RESUMO
PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness in in-traocular pressure reduction and safety of micropulse trans-scleral diode cyclophotocoagulation in refractory glaucoma. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated a case series of 21 eyes of 21 consecutive patients with refractory glaucoma treated with micropulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation at 12-month follow-up. The total treatment time was at the discretion of the surgeon, considering baseline and target intraocular pressure and glaucoma diagnosis. Intraocular pressure, inflammation, visual acuity, and number of medications were monitored. Success was defined as intraocular pressure between 6 and 21 mmHg and/or 30% reduction from baseline intraocular pressure with or without the use of antiglaucoma medications. Visual acuity loss was defined as a loss of ≥2 lines of vision on the Snellen chart or a ≥2-level decrease in visual function in patients with nonmeasurable chart acuity. RESULTS: The mean age was 61.04 ± 12.99 years, and 11 (52.4%) patients were male, with most (95%) patients showing low visual acuity at baseline (count fingers or worse). The mean intraocular pressure was 33.38 ± 15.95 mmHg, and the mean number of medications was 3.5 ± 1.1 at baseline. After 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, 76.19%, 57.14%, 55.56%, and 66.67%, respectively, of the patients were classified as treatment successes. Seven (33.3%) patients required new laser treatment and were considered treatment failures. The mean intraocular pressure reduction was 44.72% ± 29.72% in the first week and 41.59% ± 18.93% at the end of follow-up (p=0.006). The mean number of medications significantly dropped to 2.00 ± 1.7 at the 12-month visit (p=0.044). Complications included hypotony (4.8%), intraocular inflammation after 1 month (19%), and visual acuity loss (4.8%). CONCLUSIONS: Micropulse transscleral diode cyclophotocoagulation was safe and effective for reducing intraocular pressure in eyes with refractory and advanced glaucoma, with reduced need for ocular antihypertensive medication.
Assuntos
Glaucoma/cirurgia , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Adulto , Idoso , Corpo Ciliar/fisiopatologia , Corpo Ciliar/cirurgia , Feminino , Glaucoma/fisiopatologia , Glaucoma Neovascular/cirurgia , Humanos , Pressão Intraocular , Fotocoagulação a Laser/métodos , Fotocoagulação/instrumentação , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Estudos Prospectivos , Acuidade VisualRESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To identify the proportion of eyes with recurrence of diabetic macular edema, six months after focal photocoagulation. METHOD: Non-experimental, analytical, cross-sectional and prospective study in patients with diabetic macular edema treated with focal photocoagulation. The proportion and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) of eyes with recurrence of edema were identified; the distribution of anatomical variables and visual acuity was compared between eyes with and without recurrence, using Mann-Whitney's U. RESULTS: 145 eyes were evaluated, and only 10 (95%CI: 2.8-11) had a recurrence. Center point thickness and center field thickness means were higher in eyes with recurrence than in eyes without it, but the difference of change mean betwwen groups was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: The proportion of recurrent diabetic macular edema recurrence six months after successful focal photocoagulation was lower than the one reported for other treatments of diabetic macular edema, and by recent studies that used photocoagulation.
OBJETIVO: Identificar la proporción de ojos que presentan recurrencia del edema macular diabético a los 6 meses de la fotocoagulación focal. MÉTODO: Estudio observacional, analítico, transversal y prospectivo, en pacientes con edema macular diabético tratados con fotocoagulación focal. Se identificaron la proporción y los intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC 95%) en los ojos que presentaron recurrencia, y se compararon las medianas de las variables anatómicas y la agudeza visual mediante U de Mann-Whitney. RESULTADOS: Se evaluaron 145 ojos y solo 10 (IC 95%: 2.8-11) presentaron recurrencia del edema macular diabético. Los promedios de grosor del punto central y del campo central fueron mayores en los ojos con recurrencia, pero la diferencia de promedio de cambio entre grupos no fue significativa. CONCLUSIÓN: La proporción de recurrencia del edema macular 6 meses después de la fotocoagulación focal es menor que la reportada para otros tratamientos de esta enfermedad y menor también que en otros estudios en los que se utilizó fotocoagulación.
Assuntos
Retinopatia Diabética/cirurgia , Fotocoagulação , Edema Macular/cirurgia , Adulto , Idoso , Idoso de 80 Anos ou mais , Estudos Transversais , Feminino , Humanos , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Edema Macular/epidemiologia , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Estudos Prospectivos , Recidiva , Fatores de TempoRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the third largest cause of blindness worldwide, accounting for 8.7% of all cases. A considerable number of preventive or therapeutic interventions have been used for AMD. OBJECTIVE: This study presents a critical view of the interventions that have been assessed through Cochrane systematic reviews. DESIGN AND SETTING: Review of systematic reviews, conducted in the Discipline of Evidence-Based Medicine, Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM), Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). METHODS: Review of Cochrane systematic reviews about interventions for AMD. RESULTS: The 18 systematic reviews included assessed the effects of surgical techniques, laser/photo/radiotherapy, intravitreal injections, systemic drugs and phytotherapy/vitamins/supplements. CONCLUSION: The Cochrane systematic reviews found evidence that use of bevacizumab, ranibizumab, pegaptanib, laser photocoagulation, photodynamic therapy and multivitamin compounds may present some benefits for treating AMD. There was insufficient evidence for supporting the use of macular translocation, submacular surgery, steroid implantation, radiotherapy, intravitreal aflibercept, interferon alfa, statins or omega-3 fatty acids for treating AMD; or the use of multivitamin antioxidant vitamins or mineral supplementation for preventing AMD. Future randomized controlled trials are imperative to reduce the uncertainty in several clinical questions regarding AMD.
Assuntos
Medicina Baseada em Evidências , Degeneração Macular/terapia , Humanos , Injeções Intravítreas/métodos , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Degeneração Macular/prevenção & controle , Degeneração Macular/cirurgia , Radioterapia/métodos , Literatura de Revisão como Assunto , Revisões Sistemáticas como AssuntoRESUMO
Introdução: As patologias vasculares acometem com alta incidência as regiões de cabeça e pescoço. Quando essas acometem a região oral, nota-se predileção por lábios, língua e comissura bucal, com predominância no sexo feminino. Objetivo: Analisar sobre as lesões vasculares orais, enfatizando as características clínicas, métodos de diagnósticos e abordagem terapêutica. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão literária, com busca bibliográfica, realizada nas bases de dados eletrônicos PubMED/Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct e SciELO (Scientific Eletronic Library), utilizando os descritores: Hemangioma, Malformações vasculares, escleroterapia e fotocoagulação, em português, inglês e espanhol, obtendo 262 artigos completos, dos quais 18 foram utilizados como base científica apropriada para tal tema, obedecendo aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados: As lesões vasculares orais caracterizam-se clinicamente como lesões únicas do tipo nódular ou mancha, cuja coloração varia do vermelho intenso ao roxo e de tamanho variável. Para diagnosticar essas lesões, utilizam-se comumente exames clínicos associados à diascopia, sem na maioria dos casos necessitarem de exames complementares. A intervenção terapêutica justifica-se devido às deformidades estéticas, possíveis sangramentos, ulcerações e infecções. Para tais alterações, existem diversas modalidades terapêuticas, incluindo escleroterapia, crioterapia, remoção cirúrgica e terapia de fotocoagulação a laser. Conclusão: As lesões vasculares orais exibem caracteristicas clinicas peculiares, apresentando-se como nódulos ou manchas, cuja coloração varia do vermelho intenso ao roxo. A diascopia é a manobra semiotécnica mais utilizada e confiável para o estabelecimento do diagnóstico clínico dessas lesões. A utilização de soluções esclerosantes apresenta-se como o tratamento mais descrito na literatura, seguido da fotocoagulação a laser(AU)
Introducción: Las enfermedades vasculares afectan con alta incidencia las regiones de cabeza y cuello. Cuando estas afectan la región bucal, se nota predilección por labios, lengua y comisura bucal, con predominio en el sexo femenino. Objetivo: Analizar sobre las lesiones vasculares bucales, enfatizando en las características clínicas, los métodos de diagnóstico y el enfoque terapéutico. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica en las bases de datos PubMED/Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct e SciELO. Se utilizaron los descriptores hemangioma, malformaciones vasculares, escleroterapia y fotocoagulación, en portugués, inglés y español. Se obtuvieron 262 artículos completos, de los cuales 18 fueron utilizados como base científica apropiada para tal tema, según los criterios de inclusión y exclusión. Resultados: Las lesiones vasculares bucales se caracterizan clínicamente como lesiones únicas del tipo nódular o mancha, cuya coloración varía del rojo intenso al púrpura y de tamaño variable. Para diagnosticar estas lesiones, se utilizan comúnmente exámenes clínicos asociados a la diascopia, sin que en la mayoría de los casos necesiten exámenes complementarios. La intervención terapéutica se justifica debido a las deformidades estéticas, posibles sangrados, ulceraciones e infecciones. Para estas alteraciones existen diversas modalidades terapéuticas, incluyendo escleroterapia, crioterapia, remoción quirúrgica y terapia de fotocoagulación láser. Conclusiones: Las lesiones vasculares bucales muestran características clínicas peculiares, presentándose como nódulos o manchas, cuya coloración varía del rojo intenso al púrpura. La diacopia es la maniobra semiotécnica más utilizada y confiable para el establecimiento del diagnóstico clínico de estas lesiones. El uso de soluciones claras se presenta como el tratamiento más descrito en la literatura, seguido de la fotocoagulación láser(AU)
Introduction: Vascular disorders affect the head and neck regions with high incidence. When they affect the oral region, there is a predilection for lips, tongue and mouth commissure, predominantly in the female. Objective: To analyze oral vascular lesions, emphasizing the clinical characteristics, diagnostic methods and therapeutic approach. Methods: A bibliographic review was carried out in the databases PubMED/Medline, Lilacs, Science Direct andSciELO (Scientific Electronic Library). We used the descriptors hemangioma, vascular malformations, sclerotherapy and photocoagulation, in Portuguese, English and Spanish. We obtained 262 complete articles, of which 18 were used as appropriate scientific basis for this topic, based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Oral vascular lesions are clinically characterized as single lesions of the nodes or blotches, whose color varies from deep red to purple and are of variable size. In order to diagnose these lesions, clinical examinations associated with the periodontal disease are commonly used, although in most cases they do not require complementary examinations. The therapeutic intervention is justified due to aesthetic deformities, possible bleeding, ulcerations and infections. For such changes, there are several therapeutic modalities, including sclerotherapy, cryotherapy, surgical removal and laser photocoagulation therapy. Conclusions: Oral vascular lesions show peculiar clinical characteristics, presenting as nodules or spots, whose coloration varies from intense red to purple. Diascopy is the most used and reliable semi-technical method for establishing the clinical diagnosis of these lesions. The use of sclerosing solutions is the most described treatment in the literature, followed by laser photocoagulation(AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Feminino , Literatura de Revisão como Assunto , Malformações Vasculares/epidemiologia , Hemangioma/classificação , Doenças da Boca/diagnóstico , Escleroterapia/efeitos adversos , Bases de Dados Bibliográficas/estatística & dados numéricos , Fotocoagulação/métodosRESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To describe the implementation of a diabetic retinopathy referral network incorporating all levels of health care in La Libertad region, Peru. METHOD: The nongovernmental organization Orbis International and the Regional Institute of Ophthalmology established a network of primary, secondary and tertiary health-care facilities for diabetic retinopathy screening and treatment. The programme included the provision of three non-mydriatic retinal cameras for patient examination, the development of a flowchart to guide patient referrals, training of health personnel, investment in laser technology for treatment and the delivery of public awareness activities for blindness prevention and the need for timely screening. FINDINGS: From 2014-2017, 11 849 patients with diabetes were screened within the diabetic retinopathy referral network. In primary-care centres, 6012 patients with diabetes mellitus were identified and 5632 patients were referred for diabetic retinopathy screening. A further 4036 patients directly attended two secondary-level hospitals and 2181 attended the tertiary-level hospital for screening. This represented a 138.1% increase in diabetic retinopathy screenings from a baseline of 4977 patients screened at the regional institute of ophthalmology over 2010-2013. A total of 2922 patients (24.7%) were found to have diabetic retinopathy and 923 (31.6%) were treated: 508 with laser photocoagulation, 345 with intravitreal bevacizumab and 70 with vitreoretinal surgery. CONCLUSION: Effective and timely treatment for diabetic retinopathy is possible when patient education, screening and care are fully integrated into the general health-care system across primary-, secondary- and tertiary-level facilities. This requires the integration of professionals at all levels and all relevant specialties.
Assuntos
Retinopatia Diabética/diagnóstico , Retinopatia Diabética/terapia , Programas de Rastreamento/organização & administração , Encaminhamento e Consulta/organização & administração , Inibidores da Angiogênese/uso terapêutico , Bevacizumab/uso terapêutico , Cegueira/prevenção & controle , Custos e Análise de Custo , Técnicas de Diagnóstico Oftalmológico , Feminino , Educação em Saúde/organização & administração , Humanos , Capacitação em Serviço/organização & administração , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , PeruRESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To report the results using Micropulse® transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (Iridex) in the treatment of glaucoma. METHODS: Retrospective study in adult patients with glaucoma with at least 6 months of follow-up, and only one session of Micropulse®. The same surgical technique was used in all cases. The only laser parameter that could vary was the total treatment duration (in seconds). The remaining parameters were fixed at 2 Watts of power and 0.5ms (31.3%) of active cycle. RESULTS: A total of 22 eyes of 17 patients with glaucoma of various types and stages were included (mainly congenital and pseudoexfoliation). The mean follow-up time was 7.9 months. The total treatment duration varied from 100 to 180seconds. Definition of success: 5mmHg Assuntos
Glaucoma/terapia
, Lasers Semicondutores/uso terapêutico
, Fotocoagulação/métodos
, Adolescente
, Adulto
, Idoso
, Idoso de 80 Anos ou mais
, Criança
, Feminino
, Seguimentos
, Humanos
, Fotocoagulação/instrumentação
, Masculino
, Pessoa de Meia-Idade
, Estudos Retrospectivos
, Adulto Jovem
RESUMO
Spontaneous vitreous hemorrhage is a rare entity, present in 7 out of 100,000 inhabitants. It is associated with different pathologies; however, it is rarely reported to be caused by retinal vessel avulsion syndrome. In the present manuscript, we report a case of avulsion of retinal vessels associated with recurrent vitreous hemorrhage managed, at first, by photocoagulation, but due to the several recurrence of bleeding, the patient went into surgical management.
Assuntos
Fotocoagulação/métodos , Perfurações Retinianas/complicações , Vasos Retinianos/diagnóstico por imagem , Hemorragia Vítrea/etiologia , Feminino , Humanos , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Recidiva , Perfurações Retinianas/diagnóstico , Perfurações Retinianas/cirurgia , Vasos Retinianos/cirurgia , Tomografia de Coerência Óptica , Hemorragia Vítrea/diagnóstico , Hemorragia Vítrea/cirurgiaRESUMO
Objetivo: determinar los hallazgos del fondo de ojo en los boxeadores cubanos activos asintomáticos en dos grupos de estudio. Métodos: se efectuó un estudio observacional descriptivo y transversal en los boxeadores de la preselección nacional de boxeo, a quienes se les realizó un fondo de ojo anual, con pupila dilatada y oftalmoscopia binocular indirecta con depresión escleral, en el Servicio de Vítreo-Retina del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología "Ramón Pando Ferrer". Se tomaron dos grupos, el primero comprendido entre los años 1995 y 2000 (115) y el segundo grupo después de formar parte de la franquicia de los domadores de Cuba en los años 2015 - 2016 (38), donde se realizaron cambios en el estilo de la competencia. Resultados: en los dos grupos estudiados la agudeza visual sin corrección fue mayor de 0,8. En ambos grupos se observó un aumento de la visibilidad de las fibras a nivel del vítreo periférico. Más de la mitad de los ojos de los atletas tenían una retina normal. El desprendimiento de retina se presentó en 1,3 y 2,6 por ciento, respectivamente. Existían lesiones en la retina periférica pero la frecuencia fue baja. No existieron diferencias significativas en ambos grupos. El tratamiento más frecuente realizado en los ojos con lesiones retinales en los dos grupos fue la fotocoagulación focal con láser de argón. Conclusiones: el chequeo anual oftalmológico de los boxeadores garantiza un diagnóstico precoz y un tratamiento oportuno profiláctico o quirúrgico. Así se alarga la vida profesional activa de los boxeadores y se mantiene una buena calidad de vida al concluir su vida deportiva(AU)
Objective: determine funduscopy findings in Cuban active asymptomatic boxers from two study groups. Methods: across-sectional observational descriptive study was conducted with boxers from the national boxing trial team, who underwent annual funduscopy with dilated pupils and indirect binocular ophthalmoscopy with scleral depression at the Vitreous-Retina Service of Ramón Pando Ferrer Cuban Institute of Ophthalmology. Two groups were formed: one corresponding to the period 1995-2000 (115) and the other after being part of the Cuban Domadores (Tamers) team in 2015-2016 (38), when changes were made to competition styles. Results: in the two groups studied, uncorrected visual acuity was above 0.8. In both an increase was observed in the visibility of peripheral vitreous fibers. More than half of the athletes' eyes had a normal retina. Retinal detachment was present in 1.3 percent and 2.6 percent, respectively. There were lesions on the peripheral retina, but their frequency was low. No significant differences were found in the groups. The most common treatment indicated in the two groups for eyes with retinal lesions was argon laser focal photocoagulation. Conclusions: annual ophthalmological examination of boxers ensures early diagnosis and timely prophylactic or surgical treatment with the purpose of lengthening their active professional life and maintaining a good quality of life upon retirement(AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Adulto , Fundo de Olho , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Epidemiologia Descritiva , Estudos Transversais , Estudo ObservacionalRESUMO
Introducción: Las neoplasias intraepiteliales anales de alto grado (AIN-AG) sin tratamiento progresan a carcinoma anal escamoso invasor (CAE) en 8-13% de los casos. Esto disminuye al 1,2% con la ablación dirigida por anoscopía de alta resolución (AAR). El tratamiento ideal de la AIN-AG no está establecido. Goldstone, en 2005 introdujo el coagulador infrarrojo (CIR) para la ablación de estas lesiones y demostró que tiene tanta efectividad como la cirugía, aunque menor morbilidad y la ventaja de no requerir quirófano. No hemos encontrado publicaciones con esta técnica en nuestro medio. El objetivo de este trabajo es evaluar los resultados de la ablación de las AIN-AG con CIR, las complicaciones del método y la recurrencia temprana. Diseño: Observacional, retrospectivo, con base de datos prospectiva. Pacientes y Método: Se incluyeron individuos con AIN-AG en conducto anal y/o región perianal diagnosticadas en el Consultorio de Detección Temprana de Displasia Anal del Hospital Juan A. Fernández mediante biopsia dirigida por AAR y tratadas con CIR con el aparato Redfield®, entre marzo 2013-agosto 2014 previo consentimiento informado escrito. Tras infiltración con anestesia local las lesiones fueron coaguladas con repetidos pulsos de 1,5 segundos hasta visualizar los vasos de la submucosa. Se controló entre los 3 y 6 meses con AAR y biopsia de lesiones sospechosas. Resultados: Fueron 14 pacientes (10 hombres que tienen sexo con hombres, todos VIH-positivos y 4 mujeres, 2 VIH-positivas). Edad mediana: 37,5 (rango 20-59) años. La AIN-AG se localizaba en el conducto anal en 11 pacientes y en la región perianal en 3. En la AAR diagnóstica todos presentaban sólo un área de AIN-AG. El procedimiento fue bien tolerado. Una paciente VIH-positiva presentó secreción purulenta a los tres días de la ablación, que se trató con antibióticos. Esta paciente y otro más tuvieron dolor post-procedimiento manejado con anti-inflamatorios no esteroides. En la AAR de control se hallaron 2 (14,3%) recurrencias, una interpretada como persistencia por margen insuficiente de una lesión extendida y otra diagnosticada al momento de realizar CIR, que no había sido observada en la AAR realizada 1 mes antes. La eficacia por lesión individual tratada fue del 92,9%. Conclusiones: El tratamiento de las AIN-AG en el consultorio mediante CIR es bien tolerado, tiene mínimas complicaciones y resulta efectivo en el corto plazo. Es necesario un seguimiento más prolongado para evaluar la tasa de recidiva y la utilidad para prevenir la progresión al CAE. (AU)
Background: High-grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia (HGAIN) without treatment progresses to invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in 8-13% of cases, and that incidence decreases to 1,2% with ablation targeted with high resolution anoscopy (HRA). The ideal treatment for HGAIN is not established yet. Goldstone, in 2005 introduced the infrared coagulator (IRC) for the ablation of these lesions, and with great experience demonstrated that it is as effective as surgery but has less morbidity and the advantage of not requiring the operating room. To our knowledge there are not publications with this technique in our country. The aim of this study is to assess the results of HGAIN ablation with CIR, the method complications, and early recurrence. Design: Observational, retrospective study, with prospective database. Patients and Methods: Individuals with HGAIN in the anal canal or the perianal region, diagnosed with biopsy targeted with HRA and treated with the IRC in the Anal Dysplasia Clinic of the Hospital Juan A. Fernández, between March 2013 and August 2014, were included. After written informed consent, HRA was repeated in the outpatient clinic to localize the area to be treated with the IRC Redfield®. After local anesthesia the lesions were coagulated with repeated 1.5 seconds pulses until the submucosa vessels were visualized. Control with HRA and biopsy of suspicious lesions was performed between 3-6 months of the procedure. Results: Fourteen patients (10 men who have sex with men, all HIV-positive, and 4 women, 2 HIV-positive). Median age: 37.5 (range 20-59) years. The HGAIN was localized at the anal canal in 11 patients, and in the perianal region in 3. In the diagnostic HRA all patients presented only one area of HGAIN. The procedure was well tolerated. Only one HIV-positive woman presented purulent discharge 3 days after ablation, and was treated with antibiotics. The latter and another patient had post-procedure pain, managed with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In the control HRA, 2 (14,3%) recurrences were found, 1 was interpreted as persistency due to insufficient margin of a extended lesion, and 1 diagnosed during the CIR of other lesion, that had went unaware at the initial HRA performed one month before. The efficacy for individual lesion treated was 92.9%. Conclusions: The treatment of HGAIN with IRC in the outpatient department is well tolerated, has minimal complications, and is effective in the short term. It is necessary a longer surveillance to assess the recurrence rate and the usefulness for preventing progression to SCC. (AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Adulto , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Adulto Jovem , Neoplasias do Ânus/cirurgia , Neoplasias do Ânus/diagnóstico , Lesões Pré-Cancerosas/cirurgia , Carcinoma in Situ/cirurgia , Carcinoma in Situ/diagnóstico , Raios Infravermelhos/uso terapêutico , Canal Anal/patologia , Neoplasias do Ânus/epidemiologia , Fatores de Tempo , Carcinoma in Situ/epidemiologia , Estudos Retrospectivos , Seguimentos , Soropositividade para HIV , Resultado do Tratamento , Homossexualidade Masculina , Diagnóstico Precoce , Fotocoagulação/métodosRESUMO
Objetivos: evaluar el uso de la inyección IV de bevacizumab, sola o combinada con triamcinolona, así como sus efectos adversos y la correlación entre la mejor agudeza visual corregida y el grosor macular central. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional, longitudinal, prospectivo de caso y control a doble ciegas a 90 pacientes en la consulta de VítreoRetina del Instituto Cubano de Oftalmología Ramón Pando Ferrer, con edema macular diabético no tratados previamente y sin tracción vítrea. Se dividieron al azar en 3 grupos de tratamientos: un grupo control tratado con láser, otro con intravítrea de bevacizumab (1,25 mg en 0,05 mL) y otro con bevacizumab y triamcinolona (1,25 mg en 0,05 mL más 4 mg en 0,1 mL respectivamente). Cada grupo estuvo formado por 30 pacientes, con evolución a las 6, 12, 18, 24, 30 semanas y al año. Resultados: la mejor agudeza visual corregida al año de tratamiento entre los tres grupos no tuvo significación estadística (p= 0,099). En el grupo de láser el 40 por ciento mejoró 2 o más líneas, seguido del grupo de bevacizumab (20 por ciento) y el de bevacizumab y triamcinolona (10 por ciento). Hubo diferencia significativa (p= 0,001), en la disminución del grosor macular central entre los grupos al año; el grupo del láser fue el de mayor disminución (60 por ciento). El grupo de intravítrea de bevacizumab y triamcinolona logró los mejores resultados en la disminución del grosor macular central, pero no se mantuvo al año; sin embargo, el efecto del láser logró una disminución del grosor macular más estable. Conclusión: el tratamiento con fotocoagulación macular para el edema macular diabético es más eficaz al año en la disminución de grosor macular y en la mejor agudeza visual corregida(AU)
Objective: to evaluate the use of intravitreal bevacizumab injection alone or combined with triamcinolone as well as the adverse effects and the correlation between the best corrected visual acuity and the central macular thickness. Methods: prospective, longitudinal and observational double-blinded case control study performed in 90 patients with untreated diabetic macular edema and no vitreous traction in the vitreous-retina service of Ramón Pando Ferrer Institute of Ophthalmology of Cuba. They were randomly divided into 3 groups for treatment: a control group treated with laser, another one with intravitreal bevacizumab (1,25 mg in 0,05 mL) and the other with bevacizumab plus triamcinolone (1,25 mg in 0,05 mL plus 4 mg in 0,1 mL, respectively). Each group had 30 patients, with progress evaluated at 6, 12, 16, 24, 30 weeks and one year. Results: the best corrected visual acuity after a year of treatment did not have statistical significant in any of the three groups (p= 0,099). In the laser-treated group, 40 percent improved two or more lines in the Snellen chart, followed by bevacizumab group (20 percent) and that of bevacizumab plus triamcinolone (10 percent). There was significant difference (p= 0,001) in the central macular thickness decrease after one year in the three groups, being the laser group the one with highest decrease rate (60 percent). The group treated with intravitreal bevacizumab plus triamcinolone achieved the best results in reducing the central macular thickness but this result did not remain after a year. However, the laser treatment showed a more stable reduction of the macular thickness. Conclusions: macular photocoagulation for the diabetic macular edema is more effective one year after treatment in reducing the macular thickness and achieving the best corrected visual acuity(AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Injeções Intravítreas/efeitos adversos , Edema Macular/diagnóstico , Triancinolona/efeitos adversos , Estudos de Casos e Controles , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Estudos Longitudinais , Estudo Observacional , Estudos ProspectivosRESUMO
BACKGROUND: Visual improvement after focal photocoagulation in diabetic macular edema is more common in eyes without temporal perifoveal thickening. This feature is related to a lower macular volume before treatment; the higher proportion of visual improvement could be associated with a shorter need of volume reduction. OBJECTIVE: To compare macular volume before and after focal photocoagulation in eyes with diabetic macular edema, with and without temporal perifoveal thickening. METHODS: Non-experimental, retrospective, longitudinal, comparative study in diabetics with macular edema treated with focal photocoagulation. Macular volume measured with optical coherence tomography, and best corrected visual acuity were compared between eyes with (group 1) and without temporal perifoveal thickening (group 2, independent samples Student's t test). The comparison was also performed after stratifying the groups by baseline visual acuity. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty eyes, 65 eyes from group 1 (54.2%) and 55 from group 2 (45.8%). Mean volume before and after treatment and mean absolute and percentage changes were lower in group 2 (p < 0.001) regardless of visual acuity. Macular volume decreased significantly in eyes of group 1; only eyes in group 2 with visual acuity < 0.5 before treatment increased their visual function (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Eyes without temporal perifoveal thickening had visual improvement, although their volume did not change statistically. The significant volume reduction in eyes with temporal perifoveal thickening was not associated to visual improvement. The anatomical change was not enough to explain the functional improvement.
Assuntos
Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2/complicações , Retinopatia Diabética/cirurgia , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Edema Macular/cirurgia , Adulto , Idoso , Idoso de 80 Anos ou mais , Feminino , Humanos , Estudos Longitudinais , Edema Macular/etiologia , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Estudos Retrospectivos , Tomografia de Coerência Óptica , Resultado do Tratamento , Acuidade VisualRESUMO
Introducción: La oclusión de la vena central de la retina (OVCR) reduce las funciones individuales y la calidad de vida de aquellos individuos que la presentan; típicamente afecta a personas mayores y se considera que alrededor de un 90 % de los pacientes son mayores de 50 años al momento de inicio del cuadro. Es considerada la segunda causa más común de trastorno vascular de la retina después de la retinopatía diabética. Esta enfermedad puede conducir a pérdida visual severa a causa del edema o isquemia macular, hemorragia vítrea o glaucoma neovascular. Objetivo: examinar los beneficios y riesgos del uso de ranibizumab como uno de los criterios para informar la toma de decisiones relacionada con la posible inclusión de tecnologías en el Plan Obligatorio de Salud, en el marco de su actualización integral para el año 2015. Metodología la evaluación fue realizada de acuerdo con un protocolo definido a priori por el grupo desarrollador. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects, LILACS y Google, sin restricciones de idioma, fecha de publicación y tipo de estudio. Las búsquedas electrónicas fueron hechas en noviembre de 2014 y se complementaron mediante búsqueda manual en bola de nieve y consulta con expertos temáticos. La tamización de referencias se realizó por dos revisores de forma independiente y los desacuerdos fueron resueltos por consenso. La selección de estudios fue realizada mediante la revisión en texto completo de las referencias preseleccionadas, verificando los criterios de elegibilidad predefinidos. Las características y hallazgos de los estudios fueron extraídos a partir de las publicaciones originales. Resultados: efectividad triamcinolona, ranibizumab, bevacizumab, aflibercept, tienen alta probabilidad de presentar cambios en la mejor agudeza visual corregida comparado con placebo y con implante intravítreo de dexametasona. Los pacientes tratados con triamcinolona 4mg DEM 9,42 (IC 95 % 3,46-15,38), ranibizumab 0,5 mg DEM 14,06 (IC 95 % 10,46-17,65), bevacizumab 1,25 mg DEM 15,69 (IC 95 % 5,86-25,47), aflibercept 2 mg DEM 17,46 (IC 95% 14,37-20,57), tienen alta probabilidad de presentar cambio en la mejor agudeza visual corregida cuando se comparan con placebo. Cambios en la tomografía de coherencia óptica (grosor de la retina) Al mes de seguimiento : se presentó disminución significativa a favor de los inhibidores de VEGF cuando se comparan con placebo DEM - 264,67 (IC 95 % -377,00 ; -152,35), con una heterogeneidad extremadamente alta I2 94 %. A los seis meses se presentó disminución significativa a favor de los inhibidores de VEGF cuando se comparan con placebo DEM -224,52 (IC 95 % -377,77; -111,27), con una heterogeneidad extremadamente alta I2 93 %. A los doce meses: No se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas. Conclusiones: efectividad triamcinolona, ranibizumab, bevacizumab, aflibercept, tienen alta probabilidad de presentar cambios en la mejor agudeza visual corregida comparado con placebo y con implante intravítreo de dexametasona. Además tienen alta probabilidad de ganar tres o más líneas comparado con placebo, así como, disminuir el grosor central de la retina. En relación con la seguridad del tratamiento para el edema macular secundario a oclusión de la vena central de la retina, se evidenció que el uso de corticoides como: la triamcinolona y la dexametasona incrementa la presión intraocular y la presencia de cataratas cuando se comparan con placebo; mientras que para los inhibidores de VEGF como: aflibercept, ranibizumab y bevacizumab no se reportaron de manera significativa eventos adversos oculares o sistémicos cuando se comparan con placebo. En esta revisión no se identificó evidencia que cumpliera con los criterios de inclusión para los desenlaces de grado de isquemia retiniana y mantenimiento de la ganancia en la agudeza visual, ni la comparación con láser.(AU)
Assuntos
Humanos , Oclusão da Veia Retiniana/complicações , Dexametasona/uso terapêutico , Triancinolona/uso terapêutico , Edema Macular/terapia , Fator A de Crescimento do Endotélio Vascular/antagonistas & inibidores , Injeções Intravítreas/métodos , Bevacizumab/uso terapêutico , Ranibizumab/uso terapêutico , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Reprodutibilidade dos Testes , Resultado do Tratamento , Colômbia , Tecnologia BiomédicaRESUMO
PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy of therapy with panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) and intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) injections versus PRP alone in patients with high-risk proliferative diabetic retinopathy (HR-PDR) with a 6-month follow-up. METHODS: Forty-two patients with HR-PDR were prospectively studied in a randomised, masked, controlled trial. Both eyes of each patient were randomised either to the study group (SG) receiving PRP plus IVB injections or the control group (CG) receiving PRP alone. Mean change in visual acuity (VA), optical coherence tomography-measured foveal thickness (FT) and macular volume (MV) were compared. RESULTS: Intergroup comparisons showed no significant difference in VA while FT exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) difference at 1 month of follow-up and MV was significantly reduced at the 1- and 3-month follow-up. Compared to baseline, VA was significantly worse at all follow-ups in the CG and was stable in the SG. FT increased significantly in the CG from baseline to the 1- and 6-month follow-ups and in the SG, no significant difference was observed. MV was significantly increased in the CG during all follow-up periods. CONCLUSION: In HR-PDR, using IVB injections as adjuvant treatment to PRP reduces the VA deterioration and results in decreased FT and MV measurements compared to PRP alone.
Assuntos
Inibidores da Angiogênese/administração & dosagem , Anticorpos Monoclonais Humanizados/administração & dosagem , Retinopatia Diabética/tratamento farmacológico , Retinopatia Diabética/cirurgia , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Macula Lutea/efeitos dos fármacos , Adulto , Idoso , Bevacizumab , Terapia Combinada , Retinopatia Diabética/patologia , Feminino , Seguimentos , Humanos , Injeções Intravítreas , Macula Lutea/patologia , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Estudos Prospectivos , Medição de Risco , Tomografia de Coerência Óptica , Resultado do Tratamento , Acuidade VisualRESUMO
PURPOSE: To report a 16-year long-term follow-up of a patient with acute multifocal hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis (Blumenkranz syndrome). A 21-year old male was seen in 1994 with acute multifocal hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis (Blumenkranz syndrome), first in the left eye, and later in the right eye. He was treated with retinal photocoagulation in areas of retinal ischemia and oral steroids, followed by sequential annual fundus examination and photography for 16 years. Vision improved to 20/25 in both eyes after retinal ischemic areas photocoagulation and oral steroids, and his vision has been maintained for 16 years. Photocoagulation of retinal ischemia and oral steroids are effective for the treatment of acute multifocal hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis (Blumenkranz syndrome).
Assuntos
Hemorragia Retiniana/diagnóstico , Vasculite Retiniana/diagnóstico , Doença Aguda , Aciclovir/uso terapêutico , Adulto , Angiofluoresceinografia , Seguimentos , Humanos , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Masculino , Prednisona/uso terapêutico , Hemorragia Retiniana/terapia , Vasculite Retiniana/terapia , Esteroides/uso terapêutico , Síndrome , Adulto JovemRESUMO
PURPOSE: To report a 16-year long-term follow-up of a patient with acute multifocal hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis (Blumenkranz syndrome). A 21-year old male was seen in 1994 with acute multifocal hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis (Blumenkranz syndrome), first in the left eye, and later in the right eye. He was treated with retinal photocoagulation in areas of retinal ischemia and oral steroids, followed by sequential annual fundus examination and photography for 16 years. Vision improved to 20/25 in both eyes after retinal ischemic areas photocoagulation and oral steroids, and his vision has been maintained for 16 years. Photocoagulation of retinal ischemia and oral steroids are effective for the treatment of acute multifocal hemorrhagic retinal vasculitis (Blumenkranz syndrome).
Relato de caso com acompanhamento por 16 anos de um paciente com a vasculite hemorrágica multifocal aguda (síndrome de Blumenkranz). Um paciente de 21 anos de idade foi diagnosticado em 1994 com a vasculite hemorrágica multifocal aguda (síndrome de Blumenkranz), primeiro no olho esquerdo e depois no olho direito. Foi tratado com fotocoagulação retiniana nas áreas retinianas isquêmicas e corticosteroide oral e seguido por exames complementares da retina por 16 anos. A visão melhorou para 20/25 em ambos os olhos após a fotocoagulação retiniana nas áreas isquêmicas da retina e corticosteroide oral permanecendo assim até o momento por 16 anos. A fotocoagulação retiniana nas áreas isquêmicas e o uso de corticosteróide oral são tratamentos efetivos para a vasculite hemorrágica multifocal aguda (síndrome de Blumenkranz).
Assuntos
Adulto , Humanos , Masculino , Adulto Jovem , Hemorragia Retiniana/diagnóstico , Vasculite Retiniana/diagnóstico , Doença Aguda , Aciclovir/uso terapêutico , Angiofluoresceinografia , Seguimentos , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Prednisona/uso terapêutico , Hemorragia Retiniana/terapia , Vasculite Retiniana/terapia , Síndrome , Esteroides/uso terapêuticoRESUMO
PURPOSE: To compare modified Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (mETDRS) focal/grid laser photocoagulation with normal-density (ND-SDM) or high-density (HD-SDM) subthreshold diode-laser micropulse photocoagulation for the treatment diabetic macular edema (DME). METHODS: A prospective, randomized, controlled, double-masked clinical trial with patients with previously untreated DME and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) worse than 20/40 and better than 20/400. Patients were randomized to receive either mETDRS focal/grid photocoagulation (42 patients), ND-SDM (39 patients), or HD-SDM (42 patients). Before treatment and 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after treatment, all patients underwent ophthalmic examinations, BCVA, color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT). RESULTS: At 12 months, the HD-SDM group had the best improvement in BCVA (0.25 logMAR), followed by the mETDRS group (0.08 logMAR), whereas no improvements were seen in the ND-SDM group (0.03 logMAR). All groups showed statistically significant progressive reduction of central macular thickness (CMT) throughout the study (P < 0.001). The HD-SDM group exhibited the greatest CMT reduction (154 µm), which was not significantly different from that of the mETDRS group (126 µm; P = 0.75). CONCLUSIONS: At 1 year, the clinical performance of HD-SDM was superior to that of the mETDRS photocoagulation technique, according to the anatomic and functional measures of improvement used in this investigation. A rationale for this treatment modality as a preferable approach is suggested, and the precise role of subthreshold micropulse laser treatment may become more defined as experience grows, guided by optimized treatment guidelines and more comprehensive trials. (Clinicaltrials.gov number, NCT00552435.).
Assuntos
Retinopatia Diabética/cirurgia , Fotocoagulação a Laser/métodos , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Edema Macular/cirurgia , Idoso , Retinopatia Diabética/patologia , Retinopatia Diabética/fisiopatologia , Método Duplo-Cego , Óculos , Seguimentos , Fundo de Olho , Humanos , Fotocoagulação a Laser/efeitos adversos , Macula Lutea/patologia , Edema Macular/patologia , Edema Macular/fisiopatologia , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Estudos Prospectivos , Retratamento , Resultado do Tratamento , Acuidade VisualRESUMO
INTRODUCCIÓN. La retinopatía del prematuro (ROP) es una retinopatía neovascular que se desarrolla hasta en el 84 por ciento de los niños prematuros. Es inversamente proporcional al peso y a la edad gestacional y muy frecuente en el menor de 1500 g. El objetivo de esta investigación fue conocer la incidencia de retinopatía de la prematuridad en los neonatos de menos de 1500 g de peso, así como algunos factores asociados. MÉTODOS. Se realizó un estudio prospectivo longitudinal en el cual se incluyeron 31 neonatos con peso menor de 1500 g, ingresados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales del Hospital Iván Portuondo entre enero del 2004 y diciembre del 2008. No se incluyeron los fallecidos en ese período. En todos los casos se realizaron pesquisas de ROP. Se tomó en cuenta el sexo y la edad gestacional menor de 36 semanas. Se valoraron algunos factores de riesgo para ROP. RESULTADOS. Se encontró ROP en el 25,8 por ciento de los 31 neonatos: el 6,5 por ciento con ROP I Y ROP II, el 9,7 por ciento con ROP III y el 3,2 por ciento con ROP IV. Se encontró retina inmadura en el 74,2 por ciento de los pacientes. El 9,7 por ciento de los casos y el paciente con grado IV recibieron tratamiento quirúrgico con rayos láser. Se encontró mayor incidencia en el sexo masculino y factores asociados como la dificultad respiratoria y la ventilación, en el 75 por ciento de los casos. CONCLUSIÓN. La incidencia de ROP fue baja en comparación con los resultados de otros estudios
INTRODUCTION: Retinopathy of prematurity (RP) is a neovascular retinopathy developing in the 84 percent of premature infants. It is proportional in inverse order to weight and to gestational age and its frequent in an infant weighing less than 1500 g. The aim of present research was to know the prematurity retinopathy incidence in neonates weighing less than 1500 g, s well as some related factors. METHODS: A longitudinal and prospective study was conducted including 31 neonates weighing less than 1500 g, admitted in neonatal intensive care unit of the Ivan Portuondo Hospital from January, 2004 to December, 2008. Those deceased weren't included. In all the cases authors carried out screening of RP, taking into account the sex and a gestational age lower than 36 weeks. Some risk factors for RP were assessed. RESULTS: RP was present in the 25,8 percent of the 31 neonates: the 6,5 percent with RP I and RP II, the 9,7 percent with RP III and the 3,2 percent with RP IV. We found immature retina in the 74,2 percent of patients. The 9,7 of cases and the patients with IV degree underwent surgical treatment using Laser rays. There was a greater incidence in male sex and related factors (respiratory failure and ventilation in the 75 percent of cases. CONCLUSION: RP incidence was low compared with the results from other studies
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Recém-Nascido , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Recém-Nascido de muito Baixo Peso , Fatores de Risco , Retinopatia da Prematuridade/diagnóstico , Estudos Longitudinais , Estudos ProspectivosRESUMO
OBJETIVO: Conocer el comportamiento de la retinopatía de la prematuridad en los nacidos de menos de 1750 gramos o menos de 35 semanas. MÉTODOS: Estudio observacional descriptivo longitudinal prospectivo de todos los niños bajo peso nacidos en el Hospital General Iván Portuondo, desde enero de 2009 a diciembre de 2009, en el que se obtuvieron un total de 129 niños bajo peso. El protocolo de investigación está formado por los menores de 1 750 gramos de peso al nacer o con edad gestacional inferior a 35 semanas, además se valoraron algunos factores de riesgo. Se excluyeron del estudio los fallecidos en ese período. RESULTADOS: La incidencia fue de 0,24 por cada 10 000 nacidos vivos mediante examen oftalmológico. El 69,35 por ciento de los recién nacidos pesquisados nacieron entre las 32 y las 35 semanas de gestación y 40,32 por ciento con un peso entre 1 500-1 999 gramos. El 93,54 por ciento de los recién nacidos presentaron retina inmadura y un 3,22 por ciento desarrollaron retinopatía de la prematuridad. La misma cantidad de casos se trataron con láser y terapia tópica 50 por ciento, respectivamente. CONCLUSIÓN: Los valores sobre pacientes con retinopatía de la prematuridad en Cuba se encuentran dentro de los aceptados internacionales y estos se mueven a la par con el aumento de la supervivencia de los recién nacidos. Entre los factores que influyen proporcionalmente con esta enfermedad permanecen la edad gestacional y el peso al nacer. El láser se mantiene como estándar de tratamiento
OBJECTIVES: To learn about the behavior of the retinopathy of prematurity in newborns under 1750 grams of weight or 35 weeks of gestation. METHODS: Prospective longitudinal descriptive and observational study of all low birthweighed children at Iván Portuondo hospital, from January to December of 2009. A total of 129 low birth weight children were detected; the research protocol was formed by under 1 750 g birth weight or gestational age under 35 weeks in addition to assessing some risk factors. Those children who died in this period were excluded. RESULTS: The incidence was 0,24 per 10 000 live births according to the ophthalmologic exam. The 69,35 percent of the screened newborns were born at 32 to 35 weeks of gestation and 40,32 percent weighted 1500-1999 grams. Among these children, 93,54 percent presented with immature retina and 3,22 percent developed retinopathy of prematurity. The same number of cases was treated with laser and topical therapy (50 percent respectively) CONCLUSION: The values found in patients with retinopathy of prematurity in Cuba were within those internationally accepted figures and they change according to the increase in the survival of the newborns. Among the influential factors are the gestational age and the birth weight. Laser is considered as standard treatment
Assuntos
Humanos , Masculino , Feminino , Recém-Nascido , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Retinopatia da Prematuridade/epidemiologia , Retinopatia da Prematuridade/prevenção & controle , Estudos Transversais , Epidemiologia Descritiva , Estudos Observacionais como Assunto , Estudos ProspectivosRESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To report our initial institutional experience with fetoscopic laser photocoagulation of placental anastomoses in severe twin-twin transfusion syndrome using a 1.0 mm endoscope. METHODS: Between July 2006 and June 2008, 19 monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies complicated by severe TTTS (Quintero stages III and IV) underwent fetoscopic laser therapy. Perinatal data were prospectively collected and compared according to the Quintero stages. RESULTS: Nine patients were classified as stage III and ten as stage IV. The Mean gestational ages at diagnosis and procedure were 20 (range: 17-25) and 22.0 (range: 19.0-26.0) weeks, respectively, with no statistical difference between the two groups. Preterm premature rupture of the membranes occurred in two cases (10.5%), and spontaneous preterm delivery in eight (42.1%). Overall mean gestational age at delivery was 32.1 (range: 26.0-38.0) weeks. Prematurity was more severe in stage IV patients (p<0.01). Among all cases, the overall survival rate was 52.6%, and the percentages of pregnancies with survival of both babies and at least one twin were 26.3% and 78.9%, respectively. In the case of stage III patients, the overall survival rate was 61.1%. Of the stage III pregnancies, 33.3% resulted in both babies surviving, and 88.9% of these pregnancies resulted in at least one surviving twin. For stage IV, as the corresponding statistics were 45.0%, 20.0% and 70.0% respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our initial institutional experience with 1.0 mm fetoscopic laser therapy for severe TTTS showed results similar to those reported in the literature for larger endoscopes.
Assuntos
Transfusão Feto-Fetal/cirurgia , Fetoscopia/métodos , Terapia a Laser/métodos , Fotocoagulação/métodos , Feminino , Transfusão Feto-Fetal/diagnóstico por imagem , Idade Gestacional , Humanos , Recém-Nascido , Masculino , Gravidez , Resultado da Gravidez , Nascimento Prematuro , Estudos Prospectivos , Índice de Gravidade de Doença , Taxa de Sobrevida , Gêmeos Monozigóticos , UltrassonografiaRESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To report our initial institutional experience with fetoscopic laser photocoagulation of placental anastomoses in severe twin-twin transfusion syndrome using a 1.0 mm endoscope. METHODS: Between July 2006 and June 2008, 19 monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies complicated by severe TTTS (Quintero stages III and IV) underwent fetoscopic laser therapy. Perinatal data were prospectively collected and compared according to the Quintero stages. RESULTS: Nine patients were classified as stage III and ten as stage IV. The Mean gestational ages at diagnosis and procedure were 20 (range: 17-25) and 22.0 (range: 19.0-26.0) weeks, respectively, with no statistical difference between the two groups. Preterm premature rupture of the membranes occurred in two cases (10.5 percent), and spontaneous preterm delivery in eight (42.1 percent). Overall mean gestational age at delivery was 32.1 (range: 26.0-38.0) weeks. Prematurity was more severe in stage IV patients (p<0.01). Among all cases, the overall survival rate was 52.6 percent, and the percentages of pregnancies with survival of both babies and at least one twin were 26.3 percent and 78.9 percent, respectively. In the case of stage III patients, the overall survival rate was 61.1 percent. Of the stage III pregnancies, 33.3 percent resulted in both babies surviving, and 88.9 percent of these pregnancies resulted in at least one surviving twin. For stage IV, as the corresponding statistics were 45.0 percent, 20.0 percent and 70.0 percent respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Our initial institutional experience with 1.0 mm fetoscopic laser therapy for severe TTTS showed results similar to those reported in the literature for larger endoscopes.