Retinal Detachment

Introduction

Retinal detachment is a critical eye condition that occurs when the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, separates from its underlying support tissue. Without immediate treatment, retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss.

What is Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment describes an emergency where the retina peels away from its normal position. When the retina detaches, it is separated from the blood vessels that provide it with oxygen and nourishment, leading to rapid vision loss if not reattached quickly.

Symptoms

The symptoms of retinal detachment are often sudden and may include:

• The sudden appearance of floaters (tiny specks that drift through your field of vision)
• Flashes of light in one or both eyes (photopsia)
• Blurred vision
• Gradually reduced side (peripheral) vision
• A curtain-like shadow over your field of vision

Am I at Risk?

Factors that can increase the risk of retinal detachment include:

• Aging (more common in adults over 50)
• Previous retinal detachment in one eye
• A family history of the condition
• Extreme nearsightedness (myopia)
• Previous eye surgery, such as cataract removal
• Eye injuries or trauma

What Causes Detachment?

Retinal detachment can occur due to:

• A hole or tear in the retina that allows fluid to pass through and collect underneath.
• Scar tissue on the retina’s surface that pulls the retina away from the back of the eye.
• Fluid accumulation beneath the retina without any holes or tears (often due to inflammation).

Prevention

While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Wearing protective eyewear during sports or high-risk activities.
• Scheduling regular dilated eye exams, especially if you are nearsighted or have a family history.
• Being aware of vision changes and seeking prompt medical attention for floaters and flashes.

Treatment for Retinal Detachment

Treatment is almost always surgical. The type of procedure depends on the severity:

• Laser or Freezing (Cryopexy): Used to repair a retinal tear before it leads to full detachment.
• Pneumatic Retinopexy: Injecting an air or gas bubble into the eye to push the retina back into place.
• Scleral Buckling: Placing a silicone band around the eye to push the wall of the eye toward the detached retina.
• Vitrectomy: Removing the vitreous gel and any tissue pulling on the retina.