Rohit Eye Hospital

Macular Hole

Macular Hole

A macular hole is a vitreoretinal interface disease characterized by a partial or full-thickness neurosensory retinal defect in the center of the macula. The formation of a macular hole involves complex pathways related to morphology and vitreoretinal interface pathology.

Symptoms

Central black spot

Bluring of vision

Metamorphopsia

How is a Macular Hole Treated?

  • Observation (Stage 1): Stage 1 holes may be observed as they can spontaneously resolve in about 50% of cases.
  • Vitrectomy (Stages 2/3 and 4): Surgical intervention with pars-plana vitrectomy (PPV) is standard. It entails removing diseased vitreous, inducing posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), and peeling the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to enhance closure rates.
  • Post-operative Care: Monitoring in the initial days ensures successful closure. Or Gas Tamponade is used to close the macular hole . Proper head positioning is crucial for the recovery of the patient.

Vitrectomy Surgery

The main treatment for a macular hole is a surgical procedure called a vitrectomy. This is a highly successful outpatient procedure performed by an experienced eye surgeon.

During the surgery:

  • The surgeon removes the vitreous gel from your eye
  • A special membrane on the surface of the retina may be gently peeled away
  • Your eye is filled with a special gas bubble that helps the hole heal

After Your Surgery

Position Requirements:

  • You’ll need to maintain a face-down position for several days to weeks
  • This keeps the gas bubble in place against the macula
  • Your surgeon will tell you exactly how long to maintain this position
  • Special equipment is available to help you maintain the correct position

Recovery Period:

  • The gas bubble gradually disappears on its own
  • Full vision recovery may take 2-3 months
  • Most patients experience significant improvement in their vision
  • Success rates are highest when treatment occurs early

Important Things to Know:

  • You cannot fly in an airplane or travel to high altitudes until the gas bubble is gone.
  • You must inform other healthcare providers about the gas bubble before any procedures.
  •  Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor your healing

When to Contact Your Doctor:

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe pain
  • Significant decrease in vision
  • Increasing redness of the eye
  • Signs of infection

Prevention and Early Detection:

  • Regular eye examinations are important
  • Report any vision changes to your eye doctor promptly
  •  Early treatment typically leads to better outcomes

Dr. Rohit Agrawal

MBBS, M.S (Gold medalist), FVRS

Vitreo-Retina, Uvea & ROP specialist 

Book a session with Dr. Rohit Agrawal

Dr. Rohit Agrawal

MBBS, M.S  (Gold medalist), FVRS

Vitreo-Retina, Uvea & ROP specialist 

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