Gas vs Oil in Macular hole surgery

[Maryliza]

Due to a developing macular hole, I am planning to have surgery to repair it.  I understand that gas is commonly inserted to maintain pressure for healing, but that silicone oil can be an alternative.  The face-down position for post-surgery recovery worries me because I have had front and back neck fusion and also worry about claustrophobia.  What are the pros and cons of using the oil instead?  From what I have read, the oil needs to be removed in a later surgery, and seems to prompt the development of cataracts.  Is that correct?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

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[berrywoo]

Both the gas and silicone oil can cause cataracts. Yes, the silicone oil will have to be removed at a later time. However, with macular hole, you would more than likely still have to be positioned face down even if you had silicone oil. Positioning is really a necessity in macular hole patients. You can always rent equipment to help ease the discomforts of being face down.
Good luck with surgery.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

If something worked as well or better than face down positioning it would be used. everyone hates it including the surgeons.

JCH MD