Optical Coherence Tomography Biomarkers in Epiretinal Membrane.

Objective: This retrospective, multicenter imaging analysis aims to identify pre-operative optical coherence tomography (OCT) bio-markers of idiopathic epiretinal membrane (ERM) that predict improved postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).

Methods: Included were 80 eyes of 77 patients who underwent pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peel, and internal limiting membrane peel (PPV/MP/ILMP) for idiopathic ERM. Various preoperative, demographic, and surgical factors were studied, along with multiple preoperative OCT biomarkers.

Results: Ellipsoid zone (EZ) disruption and focal retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) schisis present on preoperative OCT were associated with an increased likelihood of 2-line visual acuity improvement, independent of preoperative vision, while ERM stage, ectopic inner foveal layers, foveal herniation, central subfield thickness, cystic changes, lamellar hole, and the gap between the ERM and the retinal surface (SUKIMA) were not.

Conclusions: Preoperative EZ disruption and RNFL schisis on OCT may identify patients who are more likely to have a meaningful improvement in postoperative visual outcomes for idiopathic ERM. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina 2025;56:XX-XX.].