Autologous Retinal Transplant in Refractory Macular Holes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Retinal Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Macular holes (MHs) are a significant cause of vision loss.
• Refractory MHs, unresponsive to standard treatments like vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, present a surgical challenge.
• Autologous retinal transplantation is an emerging technique for treating these complex cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the structural and functional outcomes of autologous neurosensory retinal transplants for refractory macular holes (MHs).
• To report long-term follow-up findings of this surgical approach.

Main Methods:

• Nine eyes of 9 patients with refractory MHs underwent pars plana vitrectomy with autologous retinal transplant.
• Short-term perfluoro-n-octane heavy liquid and gas tamponade were used post-surgery.
• Patients were followed for an average of 12.7 months.

Main Results:

• Complete anatomic closure of the MH was achieved in 89% of eyes (8 out of 9).
• Outer retina restoration and flap integration were observed in 5 eyes.
• Mean logMAR visual acuity improved significantly from 1.9 to 1.0 postoperatively.

Conclusions:

• Autologous retinal transplant is a viable option for achieving anatomic closure in large, refractory MHs.
• The procedure safely improves visual acuity in patients with complex macular hole cases.
• Long-term follow-up indicates sustained structural integrity and functional recovery.