Human amniotic membrane plug to treat failed and highly myopic macular holes. Our experience

Abstract

The amniotic membrane (hAM) plug is a treatment option for patients with large refractory or myopic macular holes (MH). The aim of this retrospective case series is to present the anatomical and functional changes during their follow-up that ranges from 10 to 45 months. Out of the ten eyes enrolled, 6 were idiopathic MH and 4 were myopic MH. Notably, 3 of the myopic MH cases were further complicated by posterior pole retinal detachment. Remarkably, 3 patients improved their best-corrected visual acuity, 5 mantained it and 2 worsened it. All the MH closed. Over this period, three instances of hAM plug misplacement following gas absorption required a secondary surgery employing another hAM. In conclusion, the hAM plug seems to be a safe technique and a treatment option for these patients. Further investigations are needed to comprehensively understand the long-term effects of hAM on the retina.