Cellophane Maculopathy

What is cellophane maculopathy?

This is a condition in which a thin film (membrane) forms on the macula – like transparent “cellophane”.
Under normal conditions, the retina is smooth and adheres to the back of the eye. In cellophane maculopathy, a ‘film’ forms on it. While this film is thin and even, vision does not change. The problem arises when the membrane starts to contract. This contraction pulls the retina underneath it, wrinkling it (similar to wrinkled fabric) and causing swelling.

Symptoms:

• Blurred and distorted central vision – most noticeable when reading: letters appear wavy or crooked.
• The image may distort without pain.

How are these conditions detected?

An experienced ophthalmologist can recognize the hole or membrane during an examination with dilated pupils. For an accurate diagnosis, a special non-invasive scanner – OCT (optical coherence tomography) – is used, which shows whether there is a tear, its size, and the thickness of the membrane.

What is the treatment?

The cellophane membrane is also treated surgically – there is no effective medication.
The surgery is called a vitrectomy – a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia. Fine instruments are introduced through small openings (about 1 mm) to remove the membrane or close the hole.

Most patients experience improved vision – especially if treatment is started on time.

What happens after the surgery?

At the end of the surgery, air or gas is introduced into the eye to help the retina and macula regain their normal shape.
The air or gas naturally dissipates from the eye within 2 to 4 weeks – without the need for a second surgery.
After the surgery, drops are applied for a certain period, and a head position (e.g., tilted down) may be required for a few days.

Why choose the Pentagram clinic?

We have a next-generation OCT that detects even the finest changes.
The surgery takes about 1 hour, is performed under local anesthesia, and is painless.
We use air or short-term gas to speed up recovery.
If necessary, we perform combined surgery – for cataract and macula – to avoid a second intervention. The additional time required is only about 5 minutes.

 Synonyms: Double vision, Blurred central vision, Epiretinal membrane, Cellophane membrane