Restoring Clarity, Improving Lives

Epiretinal Membranes

What Causes Epiretinal Membrane (ERM)?

An epiretinal membrane is a thin sheet of tissue that forms on the surface of the macular region on the retina. As this membrane develops, it can cause the macula to wrinkle, leading to distorted central vision.

In many instances, this membrane remains very mild and does not have any significant effect on the macula or the person’s vision. In other cases, however, the membrane may slowly become more prominent, eventually creating a disturbance in the retina that leads to visual blurring and distortion in the affected eye. 

Since most ERMs are stable after the initial period of growth, they can simply be monitored if they are not significantly impairing one’s vision. Under rare occasions, the membrane will spontaneously release from the retina, clearing up the vision. However, if your vision is significantly impaired and you desire clearer vision, then surgery is recommended to treat ERM.
ERMs occur as a consequence of age-related changes in boundary between the vitreous gel and the retina and thus there are no specific means for prevention. ERMs often occur when other retinal conditions (e.g., diabetic retinopathy) worsen, thus having routine eye exams that can screen for the development of retinal conditions like diabetic retinopathy is important.
A surgical procedure called vitrectomy is the only way to treat ERMs. During vitrectomy, the vitreous gel is removed, and the ERM is gently peeled away from the retinal surface. At the conclusion of the surgery, saline is used to replace the vitreous gel and maintain the eye’s shape, although a bubble of air, gas, or silicone oil can be used as well. If silicone oil is used, a separate minor procedure will be required to remove the silicone oil. The decision between saline, air, gas or oil depends on the complexity of the ERM and is customised to the patient’s individual requirements (e.g., air travel).

Why Choose Us?

DR ERROL CHAN

Specialised Experience in Retinal Care

Dr Chan is a triple-Fellowship trained and experienced Ophthalmologist. He has international clinical experience from McGill University and Moorfields Eye Hospital London, and has been awarded Ophthalmology accreditation from the UK, Canada & Singapore. He specialises in diagnosing, managing and treating vitreoretinal diseases, including complex and second opinion cases.

DR ERROL CHAN

Meticulous Approach

Our meticulous approach means that every detail is considered, from your medical history to your lifestyle needs, as we aim to provide you with the most optimal retinal care.

DR ERROL CHAN

Comprehensive Diagnostic Technologies

A comprehensive detection of retinal tears or detachment necessitates specialised imaging equipment that are available at Ascend Eye Clinic.

DR ERROL CHAN

Individualised Treatment

With the aim to optimally preserve your eye health as far as possible, we create personalised treatment plans that are tailored to your specific needs and vision goals.

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Our clinic staff will call you within 48 hours to confirm your appointment. For urgent appointments, please call us at 8818 3788.