Macular Holes
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| Macular Hole |
Once you have a basic understanding of the eye, you can understand how your eye problem interferes with vision. In a manner similar to a camera, light enters in front of your eye through the cornea and lens. The light is then focused on the back of your eye on the tissue called the retina. In a sense, the retina functions like the film in a camera. From there, the signals are transmitted to the brain, thereby creating sight. The center of the retina is called the macula. The macula is responsible for sharp, central vision. Good central vision is required for activities such as reading, driving, and sewing. If the macula is damaged by disease, this "straight ahead" vision is affected. The rest of the retina is responsible for side or peripheral vision.
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| Open Macular Hole OCT |
A macular hole is the absence of retinal tissue in the center of your vision. While there are many theories as to why this occurs, the simplest explanation is that as we get older, the vitreous jelly which fills most of the eye becomes liquid, shrinks, and separates from the back of the eye. When this occurs, if there is an unusual adhesion between the vitreous and the macula, the vitreous can pull on the retina, stretching the thin spot in the center until it opens up, forming a macular hole. Usually no tissue is actually missing. Retinal specialists are trying to determine why macular holes occur and what can be done to prevent them.
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| Closed Macular Hole OCT |
Until 1991, no treatment was possible for macular holes. We are pleased that surgery to "repair" macular holes is now possible. Using microscopic instrumentation, we are now able to close these holes with relatively good results. Specifically, more than 90% of these holes can be closed with surgery, which results in either elimination of the black spot or a reduction in its size. Most patients note less distortion. Most patients also notice a two to three line improvement in vision, on the eye chart.
In general, people do not go "blind" from macular holes. Even if surgery is not performed, it is reassuring to know that your side vision is almost always maintained.
The occurrence of a macular hole in one eye does not mean that the other eye will develop one. In fact, the chance of developing a macular hole in your good eye is probably less than 5%. Monitoring your Amsler grid on a daily basis will ensure early recognition of any changes in your good eye.
To learn more about macular holes and schedule a visit with one of our retina specialists in Atlanta, Georgia, call us toll-free at 888-GA-RETINA.