Human Amniotic Membrane (hAM) in Macular Hole Repair: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Techniques

Background:

• Macular holes (MHs) present a significant challenge in retinal surgery.
• Conventional treatments involve pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling and gas tamponade.
• Human amniotic membrane (hAM) grafting is an emerging alternative.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the techniques and outcomes of hAM grafts for MH repair.
• To evaluate hAM as an alternative to conventional MH repair methods.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across three databases.
• Included studies focused on hAM grafting for MH repair.
• Data on surgical techniques, graft preparation, and patient outcomes were extracted.

Main Results:

• 66 studies involving 603 eyes were analyzed.
• The overall MH closure rate was 96%, with fresh hAM achieving 100% and cryopreserved hAM achieving 95%.
• Visual improvement was noted in 81% of cases; graft dislocation was the most frequent complication (3.6%).

Conclusions:

• hAM grafting is highly effective for MH repair, achieving excellent anatomical success and visual recovery.
• The procedure demonstrates a favorable safety profile with minimal complications.
• hAM grafting is a viable and beneficial option, especially for complex or treatment-resistant MHs.