Macular Hole

What It Is

A macular hole is a small break in the center of the retina (macula) that causes blurred or distorted central vision. It often develops with age due to vitreous pulling on the retina.

Symptoms

  • Blurry or distorted central vision
  • Difficulty reading or recognizing faces
  • A dark or missing spot in the center of vision

Findings

  • Full-thickness defect in the macula on OCT
  • Loss of central foveal contour
  • Posterior vitreous detachment may be present

Treatments

The standard treatment involves a pars plana vitrectomy combined with internal limiting membrane peeling, followed by the insertion of a gas bubble to aid in closing the macular hole. Patients are typically advised to maintain a face-down position for several days after surgery to optimize healing and improve surgical outcomes.

Outcomes

The procedure has a high success rate for achieving anatomical closure of the macular hole, though visual improvement can vary based on how long the hole has been present. Early treatment generally leads to better outcomes and greater chances of vision recovery.