Limited macular translocation for the management of subfoveal choroidal neovascularization after photodynamic therapy.

PURPOSE: To report our initial experience of limited macular translocation in patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration following photodynamic therapy with verteporfin.

DESIGN: Interventional case series.

METHODS: Retrospective review of four eyes of four consecutive patients with subfoveal choroidal neovascularization secondary to age-related macular degeneration who underwent effective limited macular translocation following photodynamic therapy. The mean logarithm of minimal angle of resolution preoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 20/190 (range, 20/150 to 20/200), and in all eyes the visual acuity was 20/150 or worse. The major outcome measures were postoperative visual acuity and complications related to the surgery.

RESULTS: The mean postoperative follow-up was 6.75 months (range, 6-8 months). Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity improved by 2 or more Snellen lines of visual acuity in three of four eyes (75%) and remained within 1 line in one of four eyes (25%). The mean postoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 20/100 (range, 20/40 to 20/150), and in two of the four eyes (50%) the visual acuity achieved was 20/100 or better. No complication was observed.

CONCLUSIONS: Limited macular translocation may be a viable option in patients who have previously undergone photodynamic therapy.