective study included 21 AIDS patients (42 eyes) who presented to the Department of Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, from 2007 to 2011. Among the patients, 16 showed a good response to HAART, 3 presented drug resistance and 2 were pre-HAART. All patients underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. The HIV viral loads and the CD4+ T-cell counts were also determined. RESULTS: The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 38 eyes (19 patients) was improved, and cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR) in 5 eyes (3 patients) regressed after HAART. Furthermore, 16 patients treated with effective HAART had decreased plasma HIV viral loads (<78 copies/mL) and increased CD4+ T-cell counts (343±161 cells/μL, P<0.005), but the HIV viral load in tears was still detected at 2404 copies/mL. The CD4+ T-cell count was lower in the CMVR group than in the non-CMVR group (P=0.022), but the HIV viral load in the tears was not significantly different between the two groups (P=0.439). CONCLUSION: Most patients with AIDS show a good viral response with a decreased HIV viral load and an increased CD4+ T-cell count in plasma after HAART. However, the HIV viral load remain quite high in the tear samples. Based on our results, we suggest that AIDS patients undergo long-term HAART that should not be interrupted.

Novel transscleral sutureless subretinal fluid drainage using a 25-gauge trocar-cannula with a self-closing valve in patients with advanced Coats disease

Liang Li, Song-Feng Li, Jing-Hua Liu, Guang-Da Deng, Yan Ma, Jing Ma and Hai Lu — 2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To assess surgical outcomes of a novel method of transscleral drainage of subretinal fluid using a 25-gauge trocar-cannula with a self-closing valve (DTV) in patients with severe exudative retinal detachment (ERD) in Coats disease. METHODS: Retrospective consecutive cases of 20 patients (20 eyes) of severe ERD due to Coats disease (stage 3B) in total 156 Coats patients between June 2015 and April 2019 were included in this study. The participants were aged 1 to 10y with a mean age of 3.50±1.79y. The mean follow-up time were 11.9mo. Subretinal fluid was drained transsclerally using a novel method of DTV. The height of the retinal detachment and the regression of abnormal vessels including telangiectasias and aneurysms were observed. Complications including vitreoretinal fibrosis, tractional retinal detachments (TRD), endophthalmitis, retinal holes, and hemorrhages were evaluated. RESULTS: Following surgeries, the patients showed the replacement of ERD and regression of telangiectatic retinal vessels observed with binocular indirect ophthalmoscopy. Six patients received retinal cryotherapies and 12 patients received laser photocoagulations following first external subretinal fluid drainage using DTV. All patients underwent intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapies to induce residual subretinal fluid absorption. During follow-ups, 8 patients underwent a second drainage operation, 17 patients received retinal laser photocoagulations and 7 patients received cryotherapies. Vitreoretinal fibrosis was found in 7 patients and 6 patients underwent micro-invasive vitrectomies during the follow-up period. Severe TRD, iatrogenic retinal holes, and hemorrhages were not found. CONCLUSION: The authors present a new therapeutic approach that successfully drains subretinal fluid in advanced stage 3B Coats disease with severe ERD. This is a simple, safe and less invasive approach when compared with traditional managements. However, it should be strictly selected for patients with high bullous ERD close to the central axis of the eye in order to avoid the complication of retinal holes.

Beneficial effects of vincamine with thioctic acid and lutein on retinal and optic nerve functions in an opaque media

2019/8/2 0:00:00
AIM: To detect whether the combination of vincamine, thioctic acid and lutein will improve the retina and optic nerve functions in cases of an opaque media with an optic nerve and/or a retinal defect or not. METHODS: Totally 2000 patients (2000 eyes) of corneal opacities with defects in the optic nerve or/and the retinal functions were studied. Every patient received three types of drugs: thioctic acid with cyanocobalamine, vincamine, and lutein. The drugs were given daily for 3-12mo according to patient’s responses. Full field flash electroretinogram (ERG) and flash visual evoked potential (VEP) were done before treatment and at 1, 3, 6, and 12mo sequentially. Patients were followed up for 12mo. RESULTS: In the 2000 eyes, 1000 eyes had both moderate optic nerve and retinal function defects; and 840 eyes out of the 1000 improved with the medical treatment. Another 500 eyes out of the 2000 eyes had extinguished retinal function with normal optic nerve function and only 125 eyes of them improved. The 290 out of the 2000 eyes had severe defects in optic nerve with normal retinal function and 130 of them improved. Another 210 eyes have mild optic nerve and retinal function defects and 194 improved. CONCLUSION: The combination of vincamine, thioctic acid with cyanocobalamine, and lutein improved both retina and optic nerve functions mainly in mild and moderate defect than in severe cases.

Effects of steep-axis incision on corneal curvature in one-handed phacoemulsification

Pan-Pan Li, Ye-Meng Huang, Qi Cai, Li-Li Huang, Yu Song and Huai-Jin Guan — 2019/7/9 0:00:00
AIM: To examine the effects of one-handed phacoemulsification with steep-axis incision on corneal curvature and analyze surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) on the true net power, anterior and posterior corneal surfaces. METHODS: Patients with cataracts underwent one-handed phacoemulsification with a 2.4-mm steep-axis of clear corneal incision (CCI) based on true net power. CCI was created under the guidance of Verion. Central corneal thickness (CCT), keratometry readings of the true net power and anterior and posterior corneal surface were obtained using Pentacam. Biometry, such as axial length, anterior chamber depth (ACD) and white-to-white (WTW) were performed using Lenstar pre- and 3mo post-operatively. RESULTS: The study evaluated 68 eyes of 65 patients. The mean age was 65.93±9.40y; CCT was 529.21±37.40 μm; WTW was 11.59±0.35 mm. Regarding true net power, keratometric value at the flattest corneal meridian for the 3-mm central zone (Ks) was significantly decreased postoperatively (P=0.031). Keratometric value at the steepest corneal meridian for the 3-mm central zone (Kf) was increased postoperatively (P>0.05). Astigmatism of true net power was 1.21±0.56 D preoperatively and significantly decreased to 1.02±0.58 D postoperatively (P=0.021). On the anterior corneal surface, no significant difference in Ks and Kf was noted pre- versus postoperatively. Anterior corneal astigmatism was 1.08±0.51 D preoperatively and significantly decreased to 0.87±0.46 D postoperatively (P=0.002). On the posterior corneal surface, Ks and Kf were significantly increased postoperatively (all P<0.05), and posterior corneal astigmatism also increased (P=0.008). The SIA values of true net power and the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces at 3mo postoperatively were 1.26±0.63 D (range: 0.11 to 2.80 D), 1.05±0.54 D (range: 0.23 to 2.40 D), and 0.21±0.17 D (range: 0.01 to 0.07 D), respectively. CONCLUSION: One-handed phacoemulsification with steep-axis incision can effectively decrease astigmatism of true net power and anterior corneal astigmatism. In the same surgery, the difference in personal SIA potentially originated from a difference in personal corneal thickness and diameter, both CCT and WTW distance should always be measured preoperatively when planning steep-axis phacoemulsification.

Evaluation of suturless scleral fixation with posterior chamber foldable intraocular lens implantation

Ahmed M. Bedda, Hesham F. ElGoweini, Ahmed M. Abdelhadi and Amr M. Elhady — 2019/7/9 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the sutureless scleral fixation technique for posterior chamber foldable intraocular lens (PCIOL) implantation in aphakic eyes with insufficient or no capsular support. METHODS: A technique for sutureless intrascleral fixation of the haptics of a standard 3-piece PCIOL was used which ensures sutureless fixation by permanent incarceration of the haptics in a scleral tunnel parallel to the limbus. All patients were evaluated for preoperative status [visual acuity, refractive error, K readings, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, slit lamp examination, fundus examination and optical biometry], postoperative status and complications. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) was done for 10 cases to evaluate optic tilt. RESULTS: The study evaluated 42 eyes of 42 patients. The follow-up period was 6mo. Improvement of best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) one line occurred in 10 cases (23.8%) and loss of one line in 3 cases (7.1%). Intraoperative complications included: haptic kink in 4 cases (9.5%), haptic breakage in 1 case (2.4%), haptic dislocation in 1 case (2.4%), haptic slippage in 3 cases (7.1%), IOL dislocation in 1 case (2.4%) and sclerotomy related bleeding in 1 case (2.4%). Postoperative complications included: transient mild vitreous hemorrhage in 3 cases (7.1%), choroidal detachment in 1 case (2.4%), cystoid macular edema (CME) in 1 case (2.4%), optic capture in 1 case (2.4%), subconjunctival haptic in 2 cases (4.8%), ocular hypotony in 4 cases (9.5%) and ocular hypertension in 1 case (2.4%). There were no cases of retinal detachment or endophthalmitis. UBM showed optic tilt in 3 cases (30%). CONCLUSION: Fixation of three-piece foldable IOL haptics in scleral tunnel parallel to the limbus- provided axial stability and proper centration of the IOL with minimal or no tilt in most cases and a low complication rate during the follow up period which lasted 6mo.

Ex-PRESS implantation for different types of glaucoma

Meltem Guzin Altinel, Ayse Yagmur Kanra, Remzi Karadag and Huseyin Bayramlar — 2019/7/9 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the clinical results, efficacy and safety of Ex-PRESS P200 glaucoma shunt implant in different types of medically uncontrolled glaucoma. METHODS: The study included 31 eyes of 31 patients that were unresponsive to medical antiglaucomatous therapy in whom Ex-PRESS P200 glaucoma shunt implantation was performed. The demographic characteristics of the patients, type of glaucoma, complete ocular examination results, number of antiglaucomatous drugs before and after surgery, early and late complications of surgery, additional surgical and nonsurgical medical interventions, and success rates were investigated from the patients’ files, retrospectively. RESULTS: The mean postoperative follow-up time was 16.4±7.5mo. The preoperative mean corrected intraocular pressure (IOP) was 28.7±10.3 mm Hg and postoperative mean corrected IOP was 15.3±5.2 mm Hg (P<0.05) at the last visit. The mean IOP reduction was 39.9% when the preoperative and postoperative values of the last visits were compared. The average number of antiglaucomatous drug use decreased from 3.9±0.3 to 1.7±1.7 postoperatively (P<0.05). The use of antiglaucomatous medications at the last visit was more than in other studies in the literature. The most common complication was conjunctival leakage, which was seen in 7 patients. Other early complications were iris touch, intravitreal hemorrhage, hyphema, choroidal effusion, early transient hypotonia and corneal edema. One of the late complications was endophthalmitis which was seen in one case 6mo after the operation, and the other late complication was opacification of the cornea in one patient. Twelve additional surgical operations associated to Ex-PRESS surgery and 3 bleb needling have done. At the last visit, the complete success rate was 32.3% and the qualified success rate was 77.5% in all patients. CONCLUSION: Ex-PRESS P200 glaucoma shunt implantation may be an effective procedure for medically uncontrolled glaucoma with significantly lower use of antiglaucomatous medications.

Posterior vitreous detachment rate following intravitreal dexamethasone injection

Atilla Alpay — 2019/7/9 0:00:00
AIM: To determine whether intravitreal dexamethasone (DEX) implant induces posterior vitreous detachment or not. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed 810 eyes of 405 patients who underwent intravitreal DEX implantation due to macular edema caused by diabetic and retinal venous occlusion in our clinic. The eyes having no injection were determined as the control group. The examination findings of the patients before the injection and 3mo after the injection and optical coherence tomography (OCT) images were scanned. The pre-injection OCT findings and OCT findings of the patients having no posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) and determined to have partial PVD were compared. RESULTS: The separation in vitreoretinal adhesion and total PVD development of DEX-injected 56/208 (26.9%) eyes were statistically greater in comparison with the 12/129 (9.3%) eyes that had not been injected (P=0.001). PVD development was observed more in the patients that were younger, had larger macula thickness and lower visual acuity. CONCLUSION: It can be stated that intravitreal DEX implant induces PVD development. Prospective, controlled studies are required in order to determine prognosis of vitreoretinal disease in PVD-developed patients and in non-PVD-developed patients.

Assessment of optic nerve and optic tract alterations in patients with orbital space-occupying lesions using probabilistic diffusion tractography

2019/7/9 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the diffusion changes in both the optic nerve and optic tract in orbital space-occupying lesion patients with decreased visual acuity, and its clinical significance using probabilistic diffusion tractography (PDT). METHODS: Twenty patients with orbital space-occupying lesions and 25 age- and gender-matched healthy persons were included. All patients and controls underwent routine orbital magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), using a 3.0T magnetic resonance scanner (Trio Tim Siemens). After the image data were preprocessed, each DTI parameters of the optic nerve and optic tract was obtained by PDT, including fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD). The asymmetry index (AI) of each parameter was calculated. Compared the parameters of the affected side optic nerve and ipsilateral optic tract with the contralateral side by paired sample t-test; compared AI of parameters of optic nerve and optic tract between the patient group and the control group by independent sample t-test. Patients were divided into three subgroups according to the low vision grade standard of WHO, compared the FA and AI of FA between the three subgroups by single factor variance analysis. RESULTS: The affected side optic nerve presented significantly decreased FA, increased MD, AD, and RD values compared to the unaffected side (P<0.05). The AI of FA, MD, AD, and RD of optic nerve in the patients was significantly higher than that of the controls (P<0.05). The comparison results of the optic tract showed that there was no significant difference between the patient group and control group in terms of the bilateral optic tracts in patients (P>0.05). The AIs of the FA value of the optic nerve in the eyesight <0.1 subgroup was significantly higher than that in the other groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: FA, MD, AD, and RD of the affected side optic nerve of the orbital space-occupying lesions have significantly changed, the FA value is the most sensitive. The PDT could be a useful tool to provide valid quantitative markers of optic nerve injuries and evaluate the severity of orbital diseases, which other examinations cannot be acquired.

Comparison of corneal curvature parameters obtained from two different instruments—Pentacam and VX120

Qing-Wei Zhang, Chang-Bin Zhai and Dong-Li Ma — 2019/7/9 0:00:00
AIM: To explore whether the same corneal curvature parameters and anterior chamber depth measured by Pentacam and VX120 have a good consistency and can replace each other. METHODS: This study enrolled 140 eyes of 70 patients ranging in age from 19 to 53y. All eyes underwent a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination including an anterior segment analysis with the VX120 system (Visionix-Luneau Technologies, Chartres, France) and Pentacam (Oculus Optikgerate GmbH) respectively. The comparison on corneal curvature parameters was done between Pentacam and VX120 using clustered signed rank test; the interclass correlation coefficients (ICC) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated for each parameter between Pentacam and VX120; the Bland-Altman plot of each parameter was supplemented. RESULTS: The anterior corneal curvature measured by VX120 was Ks: 44.00±1.78 D, KsAt: 89.45±22.18, Kf: 42.84±1.58 D, KfAt: 93.91±79.34; which measured by Pentacam was Ks: 43.80±1.82 D, KsAt: 91.17±21.40, Kf: 42.61±1.64 D, KfAt: 91.16±78.69. There was statistical difference between Pentacam and VX120 for anterior corneal curvature parameter (P<0.001). The posterior corneal curvature measured by VX120 was Ks: -6.42±1.23 D, KsAt: 91.00±23.45, Kf: -5.85±1.24 D, KfAt: 95.93±79.11; which measured by Pentacam was Ks: -6.44±0.32 D, KsAt: 92.24±11.75, Kf: -6.01±1.05 D, KfAt: 74.43±80.64. There was statistical difference between Pentacam and VX120 for posterior corneal curvature parameters (P<0.001). Anterior chamber depth (ACD) measured by Pentacam and VX120 was statistically different. Pentacam and VX120 achieved high consistency only on corneal anterior surface, including Ks and Kf. The ICCs were 0.96 (95%CI: 0.95, 0.97) and 0.95 (95%CI: 0.94, 0.97) respectively. For other corneal surface curvature parameters, all ICCs of between Pentacam and VX120 were below 0.87. Bland-Altman plots indicated of low consistency of corneal surface curvature parameters measured by Pentacam and VX120. CONCLUSION: The corneal curvature parameters and anterior chamber depth measured by Pentacam and VX120 were statistically different. Data measured by Pentacam and VX120 is not suggested to replace each other, mixing data measured by Pentacam and VX120 together is not suggested either.

Astigmatic correction with implantation of a light adjustable vs monofocal lens: a single site analysis of a randomized controlled trial

2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the light adjustable lens (LAL) vs a standard monofocal lens in achieving target astigmatic refraction and improving postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA). METHODS: This randomized controlled clinical trial included 40 patients with pre-existing astigmatism and visually significant cataract. Twenty-eight patients received the LAL and 12 control patients received a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) after cataract extraction at a single institution. The patients with the LAL underwent adjustment by ultraviolet (UV) light postoperatively plus subsequent lock-in procedures and all patients returned to clinic for follow up of study parameters at 6, 9, and 12mo. Manifest refraction, distance visual acuity, and adverse events were recorded at each visit. RESULTS: The mean cylinder before adjustment in eyes with the LAL was -0.89±0.58 D (-2.00 to 0.00 D) and -0.34±0.34 D (-1.25 to 0.00 D) after lock-in (P=1.68x10-8). The mean cylinder in patients with the monofocal lens was -1.00±0.32 D (-1.50 to -0.50 D) at 17-21d postoperatively, which was statistically different from the LAL cylinder post lock-in (P=1.43x10-6). UDVA in the LAL group was 20/20 or better in 79% of patients post lock-in with good stability over 12mo compared with 33% of the control patients with UDVA of 20/20 or better. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that the LAL is more effective in achieving target refractions and improving postoperative UDVA in patients with pre-existing corneal astigmatism than a standard monofocal lens.

Imaging characteristics and surgical management of orbital neurilemmomas

Ming-Hao Chen and Jian-Hua Yan — 2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To review imaging characteristics and surgical outcomes of orbital neurilemmoma. METHODS: Retrospective review of 21 patients with orbital neurilemmoma managed at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University from June 2005 to December 2016. All patients underwent surgical excision following preoperative imaging including ultrasonography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). RESULTS: Among these patients, 11 were male and 10 were female, with age ranging from 12 to 75y (average, 40.3y). Ultrasound of the orbit showed a roundish well-demarcated orbital mass with low or middle internal reflectivity in each case. Dark inner liquid fields were detected in 28.6% of these cases. Doppler ultrasound demonstrated blood flow signals in these masses. CT showed that the tumors were either homogeneous or heterogeneous. MRI of T1WI revealed isointense or hypointense tumors, while the T2WI indicated heterogeneous hyperintense lesions. Gd contrast MRI demonstrated heterogenous or homogeneous enhancement initiating from the wide area of the lesion. Six patients underwent lateral orbitotomy and 15 anterior orbitotomy. All tumors were completely removed. After a mean follow-up of 1.8y, 3 patients experienced reduced vision while the remaining 10 patients showed improved vision after surgery. One patient experienced a mild limitation of upward motility. No recurrence occurred. CONCLUSION: Orbital neurilemmoma is a relatively rare, benign orbital tumor. Effective diagnosis requires a combination of ultrasonography, CT and/or MRI. These imaging techniques are also vital to differentiate neurilemmomas from other orbital masses like that of cavernous hemangiomas and meningiomas. Successful treatment requires complete resection of the neurilemmomas as performed either by lateral or anterior orbitotomy. Recurrence is rare after complete removal.

Radiofrequency ablation micro-dissecting of eyelid nevus with XL-RFA device under operating microscope

2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To study the effect of an innovative micro-dissection procedure by radiofrequency ablation (MRA) in removing eyelid nevus. METHODS: Fifty-six consecutive outpatients with eyelid nevus were treated with MRA using a monopolar device. The effect of MRA was determined after following-up for 6mo to 5y. RESULTS: Fifty-two cases (52 eyes, 92.9%) were cured once, and 4 cases (4 eyes, 7.1%) received second treatment for small residual. All cases healed well after surgery, with no pigmentation, no scars, no loss of eyelashes, no deformation of eyelid margin. There was no visual impairment after healing. CONCLUSION: MRA of eyelid nevus using the XL-RFA device is highly efficient without significant complications.

Changes in ocular surface status and dry eye symptoms following femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery

2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To observe the changes in ocular surface and the dry eye symptoms following femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). METHODS: Patients with no eye signs or symptoms in Guangzhou Aier Eye Hospital between October 2017 and September 2018, who underwent FLACS and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation for age-related cataract were enrolled. Tear film stability assessed with OCULUS Keratograph 5M, Schirmer’s I test (SIT), and corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) were evaluated before and after surgery at 1d, 1wk, 1, and 3mo in order. Ocular Surface Disease Index scores (OSDI) and Subjective Symptom Questionnaires (SSQs) were recorded at the same time point. RESULTS: Thirty-eight eyes of 38 patients were enrolled. The noninvasive tear film break-up time (first break-up time and average break-up time) decreased in a peak at the 1wk visit, and then increased to basic levels at 1mo. The tear meniscus height (TMH) increased transiently at 1d, and declined in the following 3mo visits. The SIT had a transient increase at 1d (P=0.357) and a decrease at 1wk and 1mo (both P<0.05) but returned to the preoperative levels at 3mo after surgery (P=0.062). CFS scores were significantly improved compared with those before surgery, and had a statistical difference (P<0.05). OSDI scores and SSQs after surgery were obviously higher, and had a statistical difference (P<0.001) but didn’t return to the basic level by 3mo. CONCLUSION: Dry eye signs and symptoms can occur immediately following FLACS and have a peak severity on day 7 postoperatively. Most signs of dry eye can return to preoperative basic levels within 3mo postoperatively. However, all cases can not recover from CFS and dry eye symptoms at 3mo postoperatively.

Association between the levels of prostaglandin E2 in tears and severity of dry eye

2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the relationship between the levels of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in tears and dry eye disease severity based on both clinical symptoms and signs. METHODS: Tear samples were collected from 36 non-Sjögren syndrome dry eye patients (10 males and 26 females, mean age 50.11±11.17y). All participants completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and underwent a detailed ophthalmic examination including, tear film breakup time (TBUT), ocular surface fluorescein staining, Schirmer I test, and meibomian gland assessment. The level of PGE2 in tears was measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The independent associations between tear PGE2 levels and other variables including demographics, OSDI scores, TBUT, Schirmer scores, ocular surface staining scores, and stage of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) were evaluated using linear regression analysis. RESULTS: The mean PGE2 level in tears of dry eye patients was 537.85±234.02 pg/mL. The tear PGE2 levels significantly positively correlated with OSDI scores (R=0.608, P<0.001), however, they did not significantly associate with TBUT (R=0.153, P=0.373), Schirmer scores (R=-0.098, P=0.570), ocular surface staining scores (R=0.282, P=0.095), and stage of MGD (R=-0.107, P=0.535). Male sex was significantly negatively correlated with tear PGE2 levels. CONCLUSION: The levels of PGE2 in tears are positively correlated with dry eye symptoms. However, no significant association was found between tear PGE2 levels and the results of other common dry eye diagnostic tests.

Mode of delivery, birth weight and the incidence of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction

Ayse Dolar Bilge — 2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To study any possible association of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) with mode of delivery, birth weight and gestational age. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed charts of all patients (n=2591) under the age of 3y who were born between April 2015 and May 2017 and were examined at the Ophthalmology Clinic of Emsey Hospital Istanbul, Turkey. We identified patients (n=105) who were diagnosed as CNLDO. The mode of delivery, birth weight and gestational age along with any adverse event during or after delivery or any other health history were determined. Birth statistical data were obtained from the hospital’s medical records database. RESULTS: Gestational age of babies who were born via cesarean section (CS) was lower than gestational age of babies who were born via normal spontaneous vaginal delivery (NSVD; P=0.002). Babies who were born via CS were found to have 3.75 times higher risk of developing NLDO when compared to babies who were born via NSVD (OR=3.754). CONCLUSION: There is a possible association between CS and CNLDO.

Relationship between early structural changes at cornea incision sites and surgical outcomes after phacoemulsification

Kyung Hyun Jin and Tae Gi Kim — 2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the early structural changes at clear corneal cataract incision sites and surgical outcomes using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). METHODS: We evaluated 80 eyes of 59 patients who underwent phacoemulsification with a clear corneal incision. All incisions were evaluated 1wk, 1, and 3mo postoperatively using AS-OCT and analyzed regarding angle, length of the incision, maximal corneal thickness at the incision, and if present, corneal endothelial gap length and incision gap area. The patients were divided into two groups according to whether or not an endothelial gap was present at 1wk postoperatively (endothelial gap, group 1; no endothelial gap, group 2). We analyzed the difference in patient and surgical factors between the two groups, and compared the surgical outcome and the refractive outcome. RESULTS: An endothelial gap was observed in 56 (70.0%) of 80 eyes at 1wk postoperatively but not at 3mo postoperatively. The mean patient age was significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2. The longer the length of the corneal incision and the steeper the incision angle, the greater the length and area of the endothelial gap. In group 1, the mean change in mean keratometry of the anterior cornea was significantly greater than in group 2, and the spherical equivalent (SE) and mean numerical error indicated significant myopic changes at 1wk postoperatively. CONCLUSION: The risk of an endothelial gap increases with patient age and a long corneal incision and steep incision angle. The presence of an endothelial gap after surgery may affect the early postoperative corneal curvature and SE.

The process of retinal vascularization in retinopathy of prematurity after ranibizumab treatment in China

Qing-Yu Meng, Yong Cheng, Ming-Wei Zhao and Jian-Hong Liang — 2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To explore the process of retinal vascularization and risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treated with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) as monotherapy. METHODS: Infants with type 1 ROP who received IVR as primary treatment from August 2014 to October 2016 at Peking University People’s Hospital’s Ophthalmology Department were included in the study. All eyes received 0.25 mg ranibizumab at initial treatment. Retinal vascularization was evaluated clinically. Potential risk factors were also recorded and examined. RESULTS: Retinal vascularization was completed in 126 eyes (62.7%), and retinal vascularization terminated in zone II and zone III with 16 eyes (7.9%) and 44 eyes (21.9%), respectively, after more than 1-year follow-up. In multivariate regression analysis, lower birth weight (BW), severity of ROP and repeated injections were found to be risk factors for peripheral avascular area (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: In our retrospective study, 29.8% of the ROP eyes treated with ranibizumab have peripheral avascular area at the last follow-up. Lighter BW and the severity of ROP are risk factors. Furthermore, repeated injections also increase the risk of retinal peripheral avascular area remaining in ROP patients.

The clinical features of posterior scleritis with serous retinal detachment: a retrospective clinical analysis

Zhi-Zhang Dong, Yi-Feng Gan, Yi-Nan Zhang, Yu Zhang, Juan Li and Hai-Hua Zheng — 2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To summarize the clinical features, systemic associations, risk factors and choroidal thickness (CT) changing in posterior scleritis (PS) with serous retinal detachment. METHODS: This retrospective study included 23 patients diagnosed PS with retinal detachment from August 2012 to July 2017. All patients’ medical history and clinical features were recorded. The examinations included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure (IOP), fundus examination, and routine eye examinations. Posterior coats thickness (PCT) was determined by B-scan ultrasound, the CT was measured by enhanced depth imaging spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) and clinical data were compiled and analyzed. RESULTS: After application of extensive exclusion criteria, 23 patients with PS remained (13 females, 10 males). The average age at presentation was 29.5±9.24 years old. Ocular pain and blurred vision were the two most common complained symptoms by patients. Anterior scleritis occurred in 12 patients, which was confirmed by ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) examination. Despite all patients displaying serous retinal detachment in their macula, no fluorescein leakage was observed in the macular area. Optic disc swelling was documented in 10 of the 23 eyes. From B-scan ultrasound examination, the PCT increased with fluid in Tenon’s capsule demonstrated as a typical T-sign. The average PCT was 2.51±0.81 mm in the PS-affected eyes and only 1.09±0.29 mm in the unaffected eye (P<0.0001). The subfoveal CT was 442.61±55.61 μm, which correlated with axis length (r=-0.65, P=0.001) and PCT (r=0.783, P<0.001). The BCVA and IOP did not correlate with either CT or PCT. CONCLUSION: PS with serous retinal detachment presented a variety of symptoms, such as pain, visual loss, and physical indicators. Typical T-sign detected by B-scan ultrasound is a useful confirmatory sign for PS diagnosis. Pathological increases in CT might be a potential predictive factor for inflammation.

Artificial intelligence on diabetic retinopathy diagnosis: an automatic classification method based on grey level co-occurrence matrix and naive Bayesian model

Kai Cao, Jie Xu and Wei-Qi Zhao — 2019/6/11 0:00:00
AIM: To develop an automatic tool on screening diabetic retinopathy (DR) from diabetic patients. METHODS: We extracted textures from eye fundus images of each diabetes subject using grey level co-occurrence matrix method and trained a Bayesian model based on these textures. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to estimate the sensitivity and specificity of the Bayesian model. RESULTS: A total of 1000 eyes fundus images from diabetic patients in which 298 eyes were diagnosed as DR by two ophthalmologists. The Bayesian model was trained using four extracted textures including contrast, entropy, angular second moment and correlation using a training dataset. The Bayesian model achieved a sensitivity of 0.949 and a specificity of 0.928 in the validation dataset. The area under the ROC curve was 0.938, and the 10-fold cross validation method showed that the average accuracy rate is 93.5%. CONCLUSION: Textures extracted by grey level co-occurrence can be useful information for DR diagnosis, and a trained Bayesian model based on these textures can be an effective tool for DR screening among diabetic patients.

Effect of lens constants optimization on the accuracy of intraocular lens power calculation formulas for highly myopic eyes

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of different lens constant optimization methods on the accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas for highly myopic eyes. METHODS: This study comprised 108 eyes of 94 consecutive patients with axial length (AL) over 26 mm undergoing phacoemulsification and implantation of a Rayner (Hove, UK) 920H IOL. Formulas were evaluated using the following lens constants: manufacturer’s lens constant, User Group for Laser Interference Biometry (ULIB) constant, and optimized constant for long eyes. Results were compared with Barrett Universal II formula, original Wang-Koch AL adjustment method, and modified Wang-Koch AL adjustment method. The outcomes assessed were mean absolute error (MAE) and percentage of eyes with IOL prediction errors within ±0.25, ±0.50, and ±1.0 diopter (D). The nonparametric method, Friedman test, was used to compare MAE performance among constants. RESULTS: Optimized constants could significantly reduce the MAE of SRK/T, Hoffer Q, and Holladay 1 formulas compared with manufacturer’s lens constant, whereas the percentage of eyes with IOL prediction errors within ±0.25, ±0.50, and ±1.0 D had no statistically significant differences. Optimized lens constant for long eyes alone showed non-significant refractive advantages over the ULIB constant. Barrett Universal II formula and formulas with AL adjustment showed significantly higher accuracy in highly myopic eyes (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Lens constant optimization for the subset of long eyes reduces the refractive error only to a limited extent for highly myopic eyes.

Impact of ultrasound and optical biometry on refractive outcomes of cataract surgery after penetrating keratoplasty in keratoconus

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To analyse the impact of ultrasound and optical intraocular lens (IOL) calculation methods on refractive outcomes of cataract phacoemulsification performed after penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in keratoconus. METHODS: Phacoemulsification cataract surgery was performed on 42 eyes of 34 patients with keratoconus who had previously undergone PK. The IOL power was determined by using both standard and corneal topography-derived keratometry using the SRK/T formula. We used two independent methods-ultrasound biometry (UB) and interferometry [optical biometry (OB)] for IOL calculation. The analysed data from medical records included demographics, medical history, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) on Snellen charts, technique of IOL calculation and calculation formula and its impact on final refractive result. RESULTS: BCVA ranged from 0.01 to 0.4 (mean 0.09±0.19) before surgery and ranged from 0.2 to 0.7 (mean 0.38±0.14) at 1mo and from 0.2 to 1.0 (mean 0.56±0.16) (P<0.05) at 3mo, postoperatively. The refractive aim differed significantly from the refractive outcome in both the UB and OB groups (P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the accuracy of the two biometry methods. CONCLUSION: The refractive aim in keratoconus eyes post-PK is not achieved with either ultrasound or OB.

Late in-the-bag spontaneous IOL dislocation: risk factors and surgical outcomes

Sevgi Subasi, Nursen Yuksel, V. Levent Karabas and Busra Yilmaz Tugan — 2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the possible predisposing risk factors for late in-the-bag spontaneous IOL dislocations and to study the early surgical and visual outcomes of repositioning and exchange surgeries. METHODS: Medical and surgical records of 39 eyes of 39 patients who underwent IOL repositioning or exchange surgery for dislocation between 2010 and 2018 were reviewed. Possible predisposing risk factors and some characteristics of late in-the-bag spontaneous IOL dislocations; outcomes of IOL repositioning and exchange surgeries, including visual acuity, refractive status before and after surgery and postoperative complications were evaluated. RESULTS: The predisposing factors for late in-the-bag spontaneous IOL dislocations were pseudoexfoliation [PEX; 12/39 (30.8%)], previous vitreoretinal surgery [7/39 (17.9%)], axial myopia [3/39 (7.7%)], both PEX and axial myopia [1/39 (2.6%)], both previous vitreoretinal surgery and axial myopia [2/39 (5.1%)] and uveitis [1/39 (2.6%)]. The mean interval between cataract and dislocation surgery was 7.23y, greater in PEX positive group (8.63y). The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved significantly after dislocation surgery (P<0.001) and also improved significantly after exchange surgery (P=0.001). The mean value of spherical equivalant decreased significantly after dislocation surgery (P=0.011), whereas corneal astigmatism increased but this difference was not significant after dislocation surgery and exchange surgery (P=0.191, P=0.074, respectively). CONCLUSION: The most prevelant risk factors for late in-the-bag spontaneous IOL dislocations are PEX, previous vitreoretinal surgery and axial myopia. In the management of IOL dislocations, exchange surgery with small corneal incision seemed effective with improved BCVA and safety with low postoperative complications.

Effect of femtosecond laser-assisted lens surgery on the optic nerve head and the macula

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of femtosecond laser-assisted lens surgery (FLALS; cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange) on the structure of the optic nerve head and the macula. METHODS: This prospective longitudinal study included healthy eyes undergoing FLALS. Eyes with glaucoma or any other ocular disease that could alter optical coherence tomography results were excluded. Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), Bruch’s membrane opening-minimum rim width (BMO-MRW) and macular thickness (MT) were measured preoperatively, 1 and 6mo after surgery using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Changes between preoperative and postoperative values were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 87 eyes of 46 patients were included in this study. Preoperative RNFL, BMO-MRW and MT in microns (µm) were 100.77±10.39, 330.31±49.99 and 276.30±33.39, respectively. Postoperative RNFL, BMO-MRW and MT were 104.74±11.55, 348.32±54.05 and 279.83±22.65 1mo after surgery and 102.93±11.17, 343.11±53.4 and 278.90±22.19 6mo after surgery, respectively; which equals an increase of 3.93%, 5.45% and 1.27%, respectively, 1mo after surgery, and 2.14%, 3.87% and 0.94% 6mo after surgery. The differences between the preoperative and the postoperative RNFL and BMO-MRW values were statistically significant (P<0.001). Regarding MT values, there were not statistically significant differences (P=0.26). CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that FLALS does not have a negative impact on the structural status of the optic nerve head in healthy eyes, assessed by SD-OCT. There is a slight increase in the values of RNFL, BMO-MRW and MT 1mo and 6mo after surgery.

Changes in intraocular pressure after intraocular eye surgery—the influence of measuring technique

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) before and after intraocular surgery measured with Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) and pascal dynamic contour tonometry (PDCT), and assessed their agreement. METHODS: Patients who underwent trans pars plana vitrectomy (TPPV) with or without cataract extraction (CE) were included. The IOP was measured in both eyes with GAT and PDCT pre- and postoperatively, where the non-operated eyes functioned as control. RESULTS: Preoperatively, mean IOP measurements were 16.3±6.0 mm Hg for GAT and 12.0±2.8 mm Hg for PDCT for the operated eyes. Postoperatively, the mean IOP dropped to 14.3±5.6 mm Hg for GAT (P=0.011) and rose up to 12.7±2.6 mm Hg for PDCT (P=0.257). Bland-Altman analysis showed a poor agreement between GAT and PDCT with a mean difference of 2.9 mm Hg preoperatively and 95% limits of agreement ranging from -3.2 to 9.0 mm Hg. Postoperatively, the mean difference was 1.2 mm Hg with 95% limits of agreement ranging from -8.3 to 10.7 mm Hg. There were no significant differences between the TPPV and TPPV+CE group, except when measured with PDCT postoperatively (P=0.012). CONCLUSION: The IOP is reduced after surgery when measured with GAT and remained stable when measured with PDCT. However, the agreement between GAT and PDCT is poor. Although PDCT may be a more accurate predictor of the true IOP, it seems less suitable for daily use in the clinical practice.

Combined treatment of phacoemulsification and single-port limited pars plana vitrectomy in acute angle-closure glaucoma

Ha Jeong Noh and Seong Taeck Kim — 2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of combined treatment of phacoemulsification (PE) and micro-incisional single-port transconjunctival limited pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG). METHODS: A retrospective study included 26 patients who underwent PE diagnosed with AACG. Among them, 16 patients (16 eyes) underwent PE alone, 10 patients (10 eyes) underwent combined limited vitrectomy and PE. Then we compared intraocular pressure (IOP), anterior chamber angle, anterior chamber depth, central corneal thickness and corneal endothelial cell count before and after surgery, and effective PE time during cataract surgery. RESULTS: Effective PE time was shorter in the combined surgery group than in the single surgery group (P=0.040). There was no statistically significant difference in IOP and best-corrected visual acuity between the two groups postoperatively. At 6mo postoperatively, there was no difference in the anterior chamber angle, anterior chamber depth, and central corneal thickness between two groups, but corneal endothelial cell count was higher in the combined surgery group than in the single surgery group (P=0.046). No complication such as vitreoretinal disease, endophthalmitis, bullous keratopathy was noted. CONCLUSION: Combined micro-incisional single-port transconjunctival limited PPV and PE are more effective and safer than PE alone because of less operation time and fewer complications for management of AACG.

Focal choroidal excavation complicated with choroidal neovascularization in young and middle aged patients

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the clinical and optical coherence tomography (OCT) features of focal choroidal excavation (FCE) complicated with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in young and middle aged patients. METHODS: We performed a retrospective review of 26 patients with FCE accompanied by CNV. All patients underwent a complete ophthalmic examination. We analyzed the clinical characteristics of patients, focusing on the spectral-domain OCT features. All patients received intravitreal injection of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents. And we assessed the changes of central retinal thickness and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) after anti-VEGF therapy. RESULTS: The mean age of 26 patients was 35.5±7.3y (range, 21-48y). Of the 26 FCE lesions, 11 were located subfoveal, 6 were parafoveal, and 9 were extrafoveal. The mean FCE depth was 129.8±50.3 μm, and the mean width was 901.3±306.0 μm. The FCE depth was correlated positively with the width, but not correlated with age or refractive error. CNV was located within the excavation (19 eyes) or adjacent to the excavation (7 eyes). After anti-VEGF therapy, the central retinal thickness was significantly reduced and the BCVA was significantly improved. In the absorption process of subretinal fluid, we found that the fluid in the excavations needed to be absorbed at the last. A small amount of residual fluid could still be seen in a few deep excavations even after a long-term follow-up. CONCLUSION: FCE may be an important reason to cause CNV. Especially in young patients with idiopathic CNV, we should pay attention to the use of OCT to check the presence of FCE. Anti-VEGF therapy is generally effective for CNV associated with FCE.

Renal function and choroidal thickness using swept-source optical coherence tomography in diabetic patients

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the relationship between choroidal thickness and renal function in diabetic patients. METHODS: Cross-sectional retrospective clinical study of 42 eyes of 21 ocular treatment-naïve diabetic patients. Demographic data included: age, sex, type and course of diabetes. Ocular data included: severity of diabetic retinopathy; retinal thickness at the central macular region, as well as choroidal thickness at the central and paracentral quadrants, using automatically generated maps by swept-source optical coherence tomography; presence of cystic macular edema; and ocular axial length (AXL). Lab-test parameters included: glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), albuminuria, albumin/creatinine ratio in urine, and glomerular filtration rate. RESULTS: A significant negative correlation was mainly observed between several choroidal thicknesses, age (P<0.020) and ocular AXL (P<0.030). On the contrary, a significant positive correlation was found between all choroidal thicknesses, HbA1c (P<0.035) and albuminuria (P<0.040). CONCLUSION: Choroidal thickness can represent an additional tool to help clinicians predicting the renal status in ocular treatment-naïve diabetic patients.

Disorganization of the retinal inner layers as a prognostic factor in eyes with central retinal artery occlusion

Hayati Yilmaz and Ali H. Durukan — 2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate baseline foveal disorganisation of retinal inner layers (DRIL) as a prognostic factor in eyes with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO). METHODS: Twenty-eight CRAO patients who were followed-up between 2010 and 2016 were retrospectively investigated. Demographic characteristics and detailed ophthalmological examination findings of all patients were recorded. Macular thicknesses (MTs) from 5 separate spots and DRIL were measured with spectral-domain optic coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Correlations between DRIL score and logMAR converted visual acuity (VA), change in VA, patient reference time (RT), number of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) sessions, MT and MT change were investigated. RESULTS: There was a positive correlation between the DRIL score and the final VA (r=0.787) and a negative correlation with the change in VA (r=-0.763). The RT and MT were closely related to the DRIL score. A negative correlation was found between the number of HBOT sessions and the DRIL score (r=-0.341). CONCLUSION: The DRIL score is a parameter assessed by SD-OCT, which can provide us reliable information regarding the prognosis of visual functions and response to the treatment for CRAO patients at acute phase.

International multi-center study of iatrogenic retinal tears in pars plana vitrectomy

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To study and compare the effect of different surgical settings on the development of iatrogenic retinal tears (IRT) in conventional (20-gauge) and microincisional vitrectomy. METHODS: An international retrospective comparative study of 394 patients who had simple vitrectomy at three tertiary centers. Surgeries were performed by four retina surgeons using different viewing systems. Two groups of eyes were compared: microincisional vitrectomy (327 eyes) and conventional (67 eyes) vitrectomy. An iatrogenic tear was defined as the occurrence of one or more peripheral retinal tears during surgery or at any visit in the first 6wk postoperatively. RESULTS: Mean age was 67±12y and 55% were female. Iatrogenic tears occurred in 11/394 (2.8%) of eyes. The rate of tears was similar among different surgeons and viewing systems (P=0.93 and P=0.76, respectively). Surgical indication, preexisting pseudophakia/aphakia, induction of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) during surgery, and the use triamcinolone acetonide didn’t significantly affect the rate of tears (P>0.1 for all factors). A higher rate of tears was found in the conventional group compared to the microincisional group (respectively, 7.5%, 1.8%, P=0.02). CONCLUSION: The rate of IRT in vitrectomy is not significantly affected by surgical indication, preexisting PVD or pseudophakia, or use of triamcinolone or different viewing systems but is significantly higher in conventional vitrectomy. Microincisional platforms improve the safety of vitrectomy regardless of the viewing system used.

B-scan ultrasound and cytology of the vitreous in primary central nervous system lymphoma with vitreoretinal involvement

2019/5/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the diagnostic value of B-scan ultrasound and explore the cytological characteristics of patients with vitreoretinal lymphoma (VRL) and primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). METHODS: The clinical data and pathologic specimens from patients with VRL diagnosed at the North Huashan Hospital from 2016 to 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were diagnosed by slit lamp ophthalmoscopy, B-scan ultrasound, cytology of the vitreous, which was obtained by vitrectomy, and cytokine measurements of interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-6. RESULTS: Twenty-six eyes (19.4%) out of 134 eyes of 67 patients (47 men and 20 women) with PCNSL were diagnosed with VRL by B-scan ultrasound, and 14 eyes (10.4%) were diagnosed by slit lamp ophthalmoscopy. Twenty-four eyes (17.9%) of 17 patients were confirmed as having VRL with cytology. No difference in the association between intracranial lesion location and ocular involvement was found. VRL patients had higher levels of vitreous IL-10 and IL-10/IL-6 when compared with macular hole cases, but the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: A total of 25.4% of the PCNSL patients had VRL, B-scan ultrasound examination had characteristic features and is recommended over slit lamp ophthalmoscopy for the screening diagnosis of PCNSL with intraocular involvement. Moreover, the cytological and immunohistochemical analyses performed after 25-gauge diagnostic vitrectomy were accurate diagnostic techniques.

Conjunctival flora in anophthalmic patients: microbiological spectrum and antibiotic sensitivity

2019/3/27 0:00:00
AIM: To identify the spectrum and susceptibility pattern of isolated microorganisms from conjunctival flora of anophthalmic patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional clinical study including 60 patients with unilateral anophthalmia. Patients with use of antibiotic drops in their socket during the last month were also included. From each patient, three microbiological samples were taken from the lower conjunctival sac (healthy eye, pre-prosthesis, and retro-prosthesis space of socket). The 180 samples obtained were cultured. Isolates were identified and their antibiotic sensitivities were determined. RESULTS: A total of 251 isolates were recovered (62 isolates from healthy eye, 93 from pre-prosthesis, and 96 from retro-prosthesis space). The most common organism was Staphylococcus epidermidis, in both healthy eyes (64.5%) and sockets (45.5%). Altogether, coagulase-positive Staphylococci, Streptococci, and Gram-negative bacteria accounted for less than 15% of isolates in healthy eyes and more than 35% in sockets. Regarding the antibiotic sensitivities, there were no significant differences between isolates from sockets and healthy eyes. Nine patients recognized the use of self-prescribed antibiotic drops in their socket. In the healthy eyes of these subjects, Gram-positive microorganisms showed significantly greater resistance to aminoglycosides and tetracycline. CONCLUSION: Sockets of anophthalmic patients show a greater number of pathogens compared to healthy eyes. The use of antibiotic drops in the socket promotes a resistant flora not only in the socket but also in the healthy eye. Quinolones and macrolides may be better therapeutic options than aminoglycosides for treating conjunctivitis of anophthalmic sockets, since these antibiotics are less active against Staphylococcus epidermidis.

Safety & efficacy of single subconjunctival triamcinolone 5 mg depot vs topical loteprednol post cataract surgery: less drop cataract surgery

2019/3/27 0:00:00
AIM: To do a randomized prospective interventional study for comparing the effects of a single subconjunctival triamcinolone acetonide (SCTA) injection to tapering topical loteprednol in patients undergoing phacoemulsification surgery under topical anesthesia. METHODS: A total of 400 patients were randomized into 2 groups; Group A (200 patients) received 5 mg SCTA at the end of surgery and topical ketorolac tromethamine (0.5%) with ofloxacin (0.3%) combination for 3wk. Group B (200 patients) received tapering topical loteprednol etabonate (0.5%) along with ofloxacin (0.3%) and ketorolac tromethamine (0.5%) for 3wk. Outcomes evaluated were intraocular pressure (IOP), anterior chamber cells/flare and macular oedema postoperatively at 1, 6 and 12wk. RESULTS: Baseline parameters were almost similar in both the groups. No statistical difference was seen between the preoperative and postoperative IOP values for Group A (P=0.82) and Group B (P=0.61) and postoperative IOP values in between both groups (P=0.14) at 1wk. Incidence of cells/flare postoperative was statistically not significant (P=0.82) in both groups at all follow up visits. Postoperative macular oedema was not observed at any follow up visit. CONCLUSION: SCTA appears to be an effective alternative to prolong postoperative topical steroid use.

Pediatric Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in the operating room: review of 87 cases

2019/3/27 0:00:00
AIM: To report a large series of children having Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in the operating room using the lateral decubitus position. METHODS: Medical records of children who underwent Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in the operating room at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago between September 2008 and April 2017 were reviewed. Induction of general anesthesia and intubation was performed in the supine position after which the patient was placed in lateral decubitus position. The Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy was performed using a standard protocol. At the completion of the procedure, the patient was turned back into the supine position and extubated. RESULTS: This study included 87 eyes of 60 patients. Patient’s age ranged from 1 to 18y (mean 6.4±4.1y). In most cases (84/87, 97%), the procedure was performed under general anesthesia. In all cases, good focus on the membrane was achieved, and the procedure was performed successfully. There were no intraoperative ocular or anesthesia-related complications. CONCLUSION: When performing Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy in the operating room, the lateral decubitus position allows an easy and safe approach without the risk of potentially devastating complications that have been associated with the previously described sitting and prone positions.

Efficacy and safety of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty for primary open angle glaucoma

Ying Hong, Si-Jia Song, Bo Liu, Kiana Hassanpour, Chun Zhang and Nils Loewen — 2019/3/27 16:22:57
AIM: To evaluate the efficiency and safety of micropulse laser trabeculoplasty (MLT) for primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. METHODS: Retrospective study. POAG patients undergoing MLT in Peking University Third Hospital from June 2016 to November 2017. Seventy-two eyes of 72 POAG patients were enrolled. Only one eye of each patient was treated by MLT. The intraocular pressure (IOP) before MLT and at 1d, 1, 4, 12 and 24wk and glaucoma medication before and after treatment were compared. RESULTS: The IOP was 20.6±5.9 mm Hg before MLT and 20.8±6.8 mm Hg at 2h after MTL. The IOP at 1d, 1, 4, 12 and 24wk was 17.9±4.4, 18.0±4.3, 17.5±3.4, 17.0±2.7, and 16.5±2.9 mm Hg, respectively. The IOP before and after MLT demonstrated a statistically significant difference by ANOVA analyses (F=5.797, P<0.001). Least significant difference t-tests showed there was no statistically significant difference between pre-MLT IOP within 2h after MLT (P=0.207). The statistically significant difference was confirmed between the pre-MLT IOP at 1d, 1, 4, 12 and 24wk after MLT (P=0.006, 0.009, 0.001, <0.001, <0.001, respectively). The number of glaucoma medications before MLT was 1.7±1.4 and 1.5±1.4 24wk after MLT with a significantly statistical difference (t=2.219, P=0.031) CONCLUSION: MLT is effective and safe for POAG patients. No patient experienced IOP spikes after MLT. The IOP 6mo after treatment decreased significantly with less glaucoma medication.

Retinal nerve fiber layer changes based on historic CD4 nadir among HIV positive patients undergoing glaucoma evaluation

2019/3/27 0:00:00
AIM: To determine relationships between retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness and nadir CD4 cell count in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive patients evaluated for glaucoma suspicion. METHODS: Data were reviewed for 329 HIV positive patients evaluated for glaucoma suspicion. High-definition optical coherence tomography (OCT) RNFL measurements were obtained at least 6mo apart. Analyses were performed to identify relationships between nadir CD4 count and RNFL thickness. RESULTS: Totally 110 eyes of 55 patients met inclusion criteria, of which 46 eyes were from subjects with nadir CD4<200 cells/mm3 and 64 had nadir CD4≥200 cells/mm3. Patients with nadir CD4<200 cells/mm3 had significantly thicker superior (119.7±18.6 µm) and temporal (63.8±11.7 µm) quadrants at time of initial OCT compared to the superior (112.8±16.8 µm, P=0.048) and temporal (57.1±11.9 µm, P=0.004) quadrants of patients with higher nadir CD4. This trend toward thicker RNFL among subjects with lower nadir CD4 cell counts persisted at the time of follow up OCT where participants with nadir CD4<200 cells/mm3 showed average RNFL thickness in the superior and temporal quadrants of 117.9±18.3 µm and 63.8±12.8 µm, respectively, compared to a superior thickness of 110.5±16.9 µm (P=0.034) and temporal thickness of 57.3±11.6 µm (P=0.007) among those with higher nadir CD4. CONCLUSION: Patients with lower nadir CD4 cell counts have thicker RNFL in the superior and temporal quadrants compared to those with higher nadir CD4 counts. RNFL thickness in HIV positive patients may be affected by historic HIV disease control and should be considered when evaluating HIV positive patients for glaucoma.

Inflammatory model in patients with primary open angle glaucoma and diabetes

2019/3/27 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the inflammatory cytokines expression in aqueous humor in diabetic primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients. METHODS: A cross-sectional study on 87 eyes, distributed as following: 26 eyes from diabetic patients, 16 eyes with POAG and 21 eyes from diabetic POAG patients; healthy controls (24 eyes) were recruited from patients undergoing conventional cataract surgery. A volume of 100 μL of aqueous humor (AH) was collected during phacoemulsification and 21 inflammatory markers were quantified using a Luminex® cytometric bead assay: IL-1Ra, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, GM-CSF, IFNγ, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CXCL5, CXCL8, bFGF, VEGF, TNFα. Main changes in cytokine profile were analyzed and compared between groups. Data on demographics, duration of glaucoma, intraocular pressure (IOP), number of anti-glaucoma substances were recorded for correlation analysis and prediction models. RESULTS: Significant differences in cytokine expression between groups were detected for CXCL5 (P<0.001), CXCL8 (P=0.004), IL-1α (P<0.001), IL-2 (P<0.001), CCL4 (P=0.003), CCL5 (P<0.001) and TNFα (P=0.05). Post-hoc analysis identified IL-2 (P=0.009) and CXCL5 (P<0.001) as “separation markers” between POAG and diabetic POAG eyes. In POAG patients, the “separation markers” could highly predict the TNFα levels F(1, 16)=14.639, P<0.001, whereas in diabetic patients F(1, 24)=4.844, P=0.006 and diabetic POAG patients F(1, 19)=2.358, P=0.05 the level of prediction was inferior. CONCLUSION: Our results reveal an inflammatory model based on increased TNFα levels in POAG eyes. Simultaneous co-stimulatory molecules and additional inflammatory pathways need to be further explored in diabetic POAG cases, since the prediction model could only partially explain the increased TNFα level in this category of patients.

Microvascular changes after conbercept therapy in central retinal vein occlusion analyzed by optical coherence tomography angiography

2019/3/27 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate microvascular changes in eyes with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO) complicated by macular edema before and after intravitreal conbercept injection and evaluate correlations between these changes and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and retinal thickness. METHODS: Twenty-eight eyes of 28 patients with macular edema caused by CRVO were included in this retrospective study. All patients received a single intravitreal conbercept injection to treat macular edema. BCVA and the results of optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) automatic measurements of the vessel density in the superficial (SCP) and deep retinal capillary plexus (DCP), the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) area, the FAZ perimeter (PERIM), the vessel density within a 300-μm wide ring surrounding the FAZ (FD-300), the acircularity index (AI), the choriocapillaris flow area, and retinal thickness were recorded before and at one month after treatment and compared with the results observed in age- and sex- matched healthy subjects. RESULTS: The vessel density in the SCP and DCP, the FD-300, and the flow area of the choriocapillaris were all significantly lower in CRVO eyes than in healthy eyes, while the AI and retinal thickness were significantly higher (all P<0.05). After treatment, retinal thickness was significantly decreased, and the mean BCVA had markedly improved from 20/167 to 20/65 (P=0.0092). The flow area of the choriocapillaris was also significantly improved, which may result from the reduction of shadowing effect caused by the attenuation of macular edema. However, there were no significant changes in SCP and DCP vessel density after treatment. The flow area of the choriocapillaris at baseline was negatively correlated with retinal thickness. CONCLUSION: OCTA enables the non-invasive, layer-specific and quantitative assessment of microvascular changes both before and after treatment, and can therefore be used as a valuable imaging tool for the evaluation of the follow-up in CRVO patients.

Validation and reproducibility of the Heidelberg Edge Perimeter in the detection of glaucomatous visual field defects

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To validate the ability of the Heidelberg Edge Perimeter (HEP) in detecting glaucomatous visual field (VF) defects compared to the Octopus Visual Field (OVF) Analyzer and to determine the test-retest repeatability of both modalities. METHODS: This prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Glaucoma subjects and unaffected controls underwent VF testing using HEP standard automated perimetry (SAP) III 30-2 Adaptive Staircase Thresholding Algorithm (ASTA) FAST protocol and OVF G-TOP white-on-white strategy. Testing order was randomized. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was calculated for both mean deviation (MD) and pattern standard deviation/square root of loss of variance (PSD/sLV). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the diagnostic abilities of both modalities. Glaucoma subjects returned for repeat testing and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess test-retest repeatability. RESULTS: Seventy-nine subjects with glaucoma and 36 unaffected controls were enrolled. HEP and OVF were significantly correlated for both MD (r=-0.84; P<0.01) and PSD/sLV (r=0.79; P<0.01). Areas under the ROC curves (AUCs) were also comparable between HEP and OVF for both MD (0.74 and 0.79, respectively; P=0.26) and PSD/sLV (0.74 and 0.82; P=0.08). ICC was high for both HEP (0.96 for MD, 0.95 for PSD/sLV) and OVF (0.82 and 0.88, respectively). Mean test duration (min) was significantly shorter for OVF (2.63) compared to HEP (5.15; P<0.01). CONCLUSION: HEP and OVF show strong correlation for both MD and PSD/sLV, and have similar validity for detecting glaucoma. The test-retest repeatability is high for both HEP and OVF, however the average testing duration of HEP is significantly longer than that of OVF.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty and excimer laser assisted anterior lamellar keratoplasty in keratoconus

Kübra Serbest Ceylanoglu, Bahri Aydin and Mehmet Cuneyt Ozmen — 2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To compare and evaluate the clinical outcomes of deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) and excimer laser assisted anterior lamellar keratoplasty (ELLK) in eyes with keratoconus. METHODS: In this study, 57 eyes of 56 patients operated between 2013 to 2017 were included. Thirty-one eyes underwent big-bubble DALK and twenty-six eyes underwent ELLK. Preoperative and at control visits complete ophthalmic examination was performed. RESULTS: The mean patient age at the time of DALK surgery was 27y and mean follow-up period was 21±5.4mo. The mean patient age at the time of ELLK surgery was 27y and mean follow-up period was 40±18mo. Mean best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) at postoperative period was significantly higher for DALK group (0.66±0.11) versus ELLK group (0.4±0.2) (P<0.05). Descemet’s membrane microperforation was occurred in 7 patients in DALK group versus in 1 patient in ELLK group. In 4 eyes, interface irregularity was developed in ELLK group. None of the patients in follow-up had graft rejection in both groups. CONCLUSION: In ELLK group, complication rate is lower, the surgical technique is simpler, faster and safer and also ELLK requires less experience with respect to DALK. Further, DALK can be performed unless satisfactory visual acuity is achieved after ELLK.

Influence of preoperative astigmatism on corneal biomechanics and accurate intraocular pressure measurement after micro-incision phacoemulsification

Zofia Pniakowska and Piotr Jurowski — 2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To define the corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg) and corneal compensated intraocular pressure (IOPcc) prior to and following coaxial micro-incision phacoemulsification in patients with corneal astigmatism. METHODS: Of 97 patients with cataracts were enrolled in the study. Group 1 included patients with corneal astigmatism (K1-K2) values of K1-K2<+1.0 D, and group 2 with values of K1-K2 ≥+1.0 D and ≤+2.25 D. Coaxial micro-incision phacoemulsification of a corneal incision of 2.0 mm with intraocular lens (IOL) implantation was performed. CH, CRF, IOPg, IOPcc, waveform score (WS) were measured preoperatively and one week, one month postoperatively using an Ocular Response Analyzer. Axial length (AXL) was calculated by Tomey Optical Biometer OA 2000. RESULTS: Group 1 consisted of 51 patients with mean corneal astigmatism value of +0.49±0.25 D. Group 2 included 46 patients with astigmatism of +1.43±0.43 D. In group 1, CRF (t=2.68, P<0.05), CH (t=2.64, P<0.05) and WS (t=3.51, P<0.05) were significantly lower one week postoperatively, when compared to the preoperative values. CRF significantly decreased (t=3.61, P<0.05) when measured one month following the surgery. In group 2 CH (t=5.92, P<0.05), and WS (t=3.96, P<0.05) were significantly lowered one week after cataract surgery. Moreover, we observed a significant decrease in IOPg (t=2.24, P<0.05), CRF (t=5.05, P<0.05) and CH (t=2.31, P<0.05) one month after phacoemulsification. There was no statistically significant (t=-0.83, P=0.41) difference in AXL between study groups. CONCLUSION: CRF, CH and IOPg are reduced in patients with preoperative corneal astigmatism equal or higher than +1.0 D and lower than +2.25 D. Hence, bias of IOPg measurement in these patients may cause underestimation of the real IOP both before and after cataract surgery. The measurement of IOPcc allows the precise assessment of IOP pre- and postoperatively, independently on corneal astigmatism, CH and CRF values.

Outcomes of secondary sulcus intraocular lens implantation in unilateral anterior persistent fetal vasculature

Jing-Hua Liu, Song-Feng Li, Guang-Da Deng, Yong-Hong Jiao and Hai Lu — 2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the surgical results of sulcus intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in children with unilateral anterior persistent fetal vasculature (PFV) underwent primary vitrectomy combined with lensectomy and preservation of the peripheral anterior capsule. METHODS: Twenty-two eyes of 22 children with unilateral anterior PFV who underwent sulcus secondary IOL implantation were analyzed. Main outcome measures were preoperative and postoperative visual acuity, and complications both intraoperatively and postoperatively. RESULTS: Review of 22 consecutive patients identified best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement from 1.37±0.84 to 0.73±0.57 logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution (logMAR) after IOL implantation (P<0.001) with a mean follow-up was 16.55±5.86mo. Average age at secondary IOL implantation was 41.05±15.41mo. Three eyes (13.64%) achieved BCVA of 0.3 logMAR at the final visit. Transient intraocular pressure rise (4 eyes; 18.18%), postoperative increased inflammation (3 eyes; 13.64%) and postoperative hypotony (2 eyes; 9.09%) were common complications. CONCLUSION: Properly preservation of the anterior lens capsule during the primary surgery facilitated secondary sulcus IOL implantation in pediatric patients with anterior PFV, with favorable postoperative visual outcomes and compatible percentage of complications.

Safety and efficacy of ultrasound ciliary plasty as a primary intervention in glaucoma patients

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety and the efficacy of the ultrasound ciliary plasty (UCP) on the intraocular pressure (IOP) control in glaucomatous eyes without previous glaucoma surgery. METHODS: A retrospective study included patients with primary and secondary glaucoma who underwent UCP in Dar AlShifa Hospital, Kuwait between January 2017 to June 2018. High-intensity focused ultrasound procedures were performed under peribulbar anesthesia using the 2nd generation probe with 8s duration of each of the 6 shots. Complete ophthalmologic examinations were scheduled pre-treatment, and at 1d, 1wk, 1, 3, 6 and 12mo post-treatment. Primary outcomes were the IOP reduction and success rates at 12mo, while the secondary outcomes were the occurrence of vision threatening complications and visual acuity. RESULTS: The records of 62 eyes of 62 patients were analyzed with mean age of 63.8y (67.7% males). There was statistically significant reduction in the mean IOP from 35.2±8.3 mm Hg before treatment to 20.6±8.7 mm Hg at 12th month (P<0.0005) with a mean percentage IOP reduction of 42.3% with significant reduction in the mean number of antiglaucomatous drugs from 3.2±0.4 before treatment to 2.1±1.02 at 12mo (P<0.0005). Qualified success was achieved in 77.4% of eyes at 12mo. No major intra- or post-treatment complications were reported. CONCLUSION: Second-generation UCP prove to be effective in reducing IOP in naive glaucoma patients with lower success rates in cases of neovascular and uveitic glaucomas.

Comparison of peripapillary and macular choroidal thickness and ganglion cell complex thickness in glaucomatous and healthy eyes

Yuli Park, Hong Kyu Kim and Kyong Jin Cho — 2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To assess choroidal thickness (CT) and its association with ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thickness (GCIPLT) and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) in open angle glaucoma (OAG) comparing with preperimetric glaucoma (PPG) and normal eyes. METHODS: Totally 55 eyes of OAG, 40 eyes of PPG, and 40 eyes of age-matched normal eyes were studied. Peripapillary CT (PCT), macular CT (MCT), RNFLT, and GCIPLT were evaluated. Relationship between the CT with RNFLT and GCIPLT were studied. The correlation between CT and confounding variables as gender, age, intraocular pressure, and visual field mean deviation were analyzed. RESULTS: Mean PCT were 113.6±39.1 μm in OAG, 116.3±42.7 μm in PPG, and 148.9±41.7 μm in normal eyes. PCT and MCT was thinner in OAG compared to healthy eyes. There was a significant correlation for PCT and mean RNFLT in 1, 2, 6, and 7 clock hours of OAG eyes. The difference in PCT remained after adjusting for axial length, age, and disc area (P=0.003). No significant correlation was shown between MCT and mean GCIPLT in all eyes. CONCLUSION: PCT is thinner in OAG and PPG compared with healthy eyes. The correlation of RNFLT and PCT found in OAG and PPG is not revealed in normal eyes.

Novel CYP1B1 mutations and a possible prognostic use for surgical management of congenital glaucoma

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To identify CYP1B1 gene mutations and evaluate their possible role as a prognostic factor for success rates in the surgical management of Egyptian congenital glaucoma patients. METHODS: Totally 42 eyes of 29 primary congenital glaucoma patients were operated on with combined trabeculotomy/trabeculectomy with mitomycin-C and followed up at 1d, 1wk, 1, 6 and 12mo postoperatively. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes. Coding regions of CYP1B1 gene were amplified using 13 pairs of primers, screened for mutations using single-strand conformation polymorphism followed by sequencing of both strands. Efficacy of the operation was graded as either a success [maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP) less than 21 mm Hg with or without anti-glaucoma medication], or a failure (IOP more than 21 mm Hg with topical antiglaucoma medications). RESULTS: Seven novel mutations out of a total of 15 different mutations were found in the CYP1B1 genes of 14 patients (48.2%). The presence of CYP1B1 gene mutations did not correlate with the failure of the surgery (P=0.156, odds ratio=3.611, 95%CI, 0.56 to 22.89); while the positive consanguinity strongly correlated with failure of the initial procedure (P=0.016, odds ratio=11.25, 95%CI, 1.57 to 80.30). However, the Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed a significantly lower time of IOP control in the subgroup with mutations in CYP1B1 versus the congenital primary glaucoma group without mutations (log rank test, P=0.015). CONCLUSION: Seven new CYP1B1 mutations are identified in Egyptian patients. Patients harboring confirmed mutations suffered from early failure of the initial surgery. CYP1B1 mutations could be considered as a prognostic factor for surgery in primary congenital glaucoma.

Densiron 68 heavy silicone oil in the management of inferior retinal detachment recurrence: analysis on functional and anatomical outcomes and complications

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the efficacy and safety of a heavy silicone oil (Densiron 68) in the management of inferior retinal detachment recurrence. METHODS: A retrospective non-comparative consecutive case series study. Forty-nine cases of complex inferior retinal detachment were treated using Densiron 68 heavy silicone oil (HSO) as the endotamponade. Our main purpose was anatomic reattachment following Densiron 68 removal. Functional outcomes, rate of recurrences, the presence of inflammatory complications and intraocular pressure alterations were evaluated. RESULTS: Forty-nine patients affected by complex retinal re-detachment were recruited. The mean follow-up was 7.6 (±1.5) mo. The mean best corrected visual acuity after Densiron 68 removal was 0.95 logMAR, standard error (SE: 0.068). Retinal reattachment was 61.2% after first surgery and 81.6% after second surgery. Nineteen cases (38.8%) had recurrences when intraocular heavy silicon oil was in situ, 26.3% (5 cases) of which involved the inferior retina. CONCLUSION: Densiron 68 ef?ciently fills the inferior retinal periphery and might lower the risk of inferior proliferative vitreoretinopathy development, in particular after a standard silicon oil tamponade that reduces the proliferative process in the upper quadrants of the retina.

Analysis of the clinical characteristics and refraction state in premature infants: a 10-year retrospective analysis

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To report the visual outcomes and refractive status in premature infants with and without retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) who were or not treated. METHODS: The clinical records of all premature infants with or without ROP and with or without treatment between 2007 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Basic demographic data, serial changes in ROP incidence, treatment and outcomes, and the refractive states were analyzed. Correlations among myopia and astigmatism progression, birth weight, gestational age, and treatment methods were also analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 562 screened premature infants (all Chinese, 1124 eyes), were recruited with a 378:184 male-to-female ratio. Birth weight did not directly influence ROP incidence. The overall ROP incidence was 16.55% (93/562 cases). The incidences in boys and girls were 16.14% (33/378 cases) and 17.39% (32/184 cases), respectively, and this difference was not significant. However, all infants with serious ROP (stage IV and V) were male. Myopia combined with astigmatism was common in premature infants with and without ROP (30.99%, 172/555 cases), and myopic refraction (including myopia and myopia combined with astigmatism) was more common in premature infants with ROP (48.84%, 42/86 cases). In the >8.00 diopter group, there were significantly more ROP infants than without ROP. Myopic refraction (including myopia and myopia combined with astigmatism) was most common in infants with ROP after treatment (63.63%, 7/11 cases). CONCLUSION: The refractive state is different between premature infants and mature infants. Those treated for ROP had a higher chance of developing myopia, astigmatism, and higher diopter.

Chandelier-assisted scleral buckling using wide angle viewing contact lens for pseudophakic retinal detachment repair

Ashraf Ahmed Nossair, Wael Ahmed Ewais and Sherif Ahmed Eissa — 2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate a modified technique for scleral buckling (SB) in pseudophakic retinal detachment (RD). METHODS: A retrospective non-comparative study included 21 consecutive eyes with uncomplicated pseudophakic RD that was repaired by chandelier assisted SB using wide angle viewing (WAV) contact lens. Segmental tire alone was used in 5 eyes (23.81%), and combined with encircling band in 7 eyes (33.33%). Radial sponge alone was used in 3 eyes (14.29%) and combined with encircling band in 6 eyes (28.57%). RESULTS: Primary success rate was (90.48%). External drainage of subretinal fluid was performed in 8 eyes (38.1%). Intraoperative complications included vitreous prolapse at chandelier sclerotomy site in 4 eyes (19.05%) and localized subretinal hemorrhage at drainage site in one eye (4.76%). No case of intraocular lens (IOL) displacement, retinal incarceration or iatrogenic retinal tear was detected. Postoperative complications included choroidal detachment in one eye (4.76%), elevated intraocular pressure in 2 eyes (9.52%), epiretinal membrane formation in one eye (4.76%) and proliferative vitreoretinopathy in 3 eyes (14.29%). Mean postoperative corrected distance visual acuity was 0.7±0.3 logMAR units. CONCLUSION: Chandelier-assisted SB using WAV contact lens is a reliable technique for repairing selected cases of simple pseudophakic RD.

Abnormalities of interhemispheric functional connectivity in individuals with acute eye pain: a resting-state fMRI study

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To study the changes of the resting state functional connectivity (rsFC) between acute eye pain (EP) subjects and healthy controls (HCs) in the two hemispheres by using voxel-mirrored homotopic connectivity (VMHC) method. METHODS: Totally 20 patients with EP and 20 HCs were enrolled, sex, age, and education were matched, and all subjects were examined by functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans at resting-state. The changes of rsFC between the hemispheres were evaluated by the VMHC method according to Gaussian random field (GRF) theory. In order to identify the VMHC, as biomarkers for distinguishing EP and from HC, the receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) had been analyzed. The relationships were evaluated with Pearson correlation analysis between the mean VMHC signal values and clinical features in these patients. RESULTS: By comparing with health subjects, the significant decreased VMHC values was observed in lingual/calcarine (Brodmann area, BA 30), precentral/postcentral gyrus (PreCG/PosCG; BA 4) and medial frontal gyrus (MFG; BA 8) (false discovery rate corrected <0.01) in the acute EP individuals. The accuracy of area under curve was excellent indicated by the ROC curve analysis of each brain regions. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrates preliminary evidence of disrupted interhemispheric rsFC in acute EP in sensorimotor and limbic system and somatosensory cortex, which might give some useful information for understanding the neurological mechanisms in acute EP individuals.

Comparison of the impact of nesofilcon A hydrogel contact lens on the ocular surface and the comfort of presbyopic and non-presbyopic wearers

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To assess and compare the impact of a daily disposable contact lens (CL) with high water content on the ocular surface and comfort of the presbyopic and non-presbyopic population after one day of use. METHODS: Totally 20 presbyopes and 30 non-presbyopes non-contact wearers were fitted with nesofilcon A CLs. CL thickness was measured to assess material stability during daily wear, and ocular surface parameters were also assessed. Optical quality was analyzed for all cases. In addition, CL comfort was rated. RESULTS: No significant differences were found in CL thickness, tear film osmolarity, average tear break-up time, bulbar redness, central corneal thickness, corneal volume, root-mean-square of higher-order aberrations (RMS of HOAs) and vertical and horizontal coma, either as a function of the group or time of use. A significant decrease in tear meniscus height and first break-up of the tear film was found in the presbyopic group (P=0.038; P=0.007 respectively). A decrease in spherical aberration coefficient was found after CL insertion (P=0.031 monofocal CL; P=0.023 low addition multifocal CL; P=0.016 high addition multifocal CL). Multifocal CL were thicker than monofocal CL (P=0.045). Comparison between groups showed more discomfort in presbyopes than non-presbyopes (P=0.003). CONCLUSION: This study evidence that the behavior of the daily disposable CL with high water content seems to be stable during the day of use. Ocular parameters measured during wear show that CL behavior is the same for presbyopes and non-presbyopes, being more uncomfortable for presbyopes.

The role of clinical diagnosis criteria on the frequency of accommodative insufficiency

2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To estimate and compare the frequency of accommodative insufficiency (AI) within the same clinical population sample depending on the type of clinical criteria used for diagnosis. Comparing the frequency within the same population would help to minimize bias due to sampling or methodological variability. METHODS: Retrospective study of 205 medical records of symptomatic subjects free of any organic cause and symptoms persisting despite optical compensation evaluated. Based on the most commonly clinical diagnostics criteria found in the literature, four diagnostics criteria were established for AI (I, II, III and IV) based on subjective accommodative tests: monocular accommodative amplitude two or more diopters below Hofstetter’s minimum value [15-(0.25×age)] (I, II, III, IV); failing monocular accommodative facility with minus lens, establishing the cut-off in 0 cycles per minute (cpm) (I) and in 6 cpm (II, III); failing binocular accommodative facility with minus lens, establishing the cut-off in 0 cpm (I) and in 3 cpm (II). RESULTS: The proportion of AI (95%CI) for criteria I, II, III and IV were 1.95% (0.04%-3.86%), 2.93% (0.31%-4.57%), 6.34% (1.90%-7.85%) and 41.95% (35.14%-48.76%) respectively, with a statistically significant difference shown between these values (χ2=226.7, P<0.001). A pairwise multiple comparison revealed that the proportion of AI detected for criterion IV was significantly greater than the proportion for the rest of the criteria (P-adjusted<0.05 in all cases). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of cases of AI within the same clinical population varies with the clinical diagnostic criteria selected. The variation is statistically significant when considering the monocular accommodative amplitude as the only clinical diagnostic sign.

Paired eye-control study of unilateral opaque bubble layer in femtosecond laser assisted laser in situ keratomileusis

Cheng-Hua Wei, Qiao-Yun Dai, Li-Xin Mei, Yao Ge, Peng-Fei Zhang and E Song — 2019/3/6 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the predictive factors of the opaque bubble layer (OBL) compared to the fellow eye of same patients in FS200 femtosecond laser assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK). METHODS: This study consisted of 60 consecutive patients (120 eyes) with unilateral OBL during FS-LASIK. Eyes were divided into OBL (the OBL eyes) and OBL-free groups (the fellow eyes) based on the occurrence of OBL. The preoperative demographic data, refraction, keratometry, corneal astigmatism, pachymetry, intraocular pressure and intraoperative data including the outlet location of gas diffusing canal were collected. Conditional logistic regression analysis was performed to find the associated factors with OBL in the two groups by determining odds ratios (OR) and 95%CI. RESULTS: The preoperative demographic data, mean spherical errors, mean K value, suction time, intraocular pressure and central cornea thickness were not significantly different between the two groups. The outlet location of gas diffusing canal (P<0.01, OR 7.16, 95%CI 2.53-20.32) and the corneal astigmatism (P=0.013, OR 0.13, 95%CI 0.03-0.65) were significantly associated with the incidence of OBL by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Visual acuity, efficacy, and safety were comparable between the two groups two months after surgery except for a slightly lower predictability value for the hard OBL eyes. CONCLUSION: The reduction of the incidence of OBL is obvious when the outlet of gas diffusing canal located at the posterior border of the corneoscleral limbus. This is probably consequent to more effectiveness of gas diffusing canal. Corneal astigmatism is also an independent protective factor for OBL formation.

Functional and anatomical evaluation of the effect of nepafenac in prevention of macular edema after phacoemulsification in diabetic patients

2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of prophylactic administration of nepafenac in prevention of macular edema occurring in diabetic patients after phacoemulsification and to investigate the correlation between optical coherence tomography (OCT) foveal thickness and multifocal electroretinogram (MF-ERG) parameters. METHODS: The study included two groups. Group 1 included 50 diabetic patients with senile cataract (50 eyes, 30 females, 20 males, aged 55±7y) received nepafenac 0.1% eye drop. Group 2 included another 50 diabetic patients with senile cataract (50 eyes, 22 female, 28 males, aged 53.8±8y) did not receive nepafenac. All patients were followed up for 3mo postoperatively. OCT and MF-ERG were done preoperative and at 1wk, 1, 2 and 3mo. RESULTS: The mean foveal thickness was statistically significantly lower in Group 1. Five eyes in Group 2 developed clinical cystoid macular oedema (CMO) (10%), and no patients in Group 1 developed central macular thickening more than 50 μm. There were insignificant differences in MF-ERG amplitudes and latencies between the two groups except in the five eyes that developed CMO, there statistically significant reduction of MF-ERG amplitude with increase in foveal thickness. CONCLUSION: Perioperative nepafenac reduces the incidence of CMO following uncomplicated phacoemulsification significantly. Nepafenac has no side effects.

Comparison of the meibomian gland dysfunction in patients with chronic ocular graft-versus-host disease and Sjögren’s syndrome

Won Choi, Jun Young Ha, Ying Li, Jung Han Choi, Yong Sok Ji and Kyung Chul Yoon — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the abnormalities in the meibomian gland in patients with dry eye disease (DED) associated with chronic ocular graft-versus-host disease (coGVHD) in comparison with Sjögren’s syndrome (SS), a major form of aqueous deficient DED and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common cause of evaporative DED. METHODS: A total 135 eyes of 135 subjects included in this study: patients with DED associated with coGVHD (n=30), patients with SS (n=35), patients with MGD (n=35), and normal controls (n=35). All participants completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, ocular surface examination [Schirmer test, tear film breakup time (TFBUT), and ocular surface staining], and meibomian gland assessment [meiboscore (gland dropout detected on meibography using infrared camera of the Keratograph 5M), meibum expressibility score (MES), meibum quality score (MQS), lid margin abnormality]. In addition, correlations of meibomian gland characteristics with ocular surface parameters as well as disease severity score were investigated in coGVHD group. RESULTS: The coGVHD group showed significantly higher meiboscore, MES, and MQS than the other 3 groups (all P<0.05). In the coGVHD group, parameters of meibomian gland showed a significant correlation each other and those of ocular surface. The correlation between meibomian gland parameters and severity score of coGVHD was also established (meiboscore, r=0.62; MES, r=0.47; MQS, r=0.47; lid margin abnormality score, r=0.55; all P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Patients with DED associated with coGVHD show poorer gland morphology and worse gland function than other types of DED. In addition, meibomian gland damage is not only associated with ocular surface damage but also disease severity of coGVHD.

How reliable is the lacrimal scintigraphy report? An inter-observer agreement and reliability study

2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the inter-observer agreement and reliability as well as intra-observer repeatability for lacrimal scintigraphy (LS) reports with and without considering the irrigation test results. METHODS: A prospective, observational, cross sectional study. Two masked clinicians (lacrimal surgeon and nuclear medicine specialist) independently reported 100 LS images (50 patients of >6 years of age with unilateral anophthalmic socket) in a university hospital. The lacrimal surgeon performed a diagnostic irrigation test and repeated the report of the same LS images 2y after the first report (intra-observer agreement). A weighted Kappa analysis was performed to determine inter-observer agreement and reliability as well as intra-observer repeatability for the type (normal, partial and complete obstruction) and location (presac, preduct, and intraduct) of the obstruction. Subgroup analysis was also performed with consideration of irrigation test results. RESULTS: A significantly moderate agreement was found between lacrimal surgeon and nuclear medicine specialist for both the type (Kappa=0.55) and location (Kappa=0.48) of obstruction. Agreement values were higher for the type (Kappa=0.61 vs 0.41) and location (Kappa=0.56 vs 0.31) of obstruction in cases with normal than abnormal irrigation test. Strong and significant intra-observer (lacrimal surgeon) repeatability was found for both the type (Kappa=0.66) and location (Kappa=0.69) of obstruction. LS showed no to slight reliability based on irrigation test. CONCLUSION: A moderate agreement is found between lacrimal surgeon and nuclear medicine specialist regarding the interpretation of LS suggesting the importance of consensus groups among nuclear medicine specialists and lacrimal surgeons to create a common language for interpretation of LS. Intra-observer repeatability is strong for the lacrimal surgeon.

Corneal esthesiometry and sub-basal nerves morphological changes in herpes simplex virus keratitis/uveitis patients

2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To describe and compare corneal sensation and morphological changes of sub-basal corneal nerves by in vivo laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) in herpes simplex virus (HSV) keratitis/uveitis and contralateral, clinically unaffected eyes. METHODS: A prospective clinical study included 30 HSV eyes and 30 contralateral eyes of 30 patients, diagnosed with unilateral HSV keratitis/uveitis. Both eyes underwent a complete ophthalmological examination, Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometry and LSCM of the central cornea, using the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph III Rostock Cornea Module. After 6mo, the same examination of the HSV affected and contralateral, clinically unaffected eyes was performed. RESULTS: HSV eyes, as compared to contralateral eyes, demonstrated a significant decrease in mean corneal sensation (3.1±1.6 vs 5.3±0.8 cm), total nerve fibres number (5.7±4.4 vs 15.1±5.4), nerve branches (3.4±3.0 vs 8.4±4.7), main nerve trunks (2.3±1.6 vs 5.8±2.2), and nerve fibres density (7.5±5.6 vs 18.1±5.3 mm/mm2, P<0.05). There was no significant difference between keratitis and uveitis eyes in mean corneal sensation and nerve fibres parameters. After 6mo, corneal sensation and sub-basal nerve fibres parameters were increased significantly, but did not reach the parameters of contralateral, clinically unaffected eyes. CONCLUSION: Corneal aesthesiometry and LSCM in HSV affected eyes reveals a significant decrease of corneal sensation and sub-basal nerve fibres which recovers at 6mo but does not reach the normal level.

Interchangeability of corneal curvature and asphericity measurements provided by three different devices

2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the interchangeability of keratometric and asphericity measurements provided by three measurement systems based on different optical principles. METHODS: A total of 40 eyes of 40 patients with a mean age of 34.1y were included. In all cases, a corneal curvature analysis was performed with IOL-Master (IOLM), iDesign 2 (ID2), and Sirius systems (SIR). Differences between instruments for flattest (K1) and steepest (K2) keratometric readings, as well as for magnitude and axis of corneal astigmatism were analyzed. Likewise, differences in asphericity (Q) between SIR and ID2 were also evaluated. RESULTS: Mean differences between devices for K1 were 0.20±0.21 (P<0.001), -0.12±0.36 (P=0.046) and -0.32±0.36 D (P<0.001) for the comparisons IOLM-SIR, IOLM-ID2 and SIR-ID2, respectively. The ranges of agreement for these comparisons between instruments were 0.41, 0.70, and 0.70 D. For K2, mean differences were 0.31±0.33 (P<0.001), -0.08±0.43 (P=0.265) and -0.39±0.38 D (P<0.001), with ranges of agreement of 0.65, 0.84, and 0.74 D. Concerning magnitude of astigmatism, ranges of agreement were in the limit of clinical relevance (0.49 D, P=0.011; 0.55 D, P=0.386; 0.43 D, P=0.05). In contrast, ranges of agreement were clinically relevant for astigmatic axis (26.68o, 33.83o and 18.37o, P≥0.121) and for Q between SIR and ID2 (0.16, P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The keratometric corneal power, astigmatic axis and asphericity measurements provide by the three systems evaluated cannot be considered as interchangeable, whereas measurements of corneal astigmatism obtained with SIR and ID2 can be considered as interchangeable for clinical purposes.

Risk factors for endophthalmitis after cataract surgery in diabetic patients: a case control study

Sukhum Silpa-archa, Apichaya Papirachnart, Panisa Singhanetr and Janine M Preble — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To identify risk factors associated with post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis (PCE) in type 2 diabetic patients. METHODS: A hospital-based retrospective case-control study was conducted on 194 type 2 diabetic patients undergoing cataract surgery in Rajavithi Hospital from January 2007 to December 2015. Fifteen patients with PCE were included as the case group and 179 patients without PCE were included as the control group. Potential factors associated with PCE among both groups including demographics, pre-operative characteristics, surgical settings and complications, were statistically analyzed using Chi-square testing and a logistic regression model. RESULTS: Within the case group, 53% were females and the median age was 68y. Univariate analysis of pre-operative characteristics, surgical settings and complications revealed that recent pre-operative fasting plasma glucose, insulin therapy, presence of diabetic retinopathy, and severe non-proliferative or proliferative diabetic retinopathy were significantly associated with PCE. In a multivariate analysis adjusting for blood glucose level, insulin treatment was the only significant factor associated with an increased risk of PCE (OR 3.9, 95%CI 1.0-15.0, P=0.04) compared to patients without insulin treatment. The most common causative organisms were gram-positive bacteria (89%). Staphylococcus species represented the most common group (67%). Median best corrected visual acuity at 1-month and 3-month follow-up was equal at 0.7 logMAR (20/100). CONCLUSION: The authors identify insulin treatment as the only risk factor associated with endophthalmitis after cataract surgery in type 2 diabetic patients. Further studies with serum levels of pre-operative glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and post-operative fasting plasma glucose level are essential to truly demonstrate the role of peri-operative glycemic markers as a risk factor for PCE.

Comparison of visual quality in cataract patients with low astigmatism after ART2 or ReSTOR intraocular lens implantation

2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To compare visual quality in cataract patients with low corneal astigmatism who underwent intraocular lens (IOL) implantation, and evaluate effects of low levels of astigmatism on visual outcomes in multifocal pseudophakic eyes. METHODS: This retrospective review of clinical records comprised patients with preoperative regular corneal astigmatism of 0.75-1.0 diopters (D) with-the-rule or 0.5-0.75 D against-the-rule who had uneventful cataract surgery and AcrySof IQ ReSTOR Toric-2 IOL (ART2) or AcrySof IQ ReSTOR IOL (ReSTOR) implantation. Retrospective data collection included postoperative ART2 axis rotation, uncorrected astigmatism, uncorrected entire visual acuities, distance corrected entire visual acuities, average modulation transfer function (aMTF), Strehl ratio (SR), spectacle independence, and patient satisfaction between groups. RESULTS: Mean ART2 axis rotation was 3.12°±0.70°. No secondary surgery was required to realign IOL axis. Residual astigmatism values were -0.18±0.07 D and -0.91±0.25 D in groups ART2 and ReSTOR (P<0.05). Three months postoperatively, the mean uncorrected distant, intermediate, and near visual acuities of group A were 0.01±0.05, 0.05±0.07, 0.02±0.07 logMAR, respectively; these were better than those of group R, which were 0.08±0.06, 0.15±0.12, and 0.09±0.08 logMAR, respectively (P<0.05). aMTF, SR, and spectacle independence rates were not significantly different. All patients were satisfied with postoperative results. CONCLUSION: ART2 is more suitable than ReSTOR for cataract patients with regular corneal astigmatism 0.75-1.0 D with-the-rule or 0.5-0.75 D against-the-rule.

Modified viscocanalostomy in the Chinese population with open angle glaucoma: a 10-year follow-up results

Ya Liang, Hong Sun, Jie Shuai, Kai Xu, Fang-Fang Ji, Sucijanti and Zhi-Lan Yuan — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To study the long-term efficacy and safety of modified viscocanalostomy in Chinese people with open angle glaucoma (OAG). METHODS: This retrospective study included a total of 100 eyes from 100 Chinese patients with medically uncontrolled OAG. All the patients underwent modified viscocanalostomy with injection of viscoelastic material in the surgically created ostia of Schlemm’s canal (SC). The modifications included peeling of the inner wall of SC and the juxtacanalicular meshwork, use of mitomycin C, and loosely suturing the superficial scleral flap. Intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, number of medications, laser goniopuncture data and complications were recorded. The definition of complete (qualified) success was an IOP equal to or lower than 21, 18, 16 mm Hg without (with or without) anti-glaucoma medications. RESULTS: The mean IOP was 33.5±9.9 mm Hg before surgery, 15.2±3.6 mm Hg (mean IOP reduction of 51%) at 5y after surgery, and 15.6±2.8 mm Hg (mean IOP reduction of 49.9%) at 10y after surgery (P<0.001). The number of anti-glaucoma medications dropped from 2.39±0.5 preoperatively to 0.47±0.8 at 5y and 0.67±0.8 at 10y postoperatively (P<0.001). The follow-up period was 104.5±37.0mo. The qualified success rate for an IOP of 21, 18 or 16 mm Hg or less was 84% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80-0.88], 73% (95%CI: 0.68-0.78), and 59% (95%CI: 0.52-0.66) after 5y, and 80% (95%CI: 0.76-0.84), 69% (95%CI: 0.64-0.74), 51% (95%CI: 0.44-0.58) after 10y, respectively. There was a relationship between age, preoperative IOP and success rate (P<0.01, P<0.05). A total of 31 eyes (31.3%) in 31 patients underwent laser goniopuncture, decreasing the IOP from 22.9±4.3 mm Hg to 16.3±2.5 mm Hg (P<0.01). Neither blebitis nor endophthalmitis occurred. CONCLUSION: Modified viscocanalostomy could be performed to lower IOP, decrease multiple anti-glaucoma drops use as well. It’s a safe procedure with less complications over 10y in Chinese individuals with OAG.

Management of the open angle glaucoma in patients with central/hemicentral retinal vein occlusions

Dan Călugăru and Mihai Călugăru — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To prospectively assess the cumulative prevalence and management of open angle glaucoma (OAG), including primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) with high and normal-pressure, as well as pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEXG), in patients with central/hemicentral retinal vein occlusions (RVOs) over a 3-year follow-up period. METHODS: The study encompassed 57 patients with unilateral acute central/hemicentral RVOs. A complete ophthalmic examination of both eyes was undertaken for all patients. Patients with OAGs associated with central/hemicentral RVOs were treated with the current ocular hypotensive medications used worldwide and/or surgery and aimed to reduce the intraocular pressure (IOP) by 30% from baseline values for the 3 OAG forms existing in our series. The cumulative prevalence of OAG and the efficacy of treatment were evaluated. RESULTS: OAG was observed in 3 clinical forms, namely, POAG with increased IOP in 4 patients, POAG with normal IOP in 3 patients, and PEXG in 3 patients. The cumulative prevalence of OAG was 19.6% (95%CI: 8.7-30.5). Using available ocular hypotensive medications (8 patients) and trabeculectomy (2 patients), the IOP decreased significantly from 24.3±4.36 mm Hg to 16.55±2.85 mm Hg, a reduction of 31.89% compared with baseline values. Glaucoma progression was not detected in any of the cases. CONCLUSION: The high value of the cumulative prevalence of OAG is a risk factor for the development of venous occlusion. The treatment of glaucoma prevented its progression over a follow-up period of 3y.

Evaluation of outer retinal tubulations in diabetic macular edema underwent anti-VEGF treatment

Xiao-Li Huang, Yan-Ping Song, Qin Ding, Xiao Chen and Ling Hong — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the incidence and subsequent changes of outer retinal tubulations (ORTs) in diabetic macular edema (DME) underwent anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapy, and to assess the possibility of ORT as a biomarker of DME severity or response to anti-VEGF therapy. METHODS: This retrospective and descriptive study included a total of 228 patients (435 eyes) with DME and treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents between March 2016 and January 2018. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the presence of ORTs. High-resolution spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) images acquired by vertical and horizontal scans and over consecutive visits were analyzed. The evolution of ORT over time, type of fluid and subfoveal photoreceptor integrity on OCT imaging was also assessed. RESULTS: ORTs were identified in 108 eyes of 435 eyes with an overall incidence rate of 24.83% at baseline. ORTs were prone to locate adjacent to the lesions of exudation and/or cystoid edema and possibly situated in outer nuclear layer (ONL), outer plexiform layer (OPL) and/or inner nuclear layer (INL) in eyes with DME. The formation process of ORT led to focal downward displacement of OPL and INL toward RPE near the lesion. During the follow up, 45 eyes had steady ORTs and 63 eyes had dynamic variants in ORTs, including disappearance, reappearance, collapse, diminution, and enlargement. There were higher proportion of closed ORTs and fewer proportion of forming ORTs in eyes with steady ORTs, which showed a statistically significance when compared with eyes with variant ORTs (P=0.006, P=0.017, respectively). The eyes without ORTs had significantly better final best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and more BCVA change than those eyes with ORTs in DME patients after anti-VEGF therapy (P=0.023, P=0.009, respectively). The disruption of subfoveal photoreceptor integrity in eyes with ORTs was more serious than that in eyes without ORTs (P=0.013). The proportion of stable vision in eyes with ORTs was significantly higher than that in eyes without ORTs, showing statistical significance (P=0.016). ORTs were associated with worse visual prognosis due to damage of the subfoveal photoreceptor integrity. CONCLUSION: ORTs have a high incidence and changes over time in DME with anti-VEGF treatment and may be located at various retinal layers. Persistent ORT can be as a negative biomarker of outcome of DME.

Characteristics of central visual field defect after macular hole surgery

Jia-Nan Li, Jia-Xing Wang, Xin-Lei Zhu and Hua Yan — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the characteristics of postoperative central visual field defect (cVFD) in patients with macular hole (MH). METHODS: Eighteen eyes from 18 MH patients were involved in this retrospective study which reviewed square root of loss variance (sLV) and mean defect (MD) of the visual field test in all subjects. The relationship between cVFD and MH stage, as well as the postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption were evaluated using Spearman’s correlation test. RESULTS: Our analysis determined Spearman coefficient is 0.705 for the correlation between sLV and MH stage (P<0.01), 0.877 for the correlation between sLV and postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption (P<0.01) and 0.721 for the correlation between MD and postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption (P<0.01). A significant relationship was also detected between postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption and MH stage (r=0.470, P<0.05). Univariate regression analysis indicated that sLV and MD were associated with postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption (P<0.01, P<0.01, respectively). CONCLUSION: Postoperative cVFD is highly correlated with MH stage and postoperative ellipsoid zone disruption in patients with MH.

Increased serum levels of soluble CD146 and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration

Yan-Yao Liu, Yue Bin, Xing Wang and Hui Peng — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate serum levels of soluble CD146 (sCD146) and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Eighty-eight patients with exudative AMD and 45 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in this study conducted in China. Serum samples was obtained from the patients with exudative AMD and from the controls. Serum sCD146 and VEGFR2 protein levels were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: We found that serum sCD146 and VEGFR2 protein levels were significantly higher in the patients with exudative AMD group than in the controls (t=3.859, P<0.001 and t=3.829, P<0.001, respectively). Serum sCD146 levels were significantly higher in patients with classic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) than in those with occult CNV (t=9.899, P<0.001). There was a significant difference in the trend for exudative AMD in the highest versus lowest quartile of circulating sCD146 levels (χ2=10.29, P=0.001). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.696 for sCD146 (95%CI: 0.601-0.791) with an optimum diagnostic cut-off value of 157.16 ng/mL, a sensitivity of 55.7%, and a specificity of 82.2%. CONCLUSION: The serum sCD146 level increases and may be a biomarker for exudative AMD.

Discriminating performance of macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer thicknesses at different stages of glaucoma

Melih Ustaoglu, Nilgun Solmaz and Feyza Onder — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the discriminating performance of the macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) parameters between all the consecutive stages of glaucoma (from healthy to moderate-to-severe glaucoma), and to compare it with the discriminating performances of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) parameters and optic nerve head (ONH) parameters. METHODS: Totally 147 eyes (40 healthy, 40 glaucoma suspects, 40 early glaucoma, and 27 moderate-to-severe glaucoma) of 133 subjects were included. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was obtained using Cirrus HD-OCT 5000. The diagnostic performances of GC-IPL, RNFL, and ONH parameters were evaluated by determining the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristics. RESULTS: All GC-IPL parameters discriminated glaucoma suspect patients from subjects with healthy eyes and moderate-to-severe glaucoma from early glaucoma patients (P<0.017, for all). Also, minimum, inferotemporal and inferonasal GC-IPL parameters discriminated early glaucoma patients from glaucoma suspects, whereas no RNFL or ONH parameter could discriminate between the two. The best parameters to discriminate glaucoma suspects from subjects with healthy eyes were superonasal GC-IPL, superior RNFL and average c/d ratio (AUC=0.746, 0.810 and 0.746, respectively). Discriminating performances of all the parameters for early glaucoma vs glaucoma suspect comparison were lower than that of the other consecutive group comparisons, with the best GC-IPL parameters being minimum and inferotemporal (AUC=0.669 and 0.662, respectively). Moreover, minimum GC-IPL, average RNFL, and rim area (AUC=0.900, 0.858, 0.768, respectively) were the best parameters for discriminating moderate-to-severe glaucoma patients from early glaucoma patients. CONCLUSION: GC-IPL parameters can discriminate glaucoma suspect patients from subjects with healthy eyes, and also all the consecutive stages of glaucoma from each other (from glaucoma suspect to moderate-to-severe glaucoma). Further, the discriminating performance of GC-IPL thicknesses is comparable to that.

Sectoral changes of the peripapillary choroidal thickness in patients with unilateral branch retinal vein occlusion

Na Eun Lee, Hae Min Kang, Jeong Hoon Choi, Hyoung Jun Koh and Sung Chul Lee — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate sectoral changes in the mean peripapillary choroidal thickness (PCT) in patients with unilateral branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO). METHODS: This retrospective, interventional study included 41 patients with acute, unilateral BRVO without macular edema. All patients completed at least a 6-month follow-up period. The PCT was measured at eight locations (temporal, superotemporal, superior, superonasal, nasal, inferonasal, inferior, and inferotemporal). In addition to calculating the average of all locations, the peripapillary choroidal area was divided into four sectors: superior (average of superotemporal PCT, superior PCT, and superonasal PCT), temporal, inferior (average of inferotemporal PCT, inferior PCT, and inferonasal PCT), and nasal. RESULTS: In the BRVO-affected eyes, the mean PCT was 177.7±69.8 μm (range, 70.1-396.0 μm) at baseline and 127.8±54.8 μm (range, 56.4-312.1 μm) at 6mo (P<0.001). In the non-affected contralateral eyes, the mean PCT was 192.5±60.6 μm (range, 61.4-365.0 μm) at baseline and 165.9±61.1 μm (range, 56.8-326.8 μm) at 6mo (P<0.001). In sectoral analysis, the mean PCT in each sector was significantly reduced in over 6mo in the BRVO-affected eyes (all P<0.001). In the non-affected contralateral eyes, the mean PCT was not significantly changed in any sector over the 6-month follow-up period (superior sector, P=0.143; temporal sector, P=0.825; inferior sector, P=0.192; and nasal sector, P=0.599). CONCLUSION: Sectoral analysis shows that the mean PCTs in all sectors are reduced significantly over 6mo in the BRVO-affected eyes, but not in the non-affected contralateral eyes.

Abrupt visual loss during anti-vascular endothelial growth factor treatment for type 3 neovascularization

Jae Hui Kim, Young Suk Chang, Jong Woo Kim, Chul Gu Kim and Dong Won Lee — 2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the incidence of abrupt visual loss and its associated factors, during anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment for type 3 neovascularization. METHODS: This retrospective study included 137 eyes that were newly diagnosed with type 3 neovascularization. All eyes were treated with anti-VEGF therapy. Abrupt visual loss was defined as loss of 5 or more lines in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in comparison to the previous visit. The incidence and timing of abrupt visual loss as well as the factors associated with it, were determined. In addition, the BCVA at the final follow-up was compared between the eyes with and those without abrupt visual loss. RESULTS: The mean follow-up period was 42.4±18.9mo after diagnosis, and abrupt visual loss was noted in 22 eyes (16.1%) at a mean of 19.6±13.9mo. Abrupt visual loss was found to be associated with subretinal hemorrhage in 11 eyes (50.0%), development of or increase in the height of pigment epithelial detachment with fluid in 8 eyes (36.4%), and tears in the retinal pigment epithelium in 3 eyes (13.6%). The logarithm of minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) mean BCVA at the final follow-up was 2.07±0.67 (Snellen equivalents: 20/2349) and 1.00±0.55 (20/200) in eyes with and without abrupt visual loss, respectively. BCVA was significantly worse in the eyes with abrupt visual loss (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Abrupt visual loss is noted in 16.1% of patients with type 3 neovascularization and is associated with poor visual outcome. Additional studies are needed to determine how abrupt visual loss can be prevented.

Effect of age on visual and refractive results after LASIK: mechanical microkeratome versus femtosecond laser

2019/2/11 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of age on visual and refractive results after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) obtained with a mechanical microkeratome or a femtosecond laser. METHODS: Retrospective, nonrandomized, cohort study. A total of 3826 eyes were included in the study (1725 eyes treated with mechanical LASIK and 2101 eyes treated with femtosecond LASIK). The relationship between patient age and the 3-month postoperative visual and refractive results of both procedures were analyzed by linear regression analysis. RESULTS: Three months postoperatively, we found a significant correlation between age and the postoperative spherical equivalent (SE; r2=0.004, P=0.006), efficacy (r2=0.006, P=0.001), and safety indexes (r2=0.05, P=0.0001) in the mechanical LASIK group. On the other hand, we found a significant correlation between age and the postoperative SE (r2=0.02, P=0.0001) and the efficacy index (r2=0.01, P=0.0001) but not the safety index in the femtosecond laser group. Mechanical LASIK provided slightly but significantly better efficacy and predictability in patients 18 to 40 years of age and femtosecond LASIK did so in patients older than 40 years of age. The femtosecond laser provided better safety results than the mechanical microkeratome in both age groups. CONCLUSION: A tendency toward undercorrection and less predictability is found with aging after myopic LASIK regardless of whether the flap was created with a mechanical microkeratome or a femtosecond laser. However, femtosecond laser provides significantly better outcomes in terms of efficacy, safety and predictability compared to mechanical microkeratome for the correction of myopia in patients over 40y.

Clinical and microstructural changes with different iontophoresis-assisted corneal cross-linking methods for keratoconus

Kai Liao, Min Hu, Fen Chen, Pei Li, Peng Song and Qing-Yan Zeng — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical and microstructural changes induced by different transepithelial iontophoresis-assisted corneal cross-linking (I-CXL) methods for keratoconus. METHODS: A total of 42 eyes of 42 patients with progressive keratoconus were divided into two groups. Group A received I-CXL for 5min, while group B received I-CXL for 10min. Visual acuity, optical coherence tomography (OCT), specular microscopy and confocal microscopy were evaluated preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6, and 12mo postoperatively. RESULTS: Twelve months after the operation, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) were improved in both groups, with a better outcome in the I-CXL 10min group (P=0.025, 0.021, respectively). Kmax values decreased by 0.94±3.00 D in the I-CXL 10min group (P=0.033) but increased by 1.87±3.29 D in the I-CXL 5min group (P=0.012). OCT scans showed that the demarcation line was most visible and substantially deeper in the I-CXL 10min group. Confocal microscopy showed greater anterior stromal keratocyte decreases in the I-CXL 10min group than in the I-CXL 5min group at 3 and 6mo postoperatively (P<0.001); however, anterior stromal keratocytes and subbasal nerve density were not significantly different between the two groups at 12mo postoperatively. CONCLUSION: I-CXL for 10min more effectively halts the progression of keratoconus than I-CXL for 5min after 12mo of follow-up. However, long-term studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of I-CXL.

Launching a paradigm for first and redo-surgery in primary congenital glaucoma: institutional experience

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the outcome of the initial and the redo-surgeries for primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) correlated to its degree of severity. METHODS: A retrospective study involved patients with PCG presented between 2010 and 2018. Medical records were reviewed to assess the degree of the preoperative severity according to the intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal diameter and corneal edema. Success and failure rates were calculated for both first and redo-surgeries at 6 and 12mo respectively then correlated to the severity of the cases. RESULTS: Complete records were retrieved for 272 eyes (153 patients) with PCG: 43 eyes were mild, 136 moderate and 93 severe. Combined trabeculotomy and trabeculectomy (CTT) had the highest success rate in moderate (96.4%) and severe cases (59.3%) while trabeculotomy had the highest success rate in mild cases (96.3%). Medical records of 88 eyes (63 patients) with recurrent PCG were analyzed, most with severe presentation (59 eyes). Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) was used in 67 (76%) eyes and augmented trabeculectomy in 21 (24%) eyes. At 12mo, there was no statistically significant difference between both surgeries in total success rate (P=0.256). For mild cases, success rate was 100% for both surgeries. Severe cases had higher success rates following AGV (87%) than augmented trabeculectomy (20%). Preoperative severity of the disease was an independent factor affecting the failure rate in secondary trabeculectomy but not in AGV. Patients younger than 24mo had higher probabilities of failure following both redo-surgeries with hazard ratio =1.325 and 0.37 for augmented trabeculectomy and AGV respectively. CONCLUSION: Preoperative assessment of the severity of eyes with PCG helps in the selecting the optimal primary and secondary surgery. For first surgery, trabeculotomy is more effective in mild cases whereas; CTT and augmented subscleral trabeculectomy (SST) are appropriate for moderate and severe cases. AGV proved to be superior to augmented SST in severe recurrent cases.

Effect of subconjunctival injection with conbercept as an adjuvant to filtration surgery for open angle glaucoma: a prospective randomized interventional 6-month follow-up study

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the safety and efficacy of subconjunctival injection with conbercept and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) for open angle glaucoma (OAG) patients after filtration surgery. METHODS: As a prospective randomized interventional trial, 36 eyes from 36 patients after OAG surgery were collected and divided randomly into conbercept and 5-FU groups. All patients were subconjunctivally injected with either conbercept (0.2 mL) or 5-FU (0.2 mL) on the 5th day post-operatively. The intraocular pressure (IOP), number of medications used, type of conjunctival bleb, and complications were recorded and analyzed pre-operatively and 1d, 1wk, 1, 3 and 6mo post-injection. RESULTS: There were significant differences in IOP between the conbercept and 5-FU groups 1mo (conbercept group: 12.17±1.04 mm Hg; 5-FU group: 13.50±2.33 mm Hg, t=2.214, P=0.037), 3mo (conbercept group: 13.00±1.88 mm Hg; 5-FU group: 14.50±2.28 mm Hg, t=2.153, P=0.039), and 6mo post-injection (conbercept group: 13.28±2.95 mm Hg; 5-FU group: 15.22±2.49 mm Hg, t=2.140, P=0.040); however, in the number of medications, a prominent difference was not shown between groups on post-injection 6mo (t=1.312, P=0.200). Moreover, there was mild vascularity observed in the conbecept group than the 5-FU group 1d (3a, 3b, 3c: t=8.497, 6.693, 4.515, P=0.000), 1wk (3a, 3b, 3c: t=3.431, 6.408, 3.984, P=0.002, 0.000, 0.000), and 1mo post-injection (3a, 3b, 3c: t=2.466, 2.466, 2.503, P=0.019, 0.019, 0.017). Simultaneously, differences from other indicators between the two groups were not demonstrated. Also, there was a lower probability of corneal epithelial stripping in the conbercept group than the 5-FU group (χ2=4.500, P=0.034). CONCLUSION: Subconjunctival injection of conbercept has a safe, effective, and tolerable profile for open angle glaucoma patients with distinct conjunctival congestion after filtration surgery.

Dual Scheimpflug imaging as a screening method for occludable angles-a comparison with gonioscopy

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate dual Scheimpflug analyzer (Galilei) as a screening method for the diagnostic of gonioscopically narrow anterior chamber angles (ACA). METHODS: In 40 eyes of 40 patients with different ACA range, the ACA, anterior chamber volume (ACV) and anterior chamber depth (ACD) were analyzed using the dual Scheimpflug analyzer (Galilei G6 system). Correspondence between these parameters and Shaffer’s classification based on gonioscopy were studied. Receiving operator characteristic (ROC) curves and partition analysis were used to determine the efficacy of the Galilei system in screening for narrow angles. Agreement (Kappa statistics), sensitivity, and specificity for each eye, according to Galilei measures, were also assessed. RESULTS: Shaffer’s grade (from 0 to 4) were significantly associated with each of the measurements (P<0.001). In screening eyes with narrow angles with the Galilei, the area under the ROC curve was largest (0.90) when ACD was used as the reference, and partition analysis demonstrated that those eyes were most adequately partitioned with an ACD of 2.86 mm with 100% sensitivity and 80% specificity. CONCLUSION: The Galilei is a secure, repeatable and noncontact screening method for narrow angles. However it does not provide sufficient information about the ACA anatomy to be considered a substitute for gonioscopy.

Clinical outcomes with large macular holes using the tiled transplantation internal limiting membrane pedicle flap technique

Li-Ping Wang, Wen-Tao Sun, Chun-Ling Lei and Jin Deng — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To report the surgical technique and efficacy of the tiled transplantation internal limiting membrane (ILM) pedicle flap technique after vitrectomy for 33 patients with large macular hole (MH). METHODS: This study was a prospective noncontrolled interventional study. All patients were treated by vitrectomy, the tiled transplantation ILM pedicle flap and gas tamponade. All patients underwent visual acuity measurements and optical coherence tomography (OCT), during preoperative and the follow-up visits postoperative. RESULTS: Two high-myopic patient had flap dislocation during surgery. The thorough closure of MH following the tiled transplantation ILM pedicle flap technique was ultimately achieved in 31 patients observed by OCT imaging (93.94%) 1wk after surgery. Visual acuity improved from 1.51±0.31 (logMAR) preoperative to 0.92±0.30 6mo after surgery (P=0.000). There were no significant changes in OCT finding during the follow-up period from 1mo to 6mo after surgery. CONCLUSION: The tiled transplantation ILM pedicle flap technique provides bridge for retinal gliosis to achieve successful closures of the large MHs, and the microenvironment of this technique is more similar to the normal physiological conditions.

Intravitreal conbercept injection for neovascular age-related macular degeneration

Bing-Hui Wu, Bing Wang, Hui-Qin Wu, Qin Chang and Hui-Qin Lu — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal injection of conbercept in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: Retrospective review of 66 eyes of 63 patients with neovascular AMD. All patients received 0.5 mg intravitreal injections of conbercept monthly for 3 consecutive months, and then pro re nata treatment was performed. The changes of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central macular thickness (CMT) were observed before and after treatments. Minimum follow-up time was 12mo. SPSS 22.0 statistical software was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The mean BCVA and CMT of 66 eyes (63 patients) were 1.11±0.60, 533.20±219.95 μm at baseline, and were 0.68±0.38, 310.28±125.60 μm at 3mo. No subjects were lost during the first three months, the improvements were all significantly (P<0.05). During the whole follow-up time of 12mo, 15 subjects (18 eyes) were lost. The mean BCVA and CMT of the rest 48 eyes with the follow-up time at least 1y were 0.83±0.46 and 547.59±196.77 μm at baseline, after 3mo and 12mo of conbercept injections became 0.55±0.41, 318.24±141.29 μm and 0.55±0.51, 333.87±173.25 μm. The differences were significant (P<0.05). No serious complications were observed. CONCLUSION: Intravitreal injection of conbercept appears to significantly improve visual acuity and anatomical outcomes in patients with neovascular AMD, no serious adverse reactions and complications are observed.

Comparison of topical nepafenac 0.1% with intravitreal dexamethasone implant for the treatment of Irvine-Gass syndrome

Hande Guclu and Vuslat Pelitli Gurlu — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare safety and efficacy of intravitreal dexamethasone (IVD) implant with topical nepafenac (TN) 0.1% in previously untreated Irvine-Gass syndrome (IGS) in clinical practice. METHODS: This was a retrospective study of 62 eyes with IGS after phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. None of the patients used treatment before IVD or TN. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) with Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study chart (ETDRS), slit-lamp, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, fundus examination, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus florescein angiography were performed to all subjects at baseline, 1, 3 and 6mo. RESULTS: The mean BCVA of the IVD group was 49.3±6.8, and the mean BCVA of the TN group was 32.9±7.3 ETDRS letters in post-treatment month 6. The mean central macular thickness (CRT) of IVD group was 266.6±53.5 µm and the mean CRT of TN group was 364.9±56.3 µm in post-treatment month 6. Baseline BCVA has correlation with final BCVA in TN group however there was no correlation between baseline BCVA and final BCVA in IVD group. CONCLUSION: IVD is found to be better than TN in controlling pseudophakic macular edema and improving visual acuity. IVD group also has significantly lower CRT however IOP is not significantly different between two groups in post-treatment month 6.

Indicating and predicting role of the horizontal C/D ratio in preclinical diabetic retinopathy associated with chronic angle-closure glaucoma

Ze-Long Zhong and Song Chen — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To observe morphological optic disc characteristics in patients with preclinical diabetic retinopathy (DR) associated with chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG). METHODS: Twenty-two cases (43 eyes) of preclinical DR associated with CACG were enrolled in group A; 24 preclinical DR cases (46 eyes) were enrolled in group B; 26 CACG cases (51 eyes) were enrolled in group C; and 49 normal controls (49 eyes) were enrolled in group D. All underwent optical coherence tomography to measure the horizontal C/D ratio (HCDR), C/D area ratio (CDaR), vertical C/D ratio (VCDR), rim area (RA), cup volume (CV), disc area (DA) and average retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness. RESULTS: The ages of groups A, B, C, and D were 67.60±3.36, 66.78±3.33, 65.98±3.83, and 67.54±3.17y, respectively. The HCDR values in groups A, B, and C were distinct relative to those in group D (P<0.0001, P<0.01, and P<0.05, respectively). The HCDR values in group A were higher compared with those in groups B (P<0.0001) and D (P<0.0001); while these values were virtually identical statistically between groups A and C (P>0.05). The CDaR values in group A were higher in comparison to those in groups B and D (P<0.0001 in both groups); while these values were virtually identical statistically between groups A and C (P>0.05). The RA values in group A were smaller relative to those in groups B and D (P<0.0001 in both groups); while groups A and C were not distinct statistically (P>0.05). The CV values in group A were greater in comparison to those in groups B and D (P<0.0001 in both groups); while groups A and C were not distinct statistically (P>0.05). DA was not distinct for comparisons of two groups among the four groups (P>0.05). HCDR value correlated with mean nasal RNFL thickness (r=-0.909, P<0.0001), mean superior RNFL thickness (r=-0.866, P<0.0001), mean inferior RNFL thickness (r=-0.650, P<0.001) and mean temporal RNFL thickness (r=-0.562, P<0.01) in group A. CONCLUSION: The HCDR was a sensitive morphological parameter in detecting structural visual disc changes in preclinical DR associated with CACG, which can reflect optic nerve damage caused jointly by CACG and diabetes. A higher HCDR may predict optic nerve atrophy.

Relationship between contrast sensitivity and corneal shape following overnight orthokeratology

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the relationship between contrast sensitivity (CS) and corneal shape following overnight orthokeratology (OK). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective clinical study of 80 lens-wearing myopia patients, all of whom had undergone OK and had been evaluated by Orbscan II topography. We measured the surface irregularity index (SIRI) of corneal topography at 3 and 5 mm, the size of the flattened central corneal curvature of OK lens (zone A), the size of the cornea altered by OK lens (zone B), the size of the pupillary area at the corneal level (zone C), the area of crossover between zones A and C (zone AC), the area of crossover between zones B and C (BC), the ratio of BC to B (BC/B), and the ratio of AC to C (AC/C). CS was evaluated using the CSV-1000 with spatial frequencies of 3, 6, 12, and 18 cycles/degree (CPD). RESULTS: Multiple correlation analyses indicated significant negative correlations between CS, zone C, BC/B, and 3-mm SIRI (all P<0.01). There were no significant differences between CS, zone B, AC/A, or 5-mm SIRI (P=0.60, 0.94 and 0.11, respectively). Zone C was negatively correlated with 3, 6, 12, and 18 CPD. 5-mm SIRI were negatively correlated with 6, 12, and 18 CPD. BC/C was negatively correlated with 6 and 18 CPD. AC/C was positively correlated with 3 CPD. CONCLUSION: Zone C, 3-mm SIRI and BC/B affect the CS following overnight OK.

SMILE intraoperative complications: incidence and management

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To report the intraoperative complications associated with small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and their management. METHODS: This was a retrospective consecutive interventional clinical study, carried out on patients with myopia and myopic astigmatism, who underwent SMILE procedure. Type of intraoperative complications and their management were recorded. RESULTS: Our study comprised 282 eyes of 141 patients who were enrolled for SMILE surgeries. The intraoperative complications included lost vacuum (18 eyes, 6.38%), treatment decentration (6 eyes, 2.12%), wound bleeding (21 eyes, 7.45%), incomplete bubble separation (black islands) (3 eyes, 1.06%), the epithelial defects (15 eyes, 5.32%). Incision tear (27 eyes, 9.57%), lenticule adherence to the cap (6 eyes, 2.12%), and cap perforation occurred in 2 eyes (0.7%). CONCLUSION: Although SMILE is a promising technique for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism with predictable, efﬁcient, safe refractive and visual outcomes, complications can occur. However, most of them are related to inexperience and are included in the learning curve of the technique. More studies with a bigger number of eyes are required to efficiently evaluate the intraoperative complications and standardize their management strategies.

Visual performance after implantation of two types of phakic foldable intraocular lenses for correction of high myopia

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare Visian lens (model V4c) and Artiflex lens regarding quality (contrast sensitivity) and quantity (efficacy, predictability, safety and stability) of vision in correcting high myopia with recording and analysis of complications. METHODS: The comparative prospective study included 39 eyes of 23 patients with high myopia, 19 eyes had Visian lens implantation (model V4c) and 20 eyes had Artiflex lens implantation. The inclusion criteria were high myopia (higher than 6.0 D) and stable refraction (<0.5 D change over one year). Outcomes included assessment of safety and efficacy indices, predictability, stability, contrast sensitivity and analysis of complications at postoperative 1d, 1wk and 1, 3, 6 and 12mo. Selection of the type of phakic intraocular lens for patients was based on surgeons’ preferences, which was no specific selection criteria. RESULTS: After 12mo of follow up, difference in uncorrected and corrected distant visual acuity (CDVA) between both groups was statistically insigniﬁcant (UDVA for VisianV4c and Artiflex lens were 0.33±0.2 logMAR and 0.37±0.2 logMAR respectively, P=0.59, CDVA for VisianV4c and Artiflex lens were 0.155±0.1 logMAR and 0.147± 0.1 logMAR respectively, P=0.87). The efficacy index was 1.25 for VisianV4c lens and 0.8 for Artiflex lens, 78.9% of eyes were within one diopter spherical equivalent in Visian V4c lens group compared to 70% in the Artiflex lens group. No eye lost lines of CVDA proving a good safety index for both lenses (safety index was 1.67 for VisianV4c lens and 1.34 for Artiflex lens). Difference in contrast sensitivity between both groups was statistically insignificant (P=0.15, 0.88, 0.27, 0.32 and 0.82 at five spatial frequencies). CONCLUSION: Both Visian ICL V4c and Artiflex lenses are safe and effective with stable and predictable refraction and they have comparable contrast sensitivity outcomes with no vision threatening complications.

One-year outcomes of intravitreal conbercept combined rescue therapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy in a Chinese population: a real-life clinical data

Hui-Jun Qi, En-Zhong Jin and Ming-Wei Zhao — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the real-life clinical outcomes of intravitreal injection of conbercept combined rescue therapy for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). METHODS: This was an open label, single center, and interventional study. All enrolled patients were treated initially with three consecutive monthly intravitreal conbercept injections (0.5 mg). Additional conbercept injections were administered upon substantial polyp regression with improved visual acuity (VA). Eyes with partial or no polyp regression and poor VA were rescue treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) for subfoveal polyps or thermal laser photocoagulation for extrafoveal polyps. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central foveal thickness (CFT) and polyp regression were observed as primary outcomes. Side effects were also collected during the follow-up period. RESULTS: A total of 56 eyes (56 patients) with PCV were included. BCVA increased significantly from the baseline of 43.52±24.21 letters to 55.88±21.94 letters (P<0.001) at 12mo, while CFT decreased significantly from 457.41±207.86 μm to 247.98±127.08 μm (P<0.001). All patients showed polyp regression. Twenty-three eyes achieved complete polyp regression after the three initial injections, which increased to 44 eyes at 12mo. Seventeen eyes underwent rescue therapy, among which 2 eyes treated with PDT and 15 eyes treated with laser photocoagulation. A mean of 4.30±1.43 injections were given per eye. No intraocular inflammation, retinal or vitreous hemorrhage, or systemic complication occurred. CONCLUSION: Conbercept is an effective and safe option for the treatment of PCV in Chinese population. The treatment regimen of three initial conbercept injections followed by additional injections or rescue therapies is efficacious for treating PCV.

Evaluation of spectral domain optical coherence tomography parameters in discriminating preperimetric glaucoma from high myopia

Xiao-Yu Xu, Hui Xiao, Jing-Yi Luo and Xing Liu — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the diagnostic ability of macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) thickness obtained by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in discriminating non-highly myopic eyes with preperimetric glaucoma (PPG) from highly myopic healthy eyes. METHODS: A total of 254 eyes, including 76 normal controls (NC), 116 eyes with high myopia (HM) and 62 non-highly myopic eyes with PPG were enrolled. The diagnostic ability of OCT parameters was accessed by the areas under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve in two distinguishing groups: PPG eyes with non-glaucomatous eyes including NC and HM (Group 1), and PPG eyes with HM eyes (Group 2). Differences in diagnostic performance between GCIPL and RNFL parameters were evaluated. RESULTS: The minimum (AUROC curve of 0.782), inferotemporal (0.758) and inferior (0.705) GCIPL thickness were the top three GCIPL parameters in discriminating PPG from non-glaucomatous eyes, all of which had statistically significant lower diagnostic ability than average RNFL thickness (0.847). In discriminating PPG from HM, the best GCIPL parameter was minimum (0.689), statistically significant lower in diagnostic ability than average RNFL thickness (0.789) and three other RNFL thickness parameters of temporal and inferotemporal clock-hour sectors. CONCLUSION: The minimum GCIPL thickness is the best GCIPL parameter to detect non-highly myopic PPG from highly myopic eyes, whose diagnostic ability is inferior to that of average RNFL thickness and RNFL thickness of several temporal and inferotemporal clock-hour sectors. The average RNFL thickness is recommended for discriminating PPG from highly myopic healthy eyes in current clinical practice in a Chinese population.

The prognosis of trabeculectomy in primary angle- closure glaucoma patients

Jun-Dong Zhu, Li-Lian Xie, Zhi-Yuan Li and Xiao-He Lu — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate whether the level of thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) in aqueous humor can predict the prognosis of trabeculectomy in patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG). METHODS: This case-control study involved 26 patients with PACG who experienced a failed trabeculectomy (case group) and 78 age- and sex-matched patients with PACG who underwent successful trabeculectomy (control group). Aqueous humor was collected at the time of trabeculectomy and tested for TSP-1 and TGF-β2 levels with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Logistic regression modeling was used to assess the risk factors for failed trabeculectomy. RESULTS: The mean TSP-1 aqueous concentrations were significantly higher in the case group (20.67±9.79 ng/mL) than the control group (5.17±2.29 ng/mL) (P<0.001). The transforming growth factor-β2 (TGF-β2) aqueous concentrations were significantly different between the case and control group, at 3633.25 and 1090.24 pg/mL, respectively (P<0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed TSP-1 level as an independent risk factor for a failed trabeculectomy (OR=3.540; 95%CI=1.092-11.482). CONCLUSION: The aqueous humor TSP-1 and TGF-β2 levels are higher in PACG eyes with failed trabeculectomy than with successful trabeculectomy at one year. The aqueous humor TSP-1 level is an independent risk factor associated with failed trabeculectomy.

Comparison of ring 1 parameters in 37-segment multifocal electroretinography between onset and offset conditions of ring 2 to 4 in normal subjects

Jun Ho Yoo, Cheolmin Yun, Jaeryung Oh and Seong-Woo Kim — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate whether the response of a central hexagonal element corresponding to the macular area in conventional multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) tests was the same as that of experimental mfERG using single central hexagonal element stimulation. METHODS: Prospective, observational study. Thirty healthy subjects were included in this study. mfERG recordings were performed according to two protocols: stimulus with 37 hexagonal elements (protocol 1), and stimulus with a single central element created by deactivating the other 36 hexagonal elements (protocol 2). We compared differences between ring 1 parameters in each protocol. RESULTS: In protocol 1, the first positive component (P1) implicit time and P1 amplitude were 37.8±1.8ms and 6.3±2.7 μV. After single element stimulation (protocol 2), double positive waves appeared. The implicit time and amplitude of P1 were 40.7±2.4ms (P<0.001) and 9.1±3.3 μV (P=0.001), respectively. The implicit time and amplitude of the second positive component (P2) were 68.0±4.5ms (P<0.001, compared with P1 in protocol 1) and 12.3±4.7 μV (P<0.001, compared with P1 in protocol 1), respectively. The amplitude of P2 in protocol 2 was about two times higher than that of P1 in protocol 1. CONCLUSION: mfERG responses of a central hexagonal element in a single element stimulation protocol are different from those of multiple element stimulation. The positive wave is more enhanced compared to that of the conventional protocol and it elongated into two wavelets.

Fluorescein angiography of retinal vascular involution after intravitreal injection of ranibizumab for retinopathy of prematurity

Yong Cheng, Tie-Gang Liu, Wei-Yi Li, Ming-Wei Zhao and Jian-Hong Liang — 2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the involution patterns of vessel growth of retina through fluorescein angiography (FA) of children, who had been under treatment up to 1y previously intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) as monotherapy for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). METHODS: This is a retrospective study. The medical information and FA of 17 children (34 eyes) whose area of avascular retina from the ora serrata was more than two disc diameters (DD) were analyzed. RESULTS: Among 34 eyes, all were the presence of finger-shaped vessels and arteriolar-venular shunts (100%, 34/34 eyes). Popcorn abnormalities were found in most of the eyes (94.1%, 32/34 eyes). Furthermore, in many cases (23.5%, 8/34 eyes), there were leakage persisting in the region of the junction between avascular and vascular retina. In contrast, just 2 eyes (5.9%) showed damage of retinal capillary bed and 3 eyes (8.8%) showed large area of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy. CONCLUSION: Although IVR can be very effective in ROP, we should remain cautious as infants may remain avascular peripheral retinas and abnormal vessel. FA allows accurate visualization of vessel abnormalities in eyes with ROP, which will be helpful to affect assessment of disease activity and therapeutic effect.

Evaluation of dynamic stereopsis in intermittent exotropia patients

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To delineate the characteristics of the dynamic stereopsis test and analyze related parameters in intermittent exotropia [X(T)] patients. METHODS: Fifty-seven X(T) patients and 55 normal subjects were enrolled in this study. The normal and X(T) groups were used to test the reproducibility and reliability of the dynamic stereopsis test, and Bangerter filters with densities of 0.2 were then used to simulate suppression to test for traditional and dynamic stereopsis. In the X(T) group, the measurements included 1) dynamic stereopsis test comprising three parts: motion+disparity, motion only and disparity only; 2) ocular deviation angle; 3) Bagolini striated lens test; 4) disease course; and 5) Titmus stereopsis test. RESULTS: The test-retest reliability of the dynamic stereopsis method was 0.901 in the normal and X(T) groups, and none of the X(T) patients were able to pass the static and dynamic stereopsis tests after using the 0.2 Bangerter filter. The accuracy rate was greater than 80% in the normal group and 31.81%, 36.36%, and 45.45% for the motion+disparity, motion-only and disparity-only components of the traditional test for X(T) patients diagnosed with stereoblindness via traditional tests, respectively. Patients with a long disease course (>1y) had worse dynamic stereopsis than those with a short disease course (<1y; P<0.05, Chi-square test). The deviation angle was not correlated with the motion+disparity, disparity-only, or the motion-only test components (all P>0.05, Chi-square test). CONCLUSION: Dynamic stereopsis is preserved in certain X(T) patients diagnosed with stereoblindness via traditional tests. A long disease course was shown to be a negative factor for dynamic stereopsis in X(T) patients which might be associated with worse progression, and provide good references clinically.

Management of tear trough deformity with and without tear trough-orbicularis retaining ligament complex release in transconjunctival blepharoplasty: a comparative study

2019/1/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effect of releasing the orbicularis retaining ligament (ORL) complex of the tear trough combined with the transconjunctival blepharoplasty in the surgical management of tear trough deformity compared with the effect of blepharoplasty alone. METHODS: A prospective, randomized (by closed envelope technique), controlled surgical trial which included 50 patients (100 eyes) with bilateral visible tear trough deformity and lower eyelid fat bulging, was divided into two groups where 25 patients (50 eyes) had tear trough-ORL release with blepharoplasty and 25 patients (50 eyes) didn’t. Qualitative and quantitative assessments of tear trough deformity were done at 6mo postoperatively, achieving grade 0 or 1 of Barton’s classification was considered a success. Standardized photographic documentation of each patient was done pre and postoperatively, also assessment of the patients’ satisfaction postoperatively was done and ranked as excellent, very good, good or fair. RESULTS: There was statistically significant difference between the two groups in the overall aesthetic results postoperatively regarding the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the tear trough deformity, where patients who had tear trough-ORL complex release had more successful outcomes than those of the second group. CONCLUSION: ORL release should be done in patients with tear trough deformity in order to release the tethering effect of this ligament which causes the prominence of the naso jugal groove.

Dynamic profile of ocular refraction in pediatric cataract patients after lens surgeries

2019/11/6 0:00:00
AIM: To study the change in ocular refraction in patients with pediatric cataracts (PCs) after lens extraction. METHODS: A total of 1258 patients who were undergoing cataract extraction with/without intraocular lens (IOL) implantation were recruited during preoperative examinations between Jan 2010 and Oct 2013. Patient ages ranged from 1.5mo to 14y. Follow-ups were conducted at 1wk, 1, and 3mo postoperatively and every 3mo in the first year, then 6mo thereafter. Ocular refraction [evaluated as spherical equivalent (SE)] and yearly myopic shift (YMS) were recorded and statistically analyzed among patients with age at surgery, baseline ocular refraction, gender, postoperative time and laterality (bilateral vs unilateral). RESULTS: By Dec 31st 2015, 1172 participants had been followed for more than 2y. The median follow-up period was 3y. The critical factors affecting the ocular refraction of PC patients were baseline ocular refraction, postoperative time for both aphakic and pseudophakic eyes. YMS grew most rapidly in young childhood and early adolescence. CONCLUSION: After lens surgeries, ocular refraction in PC patients shows an individual difference of change. Further concerns should be raising to monitor the rapid myopic shift at early adolescence of these patients.

The effects of implantable collamer lens implantation on higher order aberrations

Belma Kayhan, Efekan Coskunseven, Onurcan Sahin and Ioannis Pallikaris — 2019/11/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the changes in higher order aberrations (HOAs) after implantable collamer lens (ICL; Staar Surgical, Nidau, Switzerland) implantation. METHODS: Totally 30 eyes of 18 patients with myopia were included in this study with an average age of 25.77y (min: 21, max: 40). Refraction, uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), HOAs (entire, corneal and internal) were evaluated preoperatively and three months postoperatively. Ocular aberrations were measured by using iTrace (Tracey Technology, Houston, Texas, USA). SPSS (IBM Corp. Released 2013. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp) was used for the statistical analysis and the interpretation of the data. P values of less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The preoperative mean spherical power was -9.01 D (min: -5.00, max: -13.00) and the mean cylindrical error was -2.40 D (min: -0.50, max: -4.75). The postoperative mean residual spherical power was -0.73 D (min: -0.20, max: -1.75) and the mean cylindrical error was -0.89 D (min: -0.18, max: -2.09). Analyses were made on root mean square (RMS) values of total HOAs (tHOAs), spherical aberration, coma and trefoil as entire, corneal and internal components. The differences in entire tHOAs and in internal tHOAs were significant. There was no significant change found in spherical aberrations. The differences in entire coma and in internal coma were significant. There was no significant change found in corneal coma. With respect to trefoil, the only significant difference was in internal trefoil. CONCLUSION: The ICL implantation corrects the refractive error successfully and changes entire and internal HOAs of the eye.

Impact of corneal parameters on intraocular pressure measurements in different tonometry methods

Aleksandra Zakrzewska, Marta P. Wiącek and Anna Machalińska — 2019/11/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the impact of central corneal thickness (CCT) and corneal curvature on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements performed by three different tonometers. METHODS: IOP in 132 healthy eyes of 66 participants was measured using three different tonometry techniques: Goldmann applanation tonometer (GAT), Pascal dynamic contour tonometer (DCT), and ICare rebound tonometer (RT). CCT and corneal curvature were assessed. RESULTS: In healthy eyes, DCT presents significantly higher values of IOP than GAT (17.34±3.69 and 15.27±4.06 mm Hg, P<0.0001). RT measurements are significantly lower than GAT (13.56±4.33 mm Hg, P<0.0001). Compared with GAT, DCT presented on average 2.51 mm Hg higher values in eyes with CCT<600 μm and 0.99 mm Hg higher results in eyes with CCT≥600 μm. The RT results were lower on average by 1.61 and 1.95 mm Hg than those obtained by GAT, respectively. Positive correlations between CCT in eyes with CCT<600 μm were detected for all IOP measurement techniques, whereas a similar relationship was not observed in eyes with thicker corneas. A correlation between IOP values and keratometry in the group with CCT<600 μm was not detected with any of the tonometry methods. In thicker corneas, a positive correlation was found for GAT and mean keratometry values (R=0.369, P=0.005). CONCLUSION: The same method should always be chosen for routine IOP control, and measurements obtained by different methods cannot be compared. All analysed tonometry methods are dependent on CCT; thus, CCT should be taken into consideration for both diagnostics and monitoring.

Long-term observation of vitrectomy without subretinal hemorrhage management for massive vitreous hemorrhage secondary to polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy

Zhi-Xi Li, Yi-Jun Hu, Alp Atik, Lin Lu and Jie Hu — 2019/11/6 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the long-term observation of vitrectomy without subretinal hemorrhage (SRH) management for massive vitreous hemorrhage (VH) secondary to polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV). METHODS: This is a retrospective, consecutive case series. A total of 86 eyes of 86 patients with >14d of massive VH associated with PCV were included. All patients underwent vitrectomy without SRH management, followed by intravitreal ranibizumab injections and/or photodynamic therapy (PDT) as needed. The main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), postoperative adverse events and the recurrence of VH. RESULTS: The average follow-up period was 25.5±9.2mo (range 12-35mo). Mean BCVA at baseline (2.16±0.39 logMAR) had improved significantly, both 3mo after surgery (1.42±0.66 logMAR, P<0.001) and by the last visit (1.23±0.74 logMAR, P<0.001). The common postoperative complications included macular subretinal fibrosis in 14 eyes (16.3%) and ciliary body detachment in 4 eyes (4.7%). Nineteen eyes (22.1%) received following treatment with ranibizumab injections without/with PDT, and 15 (17.4%) were resolved. Four eyes (4.7%) had recurrent hemorrhage during the follow-up period. In multiple regression analysis, thicker SRH (beta=0.33, P=0.025) in the preoperative B-scan and the presence of foveal subretinal fibrosis (beta=0.28, P=0.018) in the follow up were associated with poor postoperative BCVA. CONCLUSION: Vitrectomy without SRH management for massive VH secondary to PCV improved/stabilized visual function in the long-term observation. Eyes presenting with thicker SRH preoperatively and forming foveal subretinal fibrosis in the follow-up period tended to have worse BCVA.

Chorioretinal response to intravitreal aflibercept injection in acute central serous chorioretinopathy

Byung Ju Jung, Kook Lee, Jin Hyung Park and Jae Hyung Lee — 2019/11/6 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate chorioretinal responses to intravitreal aflibercept injection (IAI) in patients with acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC). METHODS: Seventy-one eyes from 71 patients with symptomatic CSC for less than six months were included. Thirty-five eyes received a single IAI and 36 eyes were observed without treatment. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central subfield foveal thickness (CSFT), and subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) were assessed at baseline and at 1, 2, and 3mo. RESULTS: The mean SFCT in the IAI group decreased at 1mo, rebounded at 2mo and remained stable at 3mo compared to the baseline, while significant change was not noted in the observation group. The mean CSFT decreased significantly during the 3-month study period in both groups, and was significantly lower in the IAI group at 1mo (P<0.001). A rebound of CSFT between 1 and 2mo was noted in 14 eyes (40.0%) in the IAI group and in 1 eye (2.8%) in the observation group (P<0.001). The significant visual improvement was achieved from 1mo in the IAI group, and from 2mo in the observation group. The rate of complete absorption of subretinal fluid at 3mo did not differ between the two groups. (45.7% vs 41.7%, P=0.813). CONCLUSION: A single IAI for acute CSC induce a transient decrease in SFCT and CSFT, which implies that IAI may have a pharmacological effect on the underlying hyperpermeable choroid in acute CSC.

Epiretinal membrane following pars plana vitrectomy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair

Ruti Sella, Amir Sternfeld, Ivan Budnik, Ruth Axer-Siegel and Rita Ehrlich — 2019/11/6 0:00:00
AIM: To determine the rate and possible contributors for post-pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) epiretinal membrane (ERM) in patients treated for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). METHODS: This prospective, nonrandomized study comprised 47 consecutive patients (47 eyes) with acute RRD treated with 23 G post-PPV. All participants were followed prospectively for 6mo for the development of ERM using spectral domain optical coherence tomography. Preoperative and intraoperative data were collected by questionnaires to surgeons. Main outcome measure was the percentage of the ERM formation following post-PPV for RRD. RESULTS: ERM developed postoperatively in 23 eyes (48.9%), none necessitated surgical removal. There was a statistically significant difference between patients with and without ERM postoperatively in preoperative best corrected visual acuity (median logMAR 1.9 vs 0.3, respectively; P=0.003) rate of macula-off (69.6% vs 37.5%, respectively, P=0.028), and rate of ≥5 cryo-applications (55.6% and 18.8%, respectively, P=0.039). ERM developed mainly between the 1st and 3rd months of follow-up. Macula-off status increased the risk of ERM, with the odds ratio of 3.81 (P=0.031). CONCLUSION: ERM is a frequent post RRD finding, and its development is associated with macula-off RRD.

Comparison of anti-inflammatory effects of intense pulsed light with tobramycin/dexamethasone plus warm compress on dry eye associated meibomian gland dysfunction

2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the anti-inflammatory effects of intense pulsed light (IPL) with tobramycin/dexamethasone plus warm compress through clinical signs and cytokines in tears. METHODS: Eighty-two patients with dry eye disease (DED) associated meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) were divided into two groups. Group A was treated with IPL, and Group B was treated with tobramycin/dexamethasone plus warm compress. Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), tear film breakup time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), meibomian gland expressibility (MGE), meibum quality, gland dropout and tear cytokine levels were evaluated before treatment, 1wk and 1mo after treatment. RESULTS: TBUT in Group A was higher (P=0.035), and MGE score was lower than Group B at 1mo (P=0.001). The changes of interleukin (IL)-17A and IL-1β levels in tears were lower in Group A compared with that in Group B at 1wk after treatment (P=0.05, P=0.005). CONCLUSION: Treatment with IPL can improve TBUT and MGE and downregulate levels of IL-17A and IL-1β in tears of patients with DED associated MGD better than treatment with tobramycin/dexamethasone plus warm compress in one-month treatment period.

Accelerated versus standard corneal cross linking in the treatment of ectasia post refractive surgery and penetrating keratoplasty: a medium term randomized trial

2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the clinical outcomes of the standard corneal cross linking (CXL) and the accelerated CXL in patients with progressive corneal ectasia post refractive surgery and penetrating keratoplasty. METHODS: Totally 120 eyes of 83 patients scheduled to receive either standard CXL (3 mW/cm2 for a period of 30min) or accelerated CXL (18 mW/cm2 for a period of 5min). The main outcomes for comparison were the change in: maximum-K reading (K-max), manifest refractive spherical equivalent (SE), central corneal thickness (CCT), and the best corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA). RESULTS: One hundred and eleven eyes completed the study. The main outcome measurement was the K-max reading. Both group showed significant improvement in the value postoperatively at 6 and 12mo. The mean change in the standard group was 1.21±0.11 D and in the accelerated group was 0.90±0.05 D at the end of 12mo postoperatively, with no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. Similarly, CDVA improved significantly from their preoperative value in the standard group by 2.98±0.11 letters, and in the accelerated group by 2.20±0.06 letters, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Both of the SE, and CCT showed no statistically significant difference at the end of follow up period in each group. CONCLUSION: Both standard CXL and accelerated CXL are safe and effective treatment in halting ectasia after corneal refractive surgery. The accelerated CXL results are comparable to the standard CXL with short time exposure of the cornea to ultraviolet irradiation, leading to reduced operation time, reduced operative ocular discomfort, and corneal haze.

Trocar opening: silicone oil removal with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation

Xu Zhang, Ya-Jie Pan and Zheng-Yu Song — 2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified technique [trocar opening (TO)] for silicone oil removal (SOR) in combination with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. METHODS: A total of 60 eyes of 60 patients with cataract and silicone oil-filled eyes were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into two groups: the patients in the control group underwent 23-gauge pars plana active SOR surgery with phacoemulsi?cation and IOL implantation, while the patients in the TO group underwent TO methods during surgery. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), surgery time, intraocular pressure, and operative complications were observed 6mo after surgery. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, preoperative, intraocular pressure, or time of silicone oil stay. Prior to surgery, the mean BCVA for the control and TO groups was 1.34±0.44 and 1.36±0.42. At 6mo following surgery, the mean BCVA improved to 0.74±0.36 and 0.77±0.32, respectively (P<0.001). There was no significant difference between the two groups. The mean SOR time was 6.9±2.3min and 4.8±1.2min in the control and TO groups (P=0.008). The total operation time was 28.2±8.5min and 24.6±6.4min, respectively (P=0.035). Posterior capsule rupture occurred in four eyes of control and none of TO group (P<0.01). Late recurrent retinal detachment occurred in one eye in the control group (2mo after surgery) and in one eye in the TO group (4mo after surgery). CONCLUSION: TO is a simple, effective, time-saving, and safe method for SOR combined with phacoemulsification and IOL implantation.

Comparison of contrast sensitivity based on the surgical results for intermittent exotropia

Hae Rang Kim and Soo Jung Lee — 2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To compare contrast sensitivity (CS) based on the surgical results for intermittent exotropia (IXT) and to examine the relationship between CS and photophobia. METHODS: Medical records of the patients who underwent bilateral lateral rectus muscle recession for IXT between 4 and 12 years old were reviewed retrospectively. They were categorized based on the surgical results; successful correction group (n=36) and overcorrection group (esotropia ≥10 PD at 3mo postoperatively, n=18). Using CGT-2000 test for CS was performed binocularly, and subjective reports of photophobia was investigated preoperatively and at 3mo postoperatively. Objective photophobia was defined as a significant decrease in CS in the presence of glare. RESULTS: Preoperatively, there was no difference in CS between the groups. Postoperatively, under mesopic conditions, significant improvement of CS was observed at 6.3°, 4°, and 2.5° in the successful correction group and at 6.3° and 4° in the overcorrection group, regardless of glare. Under photopic conditions, at all visual angles except 0.64°, improvement in CS was noted in both groups while CS worsened significantly at 0.64° in the overcorrection group postoperatively. At all visual angles under photopic conditions postoperatively, regardless of glare, CS in the overcorrected group was significantly worse than that in the successful correction group, and CS was significantly decreased by addition of glare in both groups. All patients except one (96.4%) in the successful correction group and 8 patients (61.5%) in overcorrection group showed improvement of photophobia postoperatively, which correlated with CS under photopic conditions (P=0.001, 0.03). CONCLUSION: After surgery for IXT, CS under photopic conditions improve at all visual angles except 0.64°, while CS is significantly worse in the overcorrection group postoperatively at 0.64°. Subjective photophobia have significant correlation with CS under photopic conditions, and may be used as an objective indicator of photophobia.

Clinical features and treatment outcomes of primary ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: a single center retrospective analysis of 64 patients in China

2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the clinical features, treatment and prognosis of primary ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (POAML). METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 64 patients with POAML who were admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2006 to December 2018. RESULTS: With a median follow-up of 61mo (range, 2-156mo), estimated overall survival (OS) rate and progression-free survival (PFS) rate at 10y reached 94.5% and 61.5%, respectively. Median OS time and PFS time were not reached. During this period, only 3 patients died, but none of them died directly due to disease progression. One patient (1.6%) developed transformation to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Of the 56 patients achieved complete remission after first-line treatment, 5 (8.9%) developed local and/or systemic relapse eventually. Patients ≥60y had significantly shorter PFS than younger patients (P=0.01). For patients with early stages (Ann Arbor stage I and stage II), univariate analysis confirmed that radiotherapy dose lower than 32 Gy were independently associated with shorter PFS (P=0.04). Other factors including gender, bone marrow involvement, the initial location of the disease, and the laterality were not associated with PFS. CONCLUSION: The data from our center indicate that POAML has a slow clinical progression and has an excellent clinical outcome. Patients with POAML harbor a continual risk of relaps and transformation to aggressive subtype of lymphoma.

The effect of intravenous high-dose glucocorticoids and orbital decompression surgery on sight-threatening thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy

Yun Wen and Jian-Hua Yan — 2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To report the effects of intravenous high-dose glucocorticoids (ivGC) and orbital decompression (OD) surgery for treatment of sight-threatening thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO). METHODS: A retrospective review of medical records from patients with sight-threatening TAO [definite or highly suspected dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON)] treated with ivGC (60 cases) and OD (25 cases) was conducted at the Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center between January 2001 and January 2009. Patients were initially treated with ivGC (ivGC group). If no significant improvement in visual function was obtained, they then received OD surgery (OD group). The pre- versus post-treatment efficacies of either ivGC or OD in these patients were assessed using several indices, including visual acuity, intraocular pressure, ocular alignment, ocular motility, and exophthalmos. RESULTS: Nighty-one eyes had definite DON while 79 were considered to have highly suspected DON. In the ivGC group, 51 individuals (85.0%) eventually demonstrated normal vision, while 10 patients (16.7%) demonstrated a reduction in deviation (P<0.01), and 35 cases (58.3%) showed slight improvements in ocular motility (P<0.01). In OD group, visual acuity improved in 24 cases (96.0%, P<0.01) and all patients showed varying reductions of exophthalmos (mean: 4.35±1.13 mm, P<0.01). Eight cases (32.0%) experienced an 8-15 PD reduction of deviation and ocular motility improved in 12 cases (48.0%), while 3 patients (12.0%) developed new-onset strabismus with diplopia post-surgically (P<0.01). Patients were followed up at an average of 1.55±1.07y. CONCLUSION: Both ivGC and OD show good therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of sight-threatening TAO. The presence of extremely poor eyesight (≥0.5logMAR) was corrected in some patients with ivGC alone, thus sparing these patients from subsequent OD surgery. In patients who were refractory to steroids, subsequent OD surgery often provided satisfactory outcomes, however, new-onset strabismus with diplopia was observed in 12.0% of these cases.

Analysis of the effect of repair materials for orbital blowout fracture on complications

Qi-Hua Xu, Jin-Hai Yu, Yao-Hua Wang, An-An Wang and Hong-Fei Liao — 2019/10/8 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of repair materials for orbital blowout fractures on the occurrence of postoperative complications. METHODS: The clinical data and follow-up data of 54 subjects with orbital blowout fractures were retrospectively analyzed. The study was divided into three groups according to the used repair materials: titanium mesh (16 cases), Medpor (12 cases), and Medpor titanium mesh (26 cases). All test data were analyzed using the SPSS version 23.0 statistical software. The mean age and duration of disease between the groups were compared through one-way analysis of variance. The Chi-square (χ2) test was used to compare the number of males and females, different fracture types, and different surgical approaches among groups. The χ2 test was used to compare the frequencies for complications in each group. RESULTS: The baseline characteristics of age and gender in each group were matched (F=1.763, P=0.172; χ2=0.026, P=0.987). In addition, there was no difference in the type of fracture and surgical approach (χ2=0.460, P=0.977; χ2=0.691, P=0.952), or the incidence of complications (χ2=0.081, P=0.960) between the three groups. CONCLUSION: Although there is no difference in effect of various repair materials on the incidence of complications, the effect of repair materials on postoperative complications of orbital blowout fractures should not be ignored.

Comparison of ocular parameters of two biometric measurement devices in highly myopic eyes

2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the differences and agreement of ocular biometric parameters in highly myopic eyes obtained by optical biometric measurement instruments, the OA-2000 and IOLMaster 500. METHODS: Totally, 90 patients (90 eyes) were included. They were divided into high myopia group and control group. Ocular parameters, including axial length (AL), mean keratometry (Km), anterior chamber depth (ACD), and white to white (WTW), were obtained from the OA-2000 and IOLMaster 500. RESULTS: For the control group, we applied Bland-Altman graphs to assess the 95% limits of agreement (LoA) for most parameters including AL, ACD, Km, and WTW (-0.24 to 0.29 mm, -0.22 to 0.45 mm, -0.39 to 0.31 D, and -0.90 to 0.86 mm, respectively). In high myopia patients, AL, ACD, Km values had wider 95% LoA (-0.34 to 0.32 mm, -0.36 to 0.34 mm, -0.57 to 0.47 D, respectively), except WTW (-0.80 to 0.68 mm). Differences were not statistically significant between these two instruments (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: Most parameters obtained by the OA-2000 and IOLMaster 500 are comparable, including the AL, ACD, and K values. Among them, the agreement of the high myopia patients is poor compared to the patients without high myopia.

Changes of tear film lipid layer thickness by 3% diquafosol ophthalmic solutions in patients with dry eye syndrome

2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the quantitatively changes in lipid layer thickness (LLT) when 3% diquafosol eye drop is used for dry eye patients using the tear film interferometer. METHODS: A total 124 participants (32 males, 92 females; mean age, 28.9y) diagnosed with dry eye disease (DED) received topical instillation of 4 ophthalmic solutions in one eye: diquafosol, normal saline, 0.1% sodium hyaluronate and 0.3% gatifloxacin, in a masked manner. LLT was measured using an interferometer at baseline and 20min after the instillation of each ophthalmic solutions. RESULTS: Changes of LLT after instillation (nm, mean± standard error) were as follows: 12.6±2.0 for diquafosol (P<0.001), 1.2±2.2 for normal saline (P=0.301), 1.5±2.0 for hyaluronate (P=0.495), and 0.5±3.2 for gatifloxacin (P=0.884). CONCLUSION: Topical instillation of diquafosol increases tear film LLT in DED patients. Diquafosol 3% eye drop might be effective treatment option of evaporative DED with meibomian gland dysfunction.

Accuracy of corneal astigmatism correction with two Barrett Toric calculation methods

Jun Yang, Hong Zhang, Xiao-Tong Yang, Fang Tian and Shao-Zhen Zhao — 2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the prediction error between Barrett Toric calculator and the new online AcrySof Toric calculator which incorporated Barrett astigmatism algorithm in Chinese cataract eyes with normal axial length and anterior chamber depth (ACD). METHODS: Prospective case-control study. All the cases had axial length (21-26 mm) with ACD no less than 2.4 mm. Keratometric values were measured by LenSTAR 900. The Barrett Toric calculator was used in group 1. In group 2, SRK-T formula was used to determine the spherical power of the Toric lens, and subsequent calculation of the cylinder type was performed using the new online Alcon Toric calculator. At 1 and 3mo after surgery, a comprehensive subjective optometry was performed. The predicted residual astigmatism calculated by the two calculators was compared with that obtained by postoperative refraction, and the difference was defined as the astigmatism correction error [error of refractive astigmatism (ERA)]. The error magnitude (EM) refers to the algebraic deviation of ERA, and the error vector (EV) indicates the vector deviation of ERA. The influence of the two calculation methods on the correction accuracy of toric IOL was quantitatively analyzed. RESULTS: The |EM| obtained at 1mo after surgery were 0.21±0.12 D, 0.22±0.18 D in group 1 and group 2 respectively, and correspondingly turned to be 0.19±0.13 D, 0.20±0.19 D at 3mo after surgery, with no statistical difference (P=0.633, P=0.877). The vector analysis showed that |EV| values in two groups at 1mo after surgery were 0.29±0.14@105 (D@angle) and 0.35±0.20@113 (D@angle), respectively, whereas |EV| values 3mo after surgery were 0.27±0.16@86 (D@angle) and 0.32±0.23@102 (D@angle), respectively. The differences between the groups were not statistically significant (P=0.119, P=0.261). CONCLUSION: The clinical effect of Barrett Toric calculator has a much more accurate tendency than that of new online AcrySof Toric calculator, but is not evident in cases with normal axial length and normal anterior posterior ratio.

Postoperative adjunctive bevacizumab versus placebo in primary trabeculectomy surgery for glaucoma

Sana’ Muhsen, Javiera Compan, Tze Lai, Christoph Kranemann and Catherine Birt — 2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the effectiveness of postoperative adjunctive use of subconjunctival bevacizumab in altering the outcome of primary trabeculectomy in terms of sustained lowering of intraocular pressure (IOP) and reduction of postoperative bleb vascularization and fibrosis. METHODS: A prospective, one center, randomized, placebo-control study. Fifty-nine patients (59 eyes) with uncontrolled IOP under maximal tolerated medical treatment (MTMT) were recruited. A primary trabeculectomy with mitomycin C (MMC) was done and the patients were randomized to either postoperative subconjunctival injection of bevacizumab (1.25 mg/0.05 mL) or balanced salt solution (BSS). Forty-seven patients (47 eyes) completed at least one year of follow up and were included in the study. The main outcome measure was the IOP, and secondary outcome measures include bleb morphology, vascularization, and fibrosis, as well as the need for glaucoma medications and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) needling. RESULTS: At 1-year follow up, there was no significant difference between groups for IOP (P=0.65), bleb morphology (P=0.65), and the need for glaucoma medications (P=0.65) or 5-FU needling requirements (P=0.11). However, the bevacizumab group had a higher rate of success results, lower use of glaucoma medications after surgery, and optimal bleb aspect in more patients, but more 5-FU needling procedures required. CONCLUSION: A bigger sample size is needed in order to determine whether the differences found in the bevacizumab group are statistically significant.

Early outcomes of vision and objective visual quality analysis after cataract surgery with trifocal intraocular lens implantation

Mei-Fang Chu, Na Hui, Cong-Yi Wang, Lei Yu, Bo Ma, Yan Li and Cheng Pei — 2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the early outcomes of vision, objective visual quality and their correlation after cataract surgery with trifocal intraocular lens implantation. METHODS: The visual examination and objective visual quality analysis using Optical Quality Analysis System (OQAS) at 1mo and 3mo, and defocus curve examination at 3mo were performed in 20 patients (27 eyes) after phacoemulsification combined with trifocal intraocular lens implantation surgery. RESULTS: The uncorrected distant (UD), intermediate and near visual acuity (VA) were significantly improved after surgery (P<0.001). UDVA at 1mo after the surgery was slightly better than that after 3mo (P=0.026). The defocus curve after 3mo indicated that the peak of distant vision was close to 0 logMAR, and UDVA was lower than 0.3 logMAR in the range of -1.5 D to -3.0 D. The modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, strehl ratio (SR), Optical Quality Analysis System values (OVs), includes OV100, OV20 and OV9 after the surgery were significantly better than before surgery (P<0.001), but the objective scattering index (OSI) was significantly decreased (P<0.001). UDVA at 3mo after the surgery had correlations with MTF cutoff, OSI, OV100 and OV20 (r=-0.400, 0.431, -0.437, -0.411, P=0.039, 0.025, 0.023, 0.033). The uncorrected intermediate VA after 3mo of the surgery had correlations with OSI and OV100 (r=0.478, -0.411, P=0.012, 0.033). CONCLUSION: Trifocal intraocular lens implantation can provide good distant, intermediate and near VA, and the vision shows a well correlation with objective visual quality during early surgery.

Incomplete fluid-air exchange technique for idiopathic macular hole surgery

2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To explore an improved procedure involving incomplete fluid-air exchange for idiopathic macular hole (IMH), and the closure rate, visual function, and the visual field of macular holes (MHs) were evaluated. METHODS: This prospective randomized controlled study, included 40 eyes of 40 patients with IMH who were treated with pars plana vitrectomy and peeling of the internal limiting membrane. They were grouped by random digital table. Twenty-one eyes underwent incomplete fluid-air exchange (IFA) and 19 eyes underwent traditional complete fluid-air exchange (CFA) as the control group. Outcomes included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, and optical coherence tomography, light adaptive electroretinography, and visual field evaluations. RESULTS: All MHs <400 μm were successfully closed. BCVAs before and 6mo after surgery were 0.82±0.41 logMAR and 0.28±0.17 logMAR in IFA group and 0.86±0.34 logMAR and 0.34±0.23 logMAR in CFA group, respectively. The electroretinogram analysis of patients in IFA group revealed increases in b-wave amplitudes at 1, 3, and 6mo after surgery. Additionally, patients in IFA group showed an amplitude increase of 28.6% from baseline at 6mo (P<0.05), while no obvious improvements were noted in CFA group. Although there were no statistically significant improvements in either group, the IFA group showed a slight increase in mean sensitivity (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: IFA is a reliable method that offers comparable closure rate to CFA and facilitates improvements in visual function.

Anatomical and functional changes after dexamethasone implant and ranibizumab in diabetic macular edema: a retrospective cohort study

2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy and safety of ranibizumab (RZB group) and dexamethasone implant (DEX group) intravitreal treatments in patients with treatment-naïve center involved diabetic macular edema (DME) by means of functional and morphological assessments. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included 50 eyes of 50 patients with DME treated either with RBZ or DEX. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and microperimetry were evaluated at baseline and during a 6-month follow-up. In addition, central macular thickness (CMT) by means of structural optical coherence tomography (OCT) and retinal capillary plexus density and choriocapillary density by means of OCT angiography were assessed in all cases. RESULTS: Functional and morphological parameters significantly improved during the study period in both groups. BCVA improved significantly in both groups with a greater increase in the DEX group compared to the RBZ group (P=0.030). Microperimetry significantly differed during follow-up between the two treatments (P=0.031). In both groups CMT significantly decreased (P<0.001) without statistically significant differences between the two groups. A statistically significant increase of deep capillary plexus density was detected in both groups at 30d after therapy. The retreatment rate was 0.70±0.10 and 0.65±0.10 in the RBZ group and 0.65±0.10 and 0.50±0.11 in DEX group at 120 and 180d respectively. Two out of 25 patients in DEX group showed intraocular pressure increase requiring hypotonic eye drops. CONCLUSION: Both treatments are very effective for DME treatment during 6mo of follow-up with a lower retreatment rate in DEX group.

Association of urinary albumin excretion with central foveal thickness and intravitreal conbercept treatment frequency in patients with diabetic macular edema

2019/9/2 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of albuminuria on diabetic macular edema (DME) and the possible association between baseline urinary albumin excretion (UAE) and intravitreal conbercept (IVC) treatment frequency in DME patients. METHODS: In this hospital-based retrospective study, a total of 350 in-patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were recruited and their clinical records were reviewed. Thereafter, 52 patients identified with severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) combined with albuminuria were divided into the microalbuminuria (UAE 30-300 mg/24h) and macroalbuminuria (UAE>300 mg/24h) groups, which were compared and analyzed by both independent sample t-test and Chi-square test. Correlations between the systemic variables and the central foveal thickness (CFT) were evaluated using Spearman’s correlation and linear regression analyses. Of the 52 patients with center-involved DME, 43 received an initial combined injection of conbercept (0.5 mg/0.05 mL) and triamcinolone acetonide (1 mg/0.05 mL), followed by an IVC injection, as needed. The relationship between baseline UAE and number of IVC injections during the first year of treatment was analyzed using Spearman’s partial correlation. RESULTS: Of 350 patients, a higher incidence of DME was observed in severe non-proliferative retinopathy (NPDR) patients than that observed in other groups. By dividing the 52 patients with severe NPDR into the micro- and macro-albuminuria subgroups, significant differences in CFT, systolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and serum creatinine levels, and UAE were revealed. Furthermore, a positive liner correlation between the UAE and CFT was found. Finally, the partial correlation coefficient adjusted for either the CFT or UAE indicated that both parameters directly correlated with the number of IVC injections administered during the 12mo of follow-up. CONCLUSION: Generally, macular edema occurred in patients with severe NPDR, for whom the UAE is an independent risk predictor of DME. The baseline UAE and CFT predicted the treatment frequency of IVC injections administered in the first year for eyes with DME.

Crosslinked hyaluronic acid with liposomes and crocin for management symptoms of dry eye disease caused by moderate meibomian gland dysfunction

2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To study the effect of uncrosslinked and crosslinked hyaluronic acid combined with other artificial tear components in patients with dry eye caused by moderate meibomian gland dysfunction. METHODS: Prospective, single-blind, contralateral eye study. Fifty eyes (25 patients) were analyzed. Eye selection for each tear type was random, and the eye drop formulations, 0.4% uncrosslinked hyaluronic acid and 0.2% galactoxyloglucan (tear A) and 0.15% crosslinked hyaluronic acid, crocin, and liposomes (tear B) were used. The determined dosing schedule was three times a day for six weeks, and the study participants underwent a clinical examination before and 45d after lubricant treatment. The Schirmer test, tear breakup time (TBUT) test, and Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire were applied before and after instillation period with both types of artificial tears. RESULTS: On the Schirmer test, a significant improvement was obtained with both tear A (P<0.01) and tear B (P<0.01). On the TBUT test, a significant improvement was obtained with tear A (P<0.01) and tear B (P<0.01). The OSDI score significantly decreased after instillation period with both artificial tear types (P<0.01). CONCLUSION: Uncrosslinked hyaluronic acid combined with other components, such as tamarind seed polysaccharide, and crosslinked hyaluronic acid combined with liposomes and crocin are effective for management symptoms of dry eye disease.

A 5-year analysis of endothelial vs penetrating keratoplasty graft survival in Chinese patients

Anita Lai Wah Li, Rachel Pui Wai Kwok, Ka Wai Kam and Alvin Lerrmann Young — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To determine if there is any difference in long term graft survival between Descemet’s stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) and penetrating keratoplasty (PK). METHODS: A retrospective 5-year cases analysis of bullous keratopathy secondary to Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy or pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, receiving either DSEK or PK. A total of 42 DSEK cases and 25 PK cases were included in the analysis. RESULTS: In the 5-year analysis, graft survival rates were very similar in the two groups (DSEK 77.1% vs PK 76.0%, P=0.918, 95%CI: -6.3 to 33.4). Sub-analyses at 1y (DSEK 81% vs PK 95%, P=0.085, 95%CI: -29 to 3.6) and 2y (DSEK 81% vs PK 88%, P=0.381, 95%CI: -25.9 to 11.8) show a trend towards lower survival rates of DSEK vs PK, but the results were not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Long term 5-year graft survival is similar between the DSEK and PK methods of corneal transplant in Chinese patients with bullous keratopathy.

Accuracy of eight intraocular lens power calculation formulas for segmented multifocal intraocular lens

2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the accuracy of eight different intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation formulas for a segmented multifocal IOL. METHODS: A total of 53 eyes of 41 adult cataract patients who underwent phacoemulsification and implantation with the SBL-3 segmented multifocal IOL between January 1, 2017 and January 31, 2019 were included in this retrospective study. Preoperative biometry measurements were obtained using an IOL Master. Manifest refraction was performed at least 4wk postoperatively. Accuracy of the eight formulas [Barrett Universal II, Emmetropia Verifying Optical (EVO), Haigis, Hill-RBF 2.0, Hoffer Q, Holladay 1, Kane, and SRK/T] was analyzed. RESULTS: Using current lens constants, all formulas exhibited errors of slight myopic shift in refractive prediction. The Barrett Universal II formula had a significantly lower median absolute error (MedAE) than did Holladay 1 (P=0.02), Kane (P=0.001) and Hill-RBF 2.0 (P<0.001) formulas. The Haigis formula had a lower MedAE value than did the Hill-RBF 2.0 formula (P=0.005). Differences in MedAE values among SRK/T, EVO and Hoffer Q formulas were not significant. After optimizing lens constants, the MedAE values of all formulas were reduced; significant changes were noted for EVO (P=0.022), Haigis (P=0.048), Hill-RBF 2.0 (P=0.014), Holladay 1 (P=0.045) and Kane (P=0.022) formulas. All formulas performed equally well after optimization of lens constants (P=0.203). CONCLUSION: All eight formulas tend to result in a myopic shift when using current lens constants. Optimized lens constants improve the accuracy of these formulas among adult Chinese patients.

Combined phacoemulsification and goniosynechialysis with or without endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation in the treatment of PACG with cataract

Wan-Shu Zhou, Wen-Xiang Lin, Yun-Yun Geng and Tao Wang — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy and safety of combined phacoemulsification and goniosynechialysis with or without endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation (PGE group and PG group) for the treatment of patients with coexisting primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) and cataracts. METHODS: The clinical data of patients with PACG and cataract were retrospectively reviewed. There was a total of 88 eyes in the study and were divided into two groups, 42 eyes in PGE group and 46 eyes in PG group. Surgery success cumulative survival, preoperative and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), number of IOP-lowering medications, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in the two groups were observed for more than 12mo and compared within each group and between two groups. RESULTS: The mean IOP in PGE group declined from 24.9 mm Hg preoperatively to 14.1 mm Hg at the first month after operation (P<0.001) and at the last visit 16.2 mm Hg (P<0.001). Meanwhile PG group also showed significant decrease, from 24.1 mm Hg preoperatively to 13.0 mm Hg at 1mo after operation (P<0.001) and 15.3 mm Hg at the last visit (P=0.004). The mean medications reliance reduced in both groups, in PGE group was reduced from 1.62 preoperatively to 0.13 at the last visit (P<0.001), in PG group from 0.87 to 0.10 (P<0.001). At the last visit, BCVA increased from 0.21 to 0.60 in PGE group (P<0.001) and from 0.24 to 0.67 in PG group (P<0.001). The success rate of PGE group at 1mo was 95.2%, then decreased to 70.7% at the last visit, whereas in PG group, the success rate at 1mo was 100%, at the last visit was 73.4%. CONCLUSION: PGE shows promise for PACG patients with cataracts to reduce IOP, lighten the medication burden and improve visual acuity, and PG still has its value in specific patients.

Efficacy and safety of high-dose ultrasound cyclo-plasty procedure in refractory glaucoma

2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of high-dose ultrasound cyclo-plasty (UCP) for the treatment of refractory glaucoma in Chinese patients. METHODS: In this 6-month retrospective study, 37 eyes of 37 patients suffering from severe glaucoma with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) of ≥21 mm Hg underwent 8-s ultrasonic cyclocoagulation with ten active piezoelectric elements. A complete ophthalmic examination was performed before and at 1d, 1, 3, 6mo after UCP. Therapeutic success was defined as IOP reduction from baseline ≥20% and IOP ≥5 mm Hg without adding new glaucoma medication compare to baseline at the 6-month follow-up visit. In addition to mean IOP at each follow-up visit, medications used and complications were also detected and compared to baseline. RESULTS: After UCP procedure, the mean IOP was significantly reduced (P<0.01) from the preoperative 44.1±11.9 mm Hg to postoperative 26.7±11.8 mm Hg at 3mo, and 30.4±14.5 mm Hg at 6mo. The overall mean IOP reductions achieved at 3 and 6mo were 39% and 31% compared to baseline IOP. Sixty-one percent of patients responded well to UCP treatment with a mean IOP reduction of 48% at 3mo and 42% at 6mo. Ocular pain in most of patients were alleviated. No serious intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. CONCLUSION: High-dose UCP treatment is an effective and safe procedure to reduce IOP in Chinese patients with severe glaucoma.

Improved thickness measurement method for choroidal hyperpermeability in central serous chorioretinopathy

Xing-Wang Chen, Fang-Yuan Han, Gang Su, Le Pan and Shan-Jun Cai — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To observe choroidal thickness changes in the choroidal hyperpermeability area (CHA) in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) after photodynamic therapy (PDT) using indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) combined with optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: This was a cohort study of 17 eyes (17 patients) with CSC. In all patients, the range of CHA was determined by ICGA. The patients were divided into two groups based on CHA covered the fovea (group A) or not (group B). All patients received half-dose verteporfin PDT over CHA in ICGA. Choroidal thickness was measured by OCT before, 1, and 3mo after treatment. The choroidal thickness values of the fovea and CHAs were obtained for each measurement. Secondary outcomes were changes in the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and amount of subretinal fluid (SRF). RESULTS: The differences in center choroidal thickness at baseline and at 1 and 3mo post-PDT were statistically significant in group A and all patients (both P<0.001). There was no significant difference in group B (P=0.059). The differences of thickness of CHA and BCVA at baseline and 1 and 3mo post-PDT were statistically significant in group A, group B, and all patients (all P<0.01). All patients showed complete SRF absorption at 3mo post-PDT. CONCLUSION: Center choroidal thickness does not accurately reflect changes in CHA of patients whose CHA does not covered the fovea center. Using CHA as the observation target can make up for this limitation, expand the scope of application, and reduce bias.

Efficacy of the subthreshold micropulse yellow wavelength laser photostimulation in the treatment of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy

Mehmed Ugur Isik, Mehmet Fatih Kagan Degirmenci and Ayhan Saglik — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of subthreshold micropulse yellow laser (SMYL) in the treatment of chronic central serous chorioretinopathy (CCSC). METHODS: The medical records of 58 eyes of 58 patients with CCSC were reviewed. A 577-nm SMYL system was used for the treatment. Fundus fluorescein angiography was used as the primary method of identifying CCSC, and resolution of subretinal fluid (SRF) evaluated by optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fundus autofluorescence. Central macular thickness (CMT), central macular volume (CMV), total macular volume (TMV), subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT), subretinal fluid height (SRFH), and subfoveal fluid basement diameter values were measured by spectral domain-OCT (SD-OCT) for all eyes. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 42.4±9.9 (range: 20-72)y. The mean follow-up was 11.4±8.5 (range: 6-37)mo. Median BCVA at at the final follow up after treatment was statistically significant from the baseline. Complete SRF resolution was 12.1% of the eyes in the 1st month, 67.2% of the eyes in the 3rd month and 67.2% of the eyes in the last follow up. The initial median CMT, CMV, TMV, and SFCT values before treatment was significantly higher than 3rd month visit values (P<0.001). In the multivariate analysis performed, age and disease duration were found to be a risk factor for persistent SRF (P=0.017, P=0.016, respectively). CONCLUSION: SMYL treatment provides a significant anatomical and functional improvement and is effective in eliminating SRF in eyes with CCSC.

Risk factors for an atherothrombotic event in patients with diabetic macular edema treated with intravitreal injections of bevacizumab

Alon Tiosano, Aviel Hadad and Noam Yanculovic — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To identify risk factors for an atherothrombotic event (ATE) among patients who were treated for diabetic macular edema (DME) with intravitreal bevacizumab injections. METHODS: This retrospective study enrolled all consecutive patients with DME who were treated by intravitreal bevacizumab from 2009 through 2016 in a single center. They were divided into one group treated by bevacizumab and subsequently had an ATE and a second group also treated by bevacizumab and did not have an ATE. RESULTS: A total of 455 patients with DME were enrolled. Seventy-two of the patients had an ATE. A multivariate model adjusted for age, gender, smoking, body mass index, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), duration of diabetes, creatinine, and blood pressure revealed an increased risk for ATE in the patients with diabetic duration of more than 13y, a systolic blood pressure over 153.5 mm Hg at first treatment, or having been treated by more than 4 intravitreal bevacizumab injections. Additionally, patients that had an ATE within 3mo from the last intravitreal treatment underwent more bevacizumab injections (5.2±3.4 vs 3.07±1.86; P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The risk factors for an ATE identified in this study are systolic blood pressure >153.5 mm Hg, a history of diabetic mellitus for more than 13y, and treatment with more than 4 intravitreal bevacizumab injections. These factors need to be borne in mind when bevacizumab is being considered in the management of patients with DME.

Vitrectomy with air tamponade for surgical repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment by eye position guided fluid-air exchange

2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To observe the efficacy and safety of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with eye position guided fluid-air exchange (FAX) and air tamponade in the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD). METHODS: RRD patients without severe proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) C1 or more were enrolled. All patients underwent PPV combining with air tamponade. During operation, the primary retinal break(s) were placed at lower site and subretinal fluid was aspirated through the break(s) at the same time when eye position guided FAX was proceeding. Sufficient laser spots were made to seal the retinal break(s) after FAX, and filtered air was left in vitreous cavity as tamponade agent finally. The main outcomes were primary and final success rates, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and the secondary outcomes were rate of postoperative cataract surgery and high intraocular pressure. RESULTS: A total of 37 eyes (20 males and 17 females) with a follow-up time of ≥6mo were included. The range of RRD was 5.6±1.8h, and the number of retinal breaks was 1.9±1.2. The breaks located at inferior quadrants (between 3:00 and 9:00) in 5 cases (13.5%), and both superior and inferior breaks were found in 3 cases (8.1%). A total of 25 cases (67.6%) with macular detached involvement, 9 cases (24.3%) with intraocular lens, and 8 patients (21.6%) were treated with phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation together. The success rate of primary retinal reattachment was 100% (37/37). At 6mo postoperatively, BCVA (logMAR) was increased from 1.13±1.07 to 0.23±0.15 (P<0.001). Phacoemulsification combined with intraocular lens implantation was performed in 2 patients (5.4%), and one of them underwent macular epiretinal membrane peeling in addition (2.7%). Furthermore, high intraocular pressure was found in 4 cases (10.8%). CONCLUSION: PPV with air tamponade by eye position guided FAX can achieve a high reattachment success rate in the management of patients with RRD, and it has the advantages of short postoperative prone time and fewer operative complications.

Umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation in retinitis pigmentosa: a 6-month follow-up results of a phase 3 trial

Neslihan Sinim Kahraman and Ayse Oner — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy and the safety of umbilical cord derived mesenchymal stem cell (UC-MSC) implantation in patients with retinitis pigmentosa (RP). METHODS: This prospective, single-center, phase 3 clinical study enrolled 124 eyes of 82 RP patients. The patients received 5 million UC-MSCs to the suprachoroidal area with a surgical procedure. Patients were evaluated on the 1st day, 1st, and 6th months postoperatively. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), anterior segment and fundus examinations, color photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and visual ?eld (VF) tests were carried out at each visit. Fundus ?uorescein angiography (FFA) and multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) recordings were performed at the end of the 6th month. Ocular and systemic adverse events of the surgical procedure were also noted. RESULTS: All of the 82 patients completed the 6-month follow-up period. None of them had any serious systemic or ocular complications. There were statistically significant improvements in BCVA and VF during the study (all P<0.05). The amplitudes of the P1 waves in the central areas showed significant improvements in mfERG recordings. There were also significant increases in implicit times of P1 waves in the central areas. CONCLUSION: Suprachoroidal administration of UC-MSCs has beneficial effect on BCVA, VF, and mfERG measurements during the 6-month follow-up period. Cell mediated therapy based on the secretion of growth factors (GFs) seems to be an effective and safe option for degenerative retinal diseases.

Choroidal changes in eyes treated with high-dose systemic corticosteroids for optic neuritis

Jun Hyuk Lee, Ji Young Lee, Ho Ra, Nam Yeo Kang and Jiwon Baek — 2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the effect of systemic high-dose corticosteroid on the choroid in patients with unilateral optic neuritis. METHODS: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Seventy-six eyes of 38 patients with unilateral optic neuritis that received systemic high-dose corticosteroid treatment were enrolled. Choroidal thickness (CT) and choroidal vascularity index (CVI) were measured in both affected and the fellow eyes at baseline, 1wk, 1 and 3mo. Changes in CT and CVI were analyzed in both eyes and compared between eyes. RESULTS: The mean CT and CVI were 349 μm and 0.70 in the affected eyes and 340 μm and 0.69 in the fellow eyes at baseline (P=0.503 and 0.440, respectively). Decrement of CT and CVI at month 3 were significant in affected eyes (P=0.017 and P<0.001). Decreased CVI began 2wk after treatment whereas CT decreased from 1mo. The CVI also decreased significantly in fellow eyes at 3mo compared to the baseline (P=0.001). CONCLUSION: A significant decrement in CT and CVI can appear after 3mo in optic neuritis patients treated with high-dose systemic corticosteroid treatment. The decrease in CVI appeared earlier than the decrease in CT, suggesting choroidal vasoconstriction caused by systemic steroid as a possible mechanism.

A new visual acuity test on touchpad for vision screening in children

2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To validate a visual acuity (VA) test application on touchpad in the screening of pediatric population by comparing VA results obtained with conventional tests. METHODS: A cohort of 101 patients, 44 girls and 57 boys with a median of 6.5 years old (3-10 years of age), presenting for eye examinations in Ophthalmology Department (Strasbourg, France) between November 1st, 2018, and February 1st, 2019 were enrolled. Monocular and binocular VA testing was performed on the subject using both a standard test and the touchpad application (Monoyer, “E” or, Pigassou depending of children’s capacities). Patients were excluded if they were physically or mentally unable to use the touchpad. The duration of each tests, the painfulness, the comprehension, the attention of children during the test and test’s preferences were also evaluated. RESULTS: There was a good linear correlation and intra-class correlation coefficient [ICC=0.50 (0.34, 0.64) for binocular acuity, 0.74 (0.64, 0.82) for right eyes and 0.525 (0.37, 0.66) for left eye]. The standard errors of measurement were very low (0.08, 0.05, 0.08 for binocular VA, right eyes VA and left eyes VA, respectively). There was no difference between two tests for right eye (P=0.126), left eye (P=0.098) and binocular acuity (P=0.085). Non inferiority was proved for all binocular [-0.06 (-0.09, -0.03)], right eye [-0.04 (-0.07, -0.01)] and left eye [-0.06 (-0.09, -0.02)] VA. The sensitivity and specificity, which correspond to the ability for our app to detect amblyopia, were 92% and 80% respectively. CONCLUSION: Our touchpad application represents an efficient and valid test of VA in children with a high specificity to detect visual impairment.

Anterior segment parameters associated with extramuscular manifestations in polymyositis and dermatomyositis

2020/7/21 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate detailed anterior segment parameters of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIM), including polymyositis (PM), and dermatomyositis (DM), and to clarify the associations between these data and clinical variables of IIM. METHODS: Totally 57 PM, 41 DM patients and 62 controls were enrolled in this cross-sectional, observational, case-control study. All study participants underwent Pentacam evaluation. Laboratory investigations consisted of different antibody assays, while extramuscular clinical assessments included Raynaud’s phenomenon, dysphagia, interstitial lung disease, arthritis/arthralgia, and weight loss. Objective signs and subjective symptoms of dry eye disease (DED) were also evaluated. RESULTS: All pachymetric parameters [center, apex, thinnest and maximal keratometry (Kmax)] and corneal volume (CV) of both sides of PM patients proved to be significantly lower. Some pachymetric data were also noticed as significantly decreased compared to those of controls. Several significant differences were traced between anterior segment values and extramuscular manifestations of myositis, largely in case of arthritis/arthralgia and weight loss, whereas associations between anterior segment parameters and antibodies were weak. Objective clinical tests of DED were also significantly decreased in IIM patients. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that all IIM patients have thinner corneas compared with those of controls, and decreased corneal parameters are significantly associated with the occurrence of some extramuscular manifestations. In addition, IIM patients tend to develop objective signs of DED.

Comparative 2-year outcomes of conventional and accelerated corneal collagen crosslinking in progressive keratoconus

Omur O. Ucakhan and Yagmur Seda Yesiltas — 2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the safety and efficacy of conventional versus accelerated (9 mW/cm2) corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) in progressive keratoconus at the 2-year follow-up. METHODS: In this prospective study, consecutive progressive keratoconus patients were randomized to receive either conventional CXL (CCXL) or accelerated CXL (ACXL; using hydroxypropyl methylcellulose-assisted riboflavin imbibition for 10min at 9 mW/cm2). Visual, refractive, keratometric, topographic, and aberrometric outcomes and stromal demarcation line depth (DLD) measurements were compared at the end of a 2-year follow-up. RESULTS: Thirty-two eyes from 32 patients in the CCXL and 27 eyes from 27 patients in the ACXL groups completed 2-year follow-up. At 2y post-CXL, both uncorrected and corrected visual acuities improved significantly in both groups. The improvements in keratometric readings, flattening rate (flattening of the maximum keratometry more than 1 D), 3 topographic indices, and vertical coma were significantly better in the CCXL group compared to the ACXL group (P<0.05). The DLD as measured by anterior segment optical coherence tomography or in vivo confocal microscopy was better detectable and significantly deeper in the CCXL group compared to the ACXL group. The deeper DLD was found to be significantly correlated with improvements in the mean keratometry measurements. Progression was noted in 11.1% of eyes in the ACXL group, whereas progression was not observed in any patient eye in the CCXL group. CONCLUSION: In this prospective randomized study, ACXL is less effective in halting the progression of keratoconus at a 2-year follow-up compared to CCXL.

CT and MR imaging findings of ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma associated with IgG4-related disease: multi-institutional case series

2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To report CT and MR imaging findings of ocular adnexal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma associated with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-MALT lymphoma), a rare but clinically important complication of ocular adnexal IgG4-related disease. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all cases of histologically confirmed ocular adnexal IgG4-related disease at three tertiary and one secondary referral centers, between February 2003 and December 2016. Seven cases of histopathologically diagnosed IgG4-MALT lymphoma were identified. CT and MR images were analyzed by consensus of two experienced head and neck radiologists. RESULTS: Lacrimal glands were the main site of involvement in all seven patients. The lesions typically showed well-demarcated margins, iso- to hyperattenuation on precontrast CT, T2 hypo- to isointensity, T1 isointensity, and homogenous internal architecture with homogenous enhancement pattern. Lesions were mostly hyperdense and isointense to normal extraocular muscles on postcontrast CT and MR images, respectively. CONCLUSION: Unlike in typical ocular adnexal IgG4-related disease, T2 isointensity and hyperattenuation on precontrast CT images were noted in some IgG4-MALT lymphoma cases. Although the findings may be nonspecific, the possibility of accompanying MALT lymphoma may need to be considered, when ocular adnexal lesions in patients clinically suspected of having IgG4-related disease are refractory to glucocorticoids and show T2 isointensity and hyperattenuation on precontrast CT for the optimal management of the patients. However, this is a case series of a very rare complication of ocular adnexal IgG4-related disease, and thus caution is warranted to generalize the conclusion.

Endoscopic transnasal canaliculorhinostomy for refractory common canalicular obstruction with an unidentifiable lacrimal sac

2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the role of endoscopic transnasal canaliculorhinostomy (ETC) in refractory common canalicular obstruction (CCO) associated with an absent or unidentifiable lacrimal sac. METHODS: The records of patients with refractory CCO who underwent ETC at the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from October 2007 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: Fifty-six patients (56 eyes) with refractory CCO were recruited into the study. Eight patients were excluded due to the presence of a residual lacrimal sac or failure to complete the follow-up duration. The anatomic and functional success rates were both 85.4% (41/48) at a mean follow-up of 18.6mo. Five cases failed as a result of ostial synechia and two failed because of ostial obstruction by granulation. Postoperative complications included mild nasal bleeding in 5 cases, dried nasal feeling in 8 cases, and olfactory dysfunction in 4 cases. CONCLUSION: Although being surgically challenging, ETC has comparable findings to its external approach counterpart or conjunctivodacryocystorhinostomy (CDCR) with Jones tube. And it may prove to be a novel alternate surgical technique for patients with refractory CCO without identifiable lacrimal sac.

Agreement of corneal curvature and central corneal thickness obtained from a swept-source OCT and Pentacam in ectopia lentis patients

2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the inter-device consistency of corneal curvature and central corneal thickness between Pentacam and a swept-source Fourier-domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) in ectopia lentis patients. METHODS: Totally 72 eyes of ectopia lentis patients were recruited. Central corneal thickness (CCT), corneal curvature values and corneal astigmatism were obtained from both the Pentacam and AS-OCT (CASIA2). Repeatability was evaluated for both devices. The coefficient of repeatability (COR) and the relative COR was calculated. Bland-Altman plots were conducted to evaluate the inter-device agreement of measurement. Orthogonal linear regression was used to examine any proportional bias. RESULTS: The mean difference of CCT, steep anterior corneal curvature (anterior KS), flat anterior corneal curvature (anterior Kf), anterior corneal astigmatism (ACA), steep posterior corneal curvature (posterior KS), flat posterior corneal curvature (posterior Kf), posterior corneal astigmatism (PCA), steep true net power (TNP KS), flat true net power (TNP Kf) and total corneal astigmatism (TCA) between Pentacam and CASIA2 were 7.03±9.70 μm, -0.19±0.41 D, -0.27±0.35 D, 0.04±0.47 D, -0.17±0.23 D, -0.11±0.11 D, -0.02±1.02 D -0.41±0.43 D, -0.52±0.46 D, and -0.15±0.96 D, respectively. For measurement of TNP Kf with the Pentacam and CASIA2, a mean difference of 0.52 D and COR of 0.90 with P=0.02 was detected. There was no significant difference in CCT (P=0.393), anterior Kf (P=0.107), anterior Ks (P=0.414), ACA (P=0.131), posterior Kf (P=0.286), posterior Ks (P=0.418), PCA (P=0.105), TNP Ks (P=0.054), and TCA (P=0.977) between Pentacam and CASIA2. CONCLUSION: Our study reveals good agreement of CCT, corneal curvature and corneal astigmatism measured by CASIA2 and Pentacam in ectopia lentis patients. However, there was significant difference for CCT and corneal curvature values obtained by the two devices.

Efficacy and safety of XEN 45 gel stent alone or in combination with phacoemulsification in advanced open angle glaucoma patients: 1-year retrospective study

Teresa Laborda-Guirao, Juan M Cubero-Parra and Antonio Hidalgo-Torres — 2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effectiveness of the XEN 45 gel stent, either alone or combined with cataract surgery, in advanced stage open angle glaucoma (OAG) patients. METHODS: Retrospective and single-center study conducted on consecutive OAG patients who underwent a XEN 45 gel stent implantation surgery, between July 2017 and September 2018. The primary efficacy end-point was the mean intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction at the end of the follow-up period. Success was defined as an IOP reduction of at least 20% and an IOP value ≤18 mm Hg without (complete) or with (qualified) hypotensive medication. RESULTS: Seventy-four patients (80 eyes) were included in the study. In the overall study sample, XEN implant significantly reduced IOP from 21.0 (19.8 to 22.1) mm Hg at baseline to 9.3 (8.2 to 10.4), 10.7 (9.6 to 11.9), 13.4 (12.2 to 14.7), 14.5 (13.6 to 15.4), 14.7 (13.8 to 15.6), and 14.7 (13.9 to 15.4) mm Hg at 1d, 1wk, 1, 3, 6, and 12mo of follow-up, respectively (P<0.0001 each). In the overall study population, at the end of the study the mean IOP reduction was 27.4% (23.3% to 31.5%). Adjusted IOP reduction was similar in XEN and XEN+phacoemulsification groups [30.0 (23.4 to 36.4) mm Hg vs 24.8 (18.4 to 31.2) mm Hg, respectively, P=0.2939]. At the last follow-up visit, 52 (65.0%) eyes were considered success, 29 (36.3%) eyes as complete success and 23 (28.7%) as qualified success. Mean number of hypotensive medications was significantly reduced from 2.8 (2.7 to 3.0) at baseline to 1.1 (0.8 to 1.3), P<0.0001. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis did not find any difference in the success rate between XEN and XEN+PHACO, mean hazard ratio 0.56, 95%CI 0.26 to 1.23; P=0.1469. Needling was performed in 7 (8.8%) eyes at months 1 (n=3); 3 (n=2); 4 (n=1) and 11 (n=1). Eleven (13.8%) eyes presented adverse events. CONCLUSION: XEN implant, either alone or in combination with phacoemulsification, significantly reduced the IOP and the number of hypotensive medications in patients with OAG in advanced stage.

Optical coherence tomography angiography assessment of 577 nm laser effect on severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy with diabetic macular edema

2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To quantitatively evaluate the effect of the combined use of 577-nm subthreshold micropulse macular laser (SML) and multi-point mode pan retinal laser photocoagulation (PRP) on severe non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR) with central-involved diabetic macular edema (CIDME) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). METHODS: In this observational clinical study, 86 eyes of 86 NPDR patients with CIDME who underwent SML and PRP treatment were included. Images were obtained 1d before laser and post-laser (1d, 1wk, 1, 3, and 6mo) using AngioVue software 2.0. Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, LogMAR), foveal avascular zone area (FAZ), choriocapillary flow area (ChF), parafoveal vessel density (PVD), capillary density inside disc (CDD), peripapillary capillary density (PCD), macular ganglion cell complex thickness (mGCCT), central macular thickness (CMT), and subfoveal choroidal thickness (ChT) were compared between pre- and post-laser treatment. RESULTS: BCVA remained stable during 6mo post-laser therapy (pre-laser vs 6mo post-laser: 0.53±0.21 vs 0.5±0.15, P>0.05). PVD, ChF, ChT, CMT, and mGCCT significantly increased 1d post-laser therapy [pre-laser vs 1d post-laser: superficial PVD (%), 40.51±3.42 vs 42.43±4.68; deep PVD (%), 42.66±3.67 vs 44.78±4.52; ChF, 1.72±0.21 vs 1.9±0.12 mm2; ChT, 302.45±69.74 vs 319.38±70.93 μm; CMT, 301.65±110.78 vs 320.86±105.62 μm; mGCCT, 105.71±10.72 vs 115.46±9.64 μm; P<0.05]. However, PVD, ChF and ChT decreased to less than baseline level at 6mo post-laser therapy (pre-laser vs 6mo post-laser: superficial PVD (%), 40.51±3.42 vs 36.32±4.19; deep PVD (%), 42.66±3.67 vs 38.76±3.74; ChF, 1.72±0.21 vs 1.62±0.09 mm2; ChT, 302.45±69.74 vs 289.61±67.55 μm; P<0.05), whereas CMT and mGCCT decreased to baseline level at 6mo post-laser therapy (CMT, 301.65±110.78 vs 297.77±90.23 μm; mGCCT, 105.71±10.72 vs 107.05±11.81 μm; P>0.05). Moreover, FAZ continuously increased while CDD and PCD continuously decreased in 6mo after laser therapy. CMT and ChT had a significant positive correlation with ChF and PVD in most post-laser stages. CONCLUSION: During a 6-month follow-up period after combined use of SML and PRP therapy, BCVA remained stable and there was a decreased trend in macular edema. Blood flow increased at 1d post-laser therapy and reduced at 6mo post-laser therapy.

Predictive parameters on CT scan for dysthyroid optic neuropathy

Bo Yu, Can Gong, Yuan-Fei Ji, Yu Xia, Yun-Hai Tu and Wen-Can Wu — 2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the value of parameters on CT scan in predicting dysthyroid optic neuropathy (DON) and to provide guidance for early diagnosis of DON accordingly. METHODS: A total of 67 eyes of 35 patients with thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) were included in this study. Patients were divided into 2 groups (DON group and non-DON group). Parameters were measured on high resolution CT, including muscle index (MI), superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) dilatation, extraocular muscle volume/orbit volume (MV/OV), and intracranial fat prolapsed, and be compared between these 2 groups. The relation between those parameters and visual function [visual acuity (VA) and visual field defect (VF defect)] were also evaluated. RESULTS: MI and MV/OV were significantly higher in DON group (P=0.00035 and P=0.00026). No significant difference was detected regarding intracranial fat prolapse existence and SOV dilatation (P=0.37 and P=0.15). MV/OV was found to have significant negative correlation with both VF defect (R=-0.332, P=0.0273) and VA (R=-0.635, P=0.00) while MI was found to have negative linear correlation with VA only (R=-0.456, P=0.00017). The area under receiver operating characteristic curves was 0.82 for MV/OV and 0.75 for MI. The best performance in detecting DON was achieved when MV/OV is set at 0.20 with 72% sensitivity and 87% specificity and MI is set at 0.52 with 64% sensitivity and 80% specificity. CONCLUSION: MI and MV/OV are predictive parameters for DON. Together with clinical manifestations, MV/OV≥0.2 can be used as a good indicator for DON in TAO patients.

Measurements of the parapapillary atrophy area and other fundus morphological features in high myopia with or without posterior staphyloma and myopic traction maculopathy

2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the affecting factors of parapapillary gamma and delta zones and other fundus morphological features in high myopia. METHODS: Seventy high myopia patients were included in this retrospective observational study and 47 patients were female. Patients were divided into three groups: no posterior staphyloma (no PS), PS with myopic traction maculopathy (PS with MTM), and PS without MTM using 3-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging and optical coherence tomography. MTM patients were further classified into three types [epiretinal membrane, macular hole, and macular retinoschisis (MRS)]. Diameters of the gamma and delta zones were measured among other morphometric variables using fundus photographs. RESULTS: Of the 70 individuals (127 eyes), the mean age was 57.46±13.56y. In univariate analysis, morphological features changed most dramatically in PS with MTM patients, who had the largest gamma zone diameters, the largest disk-fovea distance (DFD) and disk-fovea angle, and the smallest angle kappa and vertical distance of temporal arterial arcade. However, their horizontal delta zone diameter was smaller than in the patients with PS yet without MTM. In multivariate analysis, with axial length (AL) and age adjusted, the horizontal diameter in the delta zone of the PS without MTM group was still significantly larger than in the PS with MTM group (P=0.024). Comparing the three subtypes of MTM patients, the diameters of the gamma zone and DFD in MRS group were the largest. CONCLUSION: The characteristics of the gamma and delta zones change inconsistently in different stages of high myopia. These changes may be associated with anatomical changes caused by local traction. Factors such as PS, AL and age play an important role. These findings may provide a hint about the pathogenesis of traction in high myopia.

Comparison of excyclotorsion following graded inferior oblique recession for primary versus secondary inferior oblique overaction

Donghun Lee, Won Jae Kim and Myung Mi Kim — 2020/6/22 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the changes in excyclotorsion after inferior oblique (IO) recession in patients with primary and secondary inferior oblique overaction (IOOA). METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the data obtained from patients with IOOA who underwent graded IO recession. The patients were followed up for at least 3mo after surgery. Fundus photographs were taken pre- and postoperatively, and the sum of the angles of torsion in both eyes was used to analyze changes in excyclotorsion. Patients were divided into two groups: those diagnosed with primary IOOA were enrolled in the 1’IOOA group, and those diagnosed with secondary IOOA caused by superior oblique palsy (SOP) were enrolled in the 2’IOOA group. Excyclotorsion before and after surgery were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: A total of 78 patients were enrolled in this study: 34 eyes in the 1’IOOA group and 44 eyes in the 2’IOOA group. In the 78 patients, torsional angle significantly decreased from 15.31°±7.40° to 12.11°±6.53° after IO recession (P<0.001). Mean preoperative torsional angle was larger in the 2’IOOA group than in the 1’IOOA group (P=0.03). In both groups, excyclotorsion significantly decreased after IO recession (P=0.001 and P<0.001, respectively); however, there was no significant difference in the amounts of changes in excyclotorsion between the two groups. CONCLUSION: Excyclotorsion is significantly larger in secondary IOOA than in primary IOOA, and a significant decrease in the torsional angle occurs after IO recession in both types of IOOA.

Objective optical quality and visual outcomes after the PresbyMAX monocular ablation profile

Dan Fu, Jing Zhao and Xing-Tao Zhou — 2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To assess objective visual quality after presbyopia correction using the PresbyMAX monocular mode. METHODS: This prospective, nonrandomized study included 28 eyes from 18 patients (mean age 50.4±5.6y) who underwent presbyopia correction with the PresbyMAX monocular mode. Monocular and binocular visual acuities were evaluated preoperatively, 1d, 1wk, 1, 3mo, and 1y after surgery. Optical quality was analyzed by Hartmann-Shack wavefront aberration supported cornea ablation. Modulation transfer function (MTF) cutoff frequency, Strehl ratio, and objective scattering index (OSI) were analyzed using an optical quality analysis system. RESULTS: One year after surgery, 100% and 94.4% of patients achieved binocular uncorrected distance and near visual acuity of 20/25, respectively. At the last visit Spherical aberration and total higher aberration were higher than the corresponding preoperative levels (P<0.001); however, no significant difference was found in MTF, OSI, or Strehl ratio. Transient decreases in OSI and MTF mainly occurred in the nondominant eyes. There was no significant difference in optical quality between the dominant and nondominant eyes, except for spherical aberration and horizontal coma (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The PresbyMAX monocular mode is safe and effective for presbyopia correction. It has little effect on optical quality, though short-term degraded optical quality occurred mainly in the bi-aspheric ablated eyes.

Evaluation of chronic ocular sequelae in patients with symblepharon caused by ocular burns

Liang-Bo Chen, Si-Yi Zhang, Chen-Xi Yan, Qin-Ke Yao, Chun-Yi Shao and Yao Fu — 2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate chronic ocular sequelae in patients with symblepharon caused by ocular burns and propose an objective grading system. METHODS: This was a retrospective, single-center clinical study. Patients with symblepharon caused by ocular burns at least six months later were assessed. Chronic ocular sequelae were classified into 3 categories (eyelid, conjunctiva, and cornea) and 9 chronic ocular sequelae [friction factors, exposure factors, conjunctival hyperemia, length of symblepharon, scope of adhesion, lacrimal area adhesion, loss of the palisades of Vogt (POV), corneal neovascularization, and corneal opacification]. Each ocular sequela was graded from 0 to 3, depending on the increasing severity. The 9 ocular sequelae were evaluated to obtain the total severity score for each eye. The total severity score was defined as Grade I (1-9), Grade II (10-18), and Grade III (19-27). Moreover, the correlation between the severity of chronic ocular sequelae and visual acuity, surgical strategy, and the prognosis was analyzed, respectively. RESULTS: Cases of 79 eyes with symblepharon caused by ocular burns were included in this study. Of these, 20 (25.32%) were defined as Grade I, 43 (54.43%) as Grade II, and 16 (20.25%) as Grade III. Eyes with a high total severity score had reduced visual acuity, required complicated surgery strategies, and poor prognosis (P<0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the scope of adhesion, corneal opacification, and corneal neovascularization significantly affected visual acuity, surgical strategy, and prognosis (all P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The evaluation of chronic ocular sequelae enabled the development of an objective grading system for patients with symblepharon caused by ocular burns. This grading system can be applied to guide the treatment and predict the prognosis.

Medical treatment of inflammatory punctual stenosis monitored by anterior segment optical coherence tomography

2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the role of medical treatment in the management of inflammatory punctum stenosis guided by spectral domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: This prospective study included 60 patients complaining of epiphora due to inflammatory punctual stenosis. They were divided into two groups: Group A (30 patients) treated with a combination of preservative free hydrocortisone sodium phosphate 3.35 mg/mL eye drops, and preservative free artificial tears based on sodium hyaluronate, polyethylene and propylene Glycol; Group B (30 patients) treated with the same preservative free artificial tears only. Thirty normal subjects were included for comparison of pre-treatment anatomical parameters. Before starting treatment, all patients underwent anterior segment assessment including slit lamp examination, measurement of intraocular pressure (IOP), fluorescein dye disappearance test, and measurement of the outer punctum diameter (OPD) by Spectral domain anterior segment OCT. All assessments were repeated at each follow up done at 1 and 3mo later, together with subjective evaluation of patient’s satisfaction of the treatment outcome by simple rating questionnaire. RESULTS: Punctual diameter increased significantly with treatment in both groups (P<0.0001); although the widening was more in Group A as compared to group B (16.2% vs 8% of the original punctual size, mean difference of 28.933 μm, P=0.0076). Subjective satisfaction with treatment outcome was also better in group A (70% vs 40%, Chi-square P=0.0397). CONCLUSION: A combination of preservative free steroid eye drops and artificial tears causes significant widening of inflammed stenotic punctae and improvement of the associated epiphora.

Conjunctival flap advancement with or without scleral graft for hypotony maculopathy after trabeculectomy

Abdelhamid Shaker Elhofi, Mohamed Fahmy Doheim and Amir AbouSamra — 2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the outcomes of adaptive conjunctival flap advancement surgical techniques with or without scleral graft for patients undergoing revision surgery after trabeculectomy. METHODS: This retrospective study included 28 eyes of 28 subjects from December 2015 to April 2018. A group of 15 eyes underwent conjunctival advancement only while the other 13 eyes did conjunctival advancement with partial thickness scleral graft. In both study groups, we considered the intraocular pressure (IOP) as our primary outcome and visual acuity (VA) as our secondary outcome. Both were assessed pre- and post-operatively till the last follow-up possible point. Additionally, we classified the patients according to complete and qualified success criteria. RESULTS: The mean age of the conjunctival advancement group was 36.87±19.25y, while it was 44.08±18.04 in the other group. In both study groups, the mean IOP significantly increased after revision surgery at 1, 2, 3mo and the last follow-up visit when compared to prior the surgery (P<0.001). Moreover, VA was significantly improved (P=0.03) in the final follow-up for both surgical techniques. When we compared the change from baseline in both groups, there was no significant difference between IOP improvement in 1mo (P=0.263), while the difference was significant in 2mo (P=0.03), 3mo (P=0.02) and in the final follow-up visit postoperatively. However, this difference was not significant regarding VA (P=0.5). CONCLUSION: The both adaptive techniques of conjunctival advancement and conjunctival advancement with scleral graft are effective for treating patients with late-onset hypotony. Yet, more prospective studies are needed to assert upon these results.

Subconjunctival injections of triamcinolone acetonide to treat uveitic macular edema

2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of subconjunctival triamcinolone acetonide (TA) injections for treating uveitic macular edema (UME). METHODS: This retrospective case series study included patients with UME who received subconjunctival TA injections with a minimum follow-up period of 6mo. The main outcome measure was central macular thickness (CMT). The secondary outcome measures included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), recurrence rate and intraocular pressure (IOP). RESULTS: In total, 65 patients (80 eyes), mainly including idiopathic uveitis in 33 patients (50.77%) and Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) syndrome in 19 patients (29.23%), were enrolled in this study. The mean CMT decreased from 457.6±173.0 μm at baseline to 325.9±176.8, 302.7±148.2, 332.2±177.3 and 270.6±121.6 μm at 1-, 2-, 3- and 6-months postinjection, respectively (all P<0.001). BCVA increased from logMAR 0.5±0.3 at baseline to logMAR 0.4±0.3, 0.4±0.3, 0.4±0.4 and 0.4±0.3 at the 1-, 2-, 3- and 6-months postinjection visits, respectively (all P<0.001). Twenty-one (21/80, 26.25%) eyes underwent relapse of UME within 6mo. A total of 20/80 (25%) eyes exhibited elevated IOPs, of which 13 eyes were controlled with topical IOP-lowering agents and 7 eyes underwent surgical removal of subconjunctival TA deposit. CONCLUSION: Subconjunctival TA injections appear to be safe and effective for UME.

Efficiency analysis by mfERG and OCT of intravitreal injection with ranibizumab on diabetic macular edema

Hong-Xia Bian, Meng-Ting Bian, Wei-Hong Liu, Rui-Ying Liu and Mi Guo — 2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the clinical efficacy of intravitreal injection of ranibizumab (IVR) on diabetic macular edema (DME) with multifocal electroretinography (mfERG) and optical coherence tomography (OCT). METHODS: A total of 41 patients (41 eyes) with DME were treated with IVR. The best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), mfERG results, and OCT were analyzed to compare to the baselines at 1wk, 1, and 3mo after operation. RESULTS: The BCVA was significantly improved in all eyes at each time point (P<0.001). The macular area leakage and edema were reduced 1wk and 1mo after IVR, and the central fovea thickness (CFT) was significantly reduced compared to baseline (P<0.001). The mfERG, two-dimensional and three-dimensional images all showed that the macular fovea (1 ring) response density decreased, and the fovea and macular area spikes significantly decreased or disappeared. The amplitude density of the P1 wave was increased, and the latency of the P1 wave was shortened than preoperation (P<0.001). At 1wk and 1mo after the operation, there was a negative correlation between the amplitude density of P1 waves and CFT. CONCLUSION: OCT and mfERG fully demonstrate the importance of IVR for DME patients from the macular morphology and function, especially the significance of mfERG in this disease.

Application of pediatric ocular trauma score in pediatric open globe injuries

Chao Xue, Li-Chun Yang and Yi-Chun Kong — 2020/5/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the predictive value of pediatric penetrating ocular trauma score (POTS) on the visual outcome in children with open globe injury. METHODS: A retrospective study in 90 children (60 males and 30 females) aged 1-15y (average, 7.48±2.86y) with penetrating ocular trauma was performed. Each patient’s POTS was calculated. The effects of POTS on final visual acuity (FVA) were examined. Correlation between factors affecting POTS and the FVA was established. RESULTS: All patients presented with single-eye trauma. The follow-up time was 3-21mo (average, 10.23±3.54mo). Among the 90 cases of penetrating wounds, 71 eyes (78.89%) were injured in Zone I (wound involvement limited to the cornea, including the corneoscleral limbus), 17 eyes (18.89%) were injured in Zone II (wound involving the sclera and no more posterior than 5 mm from the corneoscleral limbus), and 2 eyes (2.22%) were injured in Zone III (wound involvement posterior to the anterior 5 mm of the sclera). Analysis of POTS and FVA showed important correlation between them (r=0.414, P=0.000). Initial visual acuity (P=0.00), age (P=0.02), injury location (P=0.002), traumatic cataract (P=0.00), vitreous hemorrhage (P=0.027), retinal detachment (P=0.003), and endophthalmitis (P=0.03) were found to be statistically significant factors for the FVA outcome. CONCLUSION: Ocular trauma presents serious consequences and poor prognosis in children. The POTS may be a reliable prognostic tool in children with open globe injury.

Different damage patterns of retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer between early glaucoma and non-glaucomatous optic neuropathy

Hui Xiao, Xing Liu, Ping Lian, Ling-Ling Liao and Yi-Min Zhong — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the damage pattern of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (pRNFL) and the macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) between early glaucomatous and non-glaucomatous optic neuropathy (EGON and NGON). METHODS: It is a cross-sectional study. Thirty-eight healthy controls, 74 EGONs and 70 NGONs with comparable average pRNFL loss were included. The NGON group included 23 eyes of optic neuritis (ON), 13 eyes of hereditary optic neuropathy (HON), 19 eyes of toxic optic neuropathy (TON) and 15 eyes of compressive neuropathy (CON). The sectoral pRNFL and mGCIPL thickness obtained by high definition optical coherence tomography were analyzed. RESULTS: Compared to normal controls, the pRNFL thickness in all quadrants showed a decrease in both EGON and NGON group (P<0.001), but the average pRNFL thickness of EGON group was not different to that of NGON group (P=0.94). The inferior and superior pRNFL was thinner in EGON group compared to NGON group (P<0.001). The temporal pRNFL was thinner in NGON group compared to EGON group (P<0.001). No statistically significant difference was found in nasal pRNFL between EGON and NGON. While the nasal pRNFL was thinner in CON than other three types of NGON (P=0.01), no statistically significant difference was found in other three quadrantal pRNFL among the four types of NGON (P>0.05). The mGCIPL of EGON and NGON group were thinner than control group (P<0.001). In EGON group the severest sites of mGCIPL reduction was located at inferotemporal and inferior sectors. While, compared to EGON group, the average mGCIPL of NGON group were significantly thinner, especially in superonasal and inferonasal sectors (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The damage pattern of pRNFL and mGCIPL caused by glaucoma is distinct from other NGON such as ON, TON, HON and CON, and this characteristic damage pattern is helpful in differentiating early glaucoma from other NGON.

Diagnosis of lacrimal punctum lesions using optical coherence tomography: a preliminary study

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To study the imaging characteristics of lacrimal punctum lesion with optical coherence tomography (OCT), and provide imaging basis for the diagnosis and treatment of lacrimal punctum diseases. METHODS: A total of 25 patients (28 eyes) with epiphora and lacrimal puncta lesions were enrolled. Lacrimal puncta lesions included: punctum membrane obstruction in 7 cases (9 eyes), punctum agenesis in 1 case (1 eye), a mass protruded from the punctum in 1 case (1 eye), slit puncta in 1 case (1 eye), peri-puncta mass in 2 cases (2 eyes), chronic dacryocystitis in 4 cases (4 eyes), and primary puncta stenosis in 9 cases (10 eyes; 3 eyes mild, 4 eyes moderate and 3 eyes severe). All patients were examined by slit lamp microscopy and OCT to observe the morphological characteristics of abnormal punctum. RESULTS: Two types of complete membrane obstruction and incomplete membrane obstruction of puncta were observed in OCT images of 7 patients. No lacrimal punctum and lacrimal canalicular cavity were found in 1 case with punctum agenesis. OCT images showed that a narrow lumen remained in the lacrimal puncta in 1 patient with a mass protruded from the punctum. OCT of punctum in a patient with slit punctum after stent placement showed stent and abnormal lacrimal structure. No abnormal intraluminal structure was found in 2 cases of peri-puncta mass after OCT scan, and the lacunar space was narrower than that of the contralateral eye. OCT of puncta in 4 patients with chronic dacryocystitis showed that pus floated in tear with lump-like medium-low reflex. In 9 patients with primary lacrimal puncta stenosis, OCT image could clearly show the changes of puncta lumen in different degrees and shapes. CONCLUSION: OCT is feasible for the examination of pathological punctum, and can provide imaging basis for the diagnosis and treatment of punctum disease.

Correlation between corneal demarcation line depth in epithelium-off and trans-epithelium accelerated corneal cross linking and keratoconus progression

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To compare corneal demarcation line (DL) depth in both accelerated epithelium-off and trans-epithelium cross linking (CXL) using anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) and its relation to maximum keratometry (Kmax) progression in both techniques. METHODS: A prospective comparative interventional study where patients with mild to moderate keratoconus (KC) were classified into two groups: accelerated epithelium-off and trans-epithelium CXL based on corneal pachymetry. Assessment of corneal DL depth was carried out after 3mo by AS-OCT. Kmax readings were evaluated after one year follow up using the Scheimpflug imaging system. RESULTS: Study included 74 eyes of 44 patients. Group A underwent epithelium-off CXL (41 eyes), while Group B underwent trans-epithelium CXL (33 eyes). At 3mo follow up, mean corneal DL depth in Group A was 219.9±58.4 μm while in Group B was 127.2±7.8 μm (P<0.05). The mean Kmax changed from 51.9±3.9 to 51.3±4.2 diopters in Group A and from 53.1±4.1 to 53.6±5 diopters in Group B with insignificant difference in Kmax changes in either group (P>0.05). In addition, no significant change in corneal pachymetry was found in both groups (mean change at 1y: 6.4±4.7 and -10.1±2.3 μm in Groups A and B respectively). CONCLUSION: Despite a significantly deeper corneal DL depth created by accelerated epithelium-off CXL technique compared to accelerated trans-epithelium CXL, there is no significant impact on keratoconus progression.

Rainbow halos occur less following implantation of extended range of vision one-piece intraocular lenses vs diffractive bifocal intraocular lenses

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate clinical outcomes following implantation of an extended range of vision intraocular lens (IOL), the ZXR00, and a diffractive multifocal IOL with +2.75 diopters (D) add power, the ZKB00. METHODS: Totally 30 patients who underwent either bilateral implantation of the ZXR00 IOL with intended emmetropia (ZXR00 emmetropia group: 20 eyes) and intended micromonovision (ZXR00 monovision group: 20 eyes), or bilateral implantation of the ZKB00 IOL with intended emmetropia (ZKB00 group: 20 eyes) were included in this study. Visual acuity at 4 m, 80, and 40 cm; and the types of halos (misty, fine, and rainbow) were analyzed at one and three months after surgery. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in distance visual acuity among the three groups. The mean uncorrected intermediate visual acuity was better in the ZXR00 emmetropia and monovision groups (0.02 logMAR and 0.02 logMAR, respectively) than in the ZKB00 group (0.14 logMAR). The mean uncorrected near visual acuity was worse in the ZXR00 emmetropia group (0.26 logMAR) than in the ZXR00 monovision and ZKB00 groups (0.12 logMAR and 0.10 logMAR, respectively). There was an increased incidence of rainbow halos in the ZKB00 group vs in either ZXR00 group (P=0.033). CONCLUSION: Implantation of the ZXR00 IOL with intended micromonovision provide superior visual acuity than implantation of the ZXR00 IOL with intended emmetropia. The ZXR00 IOLs tend to show a lower incidence of rainbow halos than did the ZKB00 IOL.

Agreement between IOLMaster? 500 and Pentacam? HR for keratometry assessment in type 2 diabetic and non-diabetic patients

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate inter-device agreement of anterior keratometry obtained by the IOLMaster® 500 and Pentacam® HR in type 2 diabetic and non-diabetic patients. METHODS: Corneal measurements were sequentially performed in 60 diabetes mellitus (DM) and 48 age and sex-matched controls undergoing cataract surgery. Variables recorded included flat and steep keratometry, mean keratometry (Km), astigmatism magnitude, axis location, J0 and J45 components. Bland-Altman plots and intraclass correlation coefficients were used for examination of agreement. Subgroup analyses were performed for astigmatism magnitude, diabetes duration, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and diabetic retinopathy (DR) stage. RESULTS: Agreement for Km and astigmatism magnitude were considered good and moderate, with 95% limits of agreement (LoA) of -1.09 to 1.23 diopters (D) and -0.83 to 0.86 D in DM group, respectively; and -0.59 to 0.72 D and -0.98 to 0.75 D in non-DM group, respectively. In contrast, the 95% LoA for corneal axis exceeded the clinically relevant margins in both groups. In the total sample, only 41 eyes (38%) had a smaller than 5-degree difference. Diabetes duration, HbA1c levels and DR stage were not found to significantly affect agreement. Logistic regression showed that higher corneal power (P=0.021) and astigmatism magnitude (P=0.011) were associated with a decreased risk of having a difference in axis location greater than 10-degrees. CONCLUSION: In both groups, IOLMaster and Pentacam agree well for corneal power and moderately for astigmatism. However, axis location disagreement is frequent in eyes with flatter corneas and small amounts of astigmatism.

Surgical stress and cytoskeletal changes in lens epithelial cells following manual and femtosecond laser-assisted capsulotomy

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To study the effect of mechanical stress on the cytoskeleton in lens epithelial cells following conventional phacoemulsification surgery (CPS) and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). METHODS: The cytoskeleton of the epithelial cells of the anterior lens capsules (ALC) removed by CPS and FLACS was examined by immunohistochemistry. Expression of the intermediate filament, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and glutamine synthetase (GS) immunoreactivity were detected. In order to map the actin network of cells, fluorescently labeled phalloidin was used. The samples were examined using confocal laser scanning microscopy. RESULTS: GFAP expression was visible in a larger number of the epithelial cells after CPS compared to FLACS. In CPS sample’s epithelial cells, GFAP immunoreactivity indicated robust morphological change. Regarding the actin filaments, the presence of tubular elements connecting epithelial cells, regular actin pattern and marked cortical network after CPS were found. Following FLACS, the actin cytoskeleton of the epithelial cells remained densely structured, and the tubular elements were undetectable, however, the above-mentioned regular actin pattern and the marked cortical network were visible. CONCLUSION: The conventional removal of the ALC induces more robust changes of the cytoskeleton of the lens epithelial cells.

Surgical management of uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema syndrome

Abdelrahman M. Elhusseiny, Richard K. Lee and William E. Smiddy — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To report outcomes of patients after intraocular lens (IOL) repositioning or exchange for the version of the uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema (UGH) syndrome that does not include closed loop anterior chamber IOL (nUGH). METHODS: Chart review of patients with nUGH who underwent IOL repositioning or exchange by one surgeon were reviewed. The main outcome measures were best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) as a decimal fraction preoperatively and postoperatively after IOL repositioning or exchange. Clinical findings evaluated included the presence of uveitis, hyphema, elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), and other complications such as pigment dispersion or vitreous hemorrhage. The number of anti-inflammatory and glaucoma medications were assessed before and after IOL repositioning or exchange. RESULTS: The study included 14 pseudophakic eyes. The median time at the onset of contemporary UGH after cataract extraction and IOL implantation (CE/IOL) was 7.5y. IOL repositioning or exchange was performed at a mean duration of 8.1±4.7mo (median: 4mo) after onset of UGH. The mean BCVA was improved from 0.45±0.26 preoperatively after onset of UGH syndrome to 0.76±0.22 (P=0.016) after IOL repositioning or exchange. Among the 14 eyes, uveitis, elevated IOP, and hyphema were present preoperatively in 13, 13, and 6 eyes, respectively. Uveitis and hyphema resolved in all cases after IOL surgery. The mean IOP was reduced from 26.4±4.5 mm Hg preoperatively to 14.7±4.9 postoperatively (P=0.01). The mean number of glaucoma medications used was reduced from 1.7±1.1 medications preoperatively to 0.8±1.08 (P=0.04) postoperatively. CONCLUSION: IOL repositioning or exchange is an effective treatment in many cases for medically resistant contemporary UGH syndrome.

Performances of glaucoma operations with Kahook Dual Blade or iStent combined with phacoemulsification in Japanese open angle glaucoma patients

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To compare surgical outcomes of phacoemulsification combined with glaucoma surgical techniques performed with either Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) or iStent for Japanese patients with either primary open angle glaucoma or exfoliation glaucoma. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated the surgical outcomes of 129 eyes of 84 Japanese patients with glaucoma who underwent KDB or 44 eyes of 34 patients who underwent phacoemulsification with iStent procedures combined with cataract surgery. The primary outcome was surgical success or failure [with surgical failure being indicated by <20% reduction from preoperative intraocular pressure (IOP) or IOP>18 mm Hg as criterion A; IOP>14 mm Hg as criterion B on two consecutive study visits; or reoperation requirement]. In addition, we assessed the number of postoperative glaucoma medications and the resulting complications. RESULTS: The probability of success was significantly higher in the KDB group than in the iStent group for criterion A (60.2% vs 46.4%, P=0.019). In the KDB group, the mean preoperative IOP of 19.8±7.3 mm Hg decreased significantly to 13.0±3.1 mm Hg (P<0.01), and the mean number of glaucoma medications at 2.5±1.4 decreased significantly to 1.6±1.6 (P<0.01) 12mo postoperatively. In the iStent group, the mean preoperative IOP of 17.8±2.9 mm Hg significantly decreased to 14.3±2.3 mm Hg (P<0.01), and the mean number of glaucoma medications at 2.2±1.1 decreased significantly to 0.9±1.4 (P<0.01) 12mo postoperatively. The overall IOP reduction percentage was higher in the KDB group (26.2%) than in the iStent group (19.0%) 12mo postoperatively (P=0.03). Hyphema occurred significantly more frequently in the KDB group (16.3%) than in the iStent group (2.3%, P=0.017). CONCLUSION: KDB and iStent procedures combined with cataract surgery both result in significant IOP and glaucoma medication reductions after the 12-month follow-up. The patients in the KDB group have a higher success rate for the target IOP of less than 18 mm Hg and a higher complication rate than those in the iStent group.

Ocular hypertension and severe intraocular pressure elevation after posterior subtenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide for various diseases

Yun-Hsiang Yang, Hua-Hsuan Kuo, Wei-Cherng Hsu and Yi-Ting Hsieh — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare the incidences of ocular hypertension and severe intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation after posterior subtenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide (PSTA) for various diseases. METHODS: Totally 179 eyes that had received PSTA for diabetic macular edema (n=108), pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (n=20), branch retinal vein occlusion (n=16), central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO, n=14), choroidal neovascularization (n=14) or noninfectious uveitis (n=7) were retrospectively enrolled. The primary outcomes included ocular hypertension defined as an IOP>21 mm Hg, and severe IOP elevation defined as a rise of 10 mm Hg or more in IOP compared with baseline. Cox regression models were used to analyze the hazard ratios (HRs) among different diseases. RESULTS: After PSTA, the mean IOPs from month 1 to month 6 all significantly increased (P<0.05). Ocular hypertension occurred in 30.7% of eyes (median time: 8wk), and severe IOP elevation occurred in 16.2% of eyes (median time: 9wk). Patients receiving PSTA for CRVO or uveitis had a significantly higher risk for ocular hypertension (HR=3.049, P=0.004 for CRVO; HR=5.464, P=0.019 for uveitis) and severe IOP elevation (HR=2.913, P=0.034 for CRVO; HR=7.650, P=0.009 for uveitis). CONCLUSION: IOP significantly increases within 6mo after PSTA, with the onset of ocular hypertension happening mostly at 2 to 3mo. Patients of CRVO or noninfectious uveitis have a higher risk of ocular hypertension or severe IOP elevation after PSTA and should be monitored for IOP more carefully.

One-year follow-up evaluation of combined phacovitrectomy for idiopathic epiretinal membrane

Feng Dong, Chen-Ying Yu, Ning Zhu and Ding-Hua Lou — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the therapeutic effect of combined phacovitrectomy with membrane peeling and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in patients with severe idiopathic epiretinal membrane (iERM) and concurrent cataract. METHODS: A total of 34 eyes from 34 patients who underwent phacovitrectomy and epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University between 2015 and 2017. The best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) were measured preoperatively and at 1, 3, 6mo and 1y postoperatively. Temporal changes and bivariate correlations of these parameters were analyzed. RESULTS: Mean logMAR BCVA improved and CFT decreased significantly (P<0.001) until 6mo after surgery. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between preoperative and postoperative logMAR BCVA (r=0.716, P<0.001 at 1mo, r=0.417, P=0.014 at 3mo, r=0.359, P=0.037 at 6mo, and r=0.369, P=0.032 at 12mo post-op respectively), but preoperative CFT was neither associated with postoperative CFT nor with postoperative logMAR BCVA. There was a positive correlation between CFT and logMAR BCVA at 1mo (r=0.346, P=0.045), 6mo (r=0.347, P=0.045), and 12mo (r=0.342, P=0.048) post-operatively. The intra- and postoperative complications were relatively mild, and the incidences were generally low. CONCLUSION: For severe iERM patients with significant visual symptoms, combined phacovitrectomy with membrane peeling and IOL implantation is safe and effective in improving BCVA and decreasing CFT. Early surgery in selected patients may help preserving better visual function.

Correlation of ischemic ophthalmopathy with lacunar infarction

Min Wang, Yu-Fang Gao, Wei Chen, Rong Li, Li-Hua Hou and Jian-Ying Du — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the correlation of ischemic ophthalmopathy (IO) with lacunar infarction (LI), an ischemic lesions in the cerebrovascular system. METHODS: Totally 204 cases of IO without any nervous system symptom and previously diagnosed LI served as the observational group. All 204 cases without IO, nervous system symptoms and previous LI served as the control group. Age and sex between the two groups matched well. LI was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the results of the two groups were statistically analyzed and compared. RESULTS: IO included 174 eyes of 156 patients with non-arteritis anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), 42 eyes of 36 patients with central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) or branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO) and 12 eyes of 12 patients with ocular ischemia syndrome (OIS).The detection rate of LI (72.54%) in IO group was obviously higher than that (15.68%) in the control group (P<0.001). IO was positively correlated with LI (r=0.573, P<0.05). In addition, most infarction sites located in the basal ganglia (67.57%), which were not the vital areas of cerebrum and not easy to be found due to their small size. The majority of those first visited IO patients (72.54%) without nervous system symptom and previously diagnosed LI had already suffered from LI. CONCLUSION: According to our studies, there is a positive correlation between IO and LI. IO can be used as an important predictor for the present of LI, especially obvious signs of the patient.

Clinical observations of iridociliary cysts and their changes after implantable collamer lens implantation in myopic patients

Qian Chen, Meng-Ying Qi, Xiao-Hua Lei and Qing-Yan Zeng — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To observe the characteristics of iridociliary cysts in myopic patients and evaluate the influences on the position and safety of implantable collamer lens (ICL) after surgery. METHODS: Totally 270 eyes of 135 patients who underwent ICL surgery for the corrections of myopia were included in this study. Preoperative and postoperative morphology of iridociliary cysts were observed in ultrasonic biomicroscopy (UBM) image. RESULTS: A total of 138 iridociliary cysts were found in 88 eyes of 50 patients among 270 eyes of 135 patients before surgery (37%). Twenty-five patients had cysts in one eye (50%) and 25 had cysts in both eyes (50%). The prevalence of iridociliary cysts was negatively correlated with age, but no gender difference (P>0.05). The incidence of iridociliary cysts was much less in eyes with myopia greater than -9.00 D (P<0.05). The diameter of the largest cyst was 1.96 mm and the smallest cyst was 0.24 mm, with a majority within the range of 0.5 to 1.0 mm. Most of the cysts were located in the inferior temporal quadrant. One year after ICL implantation, 51 iridociliary cysts (37%) remained unchanged, 47 cysts (34%) decreased in size, and 40 cysts (29%) disappeared. Most of cysts that changed after surgery were smaller than 1.0 mm (P<0.05) and located in the nasal and temporal sides around the haptics of implantable lens. All the ICL were in their original position. CONCLUSION: Iridociliary cysts are commonly seen in myopic eyes. The cysts have no impact on the safety of ICL surgery. Some cysts may decrease in size or disappear after ICL implantation.

Visual outcomes after three different surgical procedures for correction of refractive error in patients with thin corneas

Hye Seong Hwang, Hyun Jeong Lee, Seong Jun Lee and Jae-Hyung Kim — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate and compare the visual and refractive outcomes of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE), laser assisted sub-epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK), and LASEK combined with corneal collagen cross-linking (LASEK-CXL) surgery in patients with less than 500 μm of central corneal thickness (CCT). METHODS: The retrospective medical records review was conducted on the patients with CCT less than 500 μm treated with SMILE, LASEK, and LASEK-CXL. There was a total of 172 eyes, 76 eyes were in the SMILE group, 53 eyes in the LASEK group, and 43 eyes in the LASEK-CXL group. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), spherical equivalent refraction (SE), and corneal haze were followed up in the three groups for 12mo. RESULTS: At 12mo postoperatively, there were no statistically significant differences in UDVA and in the absolute value of SE between the three groups. The predictability within ±0.50 D in the SMILE group (85.5%) was significantly higher than in both the LASEK group (64.2%, P<0.01) and the LASEK-CXL group (69.8%, P=0.04). The efficacy index and safety index were not significantly different among the three groups. Corneal haze at 12mo postoperatively was higher in the LASEK-CXL group (27.9%) than in the SMILE group (2.6%, P<0.01) and in the LASEK group (7.5%, P<0.01). CONCLUSION: In patients with CCT less than 500 μm, SMILE, LASEK, and LASEK-CXL appear to be effective for myopic correction. Among them, SMILE surgery shows the highest predictability.

Clinical efficacy of the partial rectus muscle transportation procedure for paralytic strabismus

Yan-Qiong Tu, Xiao-Ying Wu, Jie-Yue Wang and Feng-Yun Li — 2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the clinical efficacy of the partial rectus muscle transportation (PRT) procedure for paralytic strabismus due to single rectus muscle palsy. METHODS: In total, 28 patients (31 eyes) who underwent the PRT procedure for paralytic strabismus due to single rectus muscle palsy were retrospectively examined. The following data were collected pre- and postoperatively: angle of deviation in the primary position, presence of diplopia in the primary position, presence of compensatory head posture, and motility of the affected eye. The follow-up period was 6mo. RESULTS: Based on the preoperative and intraoperative findings, different operations were performed: 2 eyes were treated with PRT, 26 eyes were treated with PRT combined with the recession of the antagonist muscle (Am) of the paralytic rectus muscle, and 3 eyes were treated with PRT along with the recession of the Am and the yoke muscle (Ym). On the first day after the operation, 24 patients were found to be orthophoric in the primary position, without diplopia or abnormal head posture. Moreover, 2 patients with monocular lateral rectus muscle palsy had mild overcorrection to 5 prism diopters (PD) and 8 PD, respectively, whereas 2 patients with binocular lateral rectus muscle palsy had mild undercorrection to 8 PD and 10 PD, respectively. During the 6-month follow-up period, the mean deviation was rectified from 96.79±41.21 PD to 0.64±2.38 PD (t=12.48, P<0.001), whereas the deviations in the 2 patients with mild overcorrection were corrected to orthotropia. The mean preoperative limitation of motility improved from -4.55±0.51 to -2.65±0.61 (t=-15.13, P<0.001) after 6mo postoperatively. CONCLUSION: PRT is an effective treatment for complete paralytic strabismus due to single rectus muscle palsy, and can achieve stable clinical efficacy.

Comparison of conventional and Hang-back methods of inferior oblique recession in V-pattern strabismus with inferior oblique overaction

2020/4/28 0:00:00
AIM: To compare outcomes of conventional and Hang-back methods of inferior oblique (IO) recession in V-pattern strabismus with inferior oblique overaction (IOOA). METHODS: Comparative randomized study was conducted consisting of 50 patients, age 6 to 35y having V-pattern strabismus [>15 prism diopter (PD)] with IOOA. They were divided equally in two groups and underwent IO recession, group A by conventional method and group B by Hang-back method. Parameters evaluated were reduction in V-pattern and IOOA, shift in torsion, improvement in binocular status. Success was a residual V-pattern of less than 10 PD at 1y of follow up. RESULTS: The mean V-pattern preoperatively and postoperatively at 1y was 24±5.4 PD and 4.2±3.51 PD in group A and 23.44±6.44 PD and 5.76±3.8 PD in group B respectively. The mean reduction in V-pattern was 20±6.78 PD in group A and 18.2±5.48 PD in group B. The mean correction of IOOA was 18.48±3.13 PD in group A and 16±2.93 PD in group B. Mean shift in extorsion was 3.08±1.8 degree in group A and 3.72±2.14 degree in group B. CONCLUSION: Both the procedures achieve a significant and comparable reduction in V-pattern and IOOA. Hang-back recession being a landmark free surgery eliminates the need for intrascleral suturing thereby reducing the risk of scleral perforation with possible postoperative adjustment of muscle. It may be considered as a good alternative for IO recession in patients of V-pattern strabismus with mild to moderate amount of IOOA.

Analysis of choroidal morphology and comparison of imaging findings of subtypes of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy: a new classification system

Zi-Yang Liu, Bing Li, Song Xia and You-Xin Chen — 2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To classify polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) into 2 subtypes based on the subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and to further evaluate their multimodal image features. METHODS: A retrospective observational case series study. Sixty-four eyes of 64 patients with PCV were enrolled and classified into 2 groups based on SFCT (thick-choroid group/thin-choroid group). Then further analyze the spectrum domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) differences of the two subtypes. Imaging analysis included measurement of SFCT, maximum vascular diameter ratio (MVDR), choroidal vascularity index (CVI), central macular thickness (CMT), and the presence of pigment epithelial detachment (PED) on SD-OCT. Polypoidal lesions (polyps) number, branching vascular network (BVN) area, greatest linear dimension (GLD), and the choroidal vascular hyperpermeability (CVH) were analyzed by ICGA. RESULTS: The distribution of SFCT was bimodal with two peaks at 195 and 285 μm, and a trough at 225 μm. The 225 μm was taken as the cutoff point for the following classification of thick/thin choroid groups. The PCV eyes in the thick-choroid group presented with greater MVDR, CVI within 3 and 6 mm of the fovea, but lower CMT, less PED, small PED diameters on SD-OCT scans, and fewer polyps, smaller BVN and GLD, but more frequency of CVH on ICGA. CONCLUSION: The SFCT at 225 μm can be used as a readily available indicator for the classification of PCV subtypes. The thick-choroid group presents much apparent enlargement of the choroidal layer and vasculature expansion, which indicates different pathogenesis of the two subtypes.

Diffractive multifocal intraocular lens implantation in patients with monofocal intraocular lens in the contralateral eye

2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate clinical outcomes of unilateral implantation of a diffractive multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) in patients with contralateral monofocal IOL. METHODS: Twenty-two patients who already had implantation of a monofocal IOL in unilateral eye underwent implantation of a diffractive multifocal IOL in contralateral eye were enrolled. After 1, 6, and 12mo, uncorrected and distant corrected distant visual acuity (UCDVA and DCDVA), uncorrected and distant corrected intermediate-visual acuity (UCIVA and DCIVA), uncorrected and distant corrected near visual acuity (UCNVA and DCNVA), and contrast sensitivity were obtained. Halo/glare symptoms, spectacle dependence, and patient satisfaction were also evaluated. RESULTS: The mean age was 67.86±7.25y and the average interval between two IOL implantations was 645.82±878.44d. At 1mo, binocular UCDVA was lower than 0.20 logMAR in 76% of patients (mean 0.12±0.13 logMAR), which increased to 90% by 6 and 12mo. The binocular UCDVA was significantly better than the monocular results (P<0.05) at 1, 6, and 12mo. Additionally, UCNVA was lower than 0.40 logMAR in 82% of patients, increasing to 90% by 6 and 12mo. Mean UCNVA in the multifocal IOL implanted eye was statistically significantly better than that in the monofocal IOL implanted eye (P<0.05) at 1, 6, and 12mo. About 5% of patients at 1 and 6mo, reported “severe glare or halo”. Patient satisfaction rates were 95% and 91% at 6 and 12mo, respectively. CONCLUSION: Unilateral implantation of multifocal IOL in patients with a contralateral, monofocal IOL implantation results in high patient satisfaction rate, with low severe glare or halo rate during follow-up. It can represent a good option for patients who have previously had a monofocal IOL implantation regardless of two year interval duration between two IOL implantations.

Optical coherence tomography angiography of the peripapillary region and macula in normal, primary open angle glaucoma, pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and ocular hypertension eyes

Helin Ceren Kose and Oya Tekeli — 2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate and compare the peripapillary and retinal vasculature changes in primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), pseudoexfoliation glaucoma (PXG), ocular hypertension (OHT) and normal eyes using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). METHODS: A total of 114 POAG, PXG and OHT eyes of 60 patients and 46 eyes of 23 healthy control participants with good quality OCTA images were included. The PXG, POAG, OHT, and control groups (aged 68.17±6.30y, 61.11±10.26y, 58.1±8.9y, and 56.9±4.6y, respectively) contained of 46, 36, 32, and 46 eyes, respectively. Measurements of vessel density (VD) in the peripapillary region and macula, average retinal inner thickness, and retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) were compared among groups. In order to test the accuracy of differentiation between eyes with and without glaucoma, the area was calculated under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. RESULTS: The VD in glaucomatous eyes was significantly lower than the control group in all peripapillary sectors (44.35%±6.78% vs 50.47%±1.83%, P<0.001), the superficial (44.08%±5.46% vs 51.28%±2.85%, P<0.001) and the deep (45.13%±8.55% vs 54.20%±5.44%, P<0.001) vascular plexus. There was a significant difference in peripapillary VD between glaucomatous and OHT eyes (44.35%±6.78% vs 49.86%±2.45%, P<0.001). The OHT group featured a lower super?cial (48.06%±4.32% vs 51.28%±2.85%, P=0.027) and deep plexus (48.70%±5.99% vs 54.20%±5.44%, P=0.013) whole image vessel density (wiVD) than did the control group. The average macular superficial plexus wiVD was significantly lower in eyes with PXG than in eyes with POAG (42.22%±5.36% vs 46.54%±5.56%, P=0.046). CONCLUSION: OCTA can measure reduced peripapillary and macular VD in eyes with glaucoma and OHT, and these results are correlated to functional and structural glaucomatous alterations. Peripapillary and macular superficial plexus VD is lower in eyes with PXG than in eyes with POAG. Furthermore, the OHT eyes demonstrate impaired macular vasculature in both superficial and deep plexus.

Internal limiting membrane dragging and peeling: a modified technique for macular holes closure surgery

2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To introduce a modified technique of internal limiting membrane (ILM) centripetal dragging and peeling to treat idiopathic macular hole (IMH) and to observe the ILM-retina adhesive forces. METHODS: Twenty-six consecutive patients with stage 3 to 4 IMH and followed up at least six months were enrolled. All patients underwent complete par plana vitrectomy, ILM dragging and peeling, fluid and gas exchange, 15% C3F8 tamponade and 2-week prone position. The best corrected visual acuity, macular hole evaluation by optical coherence tomography, and complications were evaluated. RESULTS: The mean diameter of IMH was 524±148 μm (range: 201-683 μm), with 21 cases (80.8%) greater than 400 μm. ILM dragging and peeling were successfully performed in all cases. Most of the ILM-retina adhesive forces are severe (42.3%, 11/26), followed by mild (38.5%, 10/26), and moderate (19.2%, 5/26). The mean follow-up duration was 21.2±6.1mo. The IMH was closed in 25 (96.3%) eyes. Visual acuity (logMAR) improved significantly from 1.2±0.6 preoperatively to 0.7±0.5 postoperatively (P<0.001). CONCLUSION: Preexisting ILM-retina adhesive force is found in IMH patients. With assistance of this force, this modified technique may help to release the IMH edges and improve the closure rate of large IMH.

Analysis of the rates of emulsification in intraocular silicone oil tamponades of differing viscosities

Xiu-Juan Zhao, Ning-Ning Tang, Yu Lian, Bing-Qian Liu, Yong-Hao Li and Lin Lu — 2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the rates of emulsification in silicone oil (SO) tamponades of differing viscosities used during pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) in the treatment of complicated vitreoretinal diseases. METHODS: This study was a prospective randomized clinical trial. Totally 290 cases with greater likelihoods of secondary detachment were included and randomly grouped into either Siluron 2000 (n=143) or Siluron 5000 (n=147) SO tamponades with 23-gauge PPV. Patient follow-ups and data analyses were conducted 1, 3, 6, and 12mo post-surgery. RESULTS: The time of the SO emulsification ranged from 1 to 17mo, with a mean of 7.3±4.2mo. The Siluron 5000 group showed a slower emulsification rate in comparison to the Siluron 2000 group. The Siluron 2000 group took a shorter time to show signs of emulsification, necessitating earlier SO removal. However, there were no significant differences in the occurrence of complications, including secondary retinal detachment, cataract, corneal abnormality, high intraocular pressure and hypotony. CONCLUSION: The Siluron 2000 SO tamponade shows a faster rate of emulsification than the Siluron 5000 SO, necessitating earlier removal. Both groups show similar results in terms of anatomical success and visual acuity outcome, and there is no significant difference between the SOs regarding the occurrence of complications.

Foveal pit morphological changes in asymptomatic carriers of the G11778A mutation with Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy

2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the foveal pit morphology changes in unaffected carriers and affected Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) patients with the G11778A mutation from one family. METHODS: This study was a prospective cross-sectional study. Both eyes from 16 family members (age from 9 to 47y) with the G11778A mutation were analyzed and compared with 1 eye from 20 normal control subjects. Eleven family members with the G11778A mutation but without optic neuropathy were classified as unaffected carriers (n=22 eyes). Five family members (n=10 eyes) expressed the LHON phenotype and were classified as affected patients. Retinal images of all the subjects were taken by optical coherence tomography (OCT), and an automatic algorithm was used to segment the retina to eight layers. Horizontal and vertical OCT images centered on the fovea were used to measure intra-retinal layer thicknesses and foveal morphometry. RESULTS: Thicker foveal thickness, thinner foveal pit depth, and flatter foveal slopes were observed in unaffected carriers and affected LHON patients (all P<0.001). Further, the slopes of all four sectors in the LHON were flatter than those in the unaffected carriers (all P<0.001). Compared with the control group, affected LHON patients had a thinner retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), ganglion cell layer and inner plexiform layer (GCL+IPL), and total retina (all P<0.01). The retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) of affected patients was 38.0% thinner than that of controls while the GCL+IPL was 40.1% thinner. CONCLUSION: The foveal pit morphology shows changes in both unaffected carriers and affects patients. RNFL and GCL+IPL are thinner in affected LHON patients but not in unaffected carriers.

Comparison of choroidal thickness in high myopic eyes after FS-LASIK versus implantable collamer lens implantation with swept-source optical coherence tomography

Jing Zhang, Fang-Lin He, Yan Liu and Xian-Qun Fan — 2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the changes in choroidal thickness (CT) in high myopic eyes after femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) surgery or central hole implantable collamer lens (ICL V4c) implantation using swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT). METHODS: We examined the right eyes of 116 patients with high myopia who were candidates for FS-LASIK surgery and ICL implantation. Sixty eyes underwent ICL V4c implantation and 56 eyes were subjected to FS-LASIK surgery. The CT was measured with SS-OCT. All data were recorded preoperatively and 2h, 1wk, 1 and 3mo postoperatively. Other demographic information was collected, including age, sex, uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), intraocular pressure (IOP) and axial length (AL). RESULTS: The UCVA improved in both groups and showed no significant differences between groups. There also were no significant differences between the two groups in postoperative BCVA and SE (P=0.581 and 0.203, respectively). The foveal CTs, inner nasal and outer nasal CTs were significantly thicker at 2h postoperatively in both groups (P<0.05) but returned to baseline levels in 1wk; after 1mo, no significant differences were found relative to the preoperative values. At 3mo in each group, nine regions showed variations in the CT as compared with preoperative thickening, but only the foveal and nasal area CTs preoperative differences were statistically significant (P<0.05). In addition, there was no significant difference in 9 regions of CT between the two groups at all follow-up times (P>0.05). CONCLUSION: The CTs after ICL implantation and FS-LASIK surgery are significantly thicker than those before operation, especially in the foveal and nasal areas, but there is no significant difference between the two methods.

Changes in corneal biomechanics and intraocular pressure following Femto-LASIK using Goldman applanation tonometry and ocular response analyzer

2020/3/30 0:00:00
AIM: To compare intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements before and after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with a femtosecond laser for flap creation using ocular response analyzer (ORA) and Goldmann applanation tonometry, and to identify factors that may influence the preoperative and postoperative IOP. METHODS: A prospective study conducted on myopic patients who underwent LASIK using a femtosecond laser for flap fashioning. Enrolled patients were evaluated preoperatively, 6wk and 3mo postoperatively for manifest refraction (MR), keratometric (K) readings and central corneal thickness (CCT) using a scheimpflug-based topography. Corneal resistance factor (CRF), corneal hysteresis (CH), Goldmann correlated IOP (IOPg) and corneal compensated IOP (IOPcc) were measured using ORA besides IOP assessment by Goldman applanation tonometry (GAT). RESULTS: There was a statistically significant decrease in measures of IOPg by 3.35±0.83 mm Hg, followed by GAT which decreased by 2.2±0.44 mm Hg, and the least affected by operation was IOPcc which decreased only by 0.87±0.1 mm Hg after 6wk. After 3mo follow up there was a statistically significant decrease in IOPcc which decreased only by 0.76±0.4 mm Hg, followed by IOP GAT by 1.6±0.5 mm Hg, and the most affected by operation was IOPg which decreased by 2.3±0.3 mm Hg. Correspondingly, there was a statistically significant decrease in CH and CRF after 6wk and 3mo. At 3mo, the preoperative MR and preoperative GAT were prominent significant predictors of the postoperative GAT changes. The prediction equation was subsumed. CONCLUSION: IOP measurements and corneal biomechanical factors reduce significantly after LASIK with a femtosecond laser for flap creation. The IOPcc values are less influenced by changes in corneal properties than IOPg and GAT, indicating that IOPcc may provide the most reliable measurement of IOP after this procedure.

Stability of the Barrett True-K formula for intraocular lens power calculation after SMILE in Chinese myopic eyes

Wei Zhu, Feng-Ju Zhang, Yu Li and Yan-Zheng Song — 2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the Barrett True-K formula with other formulas integrated in Lenstar 900 to predict intraocular lens (IOL) power after small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE). METHODS: A theoretical prospective study was performed to predict the ratio of equivalent IOL power before and after SMILE using the SRK/T (Sanders, Retzlaff, Kraff/theoretical), Holladay 1, Haigis, and Barrett True-K formulas and compare the stability of their predictions. The study included 54 eyes (54 cases) with a manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) of -4.99±1.45 D. They were divided into two groups: 27 eyes with axial length of 24-26 mm in Group A, and 27 eyes with axial length >26 mm in Group B. All subjects enrolled in this study were examined with the Lenstar 900 before and 6mo after SMILE including measurements of axial length, corneal curvature, and anterior chamber depth (ACD). RESULTS: The prediction of equivalent IOL power of the two groups was more stable for the Barrett True-K formula, especially in long axial length eyes (Group B). The respective percentages for the SRK/T, Holladay 1, Haigis, and Barrett True-K formulas were 7.4%, 7.4%, 85.19%, and 88.89% for a margin of error within 0.5 D; 25.92%, 51.84%, 100%, and 100% for a margin of error within 1.0 D in Group A; 33.33%, 40.74%, 44.44%, and 81.48% for a margin of error within 0.5 D; and 44.44%, 59.26%, 66.66%, and 92.59% for a margin of error within 1.0 D in Group B. The respective percentages for Barrett True-K formulas were 100% for a margin of error within 2.0 D in Group B. CONCLUSION: Theoretically, the Barrett True-K formula provides more stable predictions than other formulas for cataract eyes after SMILE.

Comparison of long-term results after manual and femtosecond assisted corneal trephination in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty for keratoconus

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare long-term postoperative outcomes of manual and femtosecond assisted corneal trephination in deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (FS-DALK) for keratoconus. METHODS: In the retrospective study, 17 consecutive eyes that underwent vertical side cut incision FS-DALK and 22 eyes that underwent trephine incision DALK were collected over a 2-year period. Main measurements included postoperative uncorrected-visual acuity (UCVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), refractive sphere and cylinder, manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE), flat and steep corneal keratometry (K1 and K2), endothelial cell density (ECD), and time of epithelium healing and suture removal. RESULTS: Groups were comparable for diagnosis and preoperative visual acuity. Follow-up averaged 23mo (range, 12-36mo). At 12mo, the mean UCVA was better in the manual-DALK group (P=0.039), and the refractive sphere was lower in the FS-DALK group (P=0.040). MRSE between groups differed at 1, 6, and 12mo postoperatively (P=0.047, 0.025, 0.042, respectively). Mean CDVA, cylinder, K1, K2, corneal astigmatism, ECD, and time of epithelium healing were similar between groups. Stability of MRSE, ECD, and K1 returned sooner after FS-DALK. Initial loosened suture removal time was earlier in the manual-DALK group (P=0.042) while complete suture removal time was similar (P=0.122). CONCLUSION: Manual and femtosecond assisted corneal trephination in DALK are options for advanced keratoconus. FS-DALK do not result in improved visual acuity but it is more stable during the follow-up period. FS-DALK in the present form show limited benefit, so surgical design and parameters still need to be optimized and explored.

Collagen crosslinking with photoactivated riboflavin in advanced infectious keratitis with corneal melting: Electrophysiological Study

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effect of photoactivated chromophore for keratitis crosslinking (PACK-CXL) in case of severe keratitis with melting on the electrophysiological function of the retina and the optic nerve. METHODS: The study included 32 eyes of 32 patients with smear positive severe infectious keratitis with corneal melting. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group I (control group) included 16 eyes received systemic and topical antimicrobial drugs guarded by culture and sensitivity test. Group II underwent CXL and then continued their antimicrobial treatment. Full field electroretinogram (ERG) and flash visual evoked potential (VEP) were done for each patient in both groups basically and then 1wk, 1 and 3mo post-treatment to assess the changes in the electrophysiological function of the retina and optic nerve. RESULTS: Healing of 10 eyes in group I in comparison to 14 eyes in group II was recorded. The mean duration of healing was 36.56±5.21d in group I vs 20.2±4.4d in group II (P<0.005). In group II, ERG showed an insignificant reduction of all parameters of ERG and VEP after CXL. The amplitude of scotopic rod response, oscillatory potential amplitude, flicker amplitude and photopic cone response were insignificantly decreased (P=0.4, 0.8, 0.1, and 0.3 respectively). There were insignificant prolongation of latencies of scotopic rod, oscillatory potential, flicker and photopic cone response (P=0.2, 0.7, 0.5 and 0.1). There was slight delay in latency of VEP without a significant reduction in amplitude. CONCLUSION: CXL is an effective technique in treatment of severe infectious keratitis with melting as it halts the melting process with acceptable safety on the retinal and optic nerve function.

Effect of intraocular lens implantation on visual field in glaucoma and comorbid cataracts

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effects of intraocular lens (IOL) implantation on visual field (VF) in patients with glaucoma and comorbid cataracts (G&C) with different disease severities. METHODS: Totally 56 eyes of 50 patients with primary G&C were included. All patients were divided into three groups based on the severity of the VF defect: the mild, moderate, and severe stage. Phacoemulsification was performed for cataract removal combined with IOL implantation. Visual acuity (VA) and VF tests were performed for all enrolled patients, up to 3mo after surgery. Changes in VF threshold and global VF index in various groups were also recorded before and after surgery. The mean light sensitivity (MS) values and the changes following surgery (DMS) were compared between the three groups. Advanced Glaucoma Intervention Study (AGIS) scoring was analyzed on all VF results for analysis of changes in VF before and after surgery. RESULTS: Following surgery, the MS values of the three groups of G&C increased significantly, while the AGIS scores decreased statistically in all groups. The DMS values for the three zones in moderate and severe stage but not mild stage were statistically different between zones. The DMS value was significantly higher in zone I than those in zone II and III (zone I>zone II>zone III; P<0.05). The DMS was significantly higher in zone I than that in zone III in moderate stage patients (zone I>zone II>zone III; P<0.01), while the DMS values in the severe stage patients was significantly higher in zone I than those in zone II and III (zone I>zone II>zone III; P<0.01). CONCLUSION: The mean VF sensitivity of glaucoma patients increased significantly after cataract removal and IOL implantation. Variations in the severity and distribution of characteristics of VF defects result in differences in postoperative VF improvements after cataract surgery. The magnitude of increase in VF sensitivity is associated with VF defect characteristic in glaucoma.

Effect of capsular tension ring implantation on predicted refractive error after cataract surgery in patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the effect of capsular tension ring (CTR) implantation on predicted refractive error after cataract surgery in patients with pseudoexfoliation (PEX) syndrome. METHODS: This double-blind randomized clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients with PEX syndrome referring to Imam Khomeini Hospital affiliated to Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, for undergoing cataract surgery. The study population was divided into two groups, namely CTR group (n=30) and non-CTR group (control group; n=30). The refractive error and anterior chamber depth (ACD) were measured 1wk, 1mo, and 3mo after phacoemulsification (PE) surgery. RESULTS: The results indicated no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of predicted refractive error (obtained by subtracting preoperative predicted refractive error from actual postoperative refractive error) 1wk (P=0.47), 1mo (P=0.30), and 3mo (P=0.06) after the PE surgery. Regarding the CTR group, the changes of ACD was statistically significant 1 and 3mo after the PE surgery, compared to those obtained 1wk post-surgery (P=0.005). CONCLUSION: The CTR implantation in PEX cataractous patients without zonulysis has no statistically significant effect on the predicted refraction and ACD changes after PE. The predicted refraction error has a hyperopic shift in both groups. The results reveal the unnecessary of calculating modified IOL in CTR implantation.

Pentacam changes in primary angle-closure glaucoma after different lines of treatment

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the changes in the anterior chamber parameters using Pentacam following four different lines of treatment of primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG). METHODS: A retrospective comparative study included 126 patients (126 eye) presented within 24-48h after acute angle-closure glaucoma (AACG). Patients were divided into 2 groups: group A (68 eyes) with controlled intraocular pressure (IOP) ≤21 mm Hg, which included subgroup A1 (34 eyes) with clear lens underwent Nd:YAG laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI) and subgroup A2 (34 eyes) with cataract underwent standard phacoemulsification; and group B (58 eyes) with uncontrolled IOP, which included subgroup B1 (30 eyes) with clear lens underwent trabeculectomy and subgroup B2 (28 eyes) with cataract underwent combined phacoemulsification and trabeculectomy. Patients were followed up for at least 3mo. Primary outcomes were Pentacam anterior segment measurements [anterior chamber angle (ACA) and depth (ACD)]. Secondary outcomes were changes in IOP, visual acuity (VA) and recorded complications. RESULTS: At the 3rd month, there was significant increase in the ACA values in all studied groups compared to preoperative values (P<0.001). The highest percent of increase in ACA was recorded in phacotrabeculectomy group B2 (128.40%). There was significant increase in ACD values at 3rd month compared with baseline values (P<0.001) for groups A1, A2, and B2; without change in B1 trabeculectomy group. The maximum deepening of ACD was noticed in group B2 with 94.27% increase. Significant decrease in postoperative IOP in groups A2, B1 and B2 (P<0.001, P=0.014, and P<0.001 respectively). In group A1 there was significant increase in 3rd month postoperative IOP from baseline values (P<0.001). The maximum decrease in IOP was noticed in group B2 with 59.54% decrease. VA improvement in 3rd month postoperative was recorded in all studied groups, maximum VA improvement was observed in group B2 up to 0.2 logMAR. CONCLUSION: Pentacam can be a helpful tool in studying and comparing the effect of the different lines of management of PACG on the anterior chamber measures. Phacotrabeculectomy was proved to be an effective line for managing PACG with resultant significant increase in the anterior chamber parameters, IOP reduction as well as maximum VA improvement. LPI has only temporary effect on IOP with significant changes in ACA and ACD. Phacoemuslification alone can be an option in treating PACG. Trabeculectomy resulted in temporary increase in the anterior chamber parameter which subsequently returned to baseline values.

Elevated VEGF-A & PLGF concentration in aqueous humor of patients with uveal melanoma following Iodine-125 plaque radiotherapy

Meng-Xi Chen, Yue-Ming Liu, Yang Li, Xuan Yang and Wen-Bin Wei — 2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To measure the concentration of vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), and placental growth factor (PLGF) in aqueous humor of uveal melanoma patients before and after Iodine-125 plaque therapy (IPT), determine the postoperative fluctuation and evaluate associated factors in vivo. METHODS: Participants were 18 Chinese patients with uveal melanoma who were elected to IPT. Undiluted aqueous humor samples were collected at Iodine plaque implant and removal time, then stored immediately at -80℃ until assayed. The concentration of VEGF-A, PLGF and other 7 cytokines comprising interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-8, IL-10, interferon (IFN)-γ, programmed death (PD)-1, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in aqueous humor was measured using Raybiotech immunoassay kit, a high throughput strategy. The VEGF-A and PLGF levels were compared across preoperation and postoperation subgroups, as well as those of other 7 interleukins. Correlation and grouped analyses were conducted to determine the independent effects of clinical parameters and other cytokines on VEGF-A and PLGF concentration or fluctuation. This study set a self-control design. RESULTS: VEGF-A (P=0.038) and PLGF (P=0.026) were the only two increased cytokines after IPT. Preoperative and postoperative level of VEGF-A and PLGF (r=0.575, P=0.013; r=0.987, P<0.001) correlated with each other significantly. Level of VEGF-A (r=0.626, P=0.005; r=0.588, P=0.01) and PLGF (r=0.616, P=0.007; r=0.588, P=0.01) had positive correlation with tumor thickness consistently. Elevated VEGF-A or PLGF level were strong predictive factors of each other (P=0.007, OR=60.0). The elevated VEGF-A group showed a higher postoperative level of IFN-γ (P=0.005), IL-2 (P<0.001) and IL-10 (P=0.004) in aqueous humor. When the elevated PLGF group got similar results that a higher postoperative level of IFN-γ (P=0.007), IL-2 (P<0.001) and IL-10 (P=0.013) in aqueous humor. CONCLUSION: This study reveals that VEGF-A and PLGF in aqueous humor significantly increased with tumor thickness and radiation process in uveal melanoma patients. VEGF-A and PLGF may be crucial in uveal melanoma genesis and radiotherapy reactions. Immune mediators comprised IFN-γ, IL-2 and IL-10 could play roles in the link between inflammation and angiogenesis in uveal melanoma when exposed to radiotherapy.

Effects of intravitreal conbercept before panretinal photocoagulation on lipid exudates in diabetic macular documented by optical coherence tomography

Jing-Rong Shi, Quan Zhang, Ting Zhang, Hong Zhuang, Zhong-Cui Sun and Yao-Wu Qin — 2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the effects of intravitreal conbercept (IVC) as adjunctive treatments before panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) to decrease hyperreflective dots (HRDs) in Chinese proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) patients. METHODS: Fifty-nine enrolled patients were categorized into 2 groups: single dose IVC (0.5 mg/0.05 mL) 1wk before PRP (Plus group) or PRP only (PRP group). Six months later, we measured the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), central macula thickness (CMT) by optical coherence tomography and counted the number of HRDs in different retina layers. RESULTS: The average CMT significantly decreased in Plus group but increased in PRP group. The average BCVA in the Plus group was also significantly better than that in the PRP group. Total HRDs decreased in the Plus group but increased in PRP group significantly. IVC pre-treatment has beneficial effects on reducing HRDs forming in the inner retina layer while the PRP alone increased the HRDs in the outer retina layer. CONCLUSION: IVC is a promising adjunctive treatment to PRP in the treatment of PDR. Single dose IVC one week before PRP is suggested to improve retina blood-retina barrier, decrease lipid exudate and inhibit HRDs development in PDR.

Anatomic and functional results of idiopathic macular epiretinal membrane surgery

Mehmet Ozgur Cubuk and Erkan Unsal — 2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the impact of macular surgery on the functional and anatomic outcomes in patients with grade 2 epiretinal membrane (ERM), and the effect of internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling on visual acuity and to analyze the long-term effect of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) on intraocular pressure (IOP). METHODS: Pseudophakic eyes (62 eyes) diagnosed as idiopathic grade 2 ERM with at least 6mo postoperative follow-up were included in this retrospective study. The fellow eye was nonvitrectomized. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1 (29 eyes) treated with ERM and ILM peeling and group 2 (33 eyes) with only ERM peeling. Preoperative and postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), slit-lamp, and a dilated fundus examination was performed. IOP was measured with Goldman applanation tonometer before, day 1 and first week and each visit after surgery. The incidence of significant IOP elevation was compared between vitrectomized eyes and nonvitrectomized fellow eyes. RESULTS: Visual improvement was statistically significant and similar in both groups (P=0.008 in group 1, P=0.002 in group 2, P=0.09 inter-group). The amount of decrease in central macular thickness was statistically significant and similar in both groups (P=0.005 group 1, P=0.008 group 2, P=0.37 intergroup). At the final follow-up (14.1±9.6mo) the incidence of significant IOP elevation was 4% in vitrectomized eyes (three eyes) and 3% (two eyes) in the nonvitrectomized fellow eyes (P=0.12). Four eyes (12.1%) had recurrent ERM after a mean follow-up of 8.6±1.1mo in group 2, there was no recurrence in group 1 (P=0.01). CONCLUSION: Recurrence of ERM may be decreased by ILM peeling during ERM surgery. However, it seems that ILM peeling do not affect the functional outcome and 23-gauge PPV alone do not have a significant effect on IOP.

Retinal vascular diameter changes assessed with a computer-assisted software after strabismus surgery

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To quantitatively investigate the retinal vascular diameter changes, analyzing the early and long-term effects on the retinal circulation, with 6-month follow-up. METHODS: Patients underwent horizontal strabismus surgery were enrolled prospectively. Retinal vessel diameters on color fundus photographs were assessed before and 1, 7d, 6mo after surgery, using a computer-assisted quantitative assessment software. To evaluate the retinal vascular caliber changes, retinal vascular diameters were calculated by means of the Parr–Hubbard formula as the central retinal arteriolar equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal venular equivalent (CRVE). The arteriovenous ratio (AVR) was calculated as CRAE divided by CRVE. RESULTS: A total of 154 eyes of 104 consecutive patients were included. Compared with the data before surgery (121.55±24.67), the mean CRAE (131.18±28.29) significantly increased 1d after surgery (P=0.003), but went back to baseline level at 7d (118.89±30.35, P=0.15), and 6mo (123.22±15.32, P=0.60), so did the AVR (P<0.001, P=0.08, P=0.07). As for the mean CRVE, there was no significant difference between those four time points (172.43±33.25, 175.57±36.98, 174.03±40.18, 174.86±20.46, P=1.00). CONCLUSION: Strabismus surgery on both lateral and media rectus muscles, or single media rectus muscle may increase retinal blood flow during the early postoperative period, but would return to normal later. The number of transected anterior ciliary arteries rather might be the main cause of retinal hemodynamic changes early after strabismus surgery.

Repeatability and agreement of two anterior segment OCT in myopic patients before implantable collamer lenses implantation

Xi-Fang Zhang, Meng Li, Yan Shi, Xiu-Hua Wan and Huai-Zhou Wang — 2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the intra-operator repeatability of time domain and swept-source Fourier domain anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT), namely, Visante AS-OCT and Casia SS-1000 OCT, in measuring the preoperative parameters of implantable collamer lens (ICL) in myopic eyes, as well as the agreement between the two devices. METHODS: A total of 97 eyes from 49 myopes were investigated in this prospective case series study. The anterior chamber depth (ACD), angle-to-angle distance (ATA), pupil diameter (PD) and crystalline lens rise (CLR) in all subjects were measured for three times during one session by the same operator. The repeatability was evaluated using the within-subject standard deviation (Sw), repeatability limits and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). The agreement between the two systems was evaluated using the Bland-Altman plots and 95% limits of agreement (LoA). RESULTS: The repeatability limits of Visante AS-OCT in measuring ACD, ATA, PD and CLR were 0.099, 0.141, 0.304, and 0.079 mm, respectively. The repeatability limits of Casia SS-1000 OCT in measuring ACD, ATA, PD, and CLR were 0.105, 0.127, 0.357, and 0.082 mm, respectively. Excellent repeatability could be attained in both devices, with the ICC>0.8 for all the measured variables. The interdevice agreement was excellent (P>0.05) for ACD and ATA, but poor (P<0.05) for PD and CLR. CONCLUSION: Good repeatability can be attained by time domain and swept-source Fourier-domain OCT for all the measured variables. Moreover, interdevice agreement analysis suggests that interchangeable measurements between two devices can be achieved for ACD and ATA, but not for PD and CLR; but the differences in measurements were not clinically significant.

Three horizontal muscle surgery for large-angle esotropia: success rate and dose-effect ratio

2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the moderate-term success and calculate the mean dose-effect ratio in large-angle esotropic patients who underwent three muscle surgery. METHODS: In a retrospective study, we reviewed the medical records of 37 patients with large-angle esotropia who underwent bilateral medial rectus recession and one lateral rectus resection. Sex, age at surgery time, amount of recessed or resected muscles in millimeter (mm), pre- and postoperative alignment in prism diopter (D), dose/response ratio, and presence of amblyopia and other associated vertical deviations were recorded. RESULTS: The mean age of subjects at surgery was 12.2±12.3y (range: 1-57). The mean preoperative deviation of 70.4±8.1 D (range: 60-85 D) decreased to a mean of 5.4±8.1 D (range: 0-30 D) postoperatively (P<0.005). Successful alignment was achieved in 30 of 37 patients (81%) at a mean follow-up of 15.7±20.1mo (range: 3-90). The mean amount of recession and resection was 17.59±1.29 mm, and a mean dose-response ratio of 3.79±81 (range: 2.83-4.66) was determined. CONCLUSION: Three-muscle surgery for large-angle esotropia results in good moderate-term outcomes without high rates of overcorrection or undercorrection.

The effects of simultaneous operation on dissociated vertical deviation with horizontal and torsional strabismus

Lu-Qin Wan, Xiao-Mei Wan, Hua-Qing Gong and Li-Xin Xie — 2020/3/3 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the therapeutic effects of simultaneous horizontal and vertical operations on dissociated vertical deviation (DVD) associated with other deviations. METHODS: Forty-five cases of DVD with horizontal and torsional strabismus underwent combined operation were collected retrospectively. All clinical records were analyzed. All patients were followed up for 6 to 24mo. Wilcoxon signed-ranks test was performed to evaluate the changes of vertical and horizontal deviation. χ2 test was used to evaluate the changes of binocular visual function. RESULTS: Forty-five cases included 36 patients with intermittent exotropia and binocular inferior oblique overaction (IOOA), 5 patients with concomitant esotropia and binocular IOOA, 4 patients with intermittent exotropia and monocular superior oblique palsy. The superior rectus recession (SRR) combined with horizontal rectus recession and the myectomy of inferior oblique or anterior transposition were operated simultaneously to correct all types of strabismus. There were 43 cases who achieved normal eye position in vertical direction, while 2 cases were with undercorrection of 5Δ to 6Δ. In patients with horizontal strabismus, 2 cases of exotropia were with overcorrection of 6Δ to 8Δ, 1 case of esotropia was with undercorrection of 6Δ, and 1 case of monocular superior oblique palsy with compensatory head posture was not significantly improved. The binocular visual function of most patients recovered after operation. The difference of the binocular visual function and eye position were significant compared with that before operation (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The simultaneous operation on DVD with horizontal and torsional strabismus is successful.

Noninvasive stiffness assessment of the human lens nucleus in patients with anisometropia using an ultrasound elastography system

Hai-Yan Zhou, Hong Yan, Wei-Jia Yan, Xin-Chuan Wang and Qiao-Ying Li — 2020/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the significance of ultrasound elastography for evaluating stiffness of the human lens nucleus in patients with anisometropia. METHODS: A total of 14 patients (28 eyes) with anisometropia were enrolled. The difference in refractive status between two eyes ≥-4.0 diopters (D) and the difference in axial length (AL) of the eyes was ≥3 mm. There were 5 males and 9 females with an average age of 62±3.3y. The test data of the long AL eye of each patient was included in group A (14 eyes), and test data of the eye with relative short AL was included in group B. Lens nuclear stiffness was measured with free-hand qualitative elastography by independent operators. Strain gray scale and color-coded elastography maps were recorded. In each case, three consecutive measurements were performed and strain ratio was used for statistical analysis. Photograph and sectional view of the lens were analyzed and archived by anterior segment image. RESULTS: In the long AL group, the strain rate in the nucleus of the lens was 0.16%±0.08%; in the short AL group, the strain rate in the nucleus of the lens was 0.54%±0.16%. Independent sample t-test analyses showed that the long AL group lens had a significantly smaller nuclear strain rate than the relatively short AL group, P<0.05. CONCLUSION: The relationship between human lens stiffness and different AL is demonstrated by ultrasound elastography. The long AL is associated with lower strain ratio and less resilience of the lens.

Traumatic endophthalmitis and the outcome after vitrectomy in young children

Ya-Li Zhou, Yi-Xiao Wang, Teng-Teng Yao, Yuan Yang and Zhao-Yang Wang — 2020/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To explore the traumatic endophthalmitis in young children and the outcome of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). METHODS: Twenty-two eyes of 22 cases of young children consecutive pediatric traumatic endophthalmitis treated and followed up between September 2014 and May 2018 were included. Aqueous humor or vitreous samples were taken for bacterial culture and sensitivity tests. Intravitreal antibiotics (norvancomycin and ceftazidime) injection, combined with 23-gauge PPV, were administered in 22 eyes. Silicone oil (SO; 5000 centistoke) tamponade or perfluoropropane gas (C3F8) was used in all patients. Main outcome measures were best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and retinal attachment, the ratio of penetrating injury, and the existence of intraocular foreign body. RESULTS: The mean age of patients was 6.9±2.2 (range, 3-10)y. All injured eyes suffered from penetrating ocular injury with retained intraocular foreign body in one eye. Bacterial culture was positive in only 2 eyes. The mean follow-up time was 21.1±4.7 (range, 12-30)mo. In the primary PPV, intravitreal antibiotics was administrated in all eyes, SO in 18 eyes, and C3F8 in 4 eyes. The secondary operation of SO removal and C3F8 endotamponade was performed in 16 eyes and a second SO endotamponade due to emulsification of the oil and retinal detachment (RD) was operated in 7 eyes underwent 3 to 11.5mo after primary PPV. A third operation was done in 7 eyes. The final intraocular pressure (IOP) was 8.9±1.8 (range, 6.9-11.4) mm Hg. The final BCVAs were 20/200 or better in 5, counting fingers in 2, and light perception to hand movement in 8 eyes. Whose (66.7%) had retinal injury exhibited worse BCVA (P=0.019, Fisher’s exact test). Eyes underwent SO tamponade exhibited worse final BCVA than that with C3F8 in the primary PPV (P=0.026, Fisher’s exact test). CONCLUSION: Traumatic endophthalmitis in children is generally more severe and associated with more complicated surgical procedures. Most patients have retinal injury need multiple operations and the final BCVA is poor. Prevention of ocular trauma, especially in children, is still critical.

Pars plana vitrectomy relieves the depression in patients with symptomatic vitreous floaters

Rong-Han Wu, Jun-Hong Jiang, Yi-Fan Gu, Nived Moonasar and Zhong Lin — 2020/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the depressive state among the patients with symptomatic vitreous floaters (SVF), as well as its change after SVF removal via vitrectomy surgery. METHODS: Twenty-eight eyes of 28 patients who underwent 27-gauge pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for SVF were included. Thirty-nine eyes of 39 age- and gender- matched healthy volunteers without SVF were also recruited as a healthy control. Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) was used to assess volunteers and patients’ depression (before and 1wk after PPV). RESULTS: The CES-D score was 18.3±8.6 for patients, and was 12.4±6.0 for healthy control (P=0.003). Patients were significantly more likely to be in a depressive state (53.6%, defined as CES-D score ≥16) than the healthy control (20.5%, P=0.005). For patients with SVF, the CES-D score was negatively correlated with their age (rs=-0.42, P=0.025). After PPV, both the CES-D score (11.9±5.4 vs 18.3±8.6, P<0.001) and proportion of depressive state (18.5% vs 53.6%, P=0.005) were significantly decreased. CONCLUSION: This study suggests that symptoms of vitreous floaters have an apparently negative impact on patients’ psychological state. The PPV can effectively relieve the depressive state for patients with SVF.

Flicker defined form and RareBit measurements lack in specificity of visual pathways

2021/8/31 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the different visual pathways represented by the Heidelberg Engineering Perimeter flicker defined form and RareBit (magnocellular and parvocellular respectively) in different age-groups and according to the fatigue. METHODS: Totally 64 eyes of 32 healthy subjects were included in the prospective study. Each participant underwent screening—ophthalmic examination including best-corrected visual acuity, anterior and posterior segment assessment, and visual field examination with Heidelberg Edge Perimetry (HEP)-standard automated perimeter (SAP) 24-2. They were observed for 2y previously to the enrollment. This helped to define that the enrolled patients did not bear the glaucoma-developing potential. During the screening and after two years the HEP had been conducted in the standard protocol 24-2 and RareBit perimetry (RBP) in accordance with the manufacturer’s description. Participants were randomly assigned to the groups: flicker defined form (FDF)-first or RBP-first. This defined from which additional visual field test the participant started. Participants were additionally subdivided to younger and older study groups. The effect of subject variables was explored with Mann-Whitney U-test. Testing for the presence of correlations between parameters was performed using the Spearman Rank Order Correlations and confirmed by the parametric tests. For the influence of additional factors, the Kruskal-Wallis test was performed. RESULTS: The positive correlation between mean deviation (MD) and mean hit rate (MHR) and pattern standard deviation (PSD) and standard deviation of MHR (±MHR) were found in younger study group (P=0.005, r=0.481 and P=0.0074, r=0.465), whereas in the older subgroup no correlation was observed. Additionally, the randomization protocol helped in defining the role of fatigue on the HEP-FDF results. Participant for whom the HEP-FDF was performed after RareBit had significantly worse results than those for whom the HEP-FDF was first. In the younger group, the MHR and ±MHR depend from age in that group (P<0.05, r=0.43 and r=-0.57 respectively) while no age-dependent differences were found in HEP-related parameters. On the contrary in the older group the MD and PSD varies with age (P<0.05, r=0.47 and r= -0.44 respectively) while the RBP parameters remained unchanged. The questionnaire showed that participants preferred RareBit over HEP-FDF in terms of a duration time, comfort, understanding of the test procedures, and ocular pain (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The influence of patient’s fatigue should be considered during HEP-FDF examination. An overlap hypothesis should be reevaluated after determining of other factors that affect HEP-FDF and RareBit results.

High-dose ruthenium-106 plaque therapy for circumscribed choroidal hemangioma: a retrospective study of 25 Chinese patients

Jing Li, En-Zhong Jin and Jian-Hong Liang — 2020/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ruthenium-106 (106Ru) plaque radiotherapy at a dose (>50 Gy) higher than recommended (29-50 Gy) for treatment of circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) in Chinese patients. METHODS: This retrospective study included 25 symptomatic CCH patients undergoing 106Ru plaque brachytherapy involving 25 eyes between January 2005 and August 2016. Ophthalmic examination was performed at the baseline and at each post-treatment follow-up visit, using best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), dilated fundus examination, and B-scan ultrasonography. The primary efficacy outcome measures included the changes in BCVA and hemangioma dimensions at the last followup visit from the baseline. RESULTS: The mean follow-up duration was 28.0±26.6 (range, 12-110)mo. All the hemangiomas were located in the posterior pole except for two involving the fovea. The mean apex dose of 106Ru plaque radiotherapy was 84.4±19.7 Gy. The mean BCVA improved from 41.4±29.3 (0-97) at the baseline to 53.0±33.8 (0-97) ETDRS letters at the last visit (P=0.01). The mean hemangioma height declined from 3.98±0.88 (2.40-5.50) mm to 0.84±1.63 (0-6.47) mm (P≤0.001), and the greatest linear diameter (GLD) reduced from 9.36±2.23 (6.80-15.00) to 7.40±2.45 (0-13.00) mm (P≤0.001). Hemangioma size increased in one (4%) eye with a worsened vision, and subretinal fluid completely resolved in all but one patient (4%). Radiation-related retinopathy was observed in two patients at post-treatment 9 and 11mo, respectively. CONCLUSION: 106Ru plaque brachytherapy at a dose (>50 Gy) higher than recommended (29-50 Gy) is an effective treatment regimen for symptomatic CCH associated with significantly improved visual acuity and a favorable safety profile in Chinese patients.

Correlation of the history of stroke and the retinal artery occlusion: a nested case-control study

2020/2/4 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze the systemic factors including stroke history related to the retinal artery occlusion (RAO). METHODS: Patients with an exact diagnosis of RAO in the medical database of the Kailuan Corporation were identified as the case group. Five patients without RAO were added for each case from the Kailuan Study and matched for sex and age (age±2) as the control group. The Kailuan Study is a general population-based cohort study in northern China, in which a total of 101 510 individuals (81 110 men) aged 18-98y were recruited to participate in the study. And the participants were bi-annually re-examined. The database of both groups was from Kailuan study of 2010 cohort. All the information, including the demographic characteristics, lifestyle behaviors, medical comorbidities, medical history, family medical history, drug usage, anthropometric measurements, blood pressure measurement, blood sample laboratory assessment, urine tests, and other physical examinations were all collected. A retrospective nested case-control method was used for this study. Conditional multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors with SPSS 13.0 software and SAS 9.3 software. RESULTS: A total of 45 patients were included as the case group, and the control group included 225 patients. In the case group, 28 patients (62.2%) had a central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), and 17 patients (37.8%) had a branch retinal artery occlusion (BRAO). A total of 18 patients (40.0%) had a stroke before the RAO (mean 4.04±3.88y before the RAO), and 31 patients (81.6%) had infarctions or malacia identified by the cranial computed tomography (CT) scans. The basal ganglia and centrum semiovale were the most frequently involved regions. Plaques in the common carotid artery were present in 32 patients (88.9%). Conditional multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the RAO was found to be associated with the history of stroke (P=0.0023, OR=28.794; 95%CI: 3.322-249.586). CONCLUSION: A history of stroke can significantly increase the incidence of RAO. Exists of plaque in the carotid artery is mean more than its severe stenosis for RAO.

Long-term effects of pattern scan laser pan-retinal photocoagulation on diabetic retinopathy in Chinese patients: a retrospective study

2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the long-term effects of pattern scan laser (PASCAL) pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP) on diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Chinese patients. METHODS: In this retrospective study, we evaluated clinical data of 29 patients (53 eyes) with severe non-proliferative DR (SNPDR) or proliferative DR (PDR) who received PRP and follow-up at our hospital from 2008 to 2013. Sixteen patients (29 eyes) received PASCAL PRP and 13 patients (24 eyes) received 100-ms conventional laser PRP. RESULTS: After long-term follow-up (mean, min-max days: 719.8, 290-1666 for PASCAL PRP vs 743.5, 240-1348 for conventional PRP, P=0.569), patients receiving PASCAL PRP required fewer photocoagulation sessions than the conventional PRP group (2.6±1.0 vs 3.9±0.9, P<0.01). Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was reduced slightly in PASCAL PRP group while reduced significantly in conventional PRP group. At last visit, 24 eyes in the PASCAL group (88.9%) and 21 eyes in the conventional group (91.7%) were improved or stable. Two eyes in PASCAL PRP group (7.4%) and 3 eyes in the conventional PRP group (12.5%) developed vitreous hemorrhage or vitreous fibrovascular proliferation. CONCLUSION: PASCAL PRP is as effective and may be more conducive to maintaining visual acuity with less treatment sessions for DR treatment compared to conventional laser PRP.

Outcomes of 1.8-3.0 mm incision phacoemulsification combined with trabeculectomy for primary angle-closure glaucoma with cataract

Qing Wang, Zheng-Xuan Jiang and Rong-Feng Liao — 2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To compare efficacy of coaxial microincisions (1.8 mm, 2.2 mm) and small incisions (3.0 mm) on phacoemulsification combined with trabeculectomy for primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) with cataract. METHODS: Ninety-six patients (96 eyes) with PACG and cataract were recruited and randomly divided into three groups between January 2015 and June 2017. Group A (3.0 mm incision), B (2.2 mm incision), and C (1.8 mm incision) comprised 30, 34 and 32 eyes respectively. All cases were treated with clear corneal incision phacoemulsification combined with trabeculectomy. Data including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), corneal astigmatism, corneal endothelial cell counts (CECC), intraocular pressure (IOP), and complications were collected before the operation, and at postoperative 1d, 1 and 3mo. RESULTS: All the patients were successfully treated with surgery. The BCVA of groups B and C were significantly improved as compared to group A at postoperative 1d, 1 and 3mo (all P<0.05), but there was no difference between groups B and C at each time interval (all P>0.05). The corneal astigmatism of group A was statistically higher than that of group B (P=0.026); corneal astigmatism of group B was statistically higher than that of group C at postoperative 1d (P=0.006). The corneal astigmatism of group A at postoperative 3mo was significantly higher than that before operation (P=0.003). At postoperative 1 and 3mo, corneal astigmatism of groups B and C were significantly lower than that of group A (all P<0.05). The CECC in group B was significantly higher than that of group A (P=0.020), and CECC in group C was significantly higher than that of group B (P=0.034) at postoperative 1d. At postoperative 1 and 3mo, CECC of groups B and C were significantly higher than that of group A (all P<0.05). In each group, postoperative mean IOP at each time interval was significantly lower than preoperative IOP (all P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Coaxial microincision phacoemulsification combined with trabeculectomy for PACG with cataract has better curative efficacy in reducing postoperative corneal astigmatism and corneal endothelial cell injury than traditional small incision combined surgery, and the 1.8 mm microincision has better curative efficacy than 2.2 mm microincision in the early postoperative period.

Impact of switching from ranibizumab to aflibercept on the number of intravitreous injection and follow up visit in wet AMD: results of real life ELU study

2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To study if one of the two molecules could lead to a lower number of follow up visits and intra-vitreous injection (IVI) with the same efficacy. METHODS: ELU (or “elected” in French) study is a retrospective study conducted in real life in patients presenting suboptimal response after ranibizumab IVI (phase 1) and secondary switched to aflibercept (phase 2). The number of follow up visits and IVI were compared in both phases. Visual acuity (VA) evolution and “switching” reasons were secondary analyzed. RESULTS: We retrospectively included data of 33 patients (38 eyes) with age-related macular degeneration (AMD; mean age: 77±7.7y). The number of monthly follow up visits [median (Q1; Q3)]: was significantly lower with aflibercept (phase 2), respectively 1.0 (0.81; 1.49) visits in phase 1, versus 0.79 (0.67; 0.86) visits in phase 2. The median number of monthly IVI also significantly decreased in phase 2, respectively 0.67 (0.55; 0.90) IVI in phase 1, versus 0.55 (0.45; 0.67) IVI in phase 2. The mean VA evolution (VA final-VA initial) was similar in both phases, (P>0.05). Whatever the reason for “switching” (loss of efficacy, tachyphylaxis, tolerance problems), there was no incidence on VA evolution over the time. CONCLUSION: Our results show that switching from ranibizumab to aflibercept in “suboptimal” patients significantly reduce the number of follow up visits and IVI, with a comparable efficacy. This decrease in visit number could improve patients’ quality of life and reduce surgical risk by reducing the number of injections.

Combined intra-arterial chemotherapy and intravitreal melphalan for the treatment of advanced unilateral retinoblastoma

Ting-Yi Liang, Xiu-Yu Zhu, Xu-Ming Hua, Xun-Da Ji and Pei-Quan Zhao — 2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) and intravitreal melphalan (IVM) for the treatment of advanced unilateral retinoblastoma. METHODS: This retrospective study involved 30 consecutive eyes from 30 Chinese patients with advanced unilateral retinoblastoma. All patients were initially treated with IAC combined with IVM. The clinical status and complications were recorded at each visit. RESULTS: The International Intraocular Retinoblastoma Classification groups were D in 23 eyes and E in 7 eyes. All eyes showed severe cloud vitreous seeds at the first visit. The mean number of IAC cycles and intravitreal injections was 3.2 (range, 3-4) and 6 (range, 1-14), respectively. The median follow-up time was 29mo (range, 7-36mo). Treatment success with regression of the retinal tumor and vitreous seeds was achieved in 29 of 30 eyes (96.7%). Globe salvage was attained in 93.3% (28/30) eyes, and enucleation (n=2) was performed due to neovascular glaucoma and persistent vitreous hemorrhage. Complications included retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy (n=13; 43%), mild lens opacity (n=7; 23%), vitreous hemorrhage (n=5; 17%) and rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (n=1; 3%). No extraocular tumor extension or metastasis occurred. CONCLUSION: Combined IAC and IVM is effective and safe for the treatment of advanced unilateral retinoblastoma.

Altered spontaneous brain activity pattern in patients with ophthalmectomy: an resting-state fMRI study

2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To use the voxel-wise degree centrality (DC) method to explore the underlying functional network brain-activity in patients with ophthalmectomy. METHODS: A total of 32 ophthalmic surgery patients (10 women and 22 men), and 32 healthy subjects (10 women and 22 men) highly matched in gender, age, and the same operation method. Everyone experienced a resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan. The spontaneous brain activity could be assessed by DC. Correlation analysis was used to explore the relationships between the average DC signal values and behavior performance in different regions. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was utilized to differentiate between ophthalmectomy patients and healthy controls (HCs). RESULTS: Compared with HCs, ophthalmectomy patients had greatly reduced DC values in left lingual gyrus, bilateral lingual lobe, left cingulate gyrus, and increased DC values of left cerebellum posterior lobe, left middle frontal gyrus1, right supramarginal gyrus, left middle frontal gyrus2, right middle frontal gyrus. However, we did not find that there was a correlation between the average DC values from various brain regions and clinical manifestations. CONCLUSION: Dysfunction may be caused by ophthalmectomy in lots of cerebral areas, which may show the potential pathological mechanism of ophthalmectomy and it is beneficial to clinical diagnosis.

One year results of presbyLASIK using hybrid bi-aspheric micro-monovision ablation profile in correction of presbyopia and myopic astigmatism

Fang Liu, Ting Zhang and Quan Liu — 2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To analyze one year clinical outcomes and subjective rating of hybrid bi-aspheric multifocal central presbyLASIK with micro-monovision for correction of presbyopia and myopic astigmatism. METHODS: Seventy-four eyes of 37 patients consecutively treated with presbyLASIK were assessed. The mean age of the patients was 43.8±3.0y with a mean spherical equivalent refraction of -5.21±1.87 diopters (D) and mean astigmatism of -0.82±0.64 D. Visual acuity, manifest refraction, contrast sensitivity, aberrometry and patients’ subjective rating were evaluated pre- and postoperatively. RESULTS: At 1y postoperatively (68 eyes of 34 patients), the mean spherical equivalent (SE) refraction in distance eyes was 0.06±0.05 D, whereas the achieved SE in near eyes was -0.83±0.05 D. Ninety-nine percent of eyes were within ±0.50 D of target correction of SE. The binocular mean uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) was 0.00±0.18 logMAR (20/20). Sixty-four percent of patients achieved 0.0 logMAR (20/20) or better of UDVA and 0.1 logRAD or better of UNVA as well. There was a binocularly loss of one line CDVA after surgery for only one patient (3%, 1/34) and no patient lost 2 lines. The changes in binocular contrast sensitivity (CS) in all test conditions were not significant at any frequency after surgery. The changes of entire eye total higher order aberrations (tHOA) and spherical aberrations (SA) significantly higher in near eyes than in distance eyes. The overall satisfaction score for surgery was 93±8. CONCLUSION: The hybrid bi-aspheric multifocal central presbyLASIK with micro-monovision appears to be an efficacious option for myopic presbyopes. One year postoperative outcomes in a relatively young presbyopia population indicate improvements in both far and near vision with high satisfaction.

Treatment modalities in Duane’s Retraction Syndrome

Karim A Gaballah and Dalal Shawky — 2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To study the different treatment modalities needed in cases of Duane’s Retraction Syndrome (DRS). METHODS: This prospective study undergone in more than four years, in Alexandria, included 238 patients of DRS, including type I, 162 patients (68%), type II 12 patients (5%) and type III 64 patients (27%). Surgery was indicated in 98 (41%) of them, to eliminate abnormal head posture, deviation of the eye in primary position, severe retraction of the globe or cosmetically unacceptable upshoot with attempted adduction. RESULTS: Type I was the most common and type II was the least. Females were predominant in this study, constituting 125 patients (52.5%), and males 113 patients (47.5%). Left eye was more affected, in 110 patients (46.2%), right eye in 91 patients (38.2%) and bilateral in 37 patients (15.6%). Amblyopia was found in 27 patients (11.3%) and treated in 13 patients under 10 years of age, by patching the normal eye. Ninety-eight patients (41%) were operated, the results were most satisfactory and a nomogram is followed in the surgical plan. CONCLUSION: The surgical management is needed in less than half of the cases and should be planned for every case individually according to the clinical findings, planned nomogram and modified intraoperatively according to the anatomical findings during surgery.

A computerized resolution visual acuity test in preschool and school age children

2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To develop a novel approach called the Autoacuity Tester, and to evaluate its validity, especially the sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia. METHODS: Children aged from 3 to 12y (n=552) were enrolled in the study. The validity of the Autoacuity Tester was evaluated by comparing it to the Tumbling E Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) acuity chart for school age children, and Lea Symbols and Teller acuity card (TAC) for preschool children. The repeatability was assessed by coefficient of repeatability (COR). The sensitivity and specificity for detecting amblyopia were calculated. RESULTS: The mean difference (95% limits of agreement) between the Autoacuity Tester and the ETDRS tests were -0.03 (-0.24, 0.19) logMAR for the school age group. In preschool children, the mean difference was 0.04 (-0.14, 0.21) logMAR between the Autoacuity Tester and the TAC and 0.00 (-0.17, 0.18) logMAR between the Autoacuity Tester and the Lea Symbols. For the school age group, the COR was 0.20 logMAR for the Autoacuity Tester and 0.18 logMAR for the ETDRS. For the preschool group, the COR was 0.13 logMAR for the Autoacuity Tester and 0.21 logMAR for TAC. The Autoacuity Tester (88%) is more sensitive than TAC (72%) in detecting amblyopia (P=0.04), while had similar specificity (92% vs 90%, P=0.20). CONCLUSION: The Autoacuity Tester provides a reliable alternative for assessing visual acuity, and offers advantage of higher testability and repeatability for preschool children.

Clinical characteristics of asymptomatic Terson syndrome in the patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage

Hae Min Kang, Jin Mo Cho, So Yeon Kim and Jeong Hoon Choi — 2020/2/3 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate clinical characteristics of asymptomatic Terson syndrome and its clinical impact in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). METHODS: This retrospective, interventional study included 31 patients with aneurysmal SAH, and the medical records were reviewed. In addition to baseline characteristics of the study population such as age, sex, and underlying medical history, multi-modal imaging analysis, including fluorescein angiography (FA), spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), were also reviewed. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Hunt-Hess (HH) grade, and Fisher scale at the time of admission, and functional outcome by using modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at 6mo were compared. RESULTS: Of the 31 patients, 10 patients (32.3%) were diagnosed with Terson syndrome. All the patients with Terson syndrome did not report visual symptoms at the time of ophthalmologic screening. FA showed microvascular changes of retinal capillaries and varying degrees of disc leakage. SD-OCT allowed intuitive anatomical localization of multi-layered retinal hemorrhages and assessment of ellipsoid zone integrity. The patients with Terson syndrome showed significantly worse GCS (P=0.047) and HH grade (P=0.025) than those without, except Ficher scale (P=0.385). There was no significant difference in the mRS (P=0.250) at 6mo. Among baseline factors, the HH grade was the only significant factor associated with Terson syndrome (B=1.079, P=0.016). CONCLUSION: In our study, 32.3% of the patients have Terson syndrome without visual symptoms. The baseline HH grade is significantly correlated with Terson syndrome, and there is no significant difference in the functional outcome between the patients with and without Terson syndrome. Terson syndrome may develop without any visual symptoms as shown in our study, and ophthalmologic screening may be recommended to prevent further visual deterioration especially in the patients with poor HH grade at the time of aneurysmal SAH.

Different modes of foveal regeneration after closure of full-thickness macular holes by (re)vitrectomy and autologous platelet concentrate

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To describe using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography the regeneration of the foveal morphology after pars plana (re)vitrectomy surgery and gas tamponade combined with injection of autologous platelet concentrate to treat full-thickness macular holes, and to describe different anatomical outcome. METHODS: A retrospective case series of 8 eyes of 8 patients was described. RESULTS: In all cases investigated, the platelet-assisted closure of macular holes was associated with a rapid resolution of cystic cavities in the foveal walls. In two patients, there was a regular regeneration of the foveal morphology after hole closure; the regenerated central fovea had a regular structure with a foveola and photoreceptors. In three other patients, there was an irregular regeneration of the fovea; a foveola was not formed, photoreceptor cells were absent from the foveal center, and the center was composed of Müller and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. The foveal regeneration after hole closure may proceed with or without a temporary detachment of the foveal center from the RPE, and with or without a direct contact between the central outer nuclear layer (ONL) and the RPE. Contacts between the ONL and RPE were observed only in patients with an irregular foveal regeneration after hole closure. CONCLUSION: The data show that there are different modes of foveal regeneration after closure of macular holes with (re)vitrectomy and platelet concentrate. It is suggested that the regular regeneration of the foveal morphology proceeds by Müller cell-mediated tissue movements without cell proliferation, whereas the irregular foveal regeneration proceeds in part by proliferation of Müller and RPE cells.

Comparative clinical outcomes of Tecnis toric IOL implantation in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and conventional phacoemulsification surgery

Kai-Ran Lai, Xiao-Bo Zhang, Yin-Hui Yu and Ke Yao — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the short-term visual outcomes, residual refractive cylinder, and rotation stability after Tecnis toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation during femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (Femto phaco) and conventional phacoemulsification surgery (Conventional phaco). METHODS: In a prospective cohort study, Conventional phaco and Femto phaco (anterior capsulotomy and lens fragmentation by a femtosecond laser) with Tecnis toric IOL implantation were performed in 40 eyes from 36 patients and 37 eyes from 33 patients, respectively. The uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and manifest refraction were assessed during 1d, 1wk, and 1mo follow-ups. The orientation of the Tecnis Toric IOL was evaluated during 1wk and 1mo follow-ups. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in UDCA or CDVA between two groups at 1mo postoperatively, though relatively more subjects had UDVA values of 20/25 or better in Femto phaco group than in the Conventional group (P>0.05). A lower but not significantly lower rate of having more than 5° of IOL rotation was observed in Femto phaco group at the 1-month follow-up, while a significant lower rate of residual astigmatism of ≤1 D was observed in Femto phaco group. CONCLUSION: The Femto phaco group has significantly more subjects with the residual astigmatism of ≤1 D, but there are no significant differences in rotation stability and visual outcomes as compared with the Conventional phaco group after the application of the Tecnis toric IOL in this cohort.

Ocular bacterial infections at a tertiary eye center in China: a 5-year review of pathogen distribution and antibiotic sensitivity

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To provide statistical evidence for the use of antibiotics in ophthalmology by assessing the distribution and antibiotic sensitivity of bacterial isolates from ocular specimens with suspected microbial infections. METHODS: This study applied a retrospective analysis of 3690 bacterial isolates from ocular specimens, which were obtained from the conjunctiva, cornea, aqueous humor, vitreous body, and other ocular sites of the patients at Shandong Eye Institute in northern China from January 2013 to December 2017. The parameters assessed mainly included the distribution of isolated bacteria and the results of susceptibility tests for antibiotics. In the analysis of antibiotic sensitivities, the bacteria were divided into four groups according to gram staining, and statistical methods were used to compare their antibiotic sensitivities. RESULTS: Among the 3690 isolated bacterial strains, Staphylococcus epidermidis (2007, 54.39%) accounted for the highest proportion. As for the total isolates, their sensitivity rate to gatifloxacin was up to 90.01%, with four types of gram-stained bacteria being all highly sensitive to it, but their sensitivity rate to levofloxacin was only 51.91%. The sensitivity rate of gram-negative bacilli (G-B) to levofloxacin was 83.66%, significantly higher than the other three types of gram-stained bacteria (P<0.05). Gram-positive cocci (G+C, 97.95%) and gram-positive bacilli (G+B, 97.54%) were more sensitive to vancomycin than gram-negative cocci (G-C, 70.59%) and G-B (68.57%; P<0.05). For fusidic acid, the sensitivity rates of G+C (89.83%) and G+B (73.37%) were significantly higher than that of G-B (29.83%; P<0.05). The gram-negative bacteria’s sensitivity rate to cefuroxime was as low as 59.25%, but only G-B was less sensitive to cefuroxime (57.28%), while G-C was still highly sensitive (89.29%). The sensitivity rate of gram-positive bacteria to moxifloxacin was as high as 80.28%, but only G+C was highly sensitive to moxifloxacin (81.21%), while G+B was still less sensitive (32.00%). CONCLUSION: Staphylococcus epidermidis is the predominant isolate in all ocular specimens with bacteria. Gatifloxacin is more suitable for topical prophylactic use than levofloxacin in ophthalmology when necessary. Vancomycin and fusidic acid both have better effects on gram-positive bacteria than gram-negative bacteria. More accurate antibiotic sensitivity analysis results can be obtained when a more detailed bacterial classification and more appropriate statistical methods are performed.

Accuracy of biometric formulae for intraocular lens power calculation in a teaching hospital

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the accuracy of three commonly used biometric formulae across different axial lengths (ALs) at one United States Veterans Affairs teaching hospital. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted from November 2013 to May 2018. One eye of each patient who underwent cataract surgery with a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) was included. The range of postoperative follow-up period was from 3wk to 4mo. The Holladay 2, Barrett Universal II, and Hill-Radial Basis Function (Hill-RBF) formulae were used to predict the postoperative refraction for all cataract surgeries. For each formula, we calculated the prediction errors [including mean absolute prediction error (MAE)] and the percentage of eyes within ±0.25 diopter (D) and ±0.5 D of predicted refraction. We performed subgroup analyses for short (AL<22.0 mm), medium (AL 22.0-25.0 mm), and long eyes (AL>25.0 mm). RESULTS: A total of 1131 patients were screened, and 909 met the inclusion criteria. Resident ophthalmologists were the primary surgeons in 710 (78.1%) cases. We found no statistically significant difference in predictive accuracy among the three formulae over the entire AL range or in the short, medium, and long eye subgroups. Across the entire AL range, the Hill-RBF formula resulted in the lowest MAE (0.384 D) and the highest percentage of eyes with postoperative refraction within ±0.25 D (42.7%) and ±0.5 D (75.5%) of predicted. All three formulae had the highest MAEs (>0.5 D) and lowest percentage within ±0.5 D of predicted refraction (<55%) in short eyes. CONCLUSION: In cataract surgery patients at our teaching hospital, three commonly used biometric formulae demonstrate similar refractive accuracy across all ALs. Short eyes pose the greatest challenge to predicting postoperative refractive error.

Evaluation of functional outcome and stability of sutureless scleral tunnel fixated IOLs in children with ectopia lentis

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate functional outcome of sutureless scleral tunnel intraocular lens (SSTIOL) in children with crystalline lens subluxation of more than 7 clock hours. METHODS: A prospective interventional study was conducted consisting of 45 eyes of 44 children in age group 6-18y having >7 clock hours of lens subluxation who underwent lensectomy-vitrectomy followed by SSTIOL implantation. Primary outcome was improvement in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and secondary outcomes were assessment of intraocular lens (IOL) tilt using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM), mean change in astigmatism at last follow-up of 1y and associated complications. RESULTS: The mean preoperative and postoperative BCVA was 1.05±0.28 and 0.64±0.45 (logMAR) respectively (P=0.001) at last follow-up. The mean astigmatism preoperatively and postoperatively was -4.17±2.69 D and -1.86±1.25 D respectively (P=0.011). Significant IOL tilt (>5 degrees) was present in 5 cases. The mean percentage endothelial loss was 3.65%±1.92%. The most serious complication encountered was retinal detachment seen in 2 cases. CONCLUSION: SSTIOL implantation provides efficient visual rehabilitation in children provided there is stringent case selection. We recommend caution in children having white-to-white distance >12 mm and presence of peripheral retinal degenerations.

Comparisons of ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer loss patterns and its diagnostic performance between normal tension glaucoma and primary open angle glaucoma: a detailed, severity-based study

Xiao-Yu Xu, Kun-Bei Lai, Hui Xiao, Yi-Quan Lin, Xin-Xing Guo and Xing Liu — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the patterns of macular ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) loss in normal tension glaucoma (NTG) and primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) in a detailed, disease severity-matched way; and to assess the diagnostic capabilities of GCIPL thickness parameters in discriminating NTG or POAG from normal subjects. METHODS: A total of 157 eyes of 157 subjects, including 57 normal eyes, 51 eyes with POAG and 49 eyes with NTG were enrolled and strictly matched in age, refraction, and disease severity between POAG and NTG groups. The average, minimum, superotemporal, superior, superonasal, inferonasal, inferior, and inferotemporal GCIPL thickness, and the average, superior, temporal, inferior, and nasal retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness were obtained by Cirrus optical coherence tomography (OCT). The diagnostic capabilities of OCT parameters were assessed by area under receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curves. RESULTS: Among all the OCT thickness parameters, no statistical significant difference between NTG group and POAG group was found (all P>0.05). In discriminating NTG or POAG from normal subjects, the average and inferior RNFL thickness, and the minimum GCIPL thickness had better diagnostic capabilities. There was no significant difference in AUROC curve between the best GCIPL thickness parameter (minimum GCIPL) and the best RNFL thickness parameter in discriminating NTG (inferior RNFL; P=0.076) and indiscriminating POAG (average RNFL; P=0.913) from normal eyes. CONCLUSION: Localized GCIPL loss, especially in the inferior and inferotemporal sectors, is more common in NTG than in POAG. Among all the GCIPL thickness parameters, the minimum GCIPL thickness has the best diagnostic performance in differentiating NTG or POAG from normal subjects, which is comparable to that of the average and inferior RNFL thickness.

Effect of different lens status on intraocular pressure elevation in patients treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor injections

Amir Sternfeld, Rita Ehrlich, Dov Weinberger and Assaf Dotan — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To assess the effect of lens status on sustained intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation in patients treated intravitreally with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents. METHODS: Data were retrospectively collected for all patients treated with intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF medication at a tertiary medical center in July 2015. Findings were analyzed by lens status during 6 months’ follow-up. The main outcome measure was a sustained increase in IOP (≥21 mm Hg or change of ≥6 mm Hg from baseline on ≥2 consecutive visits, or addition of a new IOP-lowering medication during follow-up). RESULTS: A total of 119 eyes of 100 patients met the study criteria: 40 phakic, 40 pseudophakic, and 39 pseudophakic after Nd:YAG capsulotomy. The rate of sustained IOP elevation was significantly higher in the post-capsulotomy group (23.1%) than in the phakic/pseudophakic groups (8.1%; P=0.032), with no statistically significant differences among the 3 groups in mean number of injections, either total (P=0.82) or by type of anti-VEGF mediation (bevacizumab: P=0.19; ranibizumab: P=0.13), or mean follow-up time (P=0.70). CONCLUSION: Nd:YAG capsulotomy appears to be a risk factor for sustained IOP elevation in patients receiving intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. This finding has important implications given the growing use of anti-VEGF treatment and the irreversible effects of elevated IOP.

Ocular flora in patients undergoing intravitreal injections: antibiotic resistance patterns and susceptibility to antiseptic picloxydine

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To study antibiotic resistance patterns and susceptibility to eye antiseptic picloxydine of conjunctival flora in patients undergoing intravitreal injections (IVIs). METHODS: Conjunctival swabs were taken in 4 groups of patients, 20 patients in each group (n=80): without IVIs and ophthalmic operations in history (group N1; control group); with the first IVI and antibiotic eye drops Tobrex applied 3d before IVI and 5d after it (group N2); with 20 or more IVIs and repeated courses of antibiotic eye drops (group N3); with the first IVI and antiseptic eye drops Vitabact (picloxydine) applied 3d before IVI and 5d after it (group N4). In groups N2 and N4 swabs were taken at baseline and after the treatment. Efficacy of picloxydine in inhibition of growth of conjunctival isolates susceptible and resistant to antibiotic was studied in vitro. Minimal inhibition concentrations (MIC) were determined with microdilution test. RESULTS: Two of the three patients who had to undergo the IVI procedure showed conjunctiva bacterial contamination. Along with few Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative isolates susceptible to most antibiotics, the majority (71%-77%) of causative agents were coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CoNS), 40%-50% of which were multidrug resistant (MDR). Eye disinfection in the operating room and peri-injection courses of Tobrex or Vitabact resulted in total elimination of isolates found at baseline. However, in 10% and 20% of patients, respectively, recolonization of the conjunctiva with differing strains occurred. In patients with repeated IVI and Tobrex/Maxitrol treatment, the conjunctival flora showed high resistance rates: 90% of CoNS were MDR. In the in vitro study, picloxydine showed bactericidal effect against Staphylococci isolates both antibiotic resistant and susceptible with MIC≥13.56 μg/mL. Incubation of bacteria for 15min in Vitabact eye drops, commercially available form of picloxydine, 434 μg/mL, showed total loss of colony forming units of all tested isolates including Pseudomonas aeruginosa. CONCLUSION: The confirmed efficacy of eye antiseptic picloxydine against conjunctival bacterial isolates and the presence of its commercial form, 0.05% eye drops, convenient for use by patients before and after injection, make this eye antiseptic promising for prophylaxis of IVI-associated infectious complications.

Comparison of OCT and OCTA manifestations among untreated PCV, neovascular AMD, and CSC in Chinese population

Ming-Zhen Yuan, Lu-Lu Chen, Jing-Yuan Yang, Ming-Yue Luo and You-Xin Chen — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To compare the qualitative and quantitative features among untreated polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nv-AMD) and central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA). METHODS: This retrospective study included 16 eyes with thin-choroid PCV, 18 eyes with thick-choroid PCV, 16 eyes with nv-AMD and 17 eyes with CSC, respectively. The indicators were obtained by OCT and OCTA. RESULTS: Sub-foveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) in CSC was thicker compared to other groups (all P<0.05). SFCT in nv-AMD was thicker compared to thin-choroid PCV, but thinner compared with thick-choroid PCV (both P<0.05). As the ratio of thickness of Haller’s layer to thickness of SFCT, which of thin-choroid PCV was significantly higher than CSC (P<0.001). Likewise, thick-choroid PCV had significantly higher ratio than nv-AMD (P=0.016) or CSC (P<0.001). There were differences among them in pigment epithelium detachment (PED). The whole-superficial retinal vessel density (RVD), deep RVD and choroidal capillary vessel density (CCVD) in CSC were significantly higher compared to other three groups, respectively (all P<0.05). The whole CCVD in nv-AMD was higher compared to thick-choroid PCV (P=0.032). Cross-sectional local angiographic form was 87.50%, 83.33%, 0 and 35.29% in thin-choroid PCV, thick-choroid PCV, nv-AMD and CSC, respectively. Cross-sectional diffuse angiographic form was 12.50%, 16.67%, 100% and 5.88% in thin-choroid PCV, thick-choroid PCV, nv-AMD and CSC, respectively. CONCLUSION: Combination of OCT and OCTA can effectively observe the significant alterations existed in PCV, CSC and nv-AMD, and there are distinctive differences among them. The pathogenesis is not exactly the same between PCV and nv-AMD, or PCV and CSC.

Comparison of two different treatment regimens’ efficacy in neovascular age-related macular degeneration in Turkish population—based on real life data-Bosphorus RWE Study Group

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To compare two different anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatment regimens’-a priori pro re nata (PRN) and PRN regimen following the loading phase-anatomical and functional results in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) patients. METHODS: Totally 544 nAMD patients followed and treated with aflibercept (n=135) and ranibizumab (n=409) at 9 different centers between 2013 and 2015 were enrolled into this retrospective multicenter study. Patients with initial best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) interval of 1.3-0.3 (logMAR) and a minimum follow-up of 12mo were included. Patients under two different regimens-a priori pro re nata (1+PRN) or 3 consecutive intravitreal injections followed by a PRN regimen (3+PRN)-were compared in BCVA at 3th, 6th and 12th months, and in central macular thickness (CMT) at 6th and 12th months. The total study group, intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) and intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) groups were evaluated separately. RESULTS: The mean CMT decreased in the 1+PRN (n=101) regimen from 407 to 358 and 340 μm and in the 3+PRN (n=443) group from 398 to 318 and finally to 310 μm at months 6 and 12, respectively. Anatomically, the CMT reduction at 6th month (48.5 vs 76.4; P<0.05) was statistically significant in favor of 3+PRN group. BCVA changed in 1+PRN group from 0.77 to 0.78, 0.75 and 0.75; in 3+PRN group from 0.81 to 0.69, 0.72, and 0.76 at months 3, 6, and 12, respectively. Visual gain was statistically better in 3+PRN group at 3th month (-0.01 vs 0.12; P<0.001). In IVR group, CMT reduction was in greater in 3+PRN at 6th (44 vs 72) and 12th month (61 vs 84), but statistically insignificant. The 3+PRN group revealed statistically better visual results at 3th month (-0.02 vs 0.11, P<0.05). In IVA group, although statistically insignificant, CMT reduction (61 vs 89, 6th month; 85 vs 97, 12th month) and visual gain (0.02 vs 0.16; 0.02 vs 0.14; 0.05 vs 0.11) was found in favor of 3+PRN group at all visits. CONCLUSION: The loading dose of anti-VEGF treatments in nAMD leads to significantly better anatomical and functional results, regardless of the agent, specially in early follow-up interval.

Unilateral foveomacular retinitis resembling solar retinopathy among young soldiers in Korean army and associated multimodal imaging findings

Chang Ki Yoon, Kyu Hyung Park and Se Joon Woo — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To describe the clinical features and multimodal images of unilateral foveomacular retinitis in young Korean soldiers. METHODS: Ten patients having foveomacular retinitis were included. Fluorescein angiography, fundus autofluorescence (FAF), infrared reflectance (IR), and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) were analyzed. RESULTS: All patients were young males experienced insidious visual decline without exposure to bright light. Initial and final vision ranged from hand movement to 20/20 (median 20/200) and 20/2000 to 20/20 (median 20/500), respectively. Vision decreased in 6 patients while improved in two. Typical macular abnormality was yellow granular spots. SD-OCT showed ellipsoid zone (EZ) or interdigitation zone (IZ) disruption of fovea. The degree of EZ/IZ damage correlated with vision. Lesions were clearly visualized through IR and matched with SD-OCT findings. CONCLUSION: This is the first case series of foveomacular retinitis diagnosed with multimodal imaging. Foveomacular retinitis should be suspected in sudden unilateral visual decline especially in young soldiers. SD-OCT is the most important diagnostic modality.

Acute changes in ganglion cell layer thickness in ischemic optic neuropathy compared to optic neuritis using optical coherence tomography

Peter W. MacIntosh, S. Vijay Kumar, V.R. Saravanan and Virna M. Shah — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To elucidate the changes of different ganglion cell layer (GCL) thinning patterns between the optic neuritis (ON) and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). METHODS: A prospective, observational study was conducted to evaluate the timing of GCL changes between acute ON and NAION using optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: Thinning on optical coherence tomography in the NAION group occurs as early as 11d after symptomatic onset of vision loss and follows an altitudinal pattern. The mean superior-inferior GCL thickness difference in the NAION cohort was clinically significant at 5.7 μm in the NAION cohort compared to controls of 0.8 μm (P=0.032), but not significant in the ON group compared to controls with both groups measuring 1.1 μm. Global thinning was significant for the ON group compared to controls at 7.2 μm (P=0.011) but not the NAION group compared to controls at 1.35 μm. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that future treatments for NAION should be given early, and possibly before 11d in order to prevent GCL and irreversible vision loss.

Newly onset indirect traumatic optic neuropathy-surgical treatment first versus steroid treatment first

Bo Yu, Ying-Jie Ma, Yun-Hai Tu and Wen-Can Wu — 2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To investigate the efficacy and safety of the treatment of endoscopic trans-ethmosphenoid optic canal decompression (ETOCD) with combination of steroid in patients with newly onset indirect traumatic optic neuropathy (ITON) and compare the outcome between immediate ETOCD treatment and ETOCD with preoperative steroid treatment. METHODS: Patients presented as newly onset ITON (suffered trauma within 3d) at a tertiary medical center between Mar 1st, 2016 and Mar 1st, 2018 were enrolled in this study. All patients were equally and randomly divided into 2 groups. Cases in group A were performed ETOCD immediately after admition while cases in group B were prescribed by methylprednisolone (20 mg/kg · d) for 3d before ETOCD. Methylprednisolone (20 mg/kg · d) was used after surgery for 6d in group A and 3d in group B. Follow-up was up to 3mo in all cases. Visual acuity (VA) before and after treatment between the two groups were taken into comparison. RESULTS: Complete postoperative data were acquired from 34 patients in group A and from 32 patients in group B. Group A had significantly higher effective rate in VA than group B (χ2 =4.905, P=0.027). CONCLUSION: For patients with newly onset ITON, combination treatment of ETOCD with high-dose steroid is an effective and safe way. Immediate surgery will lead to better prognosis for these cases.

Clinical outcomes of transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy versus femtosecond laser assisted keratomileusis for correction of high myopia in South Egyptian population

2019/12/27 0:00:00
AIM: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (t-PRK) with adjuvant mitomycin C (MMC) versus femtosecond laser assisted keratomileusis (Femto-LASIK) in correction of high myopia. METHODS: Prospective randomized comparative study including 156 eyes of 156 patients with high myopia and a spherical equivalent refraction (SER) <-6.00 D. They were divided randomly into two groups: Group A included 72 eyes treated with t-PRK with adjuvant MMC and Group B included 84 eyes treated with Femto-LASIK. Visual acuity, SER, corneal topography, pachymetry and keratometry were assessed for 12mo postoperatively. RESULTS: The preoperative mean SER was -8.86±1.81 and -9.25±1.70 D in t-PRK MMC group and Femto-LASIK respectively (P=0.99) which improved to -0.65±0.43 D and -0.69±0.50 D at 12mo follow up. Mean SER remained stable during the 12mo of follow-up, with no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P=0.64). In t-PRK MMC group, only six eyes needed retreatment after six months of follow up. And two eyes showed haze (one reversible haze grade 2, while the other had dense irreversible haze grade 4). CONCLUSION: t-PRK MMC provides safe and satisfactory visual outcomes and acceptable risk as Femto-LASIK in patients with high myopia.