Macular hole repair: the effect of size and nonsupine posture on postoperative outcomes.

Abstract

Background: Postoperative face-down positioning (FDP) for up to 2 weeks is believed to be necessary for successful closure of macular holes. FDP, however, can be disabling and uncomfortable and is a major burden for elderly patients. The aim of this study was to investigate how nonsupine posturing and macular hole size affect anatomical and functional success of macular hole closure.

Methods: The medical records of patients with idiopathic macular holes who were treated surgically between 2016 and 2019 were reviewed retrospectively. Exclusion criteria included vitreomacular traction, previous retinal detachment, or chronic macular hole.

Results: A total of 115 eyes of 115 patients were included. Average age was 69.2 ± 8.2 years; 63 patients (55%) were female. Anatomical success was achieved in 108 patients (94%) with a single operation. In small holes (<400 μm), closure was seen in 98% of cases (95% CI, 94%-100%); in large holes (≥400 μm), 90% of cases (95% CI, 76%-94%). Visual acuity remained stable or improved in 108 patients (92%). Average preoperative best-corrected visual acuity was 1.02 ± 0.45, with an overall improvement of 5 lines postoperatively. Small holes and large holes improved, with an average of 3 versus 7 lines gained, respectively.

Conclusions: In this study cohort, favorable anatomical and functional outcomes were achieved without postoperative FDP. These outcomes are comparable to the traditional FDP approach.