Macular hole
1.
Could you recommend any specialists in macular hole at hospitals in Taipei?
2.
Which doctors at Taipei Veterans General Hospital's ophthalmology department are recommended for macular holes?
3.
I currently have a stage II macular hole in my left eye and a stage IV in my right eye.
Which eye should I consider for surgery first? If I choose not to have surgery, what are the potential consequences? Is there a risk of blindness?
Win, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/12/22
Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello:
1.
Ophthalmologists specializing in macular holes in the Taipei area: You may consider visiting the ophthalmology departments at Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, or Taipei City Hospital (Zhongxing Branch), where you can consult with retinal specialists.
2.
Recommended physicians for macular holes at Taipei Veterans General Hospital: The list of ophthalmologists at Taipei Veterans General Hospital may change over time, so it is advisable to directly call the ophthalmology department or check their website for the latest physician information.
Alternatively, you can first schedule an appointment with a retinal specialist, who will refer you to the appropriate physician for treatment if necessary.
3.
Treatment and surgical arrangements for holes: The treatment and surgical decisions for holes are typically based on the specific condition of the eye, the severity and location of the hole, among other factors.
Currently, the left eye has a stage II hole, while the right eye has a stage IV hole.
For holes, surgical repair is usually considered to prevent further enlargement and to protect vision.
However, whether surgery is needed and the order of procedures should be determined by your ophthalmologist based on your specific situation.
If surgery is not performed, there may be an increased risk of further hole enlargement or retinal detachment.
However, please note that not all macular holes will lead to blindness.
Nevertheless, unstable holes may progress to more severe issues, significantly increasing the risk of vision impairment or even blindness.
Reply Date: 2023/12/22
More Info
When it comes to macular hole treatment in Taipei, there are several important considerations to keep in mind, including finding the right specialist, understanding the urgency of the situation, and knowing the potential consequences of delaying surgery.
1. Recommended Specialists for Macular Hole Treatment in Taipei: In Taipei, hospitals such as Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei Tzu Chi Hospital, and Taipei City Hospital (Zhongxing Branch) have departments specializing in ophthalmology, particularly in retinal conditions like macular holes. These hospitals typically have experienced retinal specialists who can provide comprehensive evaluations and treatment options. It is advisable to contact these hospitals directly to inquire about specific doctors who specialize in macular holes, as the availability of specialists may change over time.
2. Specific Recommendations at Taipei Veterans General Hospital: Taipei Veterans General Hospital is well-regarded for its ophthalmology department. While the specific names of doctors may vary, it is recommended to consult with the retinal specialists there. You can call the hospital or check their website for the most current information on which doctors are available and their areas of expertise. Generally, retinal specialists are well-equipped to handle macular holes and can provide both surgical and non-surgical options based on the severity of the condition.
3. Surgical Prioritization Based on Stage of Macular Hole: In your case, you mentioned having a stage II macular hole in the left eye and a stage IV macular hole in the right eye. Typically, the recommendation would be to prioritize surgery on the right eye, which has the more advanced stage IV macular hole. Stage IV holes are more likely to lead to significant vision loss if not treated promptly. Delaying surgery on the right eye could result in further deterioration of vision, and there is a risk of complications such as retinal detachment.
If surgery is not performed, the consequences can be serious. While not all macular holes lead to complete blindness, they can significantly impair vision, leading to difficulties with tasks such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. The risk of vision loss increases with the progression of the hole, especially if it reaches a stage where the retina is severely affected.
In summary, it is crucial to seek immediate consultation with a retinal specialist to discuss the best course of action for your specific situation. The decision regarding which eye to operate on first should be made in consultation with your ophthalmologist, who will consider the latest imaging results and your overall eye health. Early intervention is key in preserving vision and preventing further complications associated with macular holes.
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