What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition in which the retina—the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye—separates from its underlying supportive layers. This separation prevents the retina from functioning properly and, if not treated promptly, can lead to permanent vision loss. Retinal detachment is considered an ocular emergency.
Types of Retinal Detachment
- Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment:
The most common type, caused by a tear or break in the retina. This allows fluid to pass through and collect underneath, causing the retina to separate from the back of the eye.
Risk factors include aging, high myopia (nearsightedness), and previous eye surgery.
- Tractional Retinal Detachment:
Occurs when scar tissue or membranes on the retina’s surface contract and pull the retina away from the back of the eye. This type is often seen in people with diabetic retinopathy or other proliferative retinal diseases.
- Exudative (Serous) Retinal Detachment:
Caused by fluid accumulation beneath the retina without any tears or breaks. This can result from inflammatory disorders, injury, or tumors.
Symptoms
Retinal detachment often develops suddenly. Key symptoms include:
- Sudden appearance of floaters (small spots or lines in your vision)
- Flashes of light (photopsia)
- A shadow or curtain-like effect over part of your visual field
- Sudden decrease in vision or blurred vision
- Loss of peripheral (side) vision
Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk for retinal detachment if you have:
- High myopia (severe nearsightedness)
- Previous eye surgery (such as cataract surgery)
- Eye trauma or injury
- Family history of retinal detachment
- Certain retinal conditions (e.g., lattice degeneration, diabetic retinopathy)
- Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of retinal detachment involves a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:
- Dilated retinal examination
- Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
- Ultrasound imaging (B-scan), especially if the retina cannot be visualized directly
- Visual acuity and visual field testing
Treatment Options
Retinal detachment requires prompt treatment to prevent permanent vision loss. Treatment options include:
- Laser Photocoagulation or Cryotherapy:
Used to seal small retinal tears or holes and prevent progression to detachment.
- Pneumatic Retinopexy:
A gas bubble is injected into the eye to help reattach the retina, often combined with laser or cryotherapy.
- Scleral Buckle Surgery:
A silicone band is placed around the eye to gently push the wall of the eye against the detached retina.
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy:
The vitreous gel is removed and replaced with a gas bubble or silicone oil to help the retina reattach.
The choice of treatment depends on the type, location, and extent of the detachment, as well as individual patient factors.
Prognosis and Ongoing Care
- Early detection and treatment are critical for the best chance of restoring vision.
- Delayed treatment can result in permanent vision loss.
- Some patients may require more than one procedure.
- Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor healing and check for recurrence.
Our Approach
We provide rapid evaluation, advanced diagnostic imaging, and the latest surgical techniques for retinal detachment. Our goal is to restore and preserve vision through timely intervention, personalized care, and ongoing support throughout your recovery.
Patient Resources
- American Society of Retina Specialists (ASRS) – Retinal Detachment
- American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) – Detached or Torn Retina
- National Eye Institute (NEI) – Retinal Detachment
- Local low vision rehabilitation services and support groups (ask our staff for recommendations)
If you have additional questions or need support, please contact our office. We are here to help you every step of the way.