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Amir Akhavanrezayat,1 Wataru Matsumiya,1,2 Prapatsorn Ongpalakorn,1 Hashem H Ghoraba,1 Chris Or,1 Hassan Khojasteh Jafari,1 Gunay Uludag Kirimli,1 Cigdem Yasar,1 Ngoc Trong Tuong Than,1 Irmak Karaca,1 Moosa Zaidi,1 Azadeh Mobasserian,1 Negin Yavari,1 Vahid Bazojoo,1 Yong Un Shin,1 Albert John Bromeo,1 Quan Dong Nguyen1 1Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA; 2Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, JapanCorrespondence: Quan Dong Nguyen, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute at Stanford University, 2452 Watson Court, Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA, 94303, USA, Tel +1 650 723 9386, Email ndquan@stanford.eduPurpose: To report a case of neurosarcoidosis (NS) who was initially diagnosed as Coccidioidomycosis immitis (CI) infection.Observations: A 57-year-old diabetic man presented with sudden painless diminution of vision, metamorphopsia, and color vision deficits in the left eye (OS) for one month. His vision was 20/20 in the right eye (OD) and 20/40 OS. Ophthalmic examination revealed left relative afferent pupillary defect, blurred optic nerve margin, creamy chorioretinal infiltration around the optic disc, and mild macular edema. OD examination was non-revealing. Chest CT scan with contrast showed calcified mediastinal lymph nodes, but biopsy of the lymph nodes was normal. Brain and orbit MRI demonstrated soft tissue abnormality with enhancement in left orbital apex with involvement of the extraocular muscles. CSF culture was negative, but complement fixation had positive titer of 1:2 for CI. The patient was diagnosed with CI meningitis, and antifungal therapy was initiated. Slight visual and symptomatic improvement was observed, which was not completely satisfactory. Biopsy of extraocular orbital muscle five months later revealed non-caseating granulomatous inflammation, leading to initiation of prednisone trial therapy. Nine months later, the patient was referred to a tertiary center owing to persistence of optic disc edema OS. PET CT was consistent with a diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Antifungal treatment was discontinued, and oral prednisone with methotrexate was initiated. Subsequently, methotrexate was replaced by infliximab to further manage ocular inflammation and neurologic symptoms which was effective. Vision was 20/20 OD and 20/30 OS at the most recent visit.Conclusion and Importance: Signs and symptoms of neurosarcoidosis and coccidioidomycosis can be similar and deceiving. The index case underscores importance of considering appropriate differential diagnoses in patients with similar symptoms and signs who may respond to preliminary designated treatment but not to the optimal extent. Considering such possibility could assist clinicians in managing the patients timely and efficiently.Keywords: neurosarcoidosis, coccidioidomycosis, sarcoidosis, ocular involvement

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1 Mahmoud Leila,2 Hashem H Ghoraba,1 Haithem Maamoun Abdelfattah,3 Emad Eldin Mohamed Elgemai4 1Retina Department, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 2Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt; 3Ophthalmology Department, Benha Teaching Hospital, Benha, Egypt; 4Ophthalmology Department, Damanhour Teaching Hospital, Damanhour, EgyptCorrespondence: Mahmoud Leila, Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, 2 Al-Ahram Street, Giza, Egypt, Email mahmoudleila@yahoo.comPurpose: This is a retrospective case report in which we describe our findings in two cases of endophthalmitis associated with perforating gunshot injury, in which we documented intraocular intrusion of multiple eyelashes as a plausible source of infection.Patients and Methods: Two male patients, 22 and 29 years old, respectively, presented with endophthalmitis following primary repair of rupture globe secondary to gunshot injury. Both patients had vitrectomy and silicone oil injection. Preoperative imaging and intraoperative findings confirmed the perforating nature of the projectile.Results: In both patients, we detected eyelashes that were concealed either in the pars plana region or within vitreous exudates. Silicone oil was not removed in both patients to prevent phthisis bulbi and because there was no potential for visual improvement. The postoperative course in both cases was uneventful.Conclusion: Gunshot injuries can inoculate eyelashes impregnated with infectious microorganisms into the eye. In cases presenting with endophthalmitis associated with a gunshot injury, we recommend meticulous examination of the posterior segment and the pars plana region during vitrectomy to exclude the presence of occult lashes.Keywords: gunshot injury, endophthalmitis associated with perforating IOFB, post-traumatic endophthalmitis, case report

Hashem H Ghoraba, Amir Akhavanrezayat, Irmak Karaca, Negin Yavari, Sherin Lajevardi, Jaclyn Hwang, Jonathan Regenold, Wataru Matsumiya, Brandon Pham, Moosa Zaidi, Azadeh Mobasserian, Anthony Toan DongChau, Christopher Or, Cigdem Yasar, Kapil Mishra, Diana Do, Quan Dong Nguyen Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USACorrespondence: Quan Dong Nguyen, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, 2370 Watson Court, Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA, USA, Tel +1 6507257245, Fax +1 6507368232, Email ndquan@stanford.eduAbstract: Gene therapy has emerged as a research topic of choice in recent years. The eye in particular is one of few organs of the body for which gene therapy has received Food and Drug Administration approval, and it remains a field of great interest for gene therapy development. However, its associated immune and inflammatory reactions may render the treatment ineffective or harmful, which are of particular concern for the eyes due to their susceptibility to inflammation. The severity of immune and inflammatory reactions depends on the choice of vector and its route of administration. Furthermore, most preclinical and clinical studies have shown that the dose of vectors is correlated with the degree of humoral response and ocular inflammation. The route of administration directly impacts the degree of immune and inflammatory reaction. Subretinal delivery produces a weaker humoral response than the intravitreal route. However, some studies have demonstrated that the subretinal delivery induces a stronger inflammatory reaction. On the other hand, several instances of vision loss due to severe late onset intraocular inflammation were reported in a clinical trial involving intravitreal delivery of viral vectors. When compared with the intravitreal route, suprachoroidal gene delivery has been shown to produce weaker humoral response. However, unlike the subretinal space, the suprachoroidal space is not known to have immune privilege status. Inflammatory reactions following ocular gene therapy are typically mild and most clinical and preclinical studies have shown that they can be controlled with topical, local or systemic steroids. However, severe inflammatory responses may occur and require aggressive management to avoid permanent vision loss. Further investigations are required to elucidate and expand our knowledge of inflammatory reactions, and their optimal management, following ocular gene therapy.Keywords: ocular gene therapy, gene therapy, viral vectors, ocular inflammation, review

Hashem H Ghoraba,1 Wataru Matsumiya,1,2 Hassan Khojasteh,1 Amir Akhavanrezayat,1 Irmak Karaca,1 Christopher Or,1 Negin Yavari,1 Sherin Lajevardi,1 Jaclyn Hwang,1 Cigdem Yasar,1 Diana Do,1 Quan Dong Nguyen1 1Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA; 2Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, JapanCorrespondence: Quan Dong Nguyen, Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, 2370 Watson Court, Suite 200, Palo Alto, CA, USA, Tel +16507257245, Fax +1 6507368232, Email ndquan@stanford.eduPurpose: To evaluate the safety of intravenous high-dose pulse methylprednisolone succinate (IVHDM) in the management of severe or refractory non-infectious pediatric uveitis.Methods: We reviewed all uveitis patients who were ≤ 16 years of age and who received IVHDM with a dose of ≥ 500 mg per day (1– 3 days a month) for at least 3 months during their management at a tertiary care eye hospital.Results: Twenty pediatric patients with severe or refractory uveitis who received IVHDM were identified. Six patients received IVHDM either once, as a preoperative medication, or at a lower dose than 500 mg, and were excluded. The remaining 14 patients received IVHDM for at least 4 months. Age (mean±SD) was 11.9± 2.4 years and 50% were female. Duration of treatment was 14.2± 7.5 months. Thirteen patients received IVHDM in combination with other immunomodulatory therapy (IMT). Except for two outliers, IVHDM was given at a dose of 8– 25 mg/kg per infusion. Three major adverse events (AEs) occurred in two patients: a single episode of bradycardia, compression fracture following minor trauma and adrenal insufficiency. The number of AEs (major and minor) strongly correlated with duration of treatment (p=0.004) and moderately correlated with the cumulative dose/weight (p=0.051). Weight gain was associated with the use of concomitant oral steroids and not with duration of treatment or cumulative dose.Conclusion: IVHDM may be a valid therapeutic option for aggressive/refractory pediatric uveitis. The reported AEs in this series can also be attributed to the concurrent IMT or the underlying disease itself.Keywords: pediatric uveitis, intravenous methylprednisolone, adverse events

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1,2 Mahmoud Leila,3 Adel Galal Zaky,4 Sameh Mohamed Elgouhary,4 Amin Faisal Ellakwa,4 Hosam Othman Mansour,5 Mohamed Amin Heikal2,6,7 1Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt; 2Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 3Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt; 4Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin ElKom, Menoufia, Egypt; 5Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al Azhar University - Damietta Branch, New Damietta, Egypt; 6Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt; 7Vitreoretinal Department, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Eastern province, Khober, KSACorrespondence: Mahmoud Leila 146 Street 3, 2nd Floor, Flat#8, Hadabet Al-Ahram, Giza, 12572, EgyptTel +201286644025Email mahmoudleila@yahoo.comPurpose: To report the long-term outcome of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for management of retained posterior segment intraocular foreign body (IOFB) secondary to gunshot injury.Methods: This is a retrospective interventional case series including consecutive patients who had PPV for retained posterior segment IOFB secondary to gunshot injury. Main outcome measures were final best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), long-term globe survival and detection of complications. Spearman correlation analyzed relationships between numerical data. Kruskal–Wallis test compared differences in initial BCVA and final BCVA across variables. Categorical variables were tested using Chi square or Fisher’s exact test. P value is significant at 0.05.Results: The study included 103 eyes of 103 patients. Mean baseline BCVA was 0.01 decimal unit (2 logMAR). Mean duration from primary repair to PPV was 3 weeks. Mean duration of post-operative follow-up was 60 months. Mean final BCVA was 0.04 decimal unit (1.3 logMAR), p 0.001. Post-operatively, BCVA improved in 58.2% of patients. Nineteen patients (18%) gained ≥ 2 lines of vision, and 15 patients (14.5%) achieved final BCVA of 0.4 decimal unit (logMAR 0.4). All complications were related to the original injury. These included macular scar (19%), macular pucker (6%), recurrent retinal detachment (4%), subretinal fibrosis (3%), consecutive optic atrophy (3%), and PVR (3%). Phthisis bulbi or sympathetic ophthalmia did not develop in any case.Conclusion: PPV for removal of IOFB caused by gunshot injury yielded long-term favorable functional outcome with excellent globe survival. Poor initial BCVA, location of IOFB in the posterior pole, associated lens injury and retinal detachment are significant adverse prognostic factors for final BCVA but not for globe survival.Keywords: Intraocular foreign body; IOFB, ocular gunshot injury, penetrating ocular trauma, IOFB-associated endophthalmitis, pars plana vitrectomy for intraocular foreign body, PPV for IOFB

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1,2 Mahmoud Leila,3 Mohamed Shebl,4 Mohamed Ahmed Abdelhafez,4 Haithem Maamoun Abdelfattah4,5 1Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt; 2Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 3Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt; 4Vitreoretinal Consultant, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 5Vitreoretinal Associate Consultant, Benha Teaching Hospital, Benha, EgyptCorrespondence: Mahmoud LeilaRetina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, EgyptTel +201286644025Email mahmoudleila@yahoo.comPurpose: To assess the efficacy of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and silicone oil tamponade for management of myopic retinal detachment associated with macular hole (MRDMH) and to assess the anatomical and functional outcomes of this technique and its long-term validity after silicone oil removal.Methods: Retrospective interventional non-comparative case series including consecutive patients who had PPV and silicone oil tamponade for MRDMH. All patients had an axial length ≥ 26 mm. Main outcome measures were retinal re-attachment and macular hole closure after silicone oil removal, improvement of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications secondary to surgery. Chi square/Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze categorical variables, while One-way ANOVA/Kruskal–Wallis test was used to compare variables across the closure type and complications. Correlations between numerical variables were tested using Spearman correlation. Kaplan–Meier method was used to estimate the event-free survival. P value is significant at 0.05.Results: The study included 26 eyes of 26 patients. Retinal re-attachment rate after primary and secondary surgeries was 88.4% and 100%, respectively. W-type macular hole closure occurred in 58% of eyes. Vision improved in 58% of eyes. Mean final BCVA was 0.05 decimal units, p = 0.004. Cataract and glaucoma developed in 42% and 15% of eyes, respectively. Initial BCVA, axial length and duration of silicone oil tamponade did not correlate significantly with either the type of macular hole closure or the final BCVA.Conclusion: PPV and silicone oil tamponade technique promotes successful anatomical and functional outcome in MRDMH. Long-term success is maintained after silicone oil removal. High incidence of silicone oil-induced complications mandate its removal from eyes with successful retinal re-attachment.Keywords: retinal detachment in high myopia, myopic macular hole, retinal detachment secondary to myopic macular hole, PPV for myopic retinal detachment associated with macular hole

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1,2 Mahmoud Leila,3 Adel Galal Zaky,4 Tamer Wasfy,1 Haithem Maamoun Abdelfattah,2,5 Emad Mohamed Elgemai,2,6 Sameh Mohamed El Gouhary,4 Hosam Osman Mansour,7 Hashem Hammouda Ghoraba,1,2 Mohamed Amin Heikal8,9 1Ophthalmology Department, Tanta University, Tanta City, Gharbia, Egypt; 2Ophthalmology Department, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta City, Gharbia, Egypt; 3Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Cairo, Egypt; 4Ophthalmology Department, Menoufia University, Shebein Elkoom City, Menoufia, Egypt; 5Ophthalmology Department, Benha Teaching Hospital, Benha City, Qualuopia, Egypt; 6Ophthalmology Department, Damanhour Teaching Hospital, Dmanhour City, Albehaira, Egypt; 7Alazahr University, Damietta City, Damietta, Egypt; 8Ophthalmology Department, Benha University, Benha City, Qualuopia, Egypt; 9Vitreoretinal Department, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Khober City, Eastern Province, Kingdom of Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Mohamed Amin HeikalOphthalmology Department, Benha University, Benha City, Qualuopia, 13511, EgyptTel +00201007131431Email mohammedheikel@gmail.comPurpose: To compare different types of macular holes regarding the anatomic and functional success following pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and internal limiting membrane (ILM) removal.Methods: A retrospective review of all patients with macular holes treated by PPV, ILM removal with gas tamponade from January 2014 to July 2017 in Magrabi Eye Hospital.Results: One hundred fifty-seven eyes of 153 patients were analyzed. The eyes were classified according to the etiology of macular hole into four groups: 79 eyes with idiopathic macular hole (IMH), 51 eyes with traumatic macular hole (TMH), 16 eyes with macular hole in diabetic patients (DMH) and 11 eyes with myopic macular hole (MMH). We classified the IMH group based on the International Vitreomacular Traction Study Classification according to size into 3 subgroups; subgroup 1: ≤ 250μ, subgroup 2: > 250 to 400μ and subgroup 3: ≥ 400 μ. All types of macular hole showed statistically significant postoperative improvement in BCVA compared to the baseline except cases with MMH. Anatomic postoperative hole closure was achieved in 86.1%, 60.7%, 43.65%, an 45.46% of eyes with IMH, TMH, DMH and MMH, respectively. In eyes with IMH, closure rate in subgroup 1 was significantly higher than in subgroups 2, and 3.Conclusion: PPV, ILM peel and C2F6 technique yielded variable anatomic and functional outcomes in different types of macular holes. Anatomic results were most favorable in IMH and least favorable in MMH. The smaller the diameter of the hole the better the results. The underlying pathogenetic mechanisms that lead to different types of macular holes are pivotal in determining the final outcome.Keywords: ILM peeling, macular holes, pars plana vitrectomy

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1,2 Hosam Othman Mansour,1,3 Mohamed Ahmed Abdelhafez,1 Sameh Mohamed El Gouhary,4 Adel Galal Zaky,4 Mohamed Amin Heikal,5 Ali Ahmed Ali Ghali3 1Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 2Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt; 3Al Azhar University, Damietta Branch, New Damietta, Egypt; 4Meunofia University, Meunofia, Egypt; 5Benha University, Benha, EgyptCorrespondence: Hosam Othman MansourAl Azhar University, Damietta Branch, New Damietta, EgyptTel +201001559282Email drhmansor@yahoo.comBackground and Objectives: To compare anatomical and visual results of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without additional encircling band in the management of pediatric traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RD) in a tertiary referral center.Methods: A retrospective review of children diagnosed with traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment treated by pars plana vitrectomy with or without encircling band.Results: One hundred thirty-nine eyes of 139 children diagnosed with traumatic rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Surgeries were performed between May 2011 and November 2016. Patients were followed up for at least 18 months after last intervention. The included eyes were categorized into two groups. Group A (vitrectomy with additional encircling band) included 72 eyes of 72 children; 58 boys and 14 girls. Group B (vitrectomy without encircling band) included 67 eyes of 67 children; 58 boys and 9 girls. In group A, the mean age was 9.21± 3.24. Attached retina was achieved in 61% (44 out of 72 eyes), of which 34 eyes remained attached after silicon oil removal, and 10 eyes remained attached under silicon oil tamponade. Recurrent RD under oil was present in 28 eyes (38.9%). In group B, the mean age was 11.06± 3.64. Attached retina was present in 61.2% (41 out of 67 eyes), of which 30 eyes remained attached after oil removal, and 11 eyes remained attached under silicon oil tamponade. Recurrent RD was present in 26 eyes (38.8%). In group A, the final visual acuity (VA) ranged from NLP to 0.5; 58.7% of patients achieved VA more than counting fingers at 1 meter, and 34.6% of patients achieved VA of 0.05 or more. In group B, the final postoperative VA ranged from NLP to 0.9; 16% of patients achieved VA from counting fingers at 1 meter to 0.05, and 29.2% achieved VA of 0.05 or more.Conclusion: Although no statistically significant difference between the two groups (combined vitrectomy and encircling band versus vitrectomy alone in pediatric traumatic retinal detachment), it is wise to consider adding encircling band in severe trauma cases.Keywords: trauma, pediatric retinal detachment, encircling band, pars plana vitrectomy, silicon oil

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1 Mahmoud Leila,2 Hashem Ghoraba,3 Mohamed Amin Heikal,4 Hosam Othman Mansour5 1Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt and Medical Director, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 2Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt; 3Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 4Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt; 5Faculty of Medicine, Al Azhar University, New Damietta City, EgyptCorrespondence: Mahmoud LeilaRetina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, 2, Al-Ahram Street, Giza, EgyptTel +201286644025Email mahmoudleila@yahoo.comObjective: To describe the optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings in terms of macular hole closure and ellipsoid zone (EZ) recovery following modified internal limiting membrane (ILM) surgical technique in traumatic macular holes (TMH).Methods: The study was a retrospective case series that recruited 16 consecutive patients with TMH. Following vitrectomy (PPV), we performed modified ILM surgical technique (IFT) in which ILM peel was stopped at the edges of the hole forming a floating ILM flap. Primary outcome measures were pattern of TMH closure and recovery of EZ. Student’s T-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were used for statistical analysis.Results: The study had 16 eyes of 16 patients. Mean baseline minimum linear diameter (MLD) was 562μ. Mean baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 1.4 logMAR. U-pattern closure occurred in 50% of eyes, V-pattern closure occurred in 31.2% of eyes, whereas W-pattern closure occurred in 18.7% of eyes. Mean BCVA improvement was 5 lines (p 0.02). Failure of recovery of EZ was detected in 75% of eyes. In the present series, neither pre-operative MLD nor time lapse prior to surgery were significant factors in determining the closure pattern of TMH, the grade of EZ recovery or final BCVA.Conclusion: Modified IFT is effective in promoting macular hole closure and improving visual acuity in patients with TMH. The technique does not promote recovery of EZ.Keywords: modified ILM surgical technique, traumatic FTMH, ILM peel adjuvants, ILM blue-assisted ILM peel, ellipsoid zone recovery

Hammouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1,2 Mahmoud Leila,3 Sameh Mohamed Elgouhary,4 Emad Eldin Mohamed Elgemai,2,5 Haithem Mamon Abdelfattah,2,6 Hashem Hammouda Ghoraba,2 Mohamed Amin Heikal7 1Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt; 2Department of Retina, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 3Retina Department, Research Institute of Ophthalmology, Giza, Egypt; 4Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Menoufia, Egypt; 5Department of Ophthalmology, Damanhour Teaching Hospital, Damanhour, Egypt; 6Department of Ophthalmology, Banha Teaching Hospital, Banha, Egypt; 7Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety of high-dose intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (IVTA) as affordable low-cost alternative to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor [anti-VEGF] agents) in lower-middle-income countries.Patients and methods: This was a retrospective interventional non-comparative case series. The study recruited patients who received 20 mg IVTA for treating various retinal and optic nerve diseases over the past 5 years. Main outcome measure was assessment of complications secondary to high-dose IVTA. The crosstabs procedure was used to display the interaction between the variables tested. The ANOVA test was used to analyze the differences among group means.Results: The study included 207 eyes of 168 patients. The main indication for high-dose IVTA were diabetic macular edema 64%, and macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion 19%. The mean follow-up period post-injection was 22 months. Mean number of injections was 1.3. Cataract developed in 54% of eyes. Glaucoma developed in 18.5% of eyes. Glaucoma surgery for intractable glaucoma attributed to high-dose IVTA was needed in 1% of eyes. Endophthalmitis and retinal detachment developed in one patient each.Conclusion: High-dose IVTA is a safe and cost-effective alternative to anti-VEGF agents. Cataract formation and intraocular pressure rise do not pose major adverse effects when weighed against the risk of vision loss due to inability to afford anti-VEGF treatment. Keywords: high-dose IVTA, cost-effectiveness of anti-VEGF, ICER of anti-VEGF per QALY

Hamouda Hamdy Ghoraba,1,2 Adel Galal Zaky,3 Amin Faisal Ellakwa31Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, 2Opthalmology Department, El Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, 3Ophthalmology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Cairo, EgyptObjective: The aim of this study was to report and compare the anatomic and functional results of primary vitrectomy with and without 360° encircling scleral buckle (SB) for the treatment of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) due to inferior retinal break(s).Background: A variety of options, including SB, pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without SB, and pneumatic retinopexy have been described as methods to repair RRDs. The use of additional SB with vitrectomy for RRD associated with inferior breaks has been a recent controversy after the introduction of transconjunctival cannula systems.Patients and methods: A retrospective, interventional, comparative case study was performed. In this study, we reviewed 105 consecutive patients who underwent vitrectomy for primary RRD with inferior retinal break(s) at the vitreoretinal center, performed by a single surgeon. Ninety four patients (94 eyes) were followed up for at least 4 months after silicon oil removal (SOR), and were analyzed. They were divided into two groups: group I included 50 patients who underwent PPV alone + silicon oil (SO); and group II included 44 patients who underwent PPV with 360° SB + SO. The essential parameters were single-operation success rate (SOSR) before SOR, incidence of retinal redetachment after SOR, and final visual acuity.Results: SOSR was obtained in 89 eyes (47 [94%] in group I and 42 [95.5%] in group II). From overall 59 phakic retinal detachments (RDs), SOSR was obtained in 56 eyes (30 in group I [93.8%] and 26 in group II [96.3%]) while from overall 35 aphakic or pseudophakic RDs, SOSR was obtained in 33 eyes (17 in group I [94.4%] and 16 in group II [94.1%]). Retinal redetachments after SOR occurred in three patients in group I and two patients in group II. Visual acuity improvement was greater in group I than in group II before SOR.Conclusion: Both surgical procedures had similar reattachment rates. The addition of 360° SB to PPV + SO might not have additional benefits in patients with RD due to inferior retinal break.Keywords: pars plana vitrectomy, scleral buckle, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment

Hammouda H Ghoraba,1,2 Ali Ahmed Ghali,3 Hosam Othman Mansour2,3 1Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt; 2Magrabi Eye Hospital, Cairo, Egypt; 3Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt Purpose: To report a retrospective series of seven phakic eyes of seven patients suffering from a malignant glaucoma-like syndrome following pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil (SO) injection.Materials and methods: Seven eyes with retinal detachment treated with pars plana vitrectomy with or without scleral buckling with SO tamponade. This was followed by cataract extraction to manage the elevated intraocular pressure (IOP).Results: This was a retrospective review of seven cases that received pars plana vitrectomy and SO with or without scleral buckling for different causes of retinal detachment (three were rhegmatogenous and four were tractional). After a period ranging from 1 week to 1 month, they presented with malignant glaucoma-like manifestations; high IOP, shallow axial anterior chamber, and remarkable decrease of visual acuity. Atropine eye drops and anti-glaucoma medical treatment (topical and systemic) had been tried but failed to improve the condition. Dramatic decrease of IOP and deepening of the axial anterior chamber was observed in all cases in the first postoperative day after phacoemulsification and posterior chamber foldable intraocular lens implantation with posterior capsulotomy.Conclusion: Aqueous misdirection syndrome may be observed following pars plana vitrectomy and SO tamponade. This must be differentiated from other causes of post vitrectomy glaucoma. Cataract extraction with posterior capsulotomy controls the condition. Keywords: malignant glaucoma, pars plana vitrectomy, silicone oil

Hammouda H Ghoraba,1,2 Sameh M Elgouhary,3 Amin F Ellakwa3 1Department of Ophthalmology, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt; 2Vitreoretinal Unit, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 3Department of Ophthalmology, Menoufiya University, Menufia, Egypt Purpose: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of different methods of transconjunctival cannulated vitrectomy versus conventional non-cannulated vitrectomy in various vitreoretinal disorders. Methods: A prospective randomized study was done from August 2009 to February 2011. The study included 129 eyes of 122 patients, randomly divided into four groups. Group 1 comprised 34 eyes operated on using transconjunctival 20-gauge cannula Claes system. Group 2 comprised 32 eyes operated on using transconjunctival cannulated 23 gauge system. Group 3 comprised 27 eyes operated on using combined 20-gauge non-cannulated and 23-gauge transconjunctival cannulated system. Group 4 comprised 36 eyes operated on using conventional non-cannulated 20-gauge system. Results: The four groups were demographically similar. Anatomical outcome was achieved in all cases. Vision was improved in 29 eyes (85.3%) in group 1, 23 eyes (71.9%) in group 2, 19 eyes (70.4%) in group 3, and 26 eyes (72.2%) in group 4. There was no statistical difference between the four groups 1-day postoperative (P=0.405) and 1-week postoperative intraocular pressure (P=0.254). The number of sutureless sclerotomies was 68 (66.6%) in group 1, 78 (81.3%) in group 2, 50 (61.8%) in group 3, and 0 in group 4. Hypotony occurred in one eye (2.9%) in group 1, three eyes (9.4%) in group 2, two eyes (7.4%) in group 3, and no eyes in group 4. Operative endophthalmitis did not occur in any one of the four groups. Conclusion: Final anatomical and functional outcomes were not related to the type of sclerotomy used (cannulated or non-cannulated), the gauge used (20 or 23), the route (transconjunctival or transscleral), or type of suture used. The advantages of small-gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy were patient comfort, early ambulation, and preservation of the conjunctiva. This should be weighed against the cost of this cannula system. Keywords: 20 gauge, 23 gauge, PPV, sutureless vitrectomy

Hammouda H Ghoraba1, Amin F Ellakwa2, Ali A Ghali31Tanta University, Magrabi Eye Hospital, Tanta, Egypt; 2Menoufiya University, Shebin Elkom, Menoufiya, Egypt; 3Alazhar University, Damitta, EgyptPurpose: To compare the effectiveness of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with either silicone oil or gas tamponade for the treatment of traumatic macular holes.Methods: A retrospective comparative study included 22 patients who were operated on by PPV for repair of traumatic macular holes with either silicone oil tamponade (nine patients) or perfluoropropane (C3F8) gas tamponade (13 patients).Results: Twenty-two cases were reviewed to assess the anatomical and visual outcomes of surgery with silicone oil tamponade in nine cases (40.9%) vs 14% C3F8 gas tamponade in 13 cases (59.1%). The age of the silicone oil-treated patients ranged from 10 to 40 years (mean 27.4 ± 11.3 years), while that of the gas-treated patients ranged from 19 to 35 years (mean 26.54 ± 5.68 years). Female patients accounted for 33.3% of the silicone oil group and 30.77% of the gas-treated group. The minimal follow-up time for the silicone oil-treated group was 13 months, with a maximum of 18 months after silicone oil removal. The minimal follow-up time for the gas-treated group was 12 months and the maximum was 24 months. The rate of hole closure after the primary operation with oil tamponade was significantly lower than that with gas tamponade (66.67% vs 92.3%; P = 0.022). With re-operations, the final rate of hole closure was higher in the gas group (100%) than in the silicone oil group (77.8%). The final postoperative decimal visual acuity for the gas group was significantly better than for the oil group (0.433 vs 0.245; P = 0.047).Conclusions: C3F8 gas was a more effective tamponade than silicone oil in achieving initial closure of traumatic macular holes. Eyes receiving an oil tamponade required significantly more re-operations to achieve hole closure than did eyes undergoing a gas tamponade. Final visual acuity was better for gas-treated eyes than for silicone oil-treated eyes.Keywords: C3F8 gas, macular hole, silicone oil, trauma, vitrectomy

Purpose: This is a retrospective consecutive study to assess the long-term results of combined scleral buckling and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with silicone oil for the management of perforating ocular injury caused by gunshots.Methods: Data were gathered from medical records of patients who underwent scleral buckling and PPV with silicone oil 2 weeks after primary repair elsewhere, in Magrabi eye center (Tanta, Egypt), from June 2005 to May 2010.Results: The evaluated group consisted of 49 cases, out of which 26 cases presented with gunshot injury. Twenty-two were male (84.62%) and four were female (15.38%), with a mean age of 27.19+12.7 years. The follow-up ranged from 12 to 72 months, with a mean period of 32.04+8.9 months. The t-test was used to determine the visual outcome and main prognostic factors. Visual acuity improved in 22 of 26 eyes (76.92%), was unchanged in 4 eyes (15.38%), and worsened in 2 eyes (6.69%). Ten eyes (38.46%) achieved visual acuity between (20/40) and (20/100), and eight eyes (30.76%) had visual acuity between (20/200) and (20/400). The 18 eyes (69.23%) with visual acuity better than counting fingers (CF) had an attached retina with no signs of active proliferation after removal of the silicone oil.Conclusion: POI due to gunshot is usually a terminal event for the eye. Eyes with perforating injury can be saved and may attain useful vision after performance of combined scleral buckling and PPV with silicone oil tamponade. The final visual outcome depends on the macular or the optic nerve involvement and the final retinal stability, and phthisis bulbi can also be prevented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study compared two imaging grading techniques to assess the utility of longitudinal image-based analysis in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) screening: (1) time-limited without image comparison (a proxy for bedside indirect ophthalmoscopy, termed sBIO) and time-unlimited with image comparison (for telemedicine grading, termed TELE) screening. We tested two hypotheses: (1) H1: TELE was superior to sBIO for the detection of change (Tempo)-same, better, or worse and (2) H2: granular data of change (e.g., at the image and feature level) is integrated by graders to achieve the Tempo assessment., Design: Prospective reliability analysis., Methods: Gold standard reference (GS) was a published curated ROP image database consisting of both Tempo and granular level changes (image and components) from 40 patients in 2 sets. Graders were divided into 2 cohorts. There were two screening techniques: (1) sBIO with time limited review of 10 minutes/patient, access to prior notes and drawings and (2) TELE with unlimited review time, access to prior weeks' images, notes and schematics. Graders switched techniques and sets after 6 weeks. H1 outcome was comparison of graders' weekly Tempo scores to GS-Gestalt and for H2 was Tempo score compared to GS-View and GS-Component., Results: H1 demonstrated no difference-accuracy of sBIO and TELE compared to GS was 51.7% and 51.9% respectively (P = .95). Highest agreement occurred when all exams exhibited no change (91.5% sBIO vs 93.5% TELE, P = .46) and worst agreement was when exams always demonstrated worsening (46.5% sBIO vs 47.1% TELE, P = .93). Both sets of graders did worse in weeks 7-12, irrespective of technique. H2 demonstrated that Tempo assessment did not correlate with granular data changes in the GS for View level and Component level assessments-overall agreement dropped to 31.4% for Tempo vs GS-VIEW (31.2% for sBIO, 31.5% for TELE) and 4.6% for Tempo vs GS-COMPONENT (4.9% for sBIO, 4.3% for TELE)., Conclusions: Detection of ROP Tempo was independent of screening technique by expert pediatric retina graders. Both groups did significantly better in the first half of the study, indicative of a fatigue factor. This is the first study in ROP history to demonstrate that graders integrate image and retinal features in various ways that can be in contradiction of their assessment of overall disease progression., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To evaluate risk factors associated with development of anti-adalimumab antibodies (AAA) in patients with non-infectious uveitis treated with adalimumab., Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional, case-control study was done evaluating patients with non-infectious uveitis treated with adalimumab for at least 12 months and have undergone testing for AAA levels. Demographics, clinical characteristics, grading of ocular inflammation, and previous and concomitant immunomodulatory therapy were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analysis were done to estimate odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals for the various risk factors., Results: A total of 31 patients were included in the analysis, in which 12 patients who tested positive (Group 1) were matched with 19 patients who tested negative for AAA (Group 2). The groups differed significantly in terms of sex (female) (91.7% vs 52.6%, p = 0.046), presence of systemic disease (91.7% vs 42.1%, p = 0.008), and presence of anterior chamber inflammation at baseline (100% vs 63.2%, p = 0.026). A history of interruption in anti-TNF therapy prior to starting or restarting adalimumab was found to have an increased odds for development of AAA (OR 16.89 [2.92, 107.11], p = 0.008), as well as flare-ups (reactivation of disease) during adalimumab therapy (OR 6.77 [1.80, 61.80], p = 0.027). Weekly dosing of adalimumab was shown to decrease odds of AAA development (OR 0.34 [0.02, 0.70], p = 0.040), while concomitant anti-metabolite therapy was not shown to be a statistically significant protective factor (OR 2.22 [0.50, 9.96], p = 0.148)., Conclusions: History of interruption in anti-TNF therapy and flare during adalimumab were associated with development of AAA, while weekly dosing of adalimumab was protective against AAA. Identification of those with higher risk of developing AAA may guide in clinical decision making to optimize management for these patients., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Introduction: Uveitis is a heterogeneous group of ocular conditions characterized by inflammation of the uveal tract and is one of the leading causes of vision impairment. In developed countries, noninfectious uveitis (NIU) represents most cases and is challenging to treat due to its severity, chronicity, and high recurrence rates. The advent of anti-tumor necrosis factor-α (anti-TNF-α) agents have dramatically improved outcomes and changed treatment paradigms in NIU., Areas Covered: The index article summarizes the present experience of anti-TNF-α agents in NIU pharmacotherapy and highlights the barriers to further research and development of anti-TNF-α agents for uveitis. Common challenges faced in NIU clinical drugs trials, specific difficulties in anti-TNF-α drug development, and promising competitor drug candidates are discussed and evaluated., Expert Opinion: Anti-TNF-α agents have revolutionized NIU pharmacotherapy and greatly improved outcomes with good safety profiles. The great success of systemic infliximab and adalimumab in NIU treatment has resulted in little impetus for further development of this class of medication. Attempts have been made to deliver anti-TNF-α agents intravitreally but that has not been successful thus far. With expiring patents, competition from biosimilars and newer, novel molecules, it may not be viable to continue pursuing anti-TNF-α drug development.

Purpose: To describe two cases of ocular ischemic syndrome (OIS) that were initially ruled out due to a negative carotid duplex ultrasound (DUS) but eventually confirmed by angiography studies., Methods: Case series., Results: Case 1: A 67-year-old female presented with symptoms suggestive of OIS, but carotid DUS was negative, and the patient was diagnosed with occlusive retinal vasculitis due to retinal non-perfusion and vascular leakage on fluorescein angiography (FA). Immunosuppressive therapy was initiated but her symptoms did not improve. Computerized tomography angiography (CTA) was significant for severe osteal stenosis of the aortic arch vessels. Left common carotid angioplasty and stenting resulted in complete resolution of the symptoms and vascular leakage of the left eye. Case 2: A 41-year-old male with cryoglobulinemia-associated vasculitis complained of symptoms consistent with OIS, which was initially ruled out through a negative carotid DUS. FA revealed delayed arterial filling with poor retinal perfusion. Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) revealed ophthalmic artery stenosis which was attributed to the underlying systemic vasculitis., Conclusion: CTA or MRA should be performed to rule out OIS if DUS is negative in the setting of high clinical suspicion. Carotid ostial and ophthalmic artery stenoses are rare but possible causes of OIS., Competing Interests: None of the authors has any conflicts of interest to disclose.

Aim: To describe and correlate electroretinographic responses with clinical and angiographic findings in retinal vasculitis (RV)., Methods: Medical records of patients with diagnosis of RV at a tertiary eye centre from December 2017 to May 2021 were reviewed. Cases in which fluorescein angiography (FFA) and full field electroretinography (ffERG) were done within 1 month were included. FFAs were graded according to the Angiography Scoring for Uveitis Working Group from 0 to 40, where 0 is normal. A novel ffERG grading system was implemented where individual waves were graded for timing and amplitude and general ffERG score was determined with 6 being a perfect score., Results: 20 patients (34 eyes) were included. Mean age was 43.9±19.8 years; 70% were female. Median best-corrected visual acuity was 0.8 (0.08-1). Mean FFA score was 12.6±6.5. Median general ffERG score was 5 (0-6). 68% and 91% of eyes had responses with general ffERG scores ≥5 and 4, respectively. Flicker timing was most commonly affected.FFA scores weakly correlated with delayed photopic cone b-wave and flicker timing (p=0.03 and 0.016, respectively). Vitreous haze moderately correlated with delayed cone b-wave timing (p<0.001), delayed flicker timing (p=0.002) and weakly correlated with lower flicker amplitude (p=0.03). Underlying systemic disease was associated with poor ffERG responses., Conclusion: In this study, RV was not frequently associated with severe global retinal dysfunction Higher FFA scores, and vitreous haze grading were weakly, but significantly, correlated with cone-generated ffERG responses., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2023. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.)

A monocular 22-year-old man with recalcitrant familial exudative vitreoretinopathy presented with progressive subretinal lipid exudation and lipid maculopathy that responded poorly to repeated aflibercept injections. The subretinal exudation started temporally and gradually progressed, involving the macula and the retinal periphery in all 4 quadrants. At the 22-month follow-up visit, macular and peripheral subretinal exudation persisted despite a total of 29 injections. Faricimab was then injected once every 2 weeks for a total of 3 injections, which resulted in rapid dramatic resolution of the macular and most of the peripheral subretinal exudation. No ocular or systemic adverse events were noted. [ Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2023;54:426-428.] .

Purpose: To report a novel finding of retinal arterial tortuosity (RAT) associated with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS)., Methods: We queried the STAnford Research Repository (STARR) database to identify patients diagnosed with EDS. We included patients with a confirmed diagnosis of any subtype of EDS who had any form of readable retinal imaging including colour fundus photos, autofluorescence, red-free photos, red-free optical coherence tomography photos and fluorescein angiography. Patients who had no retinal imaging and those with no confirmed EDS diagnosis were excluded. Retinal images were reviewed for RAT and were graded into no, possible and definite RAT. Eyes with definite RAT were further graded into mild, moderate and severe. Eyes with definite RAT were again subclassified according to the type of involved vessels into first-order arteriolar, macular and arteriovenous., Results: A total of 307 patients were identified using the STARR tool and 142 patients were included. Mean age was 40.9 ± 18.1 years and 87% were female. Underlying EDS subtypes were hypermobile EDS (69.7%), classical EDS (2.8%), vascular EDS (2.1%), myopathic EDS (0.7%) and not specified (24.6%). We graded 37.3% of patients with definite RAT, 10.6% with possible RAT and 52.1% with no RAT. In patients with definite RAT, we graded 39.2% of eyes with mild RAT, 40.2% with moderate RAT and 20.6% with severe RAT. In all, 84.9% showed involvement of first-order retinal arterioles, 35.8% showed involvement of macular arterioles and 1.9% showed arteriovenous involvement., Conclusions: Variable degrees of RAT are associated with EDS., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Competing Interests: None of the authors has any conflicts of interest to disclose

Purpose: To report different biometric measurements in high myopia associated with different underlying ocular and genetic conditions., Design: Retrospective study., Subjects: Patients with high myopia., Methods: We searched the Stanford Research Repository tool to identify patients with the diagnosis of high myopia who were seen by a single provider at Byers Eye Institute at Stanford from January 2019 to March 2022. We performed a chart review and included eyes that had high myopia and ocular biometric measurements at any time point after January 2019. We divided our cohort into 5 different groups: (1) isolated high myopia (IHM) (control group); (2) retinopathy of prematurity (ROP); (3) familial exudative vitreoretinopathy; (4) Marfan syndrome; and (5) Stickler syndrome., Main Outcome Measures: Biometric measurements., Results: A total of 246 patients (432 eyes) were included as follows: 202 patients (359 eyes) in the IHM group, 17 patients (27 eyes) in the ROP group, 7 patients (12 eyes) in the familial exudative vitreoretinopathy group, 8 patients (14 eyes) in the Marfan group, and 12 patients (20 eyes) in the Stickler group. The ROP group showed significantly shorter axial lengths, shallower anterior chambers, and thicker lenses compared with the IHM group. The Marfan group showed significantly flatter corneas and thicker lenses compared with the IHM group. The Stickler group showed significantly longer axial lengths compared with the IHM group., Conclusions: High myopia is associated with variable biometric measurements according to underlying ocular or genetic conditions. Retinopathy of prematurity-associated high myopia is primarily lenticular, while Stickler syndrome-associated high myopia is axial. Marfan syndrome-associated high myopia is derived from both axial and lenticular mechanisms., (© 2022 Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of American Academy of Ophthalmology.)

Background: To evaluate the results of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and silicone oil (SO) tamponade with or without encircling scleral band for repair of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) in children with buphthalmos., Patients and Methods: Retrospective comparative nonrandomized interventional case series including consecutive patients who underwent PPV with or without encircling band and SO tamponade for RRD associated with buphthalmos., Results: The study included 19 eyes of 19 children. Mean age was 8 years, range 3-16 years. Mean follow-up period was 28 months, range 19-63 months. Globe survival has been achieved in 15 out of 19 eyes (79%). Phthisis bulbi was reported in four cases (22%). Eight patients (42%) achieved ambulatory vision. Most eyes initially achieved anatomical success., Conclusion: Despite the poor visual and anatomical results of RRD repair in eyes with buphthalmos, globe survival might be the rationale for surgery in such cases. Globe preservation could avoid the psychological and social consequences of phthisis bulbi in non-operated children.

Objective: To evaluate the risks that might be associated with recurrent macular hole retinal detachment (MHRD) after silicone oil (S.O) removal in myopic patients with open flat macular hole (MH)., Methods: In this retrospective series, we assessed the different factors that might be associated with recurrent MHRD after S.O removal in 48 eyes with open flat MH that underwent S.O removal after successful MHRD repair. We divided the enrolled eyes into 2 groups: group 1 included 38 eyes with flat open MH and flat retina after S.O removal, and group 2 included 10 eyes with flat open MH and recurrent MHRD after S.O removal., Results: Ten of 48 eyes (20.8%) with open flat MH developed recurrent MHRD after S.O removal. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that MH at the apex of PS, MH minimum diameter, hole form factor (HFF), and MH index (MHI) were significant risk factors for recurrent MHRD after S.O removal in myopic patients with open flat MH., Conclusions: If there is a "flat open" MH that is large, located at the apex of PS, or with an HHF or MHI <0.9-0.5, there is a high chance of recurrent MHRD after S.O removal., (© 2021 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Purpose: To report the long-term follow-up of patients with inadvertent retained submacular perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) bubbles after vitrectomy surgery., Background: PFCL has unique chemical and physical features which facilitate displacement of subretinal fluid from central toward periphery allowing intraoperative reattachment of the mobile retina and manipulation of the anterior part of the detached retina without performing drainage retinotomy. Despite these advantages, PFCL droplets may be inadvertently retained in the submacular space., Methods: A retrospective case series study was conducted. We reviewed 1224 consecutive patients who had undergone primary pars plana vitrectomy at one vitreoretinal center operated by single surgeon (Hammouda Ghoraba). Chart review was performed to identify patients and procedural factors that could predispose to retained submacular PFCL with anatomical and functional outcomes with follow-up at least 18 months., Results: The retina was completely attached in 97% of eyes where PFCL was used after one or two vitrectomy surgeries. Submacular PFCL was found in 12 (0.98%) eyes. There was no statistical difference between perfluorodecalin and perfluoro-n-octane as regards retention rate. The possible risk factors associated with submacular retention of PFCL phenomenon are the presence of post-equatorial retinal breaks in six patients (50%) and large retinal break (2-3 clock hours) in three patients (25%)., Conclusions: Submacular PFC migration occurs in nearly 1% of cases when it is used. It occurred in cases of RRD with post-equatorial or large breaks. Using perfluoro-n-octane or perfluorodecalin had no statistical difference. Different behaviors of submacular PFC droplets occurred. Some cases of small submacular PFC droplets maintained fair VA for a long period.

Purpose: To compare the efficacy of PPV and ILM peel versus PPV and IFT in patients with traumatic FTMH., Methods: Retrospective interventional comparative case series including two groups of patients with traumatic FTMH. Patients were divided into group I (ILM peel) and group II (IFT). The main outcome measure was closure of the macular hole and restoration of the foveal microstructure. The independent-samples T -test and ANOVA test were used to study the mean between 2 groups and calculate the P value, whereas the bivariate correlation procedure studied the interaction between the variables tested., Results: Group I included 28 patients. Mean preoperative MLD was 757 µ m. Mean preoperative BCVA was approximately 20/320. Group II included 12 patients. Mean preoperative MLD was 529.5 µ m. Mean preoperative BCVA was 20/320. Group I had a macular hole closure rate of 75% versus 92% in group II P =0.05. Mean BCVA improvement was 2.5 lines in group I versus 5 lines in group II P =0.02. Disrupted ELM and IS/OS was the most salient finding in both groups., Conclusion: IFT has a significantly superior anatomic and functional outcome compared to ILM peel in traumatic FTMH.

Objective: To report and analyze the phenomenon of sticky silicone oil on the retina at the time of its removal., Background: Silicone oil has been used for more than 25 years as a long-term retinal tamponade in the surgical management of patients with complex retinal detachments. When a decision to remove silicone oil was made at the end of the tamponade period, the system involved a number of different materials: silicone oil, aqueous solution with or without remnants of perfluorocarbon liquid plus the material of the cannula used to aspirate Silicone oil. This, in effect, may lead to an abnormal adherence of large bubbles of residual silicone oil to the posterior pole of the retina., Patients and Methods: A retrospective, interventional case study was performed. We consecutively reviewed 796 patients of silicone oil removal (5,000 or 5,500 centistokes) after primary pars plana vitrectomy at one vitreoretinal center operated by a single surgeon (HG). Chart review was performed to identify potential patients or procedural factors that could predispose to sticky silicone oil formation at the macular area., Results: Large silicone oil bubbles were sticky to the macula in eight out of 796 silicone oil removal procedures between January 2014 and August 2015. The use of perfluorooctane was related to the occurrence of the phenomenon (P < 0.001)., Conclusion: The sticky silicone oil bubble at the macular region was not related to internal limiting membrane peeling, epiretinal membrane, viscosity, duration, or brand of silicone oil used, but to the use of perfluorooctane.

Background and Objective: To evaluate the feasibility and safety of silicone oil (SO) removal in cases of gunshot perforating eye injuries (PEI)., Patients and Methods: A retrospective, consecutive, interventional study from medical records regarding cases of gunshot PEI during the periods of Egyptian political instability (January 2011 until December 2013). The main outcomes were to evaluate the feasibility of SO removal in cases of gunshot PEI and management of retinal detachment (RD) after SO removal in such cases., Results: One hundred ninety-six eyes of 193 patients were reviewed. SO was removed in 72 eyes of 70 patients (36.7%). After SO removal, five eyes (6.9%) developed RD. One case refused any other intervention. RD in the remaining four cases was treated with revision surgery and SO reinjection. The retina remained stable throughout follow-up. None of the eyes developed phthisis bulbi after SO removal. Mean follow-up after SO removal was 10.86 months (range: 3 months to 30 months). Mean follow-up after management of RD after SO removal was 17.7 months (range: 13 months to 21 months)., Conclusions: Patients aged younger than 20 years were associated with extensive fibrous proliferation, which might affect the safety profile of SO removal in cases of gunshot PEI. Rate of RD after SO removal in cases of apparent retinal stability and localized fibrous proliferation was 6.9%. Retinal detachment after SO removal in such cases can be treated with revision surgery and SO reinjection. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina. 2017;48:242-250.]., (Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.)

Purpose: To report the results of pars plana vitrectomy with adjuvant intravitreal amphotericin B and systemic fluconazole in the management of endogenous endophthalmitis after the urinary tract procedures., Methods: Retrospective study of 10 eyes of 7 patients diagnosed as endogenous fungal endophthalmitis. Pars planavitrectomy with adjuvant intravitreal amphotericin B and oral fluconazole was conducted once the general condition is suitable. The final anatomical and functional results were evaluated., Results: Ten eyes of seven patients, five men and two women had pars plana vitrectomy. Control of infection was achieved in all cases. Visual acuity improved in 7 eyes (70%), remained the same in 2 eyes (20%), and worsened in 1 eye (10%). The retina was flat in all cases. No eye developed phthisis bulbi., Conclusion: In cases of fungal endophthalmitis, after urinary tract procedures, the prevention of phthisis bulbi can be achieved in all cases. Improvement of vision can be achieved in most of the cases. The final visual status depends on visual acuity at presentation, macular affection, and the presence of retinal detachment at presentation.

Background: Silicone oil (SO) is used as an intravitreal tamponade agent in vitreoretinal surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) complicated by proliferative vitreoretinopathy or with large, multiple retinal tears. Usually, SO is left in the eye for at least 3 months. Although its use can lead to well-known complications, intraocular SO is generally well tolerated. Some studies have reported unexpected central vision loss after SO use or removal., Objective: To investigate and analyze the reason for visual loss after the use or removal of intraocular SO in patients who underwent vitrectomy surgeries for RRD., Patients and Methods: A retrospective observational case series of 12 patients with macula-on RRD who reported visual loss after the use or removal of SO was reviewed. Investigations carried out included fundus fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography (OCT) of the macula and optic disc, perimetry, and electrophysiological study. Electrolyte levels were measured in retro-oil fluid and compared with their levels in the vitreous humor of patients who underwent vitrectomy for macular holes, floaters, dropped intraocular lenses, or dropped crystalline lens fragments., Results: Visual acuity levels dropped by at least 2 Snellen chart lines. None of the 12 cases had macular detachment at any stage. Fundus fluorescein angiography and OCT results were unremarkable in most of the cases. Mean levels of electrolytes in retro-oil fluids and vitreous humor were similar., Conclusion: Visual loss is a possible complication after SO use or removal. This still remains a mysterious issue which needs further research and investigation., (© 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.)

Purpose: To evaluate whether omitting the use of the 360° episcleral band in combination with pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil tamponade had an effect on either anatomical or functional success in cases of perforating eye injury due to gunshot., Methods: A retrospective consecutive interventional study from medical records. Surgeries were performed in the period from January 2011 until the end of December 2013. Patients with perforating eye injury due to gunshots were treated with pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil tamponade with or without the addition of a 360° scleral band., Results: Two hundred and thirteen eyes of 210 patients were reviewed of which 17 patients were excluded, 5 patients because the vision had no light perception and 12 patients because of the short follow-up period (less than 6 months). The remaining 196 eyes of 193 patients were analyzed. All surgeries were performed by 1 surgeon. The included eyes have been classified into 2 groups; 101 eyes in the first group (360° band was used), and 95 eyes in the second group (without 360° band). The included patients were followed up at least 6 months after the last surgery. By first surgery, anatomical success was achieved in 93 eyes (92.08%) in Group 1, and retinal detachment developed in 8 eyes (7.92%). In Group 2 anatomical success was achieved in 91 eyes (95.78%), and retinal detachment developed in 4 eyes (4.21%). All cases with retinal detachment were reattached by second surgery. In the first group, visual acuity improved in 80 eyes (79.2%), unchanged in 14 eyes (13.86%), and was less than that of preoperative value in 7 eyes (6.93%). In the second group visual acuity improved in 78 eyes (82.1%), unchanged in 13 eyes (13.68%) and less than that of preoperative value in 4 eyes (4.21%). No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (P = 0.943) in anatomical or functional results. None of the operated eyes developed phthisis bulbi., Conclusion: The abundant use of the 360° scleral band in combination with pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil tamponade did not change the anatomical or the functional outcomes in the management of perforating eye injury due to gunshots.

The aim of this study is to report the difference in either anatomical or functional outcome of vitreoretinal intervention in cases of gunshot perforating eye injury if done 2-4 weeks or after the 4th week after the original trauma. Patients were treated with pars plana vitrectomy and silicon oil. Surgeries were performed in the period from February 2011 until the end of December 2014. 253 eyes of 237 patients were reviewed. 46 eyes were excluded. 207 eyes of 197 patients were analyzed. The included eyes were classified based on the timing of vitrectomy in relation to the initial trauma into two groups: 149 eyes (the first group) operated on between the 3rd and the 4th week and 58 eyes (the second group) operated on after the 4th week after the trauma. Following one surgical intervention, in the first group, attached retina was achieved in 93.28% of patients. In the second group, attached retina was achieved in 96.55% of patients. All RD cases could be attached by a second surgery. Visual acuity improved in 81.21% of patients, did not change in 15.43% of patients, and declined in 3.35% of patients. In the second group, visual acuity improved in 81.03% of patients, did not change in 12.06% of patients, and worsened in 6.89% of patients. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in either anatomical or functional results. We recommend interfering before the 5th week after the trauma as retinal detachment is encountered more in cases operated on after the 4th week. The visual outcome depends on the site of entry and exit (the route of gunshot).

Purpose: To report the effect of 360° scleral band in combination with pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) and silicone oil tamponade on the anatomical success and on the closure of macular hole (MH) in cases of myopic macular hole retinal detachment., Methods: A retrospective consecutive interventional study from medical records on patients who had pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil. with or without 360° scleral band for the treatment of retinal detachment associated with MH. The cases were operated in the period from February 2006 to May 2012. The included cases were classified into two groups: the first group with scleral band and the second group without scleral band. The primary anatomical success and optical coherence tomography patterns of MH closure were the main outcomes., Results: After the first procedure, the overall success rate was 90.6% (in both groups). In 9.4%, there was recurrent retinal detachment. In the first group the success rate was 89.5%, and in 10.5% there was recurrent retinal detachment. In the second group 92.5% was success and 7.5% was recurrent retinal detachment. After the second interference, the success rate was 98.4% in both groups. Closure of MH was achieved in 45.2% in both groups. In the first group, there was closure of MH in 43.5%, while in 47.8% the hole remained open flat, in 4.3% the hole closed partially and in 4.3% there was macular scar. In the second group, MH closure was achieved in 47.4%, whereas in 52.6% the hole was open flat., Conclusion: The use of 360° band in combination with pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil offered no additional effect on either the anatomical success or the rate of MH closure in the management of myopic macular hole retinal detachment. Four patterns of MH were reported closed MH, partial thickness MH, open flat MH, and macular scar.

Purpose. To evaluate the efficacy of silicone oil (S.O) reinjection without macular buckling for treatment of recurrent myopic macular hole retinal detachment (MHRD) after silicone oil removal. Methods. A retrospective consecutive interventional study from medical reports on cases of myopic MHRD. Fifty-three eyes of 51 patients underwent silicone oil removal after successful repair of MHRD were reviewed. The main outcomes were the retinal status after silicone oil removal and management of recurrent cases. Results. The rate of recurrent RD (Re RD) after silicone oil removal was 11.3% (6 out of 53 eyes). One case refused any other interference. In the remaining 5 eyes, 4 eyes (80%) could be reattached by S.O re-injection and one eye (20%) developed Re RD after S.O re-injection. Range of followup after management of recurrence was 5-53 months (mean 18.7 months). Conclusions. This case series concluded that the risk factors for recurrent RD after silicone oil removal from cases of myopic MHRD were high myopia, open flat MH, and large posterior staphyloma. Revision of vitrectomy and S.O re-injection can reattach most of recurrent cases.

Purpose: To evaluate the problems and accuracy of biometry in eyes that have been operated on by silicone oil removal combined with cataract extraction with or without intraocular lens implantation., Subjects and Methods: Twenty-nine consecutive cases that have been operated on for silicone oil removal and cataract, with or without intraocular lens implantation, were included in a prospective study. Axial length measurement was done in silicone oil-filled eyes after changing the sound speed in vitreous cavity to 987 m/sec. The SRKT formula was used for intraocular lens calculation. The cataract was removed by phacoemulsification through corneal section or phacofragmentation through the standard vitrectomy sclerotomy. Intraocular lens implantation was done either on the peripheral anterior capsule (single piece, PMMA) or in the bag (acrylic foldable three pieces). The final refraction after at least 3 months' follow-up was measured. The difference between the predicted and the actual refraction was evaluated. A control group of 30 consecutive cases (20 nonmyopic and 10 highly myopic) of cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation in eyes not filled with silicone oil was included using the same evaluation methods., Results: The mean deviation of the final from the predicted refraction was 1.87 +/- 2.11 diopters (range, +3.25 to -9 diopters). A total of 72.4% had a deviation of +/-2 diopters. The mean deviation in high myopia was 3.04 +/- 2.68 diopters (12 cases) (range, +/-1.75 to -9 diopters), while in nonmyopic patients, the mean deviation was 1.04 +/- 1.04 diopters (17 cases) (range, +3.25 to -3.25 diopters). The difference between highly myopic and nonmyopic eyes was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Most high errors occurred in highly myopic eyes. There was no statistical difference between the types of silicone oil (1000 versus 5000) or the mode of cataract extraction (phacoemulsification versus pars plana phacofragmentation). In the control group, the mean deviation in high myopia was 1.48 +/- 1.02 diopters (10 cases) (range, +/-0.5 to -3.5 diopters), while in nonmyopic patients, the mean deviation was 0.65 +/- 0.75 diopters (20 cases) (range, +2.75 to -1.75 diopters). The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05)., Conclusion: Intraocular lens calculation in silicone oil-filled eyes is accurate in eyes that are not highly myopic. Some highly myopic eyes with posterior staphyloma have great deviation. Unsuitable formula, artifacts, or large eyes beyond the machine range may be the cause of errors of deviation of refraction. Comparable results are obtained in eyes regardless of the type of silicone oil (1000 or 5000) and techniques of intraocular lens implantation (in the sulcus or in the bag).

Purpose: To evaluate the role and the results of primary vitrectomy in treating cases with coexisting rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and choroidal detachment., Methods: Eleven consecutive eyes with coexisting rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and choroidal detachment with proliferative vitreoretinopathy less than grade C were included. Release of traction on the breaks was achieved by vitrectomy and augmented by episcleral buckle if needed. Perfluorocarbon liquids were used to drain the subretinal fluid through the vitrectomy sclerotomies. The breaks were treated by endolaser under perfluorocarbon liquids. Postoperative tamponade was done by C3F8 gas or silicone oil. Cases were followed up for at least 3 months., Results: Retinal reattachment could be achieved and maintained in all cases by one or more surgeries. No recurrence of choroidal detachment has occurred. In each case, choroidal detachment was drained through the sclerotomies and retinal detachment was repaired., Conclusion: Primary vitrectomy represents an effective line in the management of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment with coexisting choroidal detachment in phakic or nonphakic eyes., Summary: Primary vitrectomy is recommended for the management of choroidal detachment associated with retinal detachment.

Objective: To study the risk factors, management, and end results of suprachoroidal hemorrhage that occur during or after vitrectomy., Materials and Methods: This retrospective study involves patients suffering from this complication either during the curing process or immediately after vitrectomy. Preoperative risk factors, operative management, postoperative picture, and end results are reported., Results: During the study period, surgery was performed on 3342 patients with primary vitrectomy. Complications were experienced by 4 patients: 2 occurred near the end of vitrectomy, and 2 in the first postoperative day. The 4 patients were myopic more than 7 diopters, 2 were pseudophakic and 2 were aphakic. Cryopexy was used to treat the retinal breaks in the operative cases. Perfluorophenanthrene was used as a postoperative tamponade in one operative case. Reoperation was done in the 4 patients 3 to 8 weeks after surgery. Silicone oil was used as a prolonged tamponade in all cases. Hypotony persisted in operative cases. All the patients had vision more than 20/400 at the end of follow-up (6 to 24 months)., Conclusion: The risk factors for suprachoroidal hemorrhage were old age, high myopia, aphakia or pseudophakia, retinal detachment, and scleral buckle. Postoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhage has a better prognosis than the operative type. Perfluorophenanthrene "vitreon" as an operative and postoperative tamponade has a beneficial effect in keeping the retina attached and in preventing pooling of blood under the macula.