Tissue response to subtotal retinectomy in a rabbit model.

Abstract

We surgically removed lenses and as much retina as accessible in one eye of six pigmented rabbits which were followed for up to four months postsurgically. Clinically, pre-RPE membranes were noted to form within the first weeks after surgery, and eyes remained hypotensive in the absence of notable inflammation. Morphologic studies demonstrated a variable response of RPE, ranging from atrophy to hypertrophy and hyperplasia. Pre-RPE membranes appeared to arise from both the RPE as well as from tags of peripheral retina and were of two morphologic types: spindle cell-collagenous membranes, and a highly cellular glial membrane. Bone formation within collagenous membranes was seen in four of six eyes studied.