Abstract: ObjectiveTo evaluate the value of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the diagnosis and therapy of epiretinal membrane (EM) in the macular.MethodsForty-nine cases (61 eyes) of EM patients were examined with OCT before and after operation.ResultsThe EM in the macular revealed a high reflex belt in the surface of the retina. The thickness of the reflex belt were different. With some patients, the belt adhered to the inner layer of the retina and with most patients, the belt was separated from the retina. Shallow foveolar and increased thickness of the retina ccould usually been seen. Part cases complicated with false macular hole, laminar hole, cystoid macular edema or detachment of the neuroepithelium. After operation, the reflex belt disappeared. The damage of the macular neruoepithelium and macular edema remained in part cases.ConclusionOCT can objectively reveal the EM and the change of the retina structure after operation.

Key words: optical coherence tomgraphy, retinal, epiretinal membrane