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Synonyms:
Epiretinal membrane (ERM), cellophane retinopathy, surface wrinkling
retinopathy, pre-retinal membrane, pre-macular fibrosis.
What is a macular pucker?
Macular pucker or ERM is an abnormal scar tissue that forms on the
most sensitive part of the retina called macula. The macula provides
the sharp, clear, central vision we need for reading, driving and
seeing fine detail.
How is macular pucker formed?
80% of our eye is filled with a gel like substance known as vitreous.
The vitreous is formed of millions of fibers, which are attached
to the retina. As our age advances, vitreous gradually contracts
and gets condensed. As this contraction and condensation of the
vitreous progresses, retina is pulled resulting in a microscopic
damage to the inner surface of the retina. As a response to this
injury on the macula, a healing progress is initiated on the - Drushti Eye & Retina Centre
surface of the retina in the macular region. This healing process
consists of migration and mobilization of cells, which then spread
along the surface of the retina in the form of a scar tissue. This
scar tissue, on contraction can result in mechanical wrinkling and
distortion of the retina leading to the visual symptoms. In most
cases, this scar tissue is thin and self-limiting causing almost
nil or very little visual discomfort. But occasionally, the healing
response may be severe enough to cause thick and opaque membrane
on the macula, thus causing more visual discomfort.
What are the symptoms of macular pucker?
These are mainly related to mechanical distortion and wrinkling
of the retina in the macular area.
Seeing distorted images
Blurred central vision
Difficulty in reading or performing tasks, which need sharp details.
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FUNDUS PHOTOGRAPHS
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BEFORE SURGERY |
AFTER SURGERY
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MACULAR PUCKER
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