Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, PPV was performed in 24 eyes of 22 patients with idiopathic macular ERM. ERMs were removed with ILM using indocyanine green to assist visualization. Main outcome measures were visual acuity, intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Results: Mean follow-up was 6.3 months (3-12 months). Preoperative visual acuity was between counting fingers at 3 meters and 5/10; whereas, postoperative visual acuity was between counting fingers at 4 meters and 10/10. LogMAR visual acuity was 0.61±0.31 preoperatively and 0.40±0.33 postoperatively (p=0.016). Visual acuity improved by at least 2 lines in 12 eyes (50%) and decreased in none of the eyes. Progression of nuclear sclerosis in 6 eyes (25%), transient increase of intraocular pressure controlled by topical anti-glaucomatous medication in 4 eyes (16.7%) and flat retinal tear in 1 eye (4%) were observed postoperatively. There was no recurrence of the ERM.

Conclusions: ERM removal with ILM peeling was observed to be effective and safe in eyes with idiopathic macular ERM. This technique appears to decrease recurrence of ERM.

Keywords : Idiopathic macular epiretinal membrane, pars plana vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane.