Research status and progress of dissociated optic nerve fiber layer after internal limiting membrane peeling

Dissociated optic nerve fiber layer (DONFL) appearance is consists of numerous arcuate dark striae within the posterior pole in the direction of the optic nerve fibers. And on the cross-sectional image, DONFL was correspond to inner retinal dimples. It mainly occurs after the internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling due to the direct damage on the local retina and the broad tractional effect on the posterior retina during membrane peeling. DONFL appearance is considered to be a spontaneous and delayed morphologic change with a subclinical nature, and appears to have little effect on retinal function. In addition to avoiding the removal of ILM and reducing the area of ILM peeling, a novel technique for reposition of the fixed ILM flap with the assistance of perfluoro-n-octane and the temporal inverted ILM flap technique can also be used to prevent and reduce the occurrence of DONFL appearance. Further studies on its development, clinical features and clinical significance are still required. Key words: Retinal diseases/surgery; Vitreoretinal surgery; Review; Optic nerve fiber layer