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Published on: June 14, 2021
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AUTOLOGOUS NEUROSENSORY RETINAL TRANSPLANTATION: Bridging the Gap
Saagar N Patel1, Tamer H Mahmoud2, Masayuki Kazahaya3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania.
Retina (Philadelphia, Pa.)
|May 14, 2021
Summary
Autologous retinal transplantation shows promise for repairing large or difficult macular holes (MHs), achieving an 88% closure rate and improving visual acuity. This surgical technique offers a potential solution for patients unresponsive to conventional treatments.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Retinal Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Macular holes (MHs) present significant challenges in visual restoration.
- Conventional treatments for large or refractory MHs have limited success rates.
- Autologous retinal transplantation (ART) offers a novel approach to MH repair.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the surgical technique, indications, rationale, and outcomes of autologous retinal transplantation.
- To evaluate the efficacy of ART in achieving macular hole closure and visual acuity improvement.
- To explore the potential regenerative mechanisms underlying ART.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published data on autologous retinal transplantation.
- Analysis of surgical techniques, preoperative and postoperative visual acuity.
- Assessment of macular hole closure rates in studies with a minimum of five eyes.
Main Results:
- The weighted average macular hole closure rate was 88% (range: 66.7%–100%).
- Best-corrected visual acuity improved significantly, from 20/450 preoperatively to 20/210 postoperatively.
- Significant visual gains (≥3 lines) were observed in 37% for primary/refractory MHs and 74% for MH-retinal detachments.
Conclusions:
- Autologous retinal transplantation is a promising technique for complex macular holes.
- ART facilitates neural tissue replacement via cell rehabilitation and regeneration.
- This method holds potential for treating conditions unresponsive to standard surgical approaches.
