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This abstract is assigned to session Poster session in O'Bistro

Title

Nd:YAG Laser Hyaloidotomy for Premacular Subhyaloid Haemorrhages: A Case Series

Purpose	Premacular subhyaloid haemorrhage may occur in retinal vascular disorders, haematological disorders, Valsalva retinopathy or following LASIK. Spontaneous resorption may take months and may result in permanent visual impairment due to macular changes. Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy with consequent drainage of the blood into the vitreous cavity has been applied as an alternative in a small number of cases.
Methods	Four patients with unilateral premacular subhyaloid haemorrhages due either to Valsalva retinopathy or diabetic retinopathy were treated with Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy (intensity 2,5 to 9,5 mJ) focused on the posterior hyaloid using a Goldmann 3-mirror lens. Patients were treated within 1 to 4 weeks after first noticing visual loss.
Results	Two patients experienced significant recovery of vision within minutes after the treatment. Another noticed improvement 1 week after treatment. In one case YAG laser hyaloidotomy failed but spontaneous resolution was achieved 3 months later. None of the 4 patients had any complications.
Conclusion	Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy is a safe and easy alternative to either deferral of treatment or prompt vitrectomy with drainage for recent premacular subhyaloid bleeding. Performed on a simple outpatient basis, it results in rapid recovery of visual function. Risks and benefits of Nd:YAG laser treatment should be evaluated on a case by case basis.

Authors 1

Last name	VANDEKERCKHOVE
Initials	G
Department	Dept of Ophth, Ghent University Hospital & Ghent University
City	Ghent

Authors 2

Last name	PLATTEAU
Initials	E
Department	Dept of Ophth, GUH and Maria Middelares Hospital
City	Ghent

Authors 3

Last name	VANWYNSBERGHE
Initials	D
Department	Dept of Ophth, Maria Middelares Hospital
City	Ghent

Authors 4

Last name	DE ZAEYTIJD
Initials	J
Department	Dept of Ophth, GUH and GU
City	Ghent

Authors 5

Last name	LEROY
Initials	BP
Department	Dept of Ophth, GUH and GU, Ctr for Medical Genetics
City	Ghent