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Title	Treatment of uveal melanoma near to the optic nerve or macula by strontium-90 brachytherapy
Abstract Nr.	P007

Purpose	Uveal melanomas localised near to the macula or the optic nerve are difficult to treat by brachytherapy because of the devastating radiation effect on the surrounding tissue. Strontium-90 has a limited penetration depth and very few radiation effects outside the treated area.
Methods	Out of a series of 20 patients, 3 typical clinical cases with uveal melanoma and localisation in the area of the macula or nearer than 3 mm of the optic nerve are presented. All patients were followed for at least 3 years and the visual acuity, visual fields and retinal and choroidal changes are investigated.
Results	No optic nerve atrophy or radiaton retinitis was found after 3 years. All patients could retain good central vision and no loss of vision outside the treated area could be detected.
Conclusion	Strontium-90 brachytherapy is favourable for the treatment of difficult uveal melanomas in the vicinity of the macula and the optic nerve without complications in the surrounding tissues

Author 1

Last name	VAN GINDERDEUREN
Initials	R
Department	Oogziekten UZ Leuven
City	Leuven

Author 2

Last name	Spileers
Initials	W
Department	Oogziekten UZ Leuven
City	Leuven

Author 3

Last name	Van Limbergen
Initials	E
Department	radiotherapie UZ Leuven
City	Leuven