Translocation of the retina for management of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization - I: Experimental studies in the rabbit eye

PURPOSE: To report a surgical method for retinal translocation as a potential treatment for eyes with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization. METHODS: Thirty right eyes of 30 pigmented rabbits were used for this study. The first 15 were used to develop the technique. The complete surgical technique for retinal translocation was performed in the last consecutive 15 rabbits. Intravitreal injection of sulfur hexafluoride was performed to compress and liquefy the vitreous. Two weeks later, we used transscleral subretinal hydro-dissection to create a retinal detachment. A scleral resection was then performed near the equator in the superotemporal quadrant. Fundus photographs were taken to record the retinal status before, immediately after, and 1, 3, and 7 days after surgery. Electroretinography was performed in three rabbits 3, 7, and 14 days after retinal translocation. Histologic studies were performed in one rabbit 7 days after retinal translocation. RESULTS: Our results are based on experiments performed in the last consecutive 15 rabbits. One day after surgery, retinal reattachment was ob served in 14 of the 15 animals. The remaining animal developed endophthalmitis. A predictable retinal translocation of about 1,000 mu m was achieved. Retinal tears were noted on the retinal folds in four cases after 1 week. Electroretino-graphic studies showed transient reduction in retinal function. Mild morphologic damage to the outer retinal layers was seen histologically. Retinal detachment or proliferative vitreoretinopathy did not develop in any rabbit in the 14 days of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Limited retinal translocation with repositioning of the central retina was accomplished in rabbits. (C) 1998 by Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.