Case report: Successful closure of a large macular hole secondary to uveitis using the inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique

Abstract

Background: Macular holes (MHs) are one of the complications of posterior uveitis that can significantly disturb vision. Conventional MH surgery (vitrectomy, internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, and gas tamponade) has been reported to show lower closure rates in patients with MHs secondary to uveitis than in patients with idiopathic MHs. Recently, the inverted ILM flap technique has been reported to be effective for treating refractory MHs. Here, we describe the application of this technique in a patient with a large MH secondary to uveitis, and its successful closure. Case presentation: An 80-year-old woman presented with a chronic, large MH secondary to uveitis. The minimum aperture diameter of the MH was 569 μm and extensive post-inflammatory chorioretinal atrophy was present, which included the juxtafoveal region. Vitrectomy with the inverted ILM flap technique assisted by low molecular weight hyaluronic acid was performed. Three days after surgery, the MH was closed successfully, without excessive gliosis. Conclusion: The inverted ILM flap technique may be the preferred surgical procedure for the treatment of large MHs secondary to uveitis.