Macular Hole
This photo shows a macular hole, seen as the dark circle in the centre of the the picture, being treated. I am using micrcosurgical forceps to peel the innermost layer of the retina away to encourage the hole to close.
What is a macular hole?
A full-thickness macular hole is a defect that develops in the macula. This is the part of the retina that we use to read and see fine detail in the distance.
It is usually caused by natural ageing processes inside the eye. However, it is sometimes caused by conditions such as short-sightedness and trauma.
What are the symptoms of a macular hole?
Macular holes may cause distortion or a gap in your central vision and affect tasks such as reading or driving.
How do you treat macular holes?
The vision in most cases of macular holes will gradually deteriorate if left untreated. Surgery can improve your vision and symptoms of distortion.
What is involved in the surgery?
A macular hole repair is usually done as a day case under local anaesthesia at the Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital. The operation lasts less than 60 minutes and involves a procedure known as vitrectomy, where microscopic instruments are introduced through the white of the eye to manipulate the retina. This involves peeling the innermost layer of the retina which has been shown to improve success rates. A gas bubble is then introduced support the retina while the hole closes. This can be combined with cataract surgery at the same time if required.
How long is the recovery after macular hole surgery?
I may ask my patients to adopt a face-down positioning for a few days depending on the size of the macular hole.