Macular Hole
What is it?
MMacular hole is a small break in the macula. This is located in the centre of the macula (which is the eye’s light-sensitive tissue), called the retina. This area provides the sharp, central vision needed for daily activities such as reading, driving, and fine detail vision like recognising a face.
Causes?
There are different stages to this eye condition. They are:
- Foveal detachments (Stage I)
- Partial-thickness holes (Stage II)
- Full-thickness holes (Stage III)
If the vitreous is strongly attached to the retina when pulling away, it can tear the retina. This creates the macular hole. Fluid then seeps through the hole onto the macula, causing symptoms of blurred and distorted central vision.
Symptoms?
Depending on the severity on the condition, patients may experience:
- Slight distortion or blurring of central vision (during early stages).
- Straight lines and objects appearing wavy or bent.
- Difficulty with routine tasks such as reading or driving.
Risk Factors?
Risk factors for Macular Holes include:
- Age – Primary risk factor and is more common in patients 60 or over.
- Short-sightedness (Myopia)
- History of retinal tears or detachments.
- Inflammation in the eye (such as Uveitis).
- Diabetes
Treatment?
If left untreated, a macular hole may lead to a detached retina. This is a medical emergency and Retinal Detachment require immediate specialist care to preserve the individual’s vision. Although some Macular holes can seal themselves, surgical intervention is usually required to improve vision.
Vitrectomy
A form of keyhole surgery where a small probe is used to remove the vitreous. Gas is injected into the eye to replace the fluid. This prevents it from pulling on the retina. This procedure is done as at day eye surgery using a local anaesthesia.
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