Observation of idiopathic full-thickness macular holes. Follow-up observation

M. Yuzawa, A. Watanabe, Y. Takahashi and M. Matsui
Department of Ophthalmology, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the long-term follow-up observation of idiopathic full-thickness macular holes, with emphasis on the incidence and process of disappearance. METHODS: The authors followed up 97 eyes with idiopathic full-thickness macular holes for a period ranging from 2 to 182 months (average, 66 months). RESULTS: Apparent disappearance of the hole was observed in six eyes. Although improvement in visual acuity of at least 2 lines resulted in all six eyes, visual acuity improved to 20/30 or better in those eyes in which macular holes disappeared within 24 months of the initial examination. CONCLUSION: The incidence of apparent disappearance of idiopathic full-thickness macular holes was low. Improvement in visual acuity was greater in those cases in which macular holes disappeared in a relatively short period of time.