Vitrectomy with arteriotomy and neurotomy in retinal artery occlusion – A case series

PURPOSE: This study aimed to investigate the visual outcomes and anatomical changes after vitrectomy for retinal artery occlusion. METHODS: Twelve patients with retinal artery occlusion (11 central retinal artery occlusion and 1 branch retinal artery occlusion) were part of this study. Our patients were treated with vitrectomy with arteriotomy or with neurotomy and arteriotomy. Complete ophthalmic examination was performed preoperatively, at 2 weeks, and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after surgery. RESULTS: The mean preoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 1.94 logMAR, and the final BCVA after 12-months follow-up was 2.04 logMAR. After vitrectomy with arteriotomy, the BCVA in patients treated with neurotomy and arteriotomy was 1.65 and 2.45, respectively (P = 0.038). CONCLUSION: No benefits have been achieved from using vitrectomy in retinal artery occlusion cases.