Management of Retinal Detachment With a Coexistent Macular Hole: Submacular Placement of Retinal Autograft Through a Macular Hole

Abstract

Purpose: In this article, a submacular autologous neurosensory retinal transplantation technique is presented in patients with large macular hole (MH) accompanying retinal detachment. Methods: In the surgical procedure, 23-G pars plana vitrectomy and peripheral vitrectomy were performed. An autologous neurosensory retinal patch, which should be larger than the diameter of the MH, was released from a suitable quadrant. The retinal patch was grasped using a 23 gauge microforceps and then passed through the MH and placed under the macula. Liquid perfluorocarbon (PFCL) was injected, and the retina was reattached. A subfoveal autologous neurosensory retinal patch was repositioned in the center of the MH with gentle manipulation under fluid perfluorocarbon, if necessary. Laser retinopexy was applied to peripheral tears under PFCL Subsequently, a 5,000-cSt silicone oil-PFCL exchange was also performed. Results: Four eyes of four patients were operated on using the technique described earlier. Silicone oil was removed from two patients, and the macular holes were closed in all patients at the last follow-up. Conclusion: This technique has been beneficial in refractory MHs and can improve the visual potential in eyes with MHs.