What are the risks and benefits of macular translocation surgery?
It is impossible to predict exactly how far the retina will shift as a result of this surgery. If your doctor suggests macular translocation surgery, he or she believes there is a reasonable chance that the retina will move far enough to safely allow treatment of the CNV. Unfortunately, in a minority of patients, there is no sufficient movement of the retina. There are risks associated with this surgery. These include infection, hemorrhage, cataract, glaucoma and retinal detachment. Although many of these problems are correctable, there is a small risk that irreversible loss of vision could develop as a result of this surgery. Macular translocation surgery does not “cure” macular degeneration. In some cases successful closure of the CNV may only be temporary and new blood vessels will grow. If this occurs, then additional laser surgery may be necessary. In some cases, additional laser surgery may not be possible. The long-term benefit of macular translocation surgery is not known. Prel
