A macular hole refers to a hole affecting the central part of the retina - called macula. It is commonly seen in the over 60’s population and tends to be more common in women than men. It presents with a gradual drop in vision usually associated with distortion (straight lines appear “wiggly”). With time, the macular hole becomes larger, causing further deterioration in vision.
The diagnosis is made by your eye surgeon after a retinal examination through dilated pupils.
.

Vitrectomy Surgery for Macular Holes

The only current treatment for macular holes is surgery called vitrectomy, where the “gelly” (vitreous) inside the eye and the very superficial layer of the retina (Internal Limiting Membrane – ILM) are removed. A bubble of gas is placed inside the eye that acts as a splint to close the macular hole. The vision will be very blurred after the surgery because of the gas inside the eye. This gas is gradually absorbed by the eye, and when it disappears the vision usually improves.
Eye drops are required for a few weeks after the surgery the reduce the inflammation in the eye. There is a 90-95% chance of closure of the hole with this type of operation, and the improvement in vision will depend on how long the hole has been present.