A macular hole is a condition that affects the central part of the retina, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for central vision, which is necessary for activities like reading, driving, and recognizing fine details.
A macular hole occurs when there is a small break or defect in the macula. The exact cause of macular holes is not always clear, but they are often associated with age-related changes in the eye, specifically the vitreous gel that fills the center of the eye. As a person ages, the vitreous gel can shrink and pull away from the retina. In some cases, this traction can lead to the formation of a macular hole.