Randomized Trial Comparing Immediate Versus Deferred Surgery for Symptomatic Epiretinal Membranes

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to find the best timing for surgery to remove an epiretinal membrane ERM, a common eye condition affecting vision. It compares immediate surgery versus delaying surgery in patients who have significant changes in the central part of the retina but still relatively good vision. The study also seeks to identify factors that predict how well patients do after surgery or how their condition progresses if surgery is delayed. Additionally, it evaluates tools measuring vision distortion and reading speed to better understand their usefulness for ERM patients. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups immediate vitrectomy surgery performed within one month of randomization, or deferred vitrectomy surgery which may be done if vision worsens by specific amounts, symptoms worsen, or complications arise. Surgery involves removing the ERM to improve or stabilize vision. Those in the deferred group are monitored regularly and surgery is only performed if certain criteria are met. Throughout the study, participants will have their vision tested at various times up to 36 months to measure changes in visual acuity. Researchers will also assess vision distortion and reading speed to understand symptoms better. The main outcome measured is the mean change in visual acuity from the start of the study to 36 months. Safety and progression of the condition will be monitored, and participants eye health will be closely followed during the study period.

Randomized Trial Comparing Immediate vs. Deferred Surgery for Symptomatic ERM