In some cases of occult choroidal neovascularization (CNV) visualized with fluorescein angiography, indocyanine green videoangiography (ICGV) performed on an outpatient basis may identify distinct areas of ICG dye (Cardiogreen, Becton Dickinson, Cockeysville, Md) hyperfluorescence.1 A recent histopathologic report has confirmed the presence of CNV in an area of ICG hyperfluorescence (W. R. Green, MD, oral communication, December 1993); however, the precise clinical significance of these areas remains to be determined. Indocyanine green dye excitation and emission spectra occur in the nearinfrared range, thereby allowing improved penetration of fluorescence through intraocular pigments, fluid, or thin layers of hemorrhage.
We describe herein a system that can be used to perform real-time intraoperative ICGV during subretinal surgery. This system may be used to identify CNV after removal of thick subretinal hemorrhage, to identify areas of CNV for potential excision or endolaser treatment, and to confirm the adequacy of surgical excision of CNV