Paradiso

This research investigates the use of vital dyes during eye surgery to remove the internal limiting membrane (ILM), a thin layer in the retina. The study aims to improve surgical safety and ease by comparing different dyes, including Indocyanine green (ICG), which stains well but may cause toxicity, and Brilliant Blue G (BBG), a safer but less commonly used alternative. Researchers also explore how new dye formulations and light filters during surgery might enhance dye performance and safety. Participants will undergo vitrectomy, a surgery to remove the vitreous gel and ILM from the retina. During the procedure, surgeons will apply different light filters—orange, green, and yellow—with xenon endoillumination to see which best enhances the visibility and contrast of the dyes BBG, ICG, or Trypan blue (TB). The study will analyze the mechanical properties of the ILM and how these dyes influence staining and tissue stiffness. After surgery, no further patient visits are required. Researchers will study the removed ILM samples to measure thickness, stiffness, and roughness, which may take up to a year. The goal is to understand how dyes affect ILM properties and improve surgical techniques while ensuring safety for patients with conditions like macular edema.