Optical coherence tomography evaluation of idiopathic macular hole treatment by gas-assisted posterior vitreous detachment

Am J Ophthalmol. 2001 Aug;132(2):264-6. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9394(00)00903-x.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of idiopathic macular hole, with vitreoretinal traction confirmed by optical coherence tomography that was successfully treated by a single intravitreous perfluoropropane (C(3)F(8)) gas bubble injection.

Methods: Case report. A 65-year-old patient with idiopathic macular hole (stage 2, one eye) received an intravitreous gas injection and was prospectively followed with optical coherence tomography.

Results: A complete posterior vitreous detachment was achieved within 6 weeks after gas injection. Visual acuity improved from 20/80 to 20/25 by 10 months of follow-up. Optical coherence tomography disclosed vitreoretinal traction release and macular hole closure. No complications were related to the procedure.

Conclusion: This simple procedure can assist a complete posterior vitreous detachment with relief of the hyaloid-foveolar traction, facilitating macular hole closure.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Diagnostic Techniques, Ophthalmological*
  • Fluorocarbons / therapeutic use*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Injections
  • Interferometry
  • Light
  • Male
  • Prospective Studies
  • Retinal Perforations / diagnosis
  • Retinal Perforations / surgery*
  • Tomography
  • Visual Acuity
  • Vitreous Detachment / diagnosis
  • Vitreous Detachment / surgery*

Substances

  • Fluorocarbons
  • perflutren