Tapping and Autologous Serum - A Novel Technique for Macular Hole

Abstract

We describe here a case of a large, chronic idiopathic macular hole in a patient which was treated using autologous blood serum in combination with tapping the macular hole edges. We achieved successful macular hole closure and improvement in postoperative visual acuity. According to the literature, inverted flap technique continues to be the most accepted form of technique. It also requires experience and skill on the part of surgeon, on the contrary autologous serum in combination with tapping the macular hole edges is a simple, effortless, and relatively non-traumatic option. The combined use of tapping the macular hole edges and applying autologous blood serum is advantageous because the autologous blood serum in proper position probably acts like a natural glue to the tapped edges of macular hole and promotes the proliferation of glial cells. This novel combination technique may be particularly advantageous in chronic or recalcitrant holes particularly large macular holes.

Keywords

• autologous serum
• macular hole
• serum
• tapping the macular hole edges