Commentary: Platelet-rich plasma is a useful adjunct but with caveats

Abstract

Anterior and posterior lens capsules, free internal limiting membrane (ILM) flap, and amniotic membrane have been used for this purpose, and they have shown to be effective in achieving hole closure with modest visual results. The difficulty in drawing a large volume of blood in a patient lying on the surgical table, the associated stress to the already apprehensive patient in the process, the need for a trained venipuncture specialist to effect this, the need for a specialized PRP kit, transportation to the laboratory, availability of a trained technician in the laboratory, along with the requisite equipment and the time spent to prepare the PRP when the patient is still on the table, limit its use as an intraoperative option. How long after preparation the PRP remains effective for macular hole surgery and the appropriate storage conditions for transport and prevention of contamination are the factors that need further study, the results of which may facilitate the use of PRP in off campus surgical suites.