Ultrastructure of vitreomacular traction syndrome associated with persistent hyaloid artery

Aim To demonstrate the ultrastructure of vitreomacular traction associated with persistent hyaloid artery. Methods Pars plana vitrectomy was performed in a 66-year-old man with progressive vitreomacular traction associated with a persistent hyaloid artery. Epimacular tissue was peeled and processed for transmission electron microscopy. Results Ultrastructural analysis revealed multiple sheets of cellular and collagenous components. Myofibroblasts and newly formed collagen were the predominant features. Fibrous astrocytes, fibroblasts, macrophages, and basement membrane were also present. Conclusion The cellular composition of the epimacular tissue and high cellular activity suggest that persistence of the hyaloid artery may contribute to the development of vitreomacular traction.