Retinal Detachment and Macular Hole Recovery: Key Insights

Q: Retinal Detachment and Macular Hole Recovery: Key Insights

Hello Jason： 1. <br>Typically, autologous blood is taken from the centrifuged plasma rather than whole blood, so there should generally be no absorption issues. <br>2. <br>Regarding the blurriness in your vision, I cannot explain it; please consult your surgeon directly. <br>Dr.

Retinal detachment with macular hole?

Hello, Doctor.
I would like to inquire about the issue of retinal detachment combined with a macular hole.
Initially, I underwent surgery for retinal detachment on July 22.
About a week later, I discovered that I had developed a macular hole.
Approximately three weeks later, on August 14, I had surgery for the macular hole.
The doctor mentioned that due to the size of the hole and the limited amount of internal limiting membrane tissue available for inversion, it was not possible to fill the gap adequately.
Therefore, additional autologous blood was injected into the space for filling.
During my follow-up on August 27, the doctor indicated that the upper part had already healed, but some autologous blood still remained inside and would take time to be absorbed.

I would like to ask, generally speaking, how long does it take for autologous blood to be absorbed? Additionally, after the gas has dissipated, I still notice a thin, elongated blur in my central vision.
Could this be related to the remaining blood that has not yet been absorbed? Thank you for your time in responding.

Jason, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/31

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Hello Jason: 1.
Typically, autologous blood is taken from the centrifuged plasma rather than whole blood, so there should generally be no absorption issues.
2.
Regarding the blurriness in your vision, I cannot explain it; please consult your surgeon directly.
Dr.
He Jianxian, Ophthalmology Department, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/08/31

More Info

Retinal detachment and macular holes are serious ocular conditions that can significantly impact vision. Understanding the recovery process and the factors influencing visual outcomes is crucial for patients who have undergone surgical interventions for these issues.

In your case, you underwent surgery for retinal detachment on July 22, followed by a second surgery for a macular hole on August 14. The use of autologous blood to fill the gap created by the macular hole is a common practice, especially when the surrounding tissue is insufficient to close the defect. This method aims to promote healing by providing a scaffold for the retinal cells to regenerate and fill the gap.

Regarding your specific questions:
1. Absorption of Autologous Blood: The absorption of autologous blood can vary from patient to patient. Generally, it may take several weeks to a few months for the body to fully absorb the blood. Factors such as the volume of blood injected, the individual’s healing response, and the presence of any complications can influence this timeline. It’s essential to follow up with your ophthalmologist regularly to monitor the absorption process and assess the healing of the macula.

2. Persistent Blurriness: The presence of a persistent blurry area in your central vision, particularly after the gas bubble has disappeared, could be attributed to several factors. It may be related to residual blood in the subretinal space, which can cause visual disturbances. Additionally, the healing process of the macula can take time, and even after the blood is absorbed, there may be some residual effects from the surgery or the initial detachment. It’s also possible that the size of the macular hole and the extent of the detachment could influence the final visual outcome.

3. Visual Recovery: The recovery of vision after surgery for retinal detachment and macular holes can be unpredictable. While some patients experience significant improvement, others may have persistent visual deficits. Factors that can influence recovery include the duration of the detachment before surgery, the size of the macular hole, the presence of any pre-existing retinal conditions, and the overall health of the retina.

4. Follow-Up Care: It is crucial to maintain regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist. They will perform necessary imaging studies, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fundus photography, to evaluate the status of your retina and macula. These assessments will help determine the healing progress and guide any further treatment if necessary.

In conclusion, while the use of autologous blood can facilitate healing after macular hole surgery, the timeline for absorption and visual recovery can vary significantly among individuals. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and report any changes in your vision or symptoms. They can provide tailored advice and interventions based on your specific situation, ensuring the best possible outcome for your eye health.

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