Let's analyze this obscure medical term. The cystic changes are in the central area of the retina, known as the Macula, the area of our most acute vision. Clear fluid fills the cystic spaces, producing the swelling or Edema. CME is one of the most common complications of intraocular surgery, including cataract surgery. The risk of developing this after cataract surgery is about three percent.
CME results from the inflammation that accompanies the surgical procedure.
Fortunately, CME can have varying degrees of severity, and many patients have only mild a decrease in their vision. CME can also result from other types of ocular inflammation and conditions such as severe eye infections, trauma to the eye and diabetic eye disease. The treatment of CME includes steroid drops, and non-steroidal medications, such as Motrin and Voltaren. Occasionally, steroid injections next to the eye are necessary to reduce inflammation and relieve the swelling. In the case of diabetic CME, laser treatments are very useful to help resolve the edema.