Epiretinal membranes: reasons not to perform vitreoretinal surgery

Functional results after surgical removal of epiretinal membranes are good; most often, visual acuity improves and the macular syndrome disappears. Transconjunctival vitrectomy to perform peeling of epiretinal membrane has reduced postoperative impairment; however, the surgical complications remain the same. Epiretinal membranes are not uncommon in elderly. The surgical decision is not only based on visual acuity, but many other parameters are also considered. We provide a decision-making algorithm where the elements that suggest foregoing surgery are emphasized.