Vascular casts of experimental subretinal neovascularization in monkeys.

The origin, course, and pattern of experimental subretinal neovascularization (SRN) in monkeys were studied with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of Mercox preparations of the choroidal vascular bed. This technique allowed visualization of the entire circulation of the SRN lesion from both the retinal and scleral aspects. The SEM data is comparable to that of fluorescein angiography, but provides details not detectable by angiography. The afferent arteriole was traced back to the posterior ciliary artery of origin. In the early stages, the efferent vessels appeared to connect with the choriocapillaris; whereas later the efferent vessels connected directly to the choroidal venous system. The study of such plastic casts enables more accurate assessment of some aspects of the vascular architecture of the SRN frond.