Intraoperative closure of large full thickness macular holes with perfluorocarbon liquid.

Purpose: To report the role of perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) and passive extrusion for management of large full thickness macular holes (FTMHs).

Methods: A standard pars plana vitrectomy with induction of posterior vitreous detachment was performed for all patients. After internal limiting membrane (ILM) peel, a bubble of perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) was injected over the posterior pole and passive extrusion of fluid was performed with a backflush instrument below the PFCL bubble, without touching the FTMH edges, until the FTMH centre was reached. Intraoperative optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed formation of an inner retina roof in all cases and confirmed intraoperative FTMH closure. Complete PFCL removal was performed after fluid-air exchange and gas tamponade was utilised in all cases.

Results: Preoperative FTMH mean aperture size was 761um and standard deviation (SD) 100um (range 682-918um). FTMH closure was achieved in all eyes and visualised intraoperatively with OCT. After an average follow-up of 2 months, there was improvement in the mean BCVA and central scotoma.

Conclusion: FTMH closure can be achieved intraoperatively with the use of PFCL and passive extrusion. The described surgical technique could be a valid alternative for repair of large FTMHs.