Fundus changes corresponding to visual field defects after vitrectomy for macular hole.

OBJECTIVE

Visual field defects are one of the complications of macular hole surgery, and mechanical retinal damage induced by infusion air is a proposed causative factor of this complication. In this study, we examined the fundus to see whether the changes observed corresponded to postoperative visual field defects.

DESIGN

Observational case series.

PARTICIPANTS

Seventeen eyes of 17 patients who had postoperative visual field defects after vitrectomy for idiopathic macular hole were examined.

METHODS

The fundus was examined by ophthalmoscopy and by fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Fundus changes corresponding to postoperative visual field defects.

RESULTS

In eight eyes, detectable fundus changes were observed, including regional mottling and degeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium, filling delay of the choroidal circulation, subretinal fibrosis, and epiretinal membrane formation. These findings corresponded exactly to the visual field defects observed. Although the visual field defects had been detected shortly after surgery, fundus changes were detected, on average, more than 8 months after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Fundus changes become apparent after surgery, and they are progressive. Therefore, it is important to examine eyes with visual field defects for a follow-up period of several years.