Initial experience of inferior limited macular translocation for subfovealchoroidal neovascularization resulting from causes other than age-related macular degeneration

PURPOSE: To report our initial experience of inferior limited macular trans location in patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization resulting from causes other than age-related macular degeneration. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of 23 eyes of 22 patients with choroidal neovascularization involving the foveal center secondary to patho logic myopia (11 eyes), ocular histoplasmosis syndrome (four eyes), angioid streaks (four eyes), idiopathic neovascularization (three eyes), and multi focal choroiditis (one eye), in which the fovea was moved inferiorly by mea ns of limited macular translocation surgery. The mean preoperative best-cor rected visual acuity was 20/150, and in five of 23 eyes (21.7%) the visual acuity was 20/80 or better. The major outcome measures were preoperative an d postoperative visual acuity, postoperative foveal displacement, and compl ications related to the surgery. RESULTS: The mean postoperative follow-up was 10.82 months (range, 6 to 18 months). Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity improved by 2 or more S nellen lines of visual acuity in 11 of 23 eyes (47.82%), remained within 1 line in seven of 23 eyes (30.43%), and worsened 2 or more lines of vision i n five of 23 eyes (21.74%) The mean postoperative best-corrected visual acu ity was 20/100, and in 12 of the 23 eyes (52.17%) the visual acuity achieve d was 20/80 or better. Retinal detachment was the most: frequent complicati on and occurred in six eyes (26%). CONCLUSIONS: Our initial experience with limited macular translocation show s that this treatment modality offers the potential to improve visual funct ion in some eyes with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to m yopia, ocular histoplasmosis syndrome, angioid streaks, idiopathic neovascu larization, and multifocal choroiditis. Although longer and more complete f ollow-up is needed, the results of this initial series warrant further stud ies to define the precise role of macular translocation in the management o f these conditions. (C) 2001 by Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.