Optical coherence tomography evaluation of idiopathic macular hole treatment by gas-assisted posterior vitreous detachment

PURPOSE: To report a case of idiopathic macular hole, with vitreoretinal tr action confirmed by optical coherence tomography that was successfully trea ted by a single intravitreous perfluoropropane (C3F8) gas bubble injection. METHODS: Case report. A 65-year-old patient with idiopathic macular hole (s tage 2, one eye) received an intravitreous gas injection and was prospectiv ely followed with optical coherence tomography. RESULTS: A complete posterior vitreous detachment was achieved within 6 wee ks after gas injection. Visual acuity improved from 20/80 to 20/25 by 10 mo nths of followup. Optical coherence tomography disclosed vitreoretinal trac tion release and macular hole closure. No complications were related to the procedure. CONCLUSION: This simple procedure can assist a complete posterior vitreous detachment with relief of the hyaloid-foveolar traction, facilitating macul ar hole closure. (C) 2001 by Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.