Reading, driving, and watching TV are some of the activities that require sharp, central vision. The part of the eye that is responsible for this vision is known as the macula. A small hole can develop in the macula, distorting or reducing central vision. If your central vision is reduced, there is a possibility that you have a macular hole. The only way to know for sure is to see your eye doctor.
Diagnosing a macular hole
Your eye doctor can diagnose the hole after a careful dilated examination. In some cases, additional testing may be needed. Your doctor may ask you to undergo a fluorescein angiogram or optical coherence tomography scan to further assess the chronicity and size of the hole in your macula.
Cross-sectional image of the retina taken with optical coherence tomography imaging. The black gap in the center of the retina is a macular hole.
Treating a macular hole
A macular hole can be closed through a procedure known as a vitrectomy. During a vitrectomy, the hole in the macula is closed using a gas bubble that is placed in the eye. Since a gas bubble always rises to the top and the hole is found at the back of the eye, it is critical that the patient remains face down for weeks after the procedure. By maintaining this position, the bubble is positioned directly on the hole to help close it. Over time the gas bubble dissipates and vision slowly returns. A vitrectomy has a high success rate of 90%.
To learn more about macular hole treatment, call us today at 1-808-487-8928 to request an appointment with one of our doctors at Retina Consultants of Hawaii. We look forward to hearing from you!