Optic disc pit maculopathy after prone positioning spine surgery

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Optic disc pit maculopathy is a rare condition affecting vision.
• Patient positioning during surgery can induce physiological changes.
• Non-ocular surgeries have not been previously linked to this condition.

Observation:

• A 32-year-old male experienced sudden visual acuity loss post-spine surgery.
• The cause was identified as optic disc pit maculopathy with internal limiting membrane detachment.
• Maculopathy persisted for 12 months, with vitrectomy planned.

Findings:

• This is the first reported case of optic disc pit maculopathy following non-ocular surgery.
• The prone position during spine surgery is implicated in the maculopathy development.
• Altered intraocular pressure gradients due to prone positioning are the suspected mechanism.

Implications:

• Highlights a potential, previously unrecognized complication of spine surgery.
• Suggests careful ophthalmic monitoring may be warranted in patients undergoing prone surgery.
• Physiological effects of surgical positioning on ocular structures require further investigation.