What is an Epiretinal Membrane?

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An Epiretinal Membranes is a growth of tissue along the retinal surface. This layer of tissue can wrinkle and distort the center of vison, the macula. This wrinkling of the macula is also called a “macular pucker”.

 

Who gets an Epiretinal Membrane?

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Epiretinal Membranes can occur spontaneously, and there is no particular high-risk group. However, people who have had torn retinas, bleeding in their eyes or significant trauma do seem to have a higher incidence of Epiretinal Membrane development.

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How is an Epiretinal Membrane removed?

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Retinal surgery known as a vitrectomy is indicated to remove an Epiretinal Membrane. Vitrectomy is performed as an outpatient under local anesthesia, and recovery is usually relatively simple, but depends upon the severity of the membrane and any associated issues.

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Does every Epiretinal Membrane need to be removed?

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No. Surgery is performed for Epiretinal Membrane disease when it interferes with a person’s vision. This may be noted as reduced sharpness of vision or distortion of vision. Sometimes the ophthalmologist will detect impending issues that may worsen if an epiretinal membrane is not removed early enough.