Bernd Junker - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Bernd Junker

Research paper thumbnail of Pandemiebedingtes Verkaufsverbot von Feuerwerkskörpern in Deutschland führt zu einer deutlichen Abnahme der Augenverletzungen

Die Ophthalmologie

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund und Ziel Die kontinuierliche Erfassung von Augenverletzungen durch Py... more Zusammenfassung Hintergrund und Ziel Die kontinuierliche Erfassung von Augenverletzungen durch Pyrotechnik in den Tagen um Silvester über 6 Jahre ermöglicht uns, Verletzungszahlen, Verletzungsmuster und Unfallhergänge im Jahresvergleich zu untersuchen. Zur Entlastung der Krankenhäuser wurden in Deutschland im Rahmen der COVID-19-Pandemie für die Jahreswechsel 2020/21 und 2021/22 ein Verkaufsverbot für Pyrotechnikartikel und Versammlungsbegrenzungen umgesetzt. Wir untersuchen, welchen Einfluss diese Maßnahmen auf die Anzahl von feuerwerksbedingten Augenverletzungen hatten. Außerdem betrachten wir, ob dies zu einer Zunahme schwerer Verletzungen geführt hat und ob ein Zusammenhang mit einer vermehrten Nutzung selbst gebauter oder in Deutschland nicht zugelassener Pyrotechnik bestehen könnte. Methoden Mit unserem Online-Fragenbogen erfassen wir anonymisierte Daten zu Patienten, Unfallhergang und seit 2017/18 auch zur Beschaffung der eingesetzten Pyrotechnikartikel. Ergebnisse Unsere Aus...

Research paper thumbnail of Einfluss des COVID-19-Shutdowns auf die Arbeitsleistung einer Universitäts-Augenpoliklinik

Der Ophthalmologe, 2021

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die Coronaviruserkrankung COVID-19 hat im Frühjahr 2020 zu einer deut... more Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die Coronaviruserkrankung COVID-19 hat im Frühjahr 2020 zu einer deutlichen Minderleistung der elektiven Medizin in den Krankenhäusern geführt, wobei es für universitäre Polikliniken bisher keine entsprechenden Daten über das Ausmaß dieser Reduktion und die damit verbundenen Erlösminderungen gibt. Material und Methode Mithilfe der Daten des aus dem Krankenhausinformationssystems (IS-H/i.s.h.med unter SAP, Cerner Corporation, North Kansas City, MO, Vereinigte Staaten von Amerika und SAP SE, Walldorf, Deutschland) und der an unserer Klinik mitentwickelten Zeiterfassungs- und Managementsoftware TimeElement (Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Deutschland) wurden alle Patientenkontakte des COVID-19-Shutdowns über ca. 7 Wochen vom 18.03.2020 bis zum 08.05.2020 evaluiert und mit dem Vorjahreszeitraum 2019 verglichen. Zudem wurden die Fallzahlen für das erste und zweite Quartal 2019 und 2020 in Relation gesetzt. Ergebnisse Im COVID-19-Zeitraum reduzierte...

Research paper thumbnail of Leistungs- und Kostenkalkulation für eine universitäre, augenheilkundliche Hochschulambulanz

Der Ophthalmologe, 2021

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Allgemein gelten Hochschulambulanzen in Universitätskliniken als defi... more Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Allgemein gelten Hochschulambulanzen in Universitätskliniken als defizitär. In der vorliegenden Publikation wird der Ansatz unternommen, im Sinne einer Kostenträgerrechnung Umsatz und Kosten der Hochschulambulanz der Medizinischen Hochschule Hannover (MHH) zu evaluieren sowie eine Aufstellung der Arbeitsleistung zu unternehmen. Material und Methode Mithilfe der Daten des klinikeigenen Informationssystems (SAP) und einer eigenen Software (TimeElement), welche standardisiert angewendet wird, um den Patientenflow in unserer Hochschulambulanz in Echtzeit online zu erfassen, wurden alle Patientenkontakte des Jahres 2019 evaluiert. Die Gesamtkosten summieren sich aus Personal‑, Material- und Raumkosten inklusive Infrastruktur und werden den pauschalierten Erlösen nach Hochschulambulanzvertrag (HSA-Bereich) sowie weiteren Erlösen aus Konsilleistungen, Selbstzahlern, ambulantem Operieren und Kooperationsverträgen für intravitreale Injektionen (IVOMs) gegenüberges...

Research paper thumbnail of Selective retina therapy (SRT) in patients with therapy refractory persistent acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC): 3 months functional and morphological results

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2020

Purpose Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a disease presenting with detachment of the neu... more Purpose Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a disease presenting with detachment of the neurosensory retina and characteristic focal leakage on fluorescein angiography. The spontaneous remission rate is 84% within 6 months. In this study, the efficacy of selective retina therapy (SRT) was examined in patients with therapy refractory persistent acute CSC defined by symptoms for at least 6 months and persistent subretinal fluid (SRF) despite eplerenone therapy. Material and methods This is a prospective, monocentric observational study in 17 eyes (16 patients, mean age 42 years, 2 female). SRT was performed with the approved R:GEN laser (Lutronic, South Korea), a micropulsed 527-nm Nd:YLF laser device, with a train of 30 pulses of 1.7 μs at 100-Hz repetition rate at the point of focal leakage determined by fluorescein angiography (FA) at baseline (BSL). Visits on BSL, week 4 (wk4), and week 12 (wk12) included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, logMar), central retinal thickness...

Research paper thumbnail of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Central Retinal Artery Occlusion

Research paper thumbnail of Local injection of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor MAE 87 reduces retinal neovascularization in mice

Molecular vision, Jan 15, 2004

Retinal neovascularization occurs under the influence of angiogenic factors like vascular endothe... more Retinal neovascularization occurs under the influence of angiogenic factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF signaling is enhanced by insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). In vitro, the oxoindolinone MAE 87 inhibits angiogenic signal transduction by blocking tyrosine kinase receptors including VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), IGF-1R, fibroblast GF-1R and epidermal GFR. We investigated the effect of MAE 87 in vivo using the mouse model for oxygen induced retinopathy. From postnatal day seven (P7) on, C57BL/6J mice were kept in a 75% oxygen environment for five days. On postnatal day 12 (P12) they received an intravitreal injection of MAE 87 in one eye and control substance in the fellow eye. The animals were sacrificed by intracardial perfusion with fluorescein-dextran solution on P17. Retinal whole mounts were prepared and ischemic retinopathy was evaluated in 26 animals using a standardized retinopathy score. After a single intravitreal injection of MAE 87 there were ...

Research paper thumbnail of Switch of anti-VEGF agents is an option for nonresponders in the treatment of AMD

Research paper thumbnail of Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis: A Case of Mistaken Identity

Retinal Cases & Brief Reports, 2008

Background: The report details a case of diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) wherei... more Background: The report details a case of diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) wherein a subretinal parasite was visualized and subsequently destroyed with laser photocoagulation. Methods: Full historical and serologic investigations were carried out. A literature search to determine all possible causes of DUSN was also completed. Results: Serologic results supported Baylisascaris procyonis as the cause of infection, but imaging of the worm before destruction did not support this organism as the etiologic agent. On the basis of morphologic evaluation of still imaging and videoimaging, patient exposure information, and known causes of DUSN, the infection was likely due to Alaria species, providing further evidence of a trematode cause. Conclusions: The report adds to the literature that trematodes should be recognized as a possible cause of ocular larva migrans. Although laser therapy is appropriate and effective for both nematode and trematode infections of the eye, in the case of adjunctive medical therapy, identification of the parasite group is essential.

Research paper thumbnail of Indikationen zur intravitrealen Injektionstherapie mit Anti-VEGF für Makulaerkrankungen – Fehler vermeiden

Der Ophthalmologe, 2022

Die intravitreale operative Medikamenteneingabe (IVOM) bei verschiedenen Makulaerkrankungen ist h... more Die intravitreale operative Medikamenteneingabe (IVOM) bei verschiedenen Makulaerkrankungen ist heute eine der am häufigsten durchgeführten operativen Behandlungen weltweit. Da zumeist chronische Erkrankungen behandelt werden, bedeutet die Indikation zur Behandlung oft eine kontinuierliche Therapie über Jahre mit einem entsprechenden Aufwand bezüglich räumlicher, personeller und finanzieller Ressourcen. Dabei werden die Diagnose und Indikation zur Behandlung heute maßgeblich über die Spectral-Domain-optische Kohärenztomographie (SD-OCT) gestellt. Die Fähigkeit zur klinischen Beurteilung und Bewertung einer Fluoreszenzangiographie wird weniger geübt, obwohl diese immer noch Bestandteil der Indikationsstellung ist. So kann es passieren, dass Patienten zum Teil dauerhaft eine Anti-VEGF(„vascular endothelial growth factor“)-Therapie auf Basis einer Fehleinschätzung der makulären Diagnose oder der Aktivität der Erkrankung erhalten und diese Indikation – sobald einmal gestellt – selten hinterfragt oder zurückgenommen wird. Ziel dieses Manuskriptes ist es daher, anhand von Fallbeispielen auf mögliche und typische Fehlinterpretationen bei der Indikation oder Fortsetzung einer IVOM-Therapie mittels Anti-VEGF hinzuweisen und für Differenzialdiagnosen zu sensibilisieren. Intravitreal injection (IVI) of drugs for treatment of various macular diseases is now one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide. As mostly chronic diseases are treated, the indications for treatment often mean a continuous treatment over years with a corresponding effort regarding spatial, personnel and financial resources. The diagnosis and indications for treatment are nowadays mainly made by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The ability to clinically assess and evaluate a fluorescence angiography is less practiced, although these are still a component of the indications for intravitreal injections. Therefore, it can happen that despite all diligence patients may receive anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment, sometimes permanently, based on a misinterpretation of the macular diagnosis or disease activity and these indications, once made, are rarely questioned or retracted. Therefore, the aim of this manuscript is to point out possible and typical misinterpretations in the indications or continuation of IVI treatment with anti-VEGF by means of case studies and to sensitize for differential diagnoses.

Research paper thumbnail of Density of the Retinal Blood Flow and Thickness Mapping by Spectralis OCT in Patients with Fabry Disease

Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Switch of Intravitreal Therapy for Macular Edema Secondary to Retinal Vein Occlusion from Anti-VEGF to Dexamethasone Implant and Vice Versa

Journal of Ophthalmology, 2017

Purpose. To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcome of intravitreal dexamethasone implant ... more Purpose. To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcome of intravitreal dexamethasone implant for macular edema secondary to central (C) or branch (B) retinal vein occlusion (RVO) in patients with persistent macular edema (ME) refractory to intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment compared to treatment naïve patients and to dexamethasone-refractory eyes switched to anti-VEGF. Methods. Retrospective, observational study including 30 eyes previously treated with anti-VEGF (8 CRVO, 22 BRVO, mean age 69 ± 10 yrs), compared to 11 treatment naïve eyes (6 CRVO, 5 BRVO, 73 ± 11 yrs) and compared to dexamethasone nonresponders (2 CRVO, 4 BRVO, 69 ± 12). Outcome parameters were change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Results. Mean BCVA improvement after switch to dexamethasone implant was 4 letters (p=0.08), and treatment naïve eyes gained 10 letters (p=0.66), whil...

Research paper thumbnail of Vitrectomy with and without encircling band for pseudophakic retinal detachment: VIPER Study Report No 2—main results

British Journal of Ophthalmology, 2016

Background It is unclear whether or not an additional encircling band improves outcome in vitrect... more Background It is unclear whether or not an additional encircling band improves outcome in vitrectomy for pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD). Also unclear is whether small gauge transconjunctival trocar-guided vitrectomy is as successful as conventional 20 gauge (G) vitrectomy. Methods 257 adult patients with uncomplicated PRD were enrolled in 14 vitreoretinal centres across Germany. Contingent on availability of qualified surgeons, eligible patients were randomly assigned either (i) with ratio 1:1 to 20 G vitrectomy plus encircling band (group E1) or 20 G vitrectomy without any buckle (group C) or (ii) with ratios 1:1:1 to group E1, C or 23/25 G vitrectomy without any buckle (group E2). Treatment success was defined as no indication for any retina reattaching procedure during the follow-up of 6 months. Results Success was reached in 79.0% (=79/100, group E1) versus 73.5% (=72/98, group C) (p=0.558, OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.65 to 2.65. In group E2 87.7% (=50/57) of patients reached success compared with 78.7% (=48/61) in group C, demonstrating noninferiority of E2 to C regarding the prespecified margin of 0.8 (OR scale; p=0.05, OR 2.17, 95% CI 0.80 to 5.89). Best corrected visual acuity significantly increased after surgery independent of technique, that is, on average −0.7 (from 1.0 to 0.3) logMAR. Patients suffered from a shift in spherical refraction of −1.0 D in group E1 compared with −0.1 D in group C. Similarly, intraoperative complications (15.2% vs 8.8% of patients) and serious adverse events (30.3% vs 22.5% of patients) were more frequent in group E1. Conclusions Vitrectomy with gas is an efficient and safe treatment for uncomplicated PRD. An additional encircling band does not significantly reduce the risk for any second procedure necessary to reattach the retina in 20 G vitrectomy. Small gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy is not inferior to the conventional 20 G technique. Trial registration number DKRS 00003158, Results.

Research paper thumbnail of Elektronische Visualisierung des ambulanten Patientenflows in einer Universitäts-Augenklinik

Research paper thumbnail of Correlation Between Hyperreflective Foci and Clinical Outcomes in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration After Switching to Aflibercept

Investigative ophthalmology & visual science, 2015

To assess the correlation between hyperreflective foci (HF) and visual and anatomical outcomes in... more To assess the correlation between hyperreflective foci (HF) and visual and anatomical outcomes in treatment-resistant neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). This was a prospective interventional case series. Thirty-three eyes of 30 consecutive patients with treatment-resistant neovascular AMD were enrolled. Intravitreal aflibercept injections were performed at week 0 (baseline), week 4, and week 8. Spectral-domain OCT images were obtained before each injection and 4 weeks after the third injection. The main focus was on the measurement of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) size in the cross-sectional area in the B-scan through the fovea, and HF number along line segments of 1- and 3-mm length passing through the fovea. Mean number of HF in the radius of 500 μm decreased from 8.36 ± 7.58 to 4.15 ± 3.39 (P = 0.02). Mean number of HF in the radius of 1500 μm was reduced from 21.30 ± 12.47 to 10.45 ± 6.34 (P < 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Predictors of prognosis and treatment outcome in central retinal artery occlusion: local intra-arterial fibrinolysis vs. conservative treatment

Neuroradiology, 2015

The study analyses patients' risk factors to determine prognostic and predictive factors in p... more The study analyses patients' risk factors to determine prognostic and predictive factors in patients with acute central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) treated in the randomized European Assessment Group for Lysis in the Eye (EAGLE) Study with local intra-arterial fibrinolysis (LIF) or conservative standard treatment (CST). These data could improve patient selection for either method. Post hoc statistical analysis of effects of risk factors on overall best corrected visual acuity (BCVA [logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR)]) at baseline and month 1 (prognostic effect) and on the difference between outcome of CST and LIF (predictive effect) was conducted. Seventy two of 84 EAGLE datasets were included. Prognostic effect: Patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) presented worse BCVA at baseline (0.39 logMAR, p = 0.0097). Patients with time from occlusion to treatment <12 h showed a trend to better vision gain at month 1 (-0.23 logMAR, p = 0.086), similarly sm...

Research paper thumbnail of Increased Expression of Angiogenic and Inflammatory Proteins in the Vitreous of Patients with Ischemic Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

Research paper thumbnail of Ranibizumab for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Associated Macular Edema Study (RABAMES): six‐month results of a prospective randomized clinical trial

Acta Ophthalmologica, 2014

PurposeTo compare standard‐of‐care grid laser photocoagulation versus intravitreal ranibizumab (I... more PurposeTo compare standard‐of‐care grid laser photocoagulation versus intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) versus a combination of both in the treatment of chronic (>3 months) macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion.MethodsProspective, randomized, multicentre clinical trial. Thirty patients with a best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between 20/320 and 20/40 were randomized 1:1:1 to receive grid laser or three monthly injections of 0.5 mg IVR or both followed by 3 months of observation.ResultsMean change from baseline BCVA at month 6 was +2 letters [laser; 0.04 logMAR, 95% confidence interval (−0.17; 0.25)], +17 letters [IVR; 0.34 (0.19; 0.5)] and +6 letters [combination; 0.12 (0.01; 0.24)] (IVR versus laser p = 0.02 and IVR versus combination p = 0.02). At month 3, mean improvement in central retinal thickness (CRT) was 90.6 μm (laser) (−18.65; 199.8), 379.5 μm (IVR) (204.2; −554.8), and 248 μm (167.2; −328.8) (combination) (IVR versus laser p = 0.005, laser versus co...

Research paper thumbnail of Vitreal Levels of Erythropoietin Are Increased in Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion and Correlate with Vitreal Vegf and the Extent of Macular Edema

Retina, 2010

Purpose-This study compares vitreal levels of erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with retinal vein ... more Purpose-This study compares vitreal levels of erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) with control subjects. In addition, it investigates different RVO disease parameters (time of vein occlusion, patient age, vitreal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels, and extent of central macular edema) for possible correlations with vitreal EPO levels. Methods-Serum and vitreal EPO were measured from 6 patients with branch retinal vein occlusion, 6 patients with central retinal vein occlusion, and 12 control subjects (10 macular puckers and 2 macular holes). Results-Serum EPO levels (9.8 ± 4.9 mU/mL) did not differ between the RVO and control groups and were significantly lower than vitreal EPO levels in all groups. Vitreal EPO was elevated both in branch RVO (91 ± 59 mU/mL) and central RVO (182 ± 70 mU/mL) compared with controls (35 ± 24 mU/mL). Increased vitreal EPO correlated with higher vitreal VEGF (r = 0.64, P = 0.0008) and more pronounced central macular edema (r = 0.66, P = 0.001). Conclusion-The results from this study indicate that EPO is locally expressed in the retina and that it is upregulated together with VEGF in RVO eyes. Because of its role both in neuroprotection and angiogenesis, ocular EPO might represent an interesting target to investigate in patients with RVO, especially in light of the current anti-VEGF treatments.

Research paper thumbnail of Efficacy and Safety of Intravitreal Therapy in Macular Edema Due to Branch and Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: a Systematic Review

Research paper thumbnail of Retinal Endovascular Lysis in Ischemic Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

Ophthalmology, 2007

Retinal endovascular lysis is a new therapeutic option for patients with central retinal vein occ... more Retinal endovascular lysis is a new therapeutic option for patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). In this procedure, a fibrinolytic agent is injected directly into a cannulated retinal vein after pars plana vitrectomy. Design: Prospective interventional case series. Participants: Thirteen strictly defined patients with ischemic CRVO. Methods: Patients with a decimal visual acuity (VA) of 0.2 or worse were scheduled for surgery within the first 5 months after onset of CRVO. A full ocular examination, determination of VA (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study charts), and fluorescein angiography were done preoperatively and 6, 12, 26, and 52 weeks postoperatively. Main Outcome Measure: Visual acuity 1 year after retinal endovascular lysis. Secondary study end points were (1) correlation of VA and successful recombinant tissue plasminogen activator injection into a retinal vein, (2) complication rate, and (3) number of additional surgical procedures within the first year after retinal endovascular lysis. Results: All patients had an ischemic CRVO and completed the 1-year follow-up visit. Preoperative decimal VA was 0.063 ϩ0.025/Ϫ0.018 (VA range, light perception [LP]-0.2); 6-week postoperative VA, 0.049 ϩ0.024/ Ϫ0.016 (LP-0.4); 3-month postoperative VA, 0.043 ϩ0.019/Ϫ0.014 (LP-0.3); 6-month postoperative VA, 0.035 ϩ0.022/Ϫ0.013 (blindness-0.4); and 12-month postoperative VA, 0.04 ϩ0.026/Ϫ0.016 (blindness-0.4). Visual acuity changed 1 year after retinal endovascular lysis by Ϫ1.923Ϯ1.619 lines (ϩ6 to Ϫ16 lines; P ϭ 0.258). We considered the retinal endovascular lysis procedure to have been technically successful in 10 eyes. Visual changes did not depend on successful lysis. Six eyes developed neovascular glaucoma, of which 2 globes ended up with painful phthisis and had to be removed. Retinal detachment was found in 3 eyes and cataract in 4. Together, the 13 eyes needed 22 additional surgical procedures. Preoperative and postoperative angiographic examinations showed no significant changes. Conclusion: Ischemic CRVO patients did not profit from retinal endovascular lysis in this pilot study. Visual results and the risk of developing iris neovascularization and neovascular glaucoma took the natural course. Although these results may be due to the overall bad prognosis of these particular ischemic eyes, the number of postoperative complications is unacceptably high. Ophthalmology 2007;

Research paper thumbnail of Pandemiebedingtes Verkaufsverbot von Feuerwerkskörpern in Deutschland führt zu einer deutlichen Abnahme der Augenverletzungen

Die Ophthalmologie

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund und Ziel Die kontinuierliche Erfassung von Augenverletzungen durch Py... more Zusammenfassung Hintergrund und Ziel Die kontinuierliche Erfassung von Augenverletzungen durch Pyrotechnik in den Tagen um Silvester über 6 Jahre ermöglicht uns, Verletzungszahlen, Verletzungsmuster und Unfallhergänge im Jahresvergleich zu untersuchen. Zur Entlastung der Krankenhäuser wurden in Deutschland im Rahmen der COVID-19-Pandemie für die Jahreswechsel 2020/21 und 2021/22 ein Verkaufsverbot für Pyrotechnikartikel und Versammlungsbegrenzungen umgesetzt. Wir untersuchen, welchen Einfluss diese Maßnahmen auf die Anzahl von feuerwerksbedingten Augenverletzungen hatten. Außerdem betrachten wir, ob dies zu einer Zunahme schwerer Verletzungen geführt hat und ob ein Zusammenhang mit einer vermehrten Nutzung selbst gebauter oder in Deutschland nicht zugelassener Pyrotechnik bestehen könnte. Methoden Mit unserem Online-Fragenbogen erfassen wir anonymisierte Daten zu Patienten, Unfallhergang und seit 2017/18 auch zur Beschaffung der eingesetzten Pyrotechnikartikel. Ergebnisse Unsere Aus...

Research paper thumbnail of Einfluss des COVID-19-Shutdowns auf die Arbeitsleistung einer Universitäts-Augenpoliklinik

Der Ophthalmologe, 2021

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die Coronaviruserkrankung COVID-19 hat im Frühjahr 2020 zu einer deut... more Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Die Coronaviruserkrankung COVID-19 hat im Frühjahr 2020 zu einer deutlichen Minderleistung der elektiven Medizin in den Krankenhäusern geführt, wobei es für universitäre Polikliniken bisher keine entsprechenden Daten über das Ausmaß dieser Reduktion und die damit verbundenen Erlösminderungen gibt. Material und Methode Mithilfe der Daten des aus dem Krankenhausinformationssystems (IS-H/i.s.h.med unter SAP, Cerner Corporation, North Kansas City, MO, Vereinigte Staaten von Amerika und SAP SE, Walldorf, Deutschland) und der an unserer Klinik mitentwickelten Zeiterfassungs- und Managementsoftware TimeElement (Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Deutschland) wurden alle Patientenkontakte des COVID-19-Shutdowns über ca. 7 Wochen vom 18.03.2020 bis zum 08.05.2020 evaluiert und mit dem Vorjahreszeitraum 2019 verglichen. Zudem wurden die Fallzahlen für das erste und zweite Quartal 2019 und 2020 in Relation gesetzt. Ergebnisse Im COVID-19-Zeitraum reduzierte...

Research paper thumbnail of Leistungs- und Kostenkalkulation für eine universitäre, augenheilkundliche Hochschulambulanz

Der Ophthalmologe, 2021

Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Allgemein gelten Hochschulambulanzen in Universitätskliniken als defi... more Zusammenfassung Hintergrund Allgemein gelten Hochschulambulanzen in Universitätskliniken als defizitär. In der vorliegenden Publikation wird der Ansatz unternommen, im Sinne einer Kostenträgerrechnung Umsatz und Kosten der Hochschulambulanz der Medizinischen Hochschule Hannover (MHH) zu evaluieren sowie eine Aufstellung der Arbeitsleistung zu unternehmen. Material und Methode Mithilfe der Daten des klinikeigenen Informationssystems (SAP) und einer eigenen Software (TimeElement), welche standardisiert angewendet wird, um den Patientenflow in unserer Hochschulambulanz in Echtzeit online zu erfassen, wurden alle Patientenkontakte des Jahres 2019 evaluiert. Die Gesamtkosten summieren sich aus Personal‑, Material- und Raumkosten inklusive Infrastruktur und werden den pauschalierten Erlösen nach Hochschulambulanzvertrag (HSA-Bereich) sowie weiteren Erlösen aus Konsilleistungen, Selbstzahlern, ambulantem Operieren und Kooperationsverträgen für intravitreale Injektionen (IVOMs) gegenüberges...

Research paper thumbnail of Selective retina therapy (SRT) in patients with therapy refractory persistent acute central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC): 3 months functional and morphological results

Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2020

Purpose Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a disease presenting with detachment of the neu... more Purpose Central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) is a disease presenting with detachment of the neurosensory retina and characteristic focal leakage on fluorescein angiography. The spontaneous remission rate is 84% within 6 months. In this study, the efficacy of selective retina therapy (SRT) was examined in patients with therapy refractory persistent acute CSC defined by symptoms for at least 6 months and persistent subretinal fluid (SRF) despite eplerenone therapy. Material and methods This is a prospective, monocentric observational study in 17 eyes (16 patients, mean age 42 years, 2 female). SRT was performed with the approved R:GEN laser (Lutronic, South Korea), a micropulsed 527-nm Nd:YLF laser device, with a train of 30 pulses of 1.7 μs at 100-Hz repetition rate at the point of focal leakage determined by fluorescein angiography (FA) at baseline (BSL). Visits on BSL, week 4 (wk4), and week 12 (wk12) included best corrected visual acuity (BCVA, logMar), central retinal thickness...

Research paper thumbnail of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Central Retinal Artery Occlusion

Research paper thumbnail of Local injection of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor MAE 87 reduces retinal neovascularization in mice

Molecular vision, Jan 15, 2004

Retinal neovascularization occurs under the influence of angiogenic factors like vascular endothe... more Retinal neovascularization occurs under the influence of angiogenic factors like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). VEGF signaling is enhanced by insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). In vitro, the oxoindolinone MAE 87 inhibits angiogenic signal transduction by blocking tyrosine kinase receptors including VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), IGF-1R, fibroblast GF-1R and epidermal GFR. We investigated the effect of MAE 87 in vivo using the mouse model for oxygen induced retinopathy. From postnatal day seven (P7) on, C57BL/6J mice were kept in a 75% oxygen environment for five days. On postnatal day 12 (P12) they received an intravitreal injection of MAE 87 in one eye and control substance in the fellow eye. The animals were sacrificed by intracardial perfusion with fluorescein-dextran solution on P17. Retinal whole mounts were prepared and ischemic retinopathy was evaluated in 26 animals using a standardized retinopathy score. After a single intravitreal injection of MAE 87 there were ...

Research paper thumbnail of Switch of anti-VEGF agents is an option for nonresponders in the treatment of AMD

Research paper thumbnail of Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis: A Case of Mistaken Identity

Retinal Cases & Brief Reports, 2008

Background: The report details a case of diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) wherei... more Background: The report details a case of diffuse unilateral subacute neuroretinitis (DUSN) wherein a subretinal parasite was visualized and subsequently destroyed with laser photocoagulation. Methods: Full historical and serologic investigations were carried out. A literature search to determine all possible causes of DUSN was also completed. Results: Serologic results supported Baylisascaris procyonis as the cause of infection, but imaging of the worm before destruction did not support this organism as the etiologic agent. On the basis of morphologic evaluation of still imaging and videoimaging, patient exposure information, and known causes of DUSN, the infection was likely due to Alaria species, providing further evidence of a trematode cause. Conclusions: The report adds to the literature that trematodes should be recognized as a possible cause of ocular larva migrans. Although laser therapy is appropriate and effective for both nematode and trematode infections of the eye, in the case of adjunctive medical therapy, identification of the parasite group is essential.

Research paper thumbnail of Indikationen zur intravitrealen Injektionstherapie mit Anti-VEGF für Makulaerkrankungen – Fehler vermeiden

Der Ophthalmologe, 2022

Die intravitreale operative Medikamenteneingabe (IVOM) bei verschiedenen Makulaerkrankungen ist h... more Die intravitreale operative Medikamenteneingabe (IVOM) bei verschiedenen Makulaerkrankungen ist heute eine der am häufigsten durchgeführten operativen Behandlungen weltweit. Da zumeist chronische Erkrankungen behandelt werden, bedeutet die Indikation zur Behandlung oft eine kontinuierliche Therapie über Jahre mit einem entsprechenden Aufwand bezüglich räumlicher, personeller und finanzieller Ressourcen. Dabei werden die Diagnose und Indikation zur Behandlung heute maßgeblich über die Spectral-Domain-optische Kohärenztomographie (SD-OCT) gestellt. Die Fähigkeit zur klinischen Beurteilung und Bewertung einer Fluoreszenzangiographie wird weniger geübt, obwohl diese immer noch Bestandteil der Indikationsstellung ist. So kann es passieren, dass Patienten zum Teil dauerhaft eine Anti-VEGF(„vascular endothelial growth factor“)-Therapie auf Basis einer Fehleinschätzung der makulären Diagnose oder der Aktivität der Erkrankung erhalten und diese Indikation – sobald einmal gestellt – selten hinterfragt oder zurückgenommen wird. Ziel dieses Manuskriptes ist es daher, anhand von Fallbeispielen auf mögliche und typische Fehlinterpretationen bei der Indikation oder Fortsetzung einer IVOM-Therapie mittels Anti-VEGF hinzuweisen und für Differenzialdiagnosen zu sensibilisieren. Intravitreal injection (IVI) of drugs for treatment of various macular diseases is now one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures worldwide. As mostly chronic diseases are treated, the indications for treatment often mean a continuous treatment over years with a corresponding effort regarding spatial, personnel and financial resources. The diagnosis and indications for treatment are nowadays mainly made by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). The ability to clinically assess and evaluate a fluorescence angiography is less practiced, although these are still a component of the indications for intravitreal injections. Therefore, it can happen that despite all diligence patients may receive anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment, sometimes permanently, based on a misinterpretation of the macular diagnosis or disease activity and these indications, once made, are rarely questioned or retracted. Therefore, the aim of this manuscript is to point out possible and typical misinterpretations in the indications or continuation of IVI treatment with anti-VEGF by means of case studies and to sensitize for differential diagnoses.

Research paper thumbnail of Density of the Retinal Blood Flow and Thickness Mapping by Spectralis OCT in Patients with Fabry Disease

Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 2018

Research paper thumbnail of Switch of Intravitreal Therapy for Macular Edema Secondary to Retinal Vein Occlusion from Anti-VEGF to Dexamethasone Implant and Vice Versa

Journal of Ophthalmology, 2017

Purpose. To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcome of intravitreal dexamethasone implant ... more Purpose. To evaluate the anatomical and functional outcome of intravitreal dexamethasone implant for macular edema secondary to central (C) or branch (B) retinal vein occlusion (RVO) in patients with persistent macular edema (ME) refractory to intravitreal antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment compared to treatment naïve patients and to dexamethasone-refractory eyes switched to anti-VEGF. Methods. Retrospective, observational study including 30 eyes previously treated with anti-VEGF (8 CRVO, 22 BRVO, mean age 69 ± 10 yrs), compared to 11 treatment naïve eyes (6 CRVO, 5 BRVO, 73 ± 11 yrs) and compared to dexamethasone nonresponders (2 CRVO, 4 BRVO, 69 ± 12). Outcome parameters were change in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and central foveal thickness (CFT) measured by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Results. Mean BCVA improvement after switch to dexamethasone implant was 4 letters (p=0.08), and treatment naïve eyes gained 10 letters (p=0.66), whil...

Research paper thumbnail of Vitrectomy with and without encircling band for pseudophakic retinal detachment: VIPER Study Report No 2—main results

British Journal of Ophthalmology, 2016

Background It is unclear whether or not an additional encircling band improves outcome in vitrect... more Background It is unclear whether or not an additional encircling band improves outcome in vitrectomy for pseudophakic retinal detachment (PRD). Also unclear is whether small gauge transconjunctival trocar-guided vitrectomy is as successful as conventional 20 gauge (G) vitrectomy. Methods 257 adult patients with uncomplicated PRD were enrolled in 14 vitreoretinal centres across Germany. Contingent on availability of qualified surgeons, eligible patients were randomly assigned either (i) with ratio 1:1 to 20 G vitrectomy plus encircling band (group E1) or 20 G vitrectomy without any buckle (group C) or (ii) with ratios 1:1:1 to group E1, C or 23/25 G vitrectomy without any buckle (group E2). Treatment success was defined as no indication for any retina reattaching procedure during the follow-up of 6 months. Results Success was reached in 79.0% (=79/100, group E1) versus 73.5% (=72/98, group C) (p=0.558, OR 1.32, 95% CI 0.65 to 2.65. In group E2 87.7% (=50/57) of patients reached success compared with 78.7% (=48/61) in group C, demonstrating noninferiority of E2 to C regarding the prespecified margin of 0.8 (OR scale; p=0.05, OR 2.17, 95% CI 0.80 to 5.89). Best corrected visual acuity significantly increased after surgery independent of technique, that is, on average −0.7 (from 1.0 to 0.3) logMAR. Patients suffered from a shift in spherical refraction of −1.0 D in group E1 compared with −0.1 D in group C. Similarly, intraoperative complications (15.2% vs 8.8% of patients) and serious adverse events (30.3% vs 22.5% of patients) were more frequent in group E1. Conclusions Vitrectomy with gas is an efficient and safe treatment for uncomplicated PRD. An additional encircling band does not significantly reduce the risk for any second procedure necessary to reattach the retina in 20 G vitrectomy. Small gauge transconjunctival vitrectomy is not inferior to the conventional 20 G technique. Trial registration number DKRS 00003158, Results.

Research paper thumbnail of Elektronische Visualisierung des ambulanten Patientenflows in einer Universitäts-Augenklinik

Research paper thumbnail of Correlation Between Hyperreflective Foci and Clinical Outcomes in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration After Switching to Aflibercept

Investigative ophthalmology & visual science, 2015

To assess the correlation between hyperreflective foci (HF) and visual and anatomical outcomes in... more To assess the correlation between hyperreflective foci (HF) and visual and anatomical outcomes in treatment-resistant neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). This was a prospective interventional case series. Thirty-three eyes of 30 consecutive patients with treatment-resistant neovascular AMD were enrolled. Intravitreal aflibercept injections were performed at week 0 (baseline), week 4, and week 8. Spectral-domain OCT images were obtained before each injection and 4 weeks after the third injection. The main focus was on the measurement of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) size in the cross-sectional area in the B-scan through the fovea, and HF number along line segments of 1- and 3-mm length passing through the fovea. Mean number of HF in the radius of 500 μm decreased from 8.36 ± 7.58 to 4.15 ± 3.39 (P = 0.02). Mean number of HF in the radius of 1500 μm was reduced from 21.30 ± 12.47 to 10.45 ± 6.34 (P < 0...

Research paper thumbnail of Predictors of prognosis and treatment outcome in central retinal artery occlusion: local intra-arterial fibrinolysis vs. conservative treatment

Neuroradiology, 2015

The study analyses patients' risk factors to determine prognostic and predictive factors in p... more The study analyses patients' risk factors to determine prognostic and predictive factors in patients with acute central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) treated in the randomized European Assessment Group for Lysis in the Eye (EAGLE) Study with local intra-arterial fibrinolysis (LIF) or conservative standard treatment (CST). These data could improve patient selection for either method. Post hoc statistical analysis of effects of risk factors on overall best corrected visual acuity (BCVA [logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR)]) at baseline and month 1 (prognostic effect) and on the difference between outcome of CST and LIF (predictive effect) was conducted. Seventy two of 84 EAGLE datasets were included. Prognostic effect: Patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) presented worse BCVA at baseline (0.39 logMAR, p = 0.0097). Patients with time from occlusion to treatment <12 h showed a trend to better vision gain at month 1 (-0.23 logMAR, p = 0.086), similarly sm...

Research paper thumbnail of Increased Expression of Angiogenic and Inflammatory Proteins in the Vitreous of Patients with Ischemic Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

Research paper thumbnail of Ranibizumab for Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion Associated Macular Edema Study (RABAMES): six‐month results of a prospective randomized clinical trial

Acta Ophthalmologica, 2014

PurposeTo compare standard‐of‐care grid laser photocoagulation versus intravitreal ranibizumab (I... more PurposeTo compare standard‐of‐care grid laser photocoagulation versus intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) versus a combination of both in the treatment of chronic (>3 months) macular oedema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion.MethodsProspective, randomized, multicentre clinical trial. Thirty patients with a best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) between 20/320 and 20/40 were randomized 1:1:1 to receive grid laser or three monthly injections of 0.5 mg IVR or both followed by 3 months of observation.ResultsMean change from baseline BCVA at month 6 was +2 letters [laser; 0.04 logMAR, 95% confidence interval (−0.17; 0.25)], +17 letters [IVR; 0.34 (0.19; 0.5)] and +6 letters [combination; 0.12 (0.01; 0.24)] (IVR versus laser p = 0.02 and IVR versus combination p = 0.02). At month 3, mean improvement in central retinal thickness (CRT) was 90.6 μm (laser) (−18.65; 199.8), 379.5 μm (IVR) (204.2; −554.8), and 248 μm (167.2; −328.8) (combination) (IVR versus laser p = 0.005, laser versus co...

Research paper thumbnail of Vitreal Levels of Erythropoietin Are Increased in Patients with Retinal Vein Occlusion and Correlate with Vitreal Vegf and the Extent of Macular Edema

Retina, 2010

Purpose-This study compares vitreal levels of erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with retinal vein ... more Purpose-This study compares vitreal levels of erythropoietin (EPO) in patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) with control subjects. In addition, it investigates different RVO disease parameters (time of vein occlusion, patient age, vitreal vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels, and extent of central macular edema) for possible correlations with vitreal EPO levels. Methods-Serum and vitreal EPO were measured from 6 patients with branch retinal vein occlusion, 6 patients with central retinal vein occlusion, and 12 control subjects (10 macular puckers and 2 macular holes). Results-Serum EPO levels (9.8 ± 4.9 mU/mL) did not differ between the RVO and control groups and were significantly lower than vitreal EPO levels in all groups. Vitreal EPO was elevated both in branch RVO (91 ± 59 mU/mL) and central RVO (182 ± 70 mU/mL) compared with controls (35 ± 24 mU/mL). Increased vitreal EPO correlated with higher vitreal VEGF (r = 0.64, P = 0.0008) and more pronounced central macular edema (r = 0.66, P = 0.001). Conclusion-The results from this study indicate that EPO is locally expressed in the retina and that it is upregulated together with VEGF in RVO eyes. Because of its role both in neuroprotection and angiogenesis, ocular EPO might represent an interesting target to investigate in patients with RVO, especially in light of the current anti-VEGF treatments.

Research paper thumbnail of Efficacy and Safety of Intravitreal Therapy in Macular Edema Due to Branch and Central Retinal Vein Occlusion: a Systematic Review

Research paper thumbnail of Retinal Endovascular Lysis in Ischemic Central Retinal Vein Occlusion

Ophthalmology, 2007

Retinal endovascular lysis is a new therapeutic option for patients with central retinal vein occ... more Retinal endovascular lysis is a new therapeutic option for patients with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO). In this procedure, a fibrinolytic agent is injected directly into a cannulated retinal vein after pars plana vitrectomy. Design: Prospective interventional case series. Participants: Thirteen strictly defined patients with ischemic CRVO. Methods: Patients with a decimal visual acuity (VA) of 0.2 or worse were scheduled for surgery within the first 5 months after onset of CRVO. A full ocular examination, determination of VA (Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study charts), and fluorescein angiography were done preoperatively and 6, 12, 26, and 52 weeks postoperatively. Main Outcome Measure: Visual acuity 1 year after retinal endovascular lysis. Secondary study end points were (1) correlation of VA and successful recombinant tissue plasminogen activator injection into a retinal vein, (2) complication rate, and (3) number of additional surgical procedures within the first year after retinal endovascular lysis. Results: All patients had an ischemic CRVO and completed the 1-year follow-up visit. Preoperative decimal VA was 0.063 ϩ0.025/Ϫ0.018 (VA range, light perception [LP]-0.2); 6-week postoperative VA, 0.049 ϩ0.024/ Ϫ0.016 (LP-0.4); 3-month postoperative VA, 0.043 ϩ0.019/Ϫ0.014 (LP-0.3); 6-month postoperative VA, 0.035 ϩ0.022/Ϫ0.013 (blindness-0.4); and 12-month postoperative VA, 0.04 ϩ0.026/Ϫ0.016 (blindness-0.4). Visual acuity changed 1 year after retinal endovascular lysis by Ϫ1.923Ϯ1.619 lines (ϩ6 to Ϫ16 lines; P ϭ 0.258). We considered the retinal endovascular lysis procedure to have been technically successful in 10 eyes. Visual changes did not depend on successful lysis. Six eyes developed neovascular glaucoma, of which 2 globes ended up with painful phthisis and had to be removed. Retinal detachment was found in 3 eyes and cataract in 4. Together, the 13 eyes needed 22 additional surgical procedures. Preoperative and postoperative angiographic examinations showed no significant changes. Conclusion: Ischemic CRVO patients did not profit from retinal endovascular lysis in this pilot study. Visual results and the risk of developing iris neovascularization and neovascular glaucoma took the natural course. Although these results may be due to the overall bad prognosis of these particular ischemic eyes, the number of postoperative complications is unacceptably high. Ophthalmology 2007;