12th Vitreoretinal Symposium Frankfurt – Marburg 2009

Scientific programm: Abstract

2nd scientific session: (Core) PPV

11. The Expanding Role of the Vitreous Gel in Retinal Disease

Nancy M. Holekamp (St. Louis)

The vitreous gel was recently found to have the important biophysical property of being able to consume oxygen. Because oxygen is a potent regulator of VEGF, this gives the vitreous gel a role in some retinal diseases. Specifically, the surgical removal of the vitreous gel will increase intraocular oxygen long-term, thereby providing a sustained anti-VEGF effect. In addition, PVD will similarly increase intraocular oxygen. Thus, vitrectomy and PVD will have a beneficial effect on VEGF-mediated diseases such as exudative AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vein occlusion.