[Comparative investigation of the etiology of visual field defects after epimacular surgery].
BACKGROUND: Sectorial visual field defects after macular hole surgery were described by several authors. The intraocular gas tamponade is discussed to be a possible causative factor for this complication. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Goldmann perimetry and threshold perimetry were performed preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively in 48 patients who underwent epimacular surgery because of macular pucker (23 eyes) or macular holes stage II - IV (25 eyes). Laser polarimetry was performed additionally using the Nerve Fiber Analyzer. The results were compared quantitatively. In all cases an epimacular membrane was peeled off. Eyes with macular holes underwent fluid-gas exchange with SF 6 without drying up the retina completely. RESULTS: No patient showed a sectorial visual field defect. The quantitative comparison of visual field examinations did not prove a difference between both groups. CONCLUSIONS: We could not detect any impairing influence of the intraocular gas tamponade in our patients. Without complete desiccation of the vitreous cavity, visual field defects after macular hole surgery are unlikely.