Combined Subthreshold Laser with Push-Pull Fluid Exchange for Treatment of Refractory Macular Hole

Abstract

We report on a 55-year-old patient presenting with a 400 μm macular hole which failed to resolve with vitrectomy and internal limited membrane peeling. In accordance with patient wishes to avoid further surgery, subthreshold laser was applied to the macular hole followed by gas exchange with euvolemic C3F8. Successful hole closure was subsequently observed with vision improved by four Snellen lines. Subthreshold laser has several advantages over conventional laser techniques, including reduced collateral thermal damage to the adjacent cells. This case has demonstrated a new use for subthreshold laser, which combined with push-pull technique may be an effective treatment option for persistent MH.