Outcomes of Epiretinal membrane (ERM) Surgery at a UK Tertiary Centre: A Retrospective Audit

This retrospective audit evaluated the outcomes of epiretinal membrane (ERM) surgery over a 12-month period at a UK tertiary ophthalmology centre. A total of 39 primary ERM cases were analysed for changes in visual acuity, OCT-based prognostic indicators, complication rates, and surgical technique—particularly internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling. The majority of patients experienced an improvement of ≥2 Snellen lines, even in the context of a higher-than-expected prevalence of poor prognostic OCT features such as ectopic inner foveal layer (EIFL) and outer retinal disruption. ILM peeling was performed in 84% of cases and was associated with all instances of postoperative cystoid macular oedema (CMO), which occurred in 13% of the cohort. Areas for improvement were identified, including more consistent documentation of preoperative metamorphopsia and clearer integration of OCT prognostic markers into the consent process. Surgical outcomes compared favourably to published benchmarks. Further prospective work is needed to optimise prognostic counselling and evaluate the trade-offs of ILM peeling in high-risk cases.