SUBRETINAL ADMINISTRATION OF TISSUE-TYPE PLASMINOGEN-ACTIVATOR TO SPEED THE DRAINAGE OF SUBRETINAL HEMORRHAGE

Background: Bleeding into the subretinal space in the vicinity of the macula is associated with age-related macular degeneration or retinal arterial macroaneurysm. The prognosis for restoration of vision is poo r in the presence of blood clots. Methods: Using a simple device compo sed of three disposable syringes we injected tissue-type plasminogen a ctivator (tPA) into the subretinal space during conventional vitrectom y in six patients to assist the draining of subretinal clots. Results: Four of six patients recovered their visual acuity postoperatively, w hile visual acuity in the other patients was stabilized. Conclusion: E arly drainage of subretinal hemorrhage assisted by the introduction of tPA into the subretinal space led to uncomplicated surgery and favora ble postoperative results.