Surgery of epiretinal membranes.

Vitreous surgery techniques can be used to remove epiretinal tissue associated with various ocular conditions when this tissue is covering or distorting the macula and causing visual loss. The surgical technique and results of the operation are similar in cases with various basic causes. The postoperative visual acuity usually ranges between 20/30 and 20/100, and therefore cases are selected for surgery in which the preoperative vision is 20/100 or less. Thick membranes are easiest to remove, perhaps because the tissue can be readily engaged by a vitreoretinal pick and the membrane does not tend to shred when traction is applied. Large amounts of epiretinal tissue rarely recur after surgical removal, and this technique permits partial visual improvement in many eyes with macular involvement by epiretinal membranes.