Macular translocation—what our patients need to know

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration is the most common cause of rapid and irreversible central vision loss among persons older than 60 years in the United States. Vision loss occurs as a result of choroidal neovascularization in which abnormal blood vessels in the choroid bleed and scar beneath the fovea. If this is caught early, a new approach called macular translocation surgery can be considered. In this procedure, the surgeon moves (translocates) the macula to a healthy area of the retina where it may recover and maintain its function. Moving the fovea allows the surgeon to use laser to destroy the abnormal blood vessels and spare the fovea.

As with any procedure, it is important for the patient to have a positive perioperative experience, to be able to report and prevent postoperative complications, arrange follow-up care and transportation, and have realistic expectations of visual outcomes. To this end, a patient education brochure has been developed to ensure a more informed, involved, and satisfied patient. Our topics include: (1) a brief description of macular degeneration, (b) perioperative examinations and procedures, (3) the procedure itself, surgical risks, and postoperative care, (4) appointments for follow-up and laser procedures a few days after surgery, and (5) possible improvements in visual outcomes.

Our objectives are to describe macular translocation surgery as it pertains to the management of choroidal neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration and to identify the essential perioperative elements that patients need to know about macular translocation surgery. (Insight 2001;26:73-6.)