Three-dimensional characterization of epiretinal membrane using spectral domain optical coherence tomography

To describe epiretinal membrane (ERM) features using spectral domain optical coherence tomography ‘‘SD OCT’’ and to delineate the three-dimensional (3D) relationship in eyes with epiretinal membrane.Methods: Fifty-two eyes of 44 patients with ERM were classified into two groups: idiopathic ERM and secondary ERM. Posterior vitreous face was evaluated. Pattern of ERM attachment was divided into: focal and global. A 3D SD OCT system (5 lm resolution) was used for scanning. Surface maps were used to study retinal topography. Results: Surface maps revealed manner and direction of epiretinal traction, pattern of attachment and blood vessel involvement. In 55.8% of eyes the membrane was globally adherent to the retina. There was a significant association (p= 0.02%) between pattern of membrane attachment and etiological classification of eyes. Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) wasassociated with both groups, but no significant difference in between. Conclusion: Spectral domain OCT allowed better characterization of ERM including: visualization, extension, cleavage plane and zones with free edges. Surface maps revealed the topography of ERM and retina pathology. Idiopathic ERM are significantly associated with global pattern. PVD plays an important role in the pathogenesis of primary as well as secondary ERM.