Scanning Laser Ophthalmoscope Correlations With Biomicroscopic Findings and Foveal Function After Macular Hole Closure

Abstract

SINCE KELLY and Wendel¹ first reported surgical outcomes for idiopathic macular holes in 1991, vitreous surgery has become an effective treatment for most full-thickness macular holes. The percentages of macular hole closure postoperatively range from 70% to 90%.^1-9 However, even though closure occurs, biomicroscopic foveal findings vary among treated eyes; some eyes have an almost normal foveal appearance and others have massive retinal pigment epithelial atrophy at the fovea. Because the foveal biomicroscopic findings vary, the postoperative visual acuity also varies, with more than 60% of eyes that underwent surgery achieving improved visual acuity greater than 2 Snellen lines.^1-9 Furthermore, there is often a discrepancy between macular hole closure and visual improvement.⁹