Intraoperative OCT enhances decision making in uveitis-related vitreoretinal surgery

This prospective case series evaluates the feasibility and usefulness of intraoperative OCT for uveitis-related vitreoretinal surgeries.

Study design

The authors describe 74 eyes with uveitis that consecutively underwent vitreoretinal surgery at a tertiary referral center. The paper describes the influence of intraoperative OCT on surgical decision making.

Outcomes

Intraoperative OCT was helpful for in the management of uveitic retinal disease in several instances. Information derived from OCT helped inform clinical decisions in 84.6% of patients receiving fluocinolone acetonide implant placement, 81.2% of patients undergoing chorioretinal biopsies and nearly 75% of patients receiving retinal detachment repairs. For subretinal/chorioretinal biopsies and retinal detachment repairs, intraoperative OCT altered surgical decision-making in 38% and 48% of patients, respectively.

Limitations

This is a study from a tertiary referral center, so the complexity of cases may differ in a less specialized practice.

Clinical significance

Intraoperative OCT may influence surgical decision making in uveitic cases, especially when surgical biopsies and retinal detachment repair is planned. In terms of clinical practice, this may mean more informed decision making in the operating room, which has the potential to improve outcomes.