Background: The exact pathogenesis of central retinal detachment associated with optic disc pit is still unknown. Vitrectomy has proven to be the most effective therapy.
Patients and methods: In two patients with macular detachment associated with optic disc pit, a pars-plana-vitrectomy with surgical posterior vitreous detachment and gastamponade was performed. We report on the interesting clinical course of these patients.
Results: After the gas bubble was absorbed, we observed a displacement of the subretinal fluid inferiorly in both patients. Schisislike changes persisted in the macular area. After several months the subretinal fluid resolved completely.
Conclusion: The fluid displacement and the resolution-characteristics of the subretinal fluid after vitrectomy in cases of retinal detachment associated with optic disc pit are completely different from other rhegmatogenous retinal detachments. The gas bubble separates the central retinoschisis from the peripheral rhegmatogenous part. The reason for delayed resolution remains unclear. It may be due to tangential vitreous traction in the periphery.