Removal of the internal limiting membrane under perfluorocarbon liquid to treat macular-hole-associated retinal detachment.

PURPOSE: To demonstrate the advantages and efficacy of internal limiting membrane removal under perfluorocarbon liquid in macular-hole-associated retinal detachment.

DESIGN

Interventional case series.

METHOD: Four patients with macular-hole-associated retinal detachment underwent pars plana vitrectomy, retinal reattachment with endodrainage through the macular hole, perfluoro-n-octane injection to seal the macular hole, indocyanine green injection under the perfluoro-n-octane bubble and removal of the indocyanine green-stained internal limiting membrane. Visual acuity and anatomic results were recorded, with a mean follow-up period of 18 months.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, the retina was reattached in all four patients and closure of the macular hole was achieved in three eyes. Visual acuity improved in all eyes.

CONCLUSIONS

In retinal detachment resulting from macular hole, staining of the internal limiting membrane with indocyanine green injected under perfluoro-n-octane can facilitate peeling of the membrane without exertion of excessive retinal traction and may prevent passage of indocyanine green into the subretinal space.