Background: Retinal pigment epitheliopathy, a recognized finding in eyes that have undergone macular hole surgery, may limit visual outcome and predispose to the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV). This study reports on the features and outcomes of CNV following otherwise successful surgery for idiopathic macular holes.
Methods: Case series including three eyes of two patients who developed CNV following macular hole surgery.
Results: Choroidal neovascularization developed 3 to 30 months after macular hole surgery. The CNV was crescent-shaped, surrounding a central area of retinal pigment epithelial mottling that corresponded to the site of the macular hole in all three cases. All neovascular membranes were adjacent to the fovea and were associated with substantial leakage of fluorescein. The macular hole remained closed in all cases.
Conclusion: Choroidal neovascularization is a rare complication following macular hole surgery. Retinal pigment epitheliopathy and defects in the Bruch's membrane, pre-existing or secondary to surgery, may be predisposing factors.