Epiretinal Membrane
A thin membrane of scar tissue can sometimes form on the surface of the retina, and it has various names including macular pucker, cellophane retinopathy, and epiretinal membrane. The scar tissue forms as a result of the migration of cells that originate from the retina, usually associated with a separation of the vitreous gel from the retina.
Over time, the contracting scar tissue can lead to wrinkling of the retinal surface resulting in blurred and distorted central vision. An epiretinal membrane can be surgically removed leading to a good chance of visual recovery.
Treatments
Vitrectomy with Membrane Peeling is indicated if the patient is having distorted or blurred vision that is impacting what they want or need to do in their daily life. Vitrectomy surgery is a hospital based outpatient procedure that usually takes from 60-90 minutes depending on the procedures needed. Your total time at the hospital is usually 4-5 hours between check-in and discharge after surgery.
What to expect
Your Physician will discuss the surgical procedure and post-op recovery. After surgery you will leave the hospital with an eyepatch and shield over the surgical eye. You will also have 3-6 different types of prescription eye drops that will start the next morning after you remove the eyepatch and shield. You would be able to return home after the procedure if you live locally or stay overnight in a local hotel. Your Physician will see you the day after surgery. Normally the post-operative follow up exams fall at: 1 Day, 1 Week, 3 Weeks, 6 Weeks, and 3 Months following surgery.
Video
