Prognostic Factors Associated with Visual Outcome after Pars Plana Vitrectomy with Internal Limiting Membrane Peeling for Idiopathic Epiretinal Membrane

PURPOSE: Pars plana vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling for idiopathic epiretinal membrane has shown varying results. More data are needed on the factors associated with visual outcome.

METHODS: We extracted baseline clinical characteristics, optical coherence tomography (OCT) characteristics and 3-month postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Linear regression analysis was used to evaluate whether baseline and OCT characteristics are associated with BCVA at 3 months as well as BCVA difference.

RESULTS: Out of 82 operated eyes, 66 (80%) had a 3-month follow-up, and 47 (71%) showed a 3-month postoperative improvement. Preoperative BCVA was an independent determinant of postoperative BCVA (r = 0.31; p < 0.01) and BCVA difference (r = 0.68; p < 0.01). Other baseline and OCT characteristics showed no independent associations with postoperative outcome.

CONCLUSION: Better preoperative BCVA predicts better postoperative BCVA. Other baseline and OCT characteristics are not associated with visual outcome 3 months after surgery.