Sub-retinal surgery – removal of clot under the macula

In some cases of advanced, end-stage, age related macular degeneration, scar tissue can form in and under the macula, causing a “blackness” in central vision. The sub-retinal scars, or clots, are caused by years of degenerating tissue and bleeding caused by macular degeneration. Not unlike a scab on the skin, these clots form scar tissue that is permanent in the macula, unless removed with sub-retinal surgery.

The success of this procedure is directly proportional to the amount of time the clot has been present in the macula. This can be a risky procedure due to the adherent nature of the fibrous material that makes up the clot. This makes it very possible that the underlying, healthy retina cells can be inadvertently removed along with the scar tissue. Many sub-retinal clots can not be removed due to these risks.

The retina surgeon will carefully consider sub-retinal clot removal and carefully proceed when indicated. Post-operative risks and benefits should be thoroughly discussed with the patient prior to committing to the surgery.

Also see wet macular degeneration.