Long-term outcomes of free internal limiting membrane transplant for unclosed macular holes after extensive internal limiting membrane peeling and silicone oil tamponade: a report of two cases

Abstract

We report the long-term outcome of two cases of free internal limiting membrane (ILM) transplant for unclosed macular holes after extensive internal limiting membrane peeling and silicone oil tamponade. Free ILM graft was harvested and then successfully tucked against the inner edges of the macular hole in two eyes. All macular holes closed. In one case, the ILM filled the macular hole 100% in all meridians and remained closed 7 years after surgery. In another case, the ILM filled the gap of the macular hole 100% in the horizontal meridian and approximately 70% in the vertical meridian and re-opened 5 weeks after surgery. Filling the entire macular hole area with the ILM graft may improve long-term anatomical outcomes.