Vitrectomy for macular detachment associated with optic nerve pits

Objective. To describe the pathogenic mechanism for a central retinal detachment in eyes with a pit of the optic disc. Design. Three patients with macular detachment associated with optic nerve head pits were prospectively controlled following pars plana vitrectomy. Methods. Three cases of macular detachment associated with congenital optic nerve pit were treated with pars plana vitrectomy and air-fluid exchange and sulphur hexafloride (SF6) gas injection. During vitrectomy posterior hyaloid removal caused visible traction on the elevated retina, when the hyaloid detached. Removing the posterior hyaloid resulted in reattachment of the macular and an increase in the visual acuity without laser treatment. Conclusion. We recommend the removal of the posterior hyaloid face during pars plana vitrectomy in patients with central macular detachment associated with a pit of the optic disc.