What is a Macular Hole?
The retina is a light sensitive layer that lines the inner surface of the back of the eye and acts like a camera film to capture light. The light that reaches the retina forms an image which is sent to, and interpreted by, our brain – this is how we see.
Light from the object you are looking at directly is focused onto a tiny area of the retina at the back of the eye, called the macula. The macula is approximately 5mm in diameter and is responsible for detailed central vision and most colour vision.
It provides the vision you need to read, recognise faces, drive a car, see colours clearly, and any other activity that requires precise vision. The rest of the retina gives you peripheral vision.
Causes & Symptoms
How is it formed?
As we age, the jelly-like fluid (vitreous) in the centre of the eye loses structural integrity and eventually shrinks. For some patients, the vitreous gel can be abnormally adherent, causing a pulling force on the macula. This can cause a macular hole to form, allowing fluid to seep underneath.
Symptoms
Symptoms of macular hole may include:
- Blurring or distortion of central vision – e.g. straight lines may look wavy
- Reduction or loss of central vision
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Treatment
Surgical repair
Most macular holes require surgical repair, which should be performed sooner rather than later. The longer a hole is left open, the larger it will become and the more permanent damage. As such, the expected outcome can be guarded despite closure of the macular hole.
Surgical repair involves removing the vitreous gel and filling the eye with gas. The aim of surgery is to prevent further progression of the hole and regain as much lost vision as possible. This surgery is performed under local anaesthetic in a hospital setting.
Immediately after surgery, specific posturing of the head will be required to assist closure of the hole. Detailed instructions will be provided if you are required to posture for recovery.
Your Journey
At Queensland Retina Specialists, our doctor will use state-of-the-art precision equipment to help assess your macular hole. Our specialist surgeon will then discuss an individualised treatment plan for your best visual outcome.
As with all surgery, there are some risks involved which will be discussed with you at your consultation.
More Information
For more information on macular holes, head to one of the links below.
