The IRIS Registry with Gaurav K. Shah, MD, FASRS

Gaurav K. Shah, MD, FASRS, spoke with Ophthalmology Times at the Glaucoma 360 meeting in San Francisco where he gave a presentation entitled, IRIS Registry: Important Lessons Learned.

In this presentation he discussed several studies from the IRIS registry.The first study examined the success rates of pneumatic retinopexy in pseudophakic versus phakic eyes, finding a high failure rate of one in two in pseudophakic eyes. He noted differences in pneumatic retina packing practices between the US and Canada that could provide lessons.

The second study looked at the removal of retained lens fragments and associated complications. The findings suggested that removal should be done within the first week or even the same day, and placing an IOL may be beneficial in some cases. However, the Shah emphasized the importance of ensuring a clean and stable anterior segment before IOL placement.

The third study focused on high-risk patients with PVD and vitreous hemorrhage. It identified myopia and vitreous hemorrhage as significant risk factors for retinal tears and detachment, and stressed the need for more frequent follow-up in patients with vitreous hemorrhage.

The fourth study addressed the common practice of vitrectomy for floaters, clarifying that it is not a "fluidectomy" but a vitrectomy with significant benefits and risks, including an unexpected 1.6% rate of endophthalmitis. The speaker suggested that while the procedure should not be avoided, it must be performed safely and effectively.

Finally, the Shah looked ahead to next year's Glaucoma 360+ meeting, for which there are plans to develop a comprehensive retina program. The program will cover new retina procedures, implants, and techniques, addressing the growing interest in retina from clinicians, scientists, VCs, and companies.