Results and complications of idiopathic macular holes surgery

Aim of the study We conducted a retrospective study in order to evaluate the anatomical and functional outcomes of eyes with constituted idiopathic macular holes as well as the rate of peri and postoperative complications when patients are operated on by conventional surgery. Material and methods Twenty-nine consecutive eyes (26 patients) presenting idiopathic macular holes (stage II or III) were included in the study. Conventional vitreous surgery with a three-port system and a careful peeling of the internal limiting membrane and/or an epiretinal membrane was performed. History, preoperative eye examination, operative findings, postoperative course and final examination were reviewed. Results Anatomical closure was obtained in 76% of the cases after one operation and in 93% following additional operation. Cataract was the most frequent complication (71%). Peripheral iatrogenic, retinal tears were found in 14% of the cases perioperatively, and retinal pigment epithelial anomalies in 24% of the cases postoperatively. Discussion Conventional surgery of the idiopathic macular holes with careful peeling of the internal limiting membrane and/or an epiretinal membrane is successful for the anatomic closure of the hole in most of the cases. Complications are without major incidence in the visual function.