Inverted Internal Limiting Membrane Flap Technique: Is It the Best Option for Macular Holes?

Surgical treatment is generally necessary to repair full-thickness macular holes (FTMH). Although vitrectomy with or without internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling remains the standard surgical technique, the inverted ILM flap procedure has increasingly assumed a role in the primary surgical repair of FTMHs. Some vitreoretinal surgeons reserve this technique to treat large or myopic holes, whereas others use it routinely in all cases. This paper is a comprehensive review of the current scientific evidence on the anatomical and functional outcomes of the inverted ILM flap technique in the repair of macular holes, following the International Vitreomacular Traction Study (IVTS) group classification.

Automated summary

The inverted internal limiting membrane flap technique is increasingly used in the surgical repair of full-thickness macular holes, with some surgeons reserving it for large or myopic holes, while others using it routinely in all cases. This technique has shown promising anatomical and functional outcomes, as reviewed following the International Vitreomacular Traction Study group classification.