IMPACT OF LIPID METABOLISM ON RECOVERY OUTCOMES IN ATHLETES WITH RHEGMATOGENOUS RETINAL DETACHMENT: THE ROLE OF SILICONE OIL EMULSIFICATION TIME

Abstract

Objective: To explore the correlations between silicone oil emulsification time (T) and lipid metabolism in athletes following intravitreal silicone oil injections for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, a condition that can significantly impact visual performance critical to sports. Methods: Seventy-nine athletes who developed silicone oil emulsification post-intravitreal injection were categorized into three groups based on the emulsification time: T1 group (n=26, T<197 days), T2 group (n=27, T between 197-273 days), and T3 group (n=26, T≥273 days). This study statistically analyzed the relationship between emulsification time and various blood biochemical indexes related to lipid metabolism, which are essential for maintaining optimal athletic performance and recovery. Results: While no significant association was found between emulsification time and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (r=0.198, p=0.08), there were significant negative correlations with total cholesterol (r=-0.292, p=0.003), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (r=-0.278, p=0.013), and triglycerides (r=-0.326, p=0.003). These findings suggest that longer emulsification times are associated with lower levels of these lipids. Conclusion: The duration of silicone oil emulsification correlates with key lipid metabolism parameters in athletes treated for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Understanding these relationships is crucial for developing targeted strategies to manage the lipid profiles of athletes undergoing such treatments, ensuring that their recovery aligns with the demands of their sports activities and overall health objectives.