13.2  Macular Hole Retinal Detachment

Macular holes may accompany rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (Figure 13.2.1A). They can be the cause of the detachment, such as in myoptic traction maculopathy. They can also occur secondary to a rhegmatogenous retinal detachment that has developed proliferative vitreoretinopathy with subsequent shortening of the retina.

This critical step must be meticulous particularly in high myopes, who are prone to have vitreoschisis. This can mean that a layer of residual vitreous remains adherent to the retina even after apparent elevation of the posterior hyaloid. Triamcinolone acetonide is suggested for visualizing the vitreous.

This is more difficult than for a standard idiopathic macular hole surgery because of the mobility of the detached retina. Staining with Brilliant Blue G or Indocyanine Green (ICG) dye is recommended but avoid subretinal migration of the dye through the macular hole. One optional technique to protect the subretinal space and also to provide an element of counter traction is to insert a perfluoro-n-octane (PFO) bubble at the disc then roll it over the hole (the bubble must be adequately sized such that it is significant larger than the hole and at a low risk of subretinal migration). The bubble can give countertraction and also shield the subretinal space during instillation of dye. Some surgeons will peel under a PFO bubble, injecting the dye between the retina and the PFO.

A pinch and peel technique works well for peeling ILM in detached retina. Gently press down on the retinal surface with the forceps. Grasp the ILM by the corner-edge of the forceps jaws. In presence of highly elevated retina, the forceps gently drags the ILM posteroanteriorly.