Spontaneous Closure of an Idiopathic Full-Thickness Macular Hole: A Literature Review

Abstract

Purpose: This work reviews the literature regarding spontaneous closure of idiopathic full-thickness macular holes (FTMHs). Methods: Literature on patients with spontaneous idiopathic FTMH closure was reviewed via Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed through July 16, 2020. A total of 27 of 66 identified articles were included. Results: A total of 68 eyes had spontaneous closure. Of the patients, 62.7% were women and the average age was 67.5 years. Visual acuity improved from Snellen 20/78 to 20/33 post closure. The average hole diameter was 176.8 μm; the largest was 350 μm. Most were stage 2 according to Gass and of small size according to International Vitreomacular Traction Study Group (IVTS) staging. The predominant classification system in recent literature is IVTS staging. The average optical coherence tomography–observed closure time was 4.5 months. Conclusions: On review, reported spontaneous closure rates of all idiopathic FTMH range from 3% to 15%, and no demographic subgroups are more likely to have closure. Holes ≤250 µm have higher closure rates (22.2%) than those in the range of >250 to 400 µm (13.3%) and ≥400 µm (0%). Closure is associated with favorable visual outcomes, and retinal bridging via glial cells is likely critical to closure. These determinations were based on limited numbers; prospective studies are needed to further ascertain rate, mechanism, and characteristics. IVTS staging provides reliable reporting and insight into whether FTMH can be observed before surgery.