Surgical treatment of macular hole: anatomo-functional results

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of surgical treatment for idiopathic macular hole based on anatomical and functional results.
Materials and methods: Retrospective observational analysis of patients diagnosed with macular hole who underwent surgery performed by the same surgeon at “Centro de Ojos Quilmes” (an ophthalmic center in Quilmes city, Argentina) from February 2018 to September 2019. The technique used in all patients was vitrectomy with internal limiting membrane peeling, while for retinal holes larger than 400 microns the technique was combined with intraretinal massage to approximate the edges. Anatomical parameters were evaluated using optical coherence tomography whereas functional parameters were assessed by means of visual acuity measurements. 
Results: A total of 43 eyes from 37 patients of an average age of 61.5 (41-82) years were included. Anatomical closure was achieved in 31 eyes (72.1%) and visual acuity improved also in 31 eyes (72.1%); however, it remained unchanged in 9 eyes and worsened in 3, with preoperative values of 0.70 ± 0.46 logMAR and of 0.41 ± 0.43 logMAR at six months postoperatively, a statistically significant difference (p= 0.001).
Conclusions: According to our experience —consistent with results reported in international series—, indication of surgery for idiopathic macular hole was demonstrated to improve anatomo-functional parameters and to prevent progression to a potentially disabling disease.