What is the primary treatment for a patient with a retinal hole but no detachment?

The primary treatment for a patient with a retinal hole but no detachment is cryoretinopexy. This procedure involves applying cryotherapy (freezing treatment) to the tissue around the retinal hole. The purpose of this treatment is to create an inflammatory response that will promote adhesion between the retina and the underlying tissue, thereby preventing a potential detachment from occurring.

In cases of retinal holes without detachment, proactive measures like cryoretinopexy are typically taken to prevent future complications. This treatment is less invasive than other surgical options and can effectively seal the retinal hole, reducing the risk of future problems such as retinal detachment.

Other methods, such as pneumatic retinopexy and vitrectomy, are generally indicated for more advanced cases where there is an existing retinal detachment. Observation, while an option in some specific scenarios, is not typically a primary treatment for holes, as there is a risk that the condition could worsen without intervention. Thus, cryoretinopexy is the most appropriate, targeted, and preventative approach in this situation.