Novel Triamcinolone Acetonide-Loaded Liposomes Topical Formulation for the Treatment of Cystoid Macular Edema After Cataract Surgery: A Pilot Study

PURPOSE: To report tolerability, safety, and efficacy of a topical triamcinolone acetonide-loaded liposomes formulation (TA-LF) in targeting the macular area in patients with refractory pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (PCME). METHODS: For tolerability, safety and efficacy evaluation, 12 eyes of 12 patients with refractory PCME were exposed to one drop of TA-LF (TA at 0.2%) every 2 h for 90 days or until best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was achieved. Intraocular pressure (IOP), slit lamp examination, and central foveal thickness (CFT) were analyzed at every visit. RESULTS: Patients with refractory PCME under TA-LF therapy showed a significant improvement in BVCA and CFT without significant IOP modification (P = 0.94). On average CFT decreased to 206.75 ± 135.72 μm and BCVA improved to 20.08 ± 10.35 letters (P < 0.0005). BCVA was achieved at 10.58 ± 6.70 weeks (range 2-18). TA-LF was well tolerated in all cases. Neither ocular surface abnormalities nor adverse events were recorded. CONCLUSION: TA-LF was well tolerated and improved BCVA and CFT on patients with refractory PCME.